The Criterion (P/B)

From the moment an individual is conceived in his or her mother’s womb, until death and beyond, angels play a part in human life. This volume draws on the sources of Islam to give us a comprehensive picture of who the angels are, their origins, their role in the universe and their interaction with humankind in this world and the next.

Who is Allah? is more than just a book about Allah’s names and attributes. It aims to build a bridge between knowledge of Allah and practical application of this knowledge in a person’s daily life. By delving into why knowledge of Allah is important and how to apply this knowledge, the reader is given a means upon which to act in his or her quest for a close and rewarding relationship with Allah.

Over 100 of Allah’s names are individually discussed, providing proof from the Qur’an and Sunnah, explanation of their meanings, useful applications, and supplications utilizing each from the Messenger of Allah. Over 60 of Allah’s attributes are given specialized attention as well, all for the sake of providing a thorough and comprehensive approach to the most important subject matter that a person can learn about – Allah, the Mighty and Majestic.

The will and decree of Allah: Is this a matter which is directly relevant to the day-to-day life of the Muslim, or is it an obscure topic best left to the debates of philosophers and theologians? Does it imply that Muslims are ‘fatalists’ who see themselves as helpless in the hands of an indifferent fate? Attitudes towards divine will and predestination have always influenced Muslims’ daily activities. In this final volume of his eight-volume Islamic Creed Series, Dr. ‘Umar al-Ashqar explores this topic in depth, explaining it in clear terms for the ordinary Muslim. Drawing always on the Qur’an and the Sunnah, and on the words of the greatest scholars of Islam such as Ibn Taymiyah, he covers some of the historical debates that took place within the Ummah on this matter. The true Islamic concept of divine will and predestination is an empowering notion. While all that happens takes place within the framework of the divine will, people have freedom of choice within those parameters. This is a matter which is of interest and concern for all Muslims, one which will bring many benefits, both in this world and in the hereafter. This Islamic Creed Series of books has been translated into English by Nasiruddin al-Khattab.