SeekersGuidance Essential Reading List For Every Muslim’s Bookshelf
On My Bookshelf: Essential Books for a Believer’s Bookshelf
Reliable Reading List from SeekersGuidance
What’s on your bookshelf? Are you interested in the core set of books every Muslim should have on their bookshelf? SeekersGuidance provides a curated booklist from ten esteemed scholars. We asked nine SeekersGuidance resident scholars and one guest scholar: What are five books that are essential for every Muslim’s bookshelf? Their recommendations were compiled into this comprehensive list. The top seven books were recommended multiple times.
This list includes books written on the Holy Qur’an, Islamic law (Fiqh), Beliefs (Aqida), Spirituality (Tasawwuf), Sayings and Practices of the Holy Prophet (Hadith), History and Travel, Psychology and Autobiographies of key figures in Islam. Many of these works are timeless and have been applicable throughout the centuries while others have been written particularly for the modern mind. They are positively influential and a perusal of any number of these suggestions can inspire you to further your journey into understanding and practicing this rich and spiritual tradition.
You will find purchase links within many of the book titles. To deepen your understanding of the book, a list of related SeekersGuidance resources is provided alongside the book. Next month’s On My Bookshelf series is children’s books.
Online Islamic Bookstores: www.firdousbooks.com and www.firdousbooks.ca
1. The Book of Assistance by Imam ‘Abdallah Ibn Alawi al-Haddad
Spirituality (Tasawwuf) – Recommended six times
As a paragon of piety, frugality and an uncompromising thirst for gnosis, Imam al-Haddad produced a guide for Muslims who “earnestly desire to tread the path of the Afterlife.” The reader will find firm foundations for faith and certainty, as well as devotions, prayers and practical ethics towards the path of the Beloved Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him).
“This book provides a practical spiritual goal for every Muslim.” – Shaykh Farid Dingle
Free SeekersGuidance Course Available:
Haddad’s Book of Assistance: Complete Guidance for Turning to Allah
2. Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources by Martin Lings
The Prophet’s Life Journey (Sira) – Recommended five times
A comprehensive and authentic biography of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). It is regarded by many as one of the best works of Sira rendered in the English language. Easy to read and inspiring.
“This book put a real-life perspective for me on the Prophet’s life, his battles, his pain, his obstacles and his community. This is essential to understand how he lived his life, what he did for Islam and how he fulfilled his mission of bringing us this religion.” – Ustadha Shazia Ahmad
Free SeekersGuidance Course Available:
Meccan Dawn: The Life of the Beloved Prophet Muhammad in Mecca
Medinan Lights: The Life of the Beloved Prophet Muhammad in Medina
3. Lives of Man by Imam ‘Abdallah Ibn Alawi al-Haddad (translated by Dr. Mostafa al-Badawi)
Spirituality (Tasawwuf) – Recommended three times
Imam al-Haddad’s work describes the journey and condition of the soul as it traverses through the five stages of human life: before conception, life in the world, life in the grave, the resurrection and heaven or hell. Many scholars cite this book as crucial in order to understand one’s purpose in this world and prepare for the next.
“This book is not just informative, but it is structured in a way that calls you to reflect and invites you to change.” – Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Seekers Book Club – The Lives of Man with Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
4. Maraqi ’l-Sa‘adat Ascent to Felicity: A Manual on Islamic Creed and Hanafi Jurisprudence by Abu ’l-Ikhlas al-Shurunbulali (translated by Shaykh Faraz A. Khan)
Islamic Law and Beliefs (Fiqh and ‘Aqida) – Recommended three times
A comprehensive primer in Islamic beliefs and Hanafi Jurisprudence. It covers the five pillars of Islam and beyond. It is an excellent resource for anyone seeking to learn the basics of Muslim creed and correct practice in matters of worship.
