This is a different kind of a book. The author is a simple Muslim, professionally trained psychiatrist, with no claim to scholarship in the religious sciences. He has spent a substantial period of his life living and practicing his profession in western society. Nevertheless, he brings to bear a refreshing look on a subject, which should be of tremendous concern to all Muslims. This simple book is neither a biography of the Prophet (S.A.W), nor a Commentary on any part of the Quran, but it is an educated Muslim’s inspiring effort to learn from both in the most practical and down-to-earth manner.

He is keen observant of society and his discipline helps him penetrate into the ills and diseases he finds around him, whether it be a pile of litter left in front of a house or a deeper and more complicated aberration from the normal human behaviour for which admittedly Islam stands. This pains him and as a  sensitive Muslim he wonders why Muslim society is caught in this mess, material and spiritual despite the light and guidance vouchsafed to this Ummah through the finest and most perfect model for mankind the Prophet (S.A.W.) --- in the form of the revealed word, as well as by his own example and sayings.

In a truly mystical vein he comes out with an utterance which could make any soul stir with a feeling of the very presence of its Creator and also unveil the immensity of the station of prophethood ! With his characteristic simplicity he suggests:

“We believe in the unseen Allah but through perfectly planned institution of prophethood, we can feel His presence.”

Criticizing the gulf which so often separates belief and observation of ritual from practicing Islam as an all embracing Din regulating our entire behaviour, the author says in somewhat cynical tone:

“The majority of us assume that we have earned a place in heaven, by pleasing Allah by our prayers. We then… ill-treat our fellow-brethren, acquire wealth by fair and unfair means, …. Neglect our duty towards our children, relations and other fellow human beings…. We show no consideration for others and kill or maim others by our careless and callous behaviour on roads. We create filth, unhygienic surroundings…

But why should we care! We have done our duty to Allah by saying our prayers ! We have pleased him, so why bother about doing good things. But have we pleased Him?

Quran is not all about  prayers and forgiveness. It is a book of action .”

Earlier he sums up the idea in a pithy sentence:

“The prayer is the beginning and not the end of our duty towards Allah and our fellow human beings.”

Doubtless Salat (prayers) is one of the pillars of faith. So is fasting, pilgrimage and Zakat (obligatory charity). But what lies beyond them? In fact what is the end and objective of these varying forms of devotion ? Let us see how the author answers this question:

“Muslims all over the world accept the five pillars of Islam. May I ask, ‘Are pillars there to support a structure or not? No building is strong and stable without a sound foundation and pillars, but pillars on their own do not constitute a building. Pillars and building are inseparable.”

In his charmingly candid manner, he goes on slowly but surely needling our conscience and helping us appreciate the spirit, and not content ourselves with the form only.

“While we were busy arguing about meanings and interpretation of faith, the western nations were busy using Allah’s gift (of intellect) and are now dominating the world. We are now at their mercy and have no choice but to  negotiate (with them) to defend ourselves.”

The book ends on a genuinely appealing and disarming note, which very succinctly captures the spirit of the entire discourse:

“I would welcome discussion and disagreement.”

I will listen and if I am wrong, I will accept it. Whatever happens I will stay a friend to those who disagree.

That in my view is the only humble way, I can honour Allah’s gift of intelligence and inquisitiveness that He gave man when he was created.”

I am sure a careful reading of this small book will raise many a question in the mind of any reader with some concern for the society he lives in, and perhaps help him find some answers too.
 

(Dr. S. M. Zaman)
Director General)
Islamic Research Institute

International Islamic University Islamabad.
16 Rabi al- Thani, 1408/
8th December, 1987.