“This is an important work that addresses the worship of a Muslim. It is a must to learn how to worship correctly… It is also a book considered to cover the obligatory requirements of learning (fard al ‘ayn).” – Imam Yama Niazi
Free SeekersGuidance Course Available:
On Worship (Purification, Prayer, Fasting, Zakat, and Hajj): Shurunbulali’s Ascent to Felicity
5. Reliance of the Traveller: A Classic Manual of Islamic Sacred Law by Nuh Ha Mim Keller
Islamic Law and Beliefs (Fiqh and ‘Aqida) – Recommended three times
An in-depth manual of Islamic Jurisprudence based on the Shafi’i School. The appendices also form an integral part of the book referencing classic works by al-Ghazali, al-Nawawi, al-Qurtubi, al-Dhahabi, Ibn Hajar and others, on topics of Islamic law, faith, spirituality, Qur‘an exegesis and hadith sciences, making the work a living reflection of Islam as understood by some of its greatest scholars. It is an indispensable reference for every Muslim or student of Islam.
“An example of deep, rigorous, living Sunni scholarship.” – Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
6. The Forty Hadiths of Imam al-Nawawi Yahya Ibn Sharaf Al-Nawawi
Sayings and Practices of the Prophet (Hadith) – Recommended two times
A brilliant collection widely regarded as the most popular anthology of hadiths of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), which convey the essence of the religion of Islam. It is said that this compilation of forty hadiths is the axis upon which the religion revolves and provides a rich introduction to its fundamentals.
“This book informs us of the essence of Deen (religion) in different aspects.” – Shaykh Abdullah Misra
Free SeekersGuidance Course Available:
Nawawi’s 40 Hadith: The Essential Guidance of Islam
7. The Beginning of Guidance (Bidayat al-Hidaya) by Abu Hamid al-Ghazali (translated by Mashhad Al-Allaf) Revised and Edited by Abdur-Rahman Ibn Yusuf
Spirituality (Tasawwuf) – Recommended two times
An essential treatise for anyone seeking spiritual guidance. In this work, Imam al-Ghazali carries the seeker beyond the theoretical knowledge of spirituality into the realm of methodology and practice. He outlines for the seeker an ordering of daily life for spiritual success and advises on etiquette with the Creator and creation.
Free SeekersGuidance Course Available:
On Spirituality: Living the Sunna, Leaving Sin, and Acquiring Good Character: Ghazali’s Beginning of Guidance
8. Al-Maqasid: Nawawi’s Manual of Islam by Imam Yahya Ibn Sharaf Al-Nawawi (translated by Shaykh Nuh Ha Mim Keller)
Islamic Law and Beliefs (Fiqh and ‘Aqida)
Al-Maqasid is a comprehensive handbook on the Shafi’i School of Jurisprudence. It is a famous fiqh text which contains rulings regarding what is necessary to know of the religion and is compact to facilitate ease of memorization for students and teachers. This translation is particularly valuable as it is updated with notes on a number of contemporary religious issues.
“This is a book on the most basic creed and religious obligations.” – Shaykh Farid Dingle
9. The Creed of Imam Tahawi by Imam Abu Jafar al-Tahawi (translated by Hamza Yusuf)
Beliefs (‘Aqida)
Every Muslim is obliged to learn sound Islamic creed. In an age of bewildering spiritual and intellectual confusion, this book is a must. This text can be considered the simplest, most effective and least controversial.
“This is a must as it relates to the most important subject for any Muslim which is to have a sound creed.” – Imam Yama Niazi
Free SeekersGuidance Course Available:
An Intermediate Look at Tahawi’s Creed: Faith and Belief for Muslim Youth
(Intermediate – Youth)
10. A Thinking Person’s Guide to Islam by Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad
Beliefs (‘Aqida)
“This book is an attempt to positively say what Islam actually is—and always was—as well as what it is not.” It is an authoritative, edifying and accessible work written to help the modern individual understand Islam. As such, it is quite useful for both Muslims and non-Muslims seeking clarity on some of the most salient yet misunderstood topics in the religion—topics of present-day interest.
“This book helps the modern man understand Islam.” – Shaykh Farid Dingle
11. The Etiquette with the Qur‘an by Imam al-Nawawi
Qu’ran
This work was designed and written to explain to men and women how best to benefit from the Book of Allah. The methodology can be found in the etiquette (adab) and only when this is adopted, can the reciter be changed by the blessings of the Qur’an to imperceptible degrees.
Free SeekersGuidance Course Available:
Keys to the Qur’an: Imam Ghazali’s Proper Manners of Reciting the Qur’an Explained
Connecting to Guidance: Building a Lasting Connection with the Qur’an
12. The History of the Qur‘anic Text: From Revelation to Compilation: A Comparative Study with the Old and New Testaments Paperback by Muhammad Mustafa al-Azami
Qu’ran
Beginning with a catalogue of ancient and contemporary attacks on the Qur‘an, this expansive book provides unique insights into The Holy Text’s immaculate preservation throughout its history, as well as exploring many of the accusations levelled against it.
“The introduction to this book really sums it up. Do we blindly believe that the Qur’an is the final book of Allah or do we have certainty regarding its revelation and immediate compilation? This gauntlet was thrown and Muhammad Mustafa picked it up. An academic masterpiece providing you with the careful and painstaking way that the Qur’an was revealed and sent down to us. A must read.” – Shaykh Muhammad Carr
Free SeekersGuidance Course Available:
From Revelation to Preservation: Proving the Qur’an is from God and it is Perfectly Preserved
13. Revelation: The Story of Muhammad, Peace and blessings be upon him by Meraj Mohiuddin
The Prophet’s Life Journey (Sira)
The author draws on eight of the most influential works of Prophetic biography in English including Martin Lings, Hamza Yusuf and Tariq Ramadan. Revelation is designed to help readers remember the smallest details of the Prophet’s life (peace and blessings be upon him) without losing sight of the big picture.
“The author ties in revelation to the life of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) to the revelation of the Qur’an. He places the Sira as the primary and ultimate context of the revelation. It is written in a manner that will assist readers with memorizing the Sira and the timelines. As the companions were touched by Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) when their paths crossed, this book draws you into that orbit in order for your paths to cross.” – Shaykh Muhammad Carr
Free SeekersGuidance Course Available:
Meccan Dawn: The Life of the Beloved Prophet Muhammad in Mecca
Medinan Lights: The Life of the Beloved Prophet Muhammad in Medina
14. Muwatta Imam Muhammad by Imam Muhammad ibn Al-Hasan Al-Shaybani
Sayings and Practices of the Prophet (Hadith)
Transmitted by one of Imam Abu Hanifa’s leading students, this is one of the most authentic works of hadith which covers a vast array of topics in Islam. It is a great introductory book for those interested in both fiqh and hadith as it captures some of the main fiqh discussions and their proofs.
“This book gives a picture of the main fiqh discussions and their proofs.” – Shaykh Farid Dingle
Free SeekersGuidance Course Available
Hadith Study: Malik’s Muwatta’ – Reading and Understanding a Key Text of Hadith
15. The Compendium of Knowledge and Wisdom by Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali (translated by Abdassamad Clarke)
Sayings and Practices of the Prophet (Hadith)
This masterwork is a comprehensive collection of fifty hadith, including the ‘forty’ of Imam al-Nawawi. Every hadith chosen is considered by the Scholars to be essential for students of knowledge and the commentary is very detailed.
“This is a wonderful work that gives you a really good commentary on a wonderful collection of hadiths originally compiled by Imam Nawawi. I really love this book because it gives you a really good understanding of the ahadith collection and the translation is spot on. I have used it a lot to teach from and it is one of my favorites.” – Imam Yama Niazi
Free SeekersGuidance Courses Available
Learn more about Hadith and Hadith Studies by registering for one of SeekersGuidance free courses.
16. The Name and the Named by Shaykh Tosun Bayrak al-Jerrahi al-Halveti
Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
This is a contemporary presentation of the ninety-nine Divine attributes or names of God according to the Islamic Sufi tradition. In this volume, Shaykh Tosun explains how to use these Names for the transformation of the soul into its original and primordial nature. It is a must for anyone who really wants to learn about Divine Beauty.
“This is a really nice book on the Divine Names and Attributes of Allah Most High. I really enjoyed reading and teaching from this book to both teenagers as well as adults. It is quite beautiful and very detailed as well.” – Imam Yama Niazi
Free SeekersGuidance Course Available
Understanding the Most Beautiful Names: The 99 Names of Allah Explained in Detail
17. Purification of the Heart: Signs, Symptoms and Cures of the Spiritual Diseases of the Heart by Imam al-Mawlud’s Matharat al-Qulub (translated by Hamza Yusuf)
Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
This exploration of Islamic spirituality delves into the psychological diseases and cures of the heart. Diseases examined include miserliness, envy, hatred, rancor, malice, arrogance, lust, and other afflictions that assail people and often control them. The causes and practical cures of these diseases are discussed, offering a penetrating glimpse into how Islam deals with spiritual and psychological problems and demonstrating how all people can benefit from these teachings.
Free SeekersGuidance Course Available
Purification of the Heart for Youth: Diseases of the Heart and Their Cure
18. The Forty Principles of the Religion by Imam al-Ghazali
Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
This is a comprehensive distillation of Imam al-Ghazali’s, Ihya Ulum al-Din (The Revival of the Religious Sciences). This condensed book presents Imam al-Ghazali’s profound insights regarding man’s lifelong struggle to draw closer to Allah in a simple framework, providing the reader with a step-by-step tried and proven method for spiritual development.
“This book will give the true seeker everything they need to achieve proximity to the Divine.” – Shaykh Jamal Ud-Deen Hysaw
Free SeekersGuidance Course Available
Renewal by the Book: Explanation of 40 Key Themes of the Qur’an Based on Ghazali’s Ihya
Renewing Religion: Thematic Overview of Imam Ghazali’s Ihya’
19. The Mysteries of Purification by Imam al-Ghazali
Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
In Book 3 of the 40-book Ihya Ulum al-Din (The Revival of the Religious Sciences), Imam al-Ghazali reminds us of the sayings of the Noble Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), “Religion was founded on cleanliness” and “Purification is one half of belief.” In this book, we are further awakened to the fact that purity is not only physical but spiritual as well.
“This book opened my eyes when still in university, to the reality that our devotional works have realities and meaning far beyond and far deeper than their mere forms and formalities.” – Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
20. The Marvels of the Heart, Science of the Spirit by Imam al-Ghazali (translated by Walter James Skellie)
Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
Book 21 of the 40-book Ihya Ulum al-Din (The Revival of the Religious Sciences) is considered to be one of the key volumes which uses the theme of the heart as a mirror to illustrate key tenets of Islam. This is a classic Sufi manual in which Imam al-Ghazali reminds mankind that everything has a polish and the polish of the heart is the remembrance of Allah Most High.
21. Al-Ghazali on Disciplining the Soul and on Breaking the Two Desires: Books XXII and XXIII of the Revival of the Religious Sciences (Ghazali series) by Abu Hamid Muhammad al-Ghazali (translated by T.J.Winter)
Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
This is a translation of Books 22 and 23 from Imam al-Ghazali’s Ihya Ulum al-Din (The Revival of the Religious Sciences). The Imam illustrates how the spiritual life in Islam begins with ‘riyadat al-nafs’, the inner warfare against the ego and highlights the importance of discipline. As such, he provides an account of various diseases of the heart to pay attention to and its remedies in order to attain spiritual realization.
“This book is meant to inspire and help us understand that we have much to learn and apply if we ever want to approach the way of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) and his companions.” – Ustadha Shazia Ahmad
22. Inner dimensions of Islamic Worship by Abu Hamid al-Ghazali
Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
Selections from his Ihya Ulum al-Din (The Revival of the Religious Sciences), Imam al-Ghazali in this work shows how to bring together the inner states of the heart and outer forms of worship for sincere action.
“This book helps one see the depth and reason behind one’s worship and how it affects the soul. The Arabic du’as (with translation) in it are essential for every Muslim and this is a great way to boost one’s faith and fuel oneself to renew one’s practice of Islam.” – Ustadha Shazia Ahmad
23. The Book of Sufi Chivalry by Imam Muhammad Ibn al-Husayn al-Sulami
Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
Spiritual Chivalry (Futuwwa) is a code of honourable behaviour and etiquette (adab) that follows the examples of the Prophets, Saints and Sages, which if adhered to, detaches one from their ego. In this book, Imam al-Sulami illustrates that it is from spiritual chivalry, for example that one’s wealth is measured by what is given.
“A book about what being a Muslim entail of virtuous, noble conduct and choices.” – Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
24. The Book of Wisdoms by Imam Ibn ‘Ata‘Allah al-Iskandari
Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
Sufi master Ibn ‘Ata‘Allah chose an aphoristic and rhythmical style to surmise the Spiritual way from one who experienced it himself and who wished to make it known to others. This book has a timeless quality for those seeking the path leading to Allah, the Absolute.
“A book about what being a Muslim entail of virtuous, noble conduct and choices.” – Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Listen to SeekersGuidance Podcast on The Hikam (Book of Wisdoms)
25. Sea Without Shore: A Manual of the Sufi Path by Nuh Ha Mim Keller
Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
This is a practical manual for those travelling the path of Sufism. Shaykh Nuh relates the life of the Sufi; how he lives, how he marries and how he earns a living in the modern world.
“It is very well written, easy to read, yet, very scholarly and deeply spiritual in a very disarming manner. Suitable for the non-initiate as well as the initiated. One does not necessarily have to be a Shadhili to take benefit from the book. The book also talks to the core of the challenges that beset the western mind.” – Shaykh Muhammad Carr
26. A Sufi Saint of the Twentieth Century: Shaikh Ahmad al-Alawi by Dr. Martin Lings
Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
This book is applicable to anyone who is sincerely interested in the Spiritual Way, both as an intellectual tradition and a living reality. The work gives insight into the spiritual legacy of Shaykh Al-Alawi’s teachings on Sufism and life in a North African Sufi Order.
27. In the Early Hours: Reflections on Spiritual and Self Development by Khurram Murad
Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
This is an inspiring and engaging read that provides an introduction to spiritual and self-development. Ustadh Murad reinforces in the reader the ultimate desire to seek the good pleasure of Allah Most High and outlines the methods by which one can attain it in their daily life.
SeekersGuidance Resources:
Learn more about Islamic Spirituality by registering for one of SeekersGuidance FREE courses. (Click here)
Free SeekersGuidance courses on Al-Ghazali’s Ihya
Renewal by the Book: Explanation of 40 Key Themes of the Qur’an Based on Ghazali’s Ihya
Renewing Religion: Thematic Overview of Imam Ghazali’s Ihya’
Purification of the Heart for Youth: Diseases of the Heart and Their Cure
Free SeekersGuidance Podcast on Al-Ghazali’s Ihya
SeekersGuidance Podcast: Renewal By The Book – Daily Qur’anic Tafsir based on Ghazali’s Ihya
28. Man and the Universe: An Islamic Perspective by Dr. Mostafa Al-Badawi
Beliefs (‘Aqida)
A book about what human beings are, where we stand and what we can do about it. In this work, Dr. Al-Badawi presents a penetrating diagnosis of the illnesses of humanity today, together with a fascinating overview of the Islamic metaphysic, unearthing its spiritual and moral values and its timeless relevance and applicability.
29. The Science of the Greater Jihad, Essays in Principial Psychology by Charles Upton
Psychology and Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
The spiritual life must take psychology into account; if we want to do good and know the truth, we must understand what in the human being supports this intent and what stands in its way. Author Charles Upton explores psychology and the spiritual path.
“This book will give the true seeker everything they need to achieve proximity to the Divine.” – Shaykh Jamal Ud-Deen Hysaw
30. Living Presence: A Sufi Way to Mindfulness & the Essential Self by Kabir Edmund Helminski
Psychology and Spirituality (Tasawwuf)
This work draws heavily on traditional Sufi works and experience to highlight the importance of developing presence to improve one’s life and awaken the higher potentialities of one’s soul. It integrates ancient wisdom with the needs of contemporary life. This is a very relevant read.
31. The Travels of Ibn Battuta by Ibn Battuta
History and Travel
Shaykh Ibn Battuta set out as a young man on a pilgrimage to Mecca that ended 27 years and 75,000 miles later. His account of the journey, written on his return, not only provides vivid accounts of an odyssey that took him to exotic lands, but also describes in great detail Muslim maritime activities in the Middle and Far East. A rare and important work covering the geography and history of the medieval Arab world, this primary sourcebook will be welcomed by students and scholars for its inherent historical value.
“This book gives a multicultural and pluralistic picture of the classical Muslim world.” – Shaykh Farid Dingle
32. The Road to Mecca by Muhammad Asad
Autobiography
Part travelogue, part autobiography, this is a deep, poignant, insightful autobiography of a journey into Islam. It is a compelling story of a Western journalist’s initial rejection of all institutional religions, his entree into Taoism, his fascinating travels as a diplomat, and finally his embrace of Islam. This is the story of Muhammad Asad, a prominent english translator of the Holy Qur‘an.
33. The Autobiography of Malcolm X by Malcolm X
Autobiography
Malcolm X, also known as El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz tells of his life’s journey through racism, injustice and a deep personal quest for God. This journey culminates with his conversion to Islam and his resolve to place reliance on Allah Most High.
“Another journey into Islam, through racism, injustice, a question for truth, justice, and a deep, personal quest for God.” – Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
34. Abdus Sattar Edhi, An Autobiography: A Mirror to the Blind-narrated by Tahmina Durrani
Autobiography
This is an important read for anyone with an interest in the field of charity-based work and humanitarianism. It guides the reader through the life journey of one of modern day’s most important humanitarians: Abdul Sattar Edhi of Pakistan.
35. Sayyid Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi: Life and Works by Shaykh Mohammad Akram Nadwi
Autobiography
This book presents a comprehensive study of the early life, family and education of the scholar Sayyid Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi. His major writings seriously consider the dynamic role of Islam in a multi-religious society, detailing a coherent approach to the diversity issues in the twentieth century.
Biographies
Shaykh Amin Buxton
Shaykh Amin Buxton was born in London. He converted to Islam in 1999 and read Arabic and Islamic Studies at SOAS, University of London. He also studied the Islamic sciences in a traditional setting in both Syria and Yemen. He has edited and translated a number of books which include Imam al-Haddad’s ‘Beneficial Counsels’ and Umar al-Khatib’s ‘Prophetic Guidance’. Since 2017 he has resided with his family in Edinburgh, Scotland. He is involved in several educational and social initiatives including New to Islam Edinburgh and Rafah International. Shaykh Amin Buxton is one of our esteemed internal scholars.
Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Shaykh Faraz Rabbani spent ten years studying with some of the leading scholars of recent times, first in Damascus, and then in Amman, Jordan. His teachers include the foremost theologian of recent times in Damascus, the late Shaykh Adib al-Kallas (may Allah have mercy on him), as well as his student Shaykh Hassan al-Hindi, one of the leading Hanafi fuqaha of the present age. He returned to Canada in 2007, where he founded SeekersGuidance in order to meet the urgent need to spread Islamic knowledge–both online and on the ground–in a reliable, relevant, inspiring, and accessible manner. He is the author of: Absolute Essentials of Islam: Faith, Prayer, and the Path of Salvation According to the Hanafi School (White Thread Press, 2004.) Since 2011, Shaykh Faraz has been named one of the 500 most influential Muslims by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Center.
Shaykh Farid Dingle
Shaykh Farid Dingle has completed extensive years of study in the sciences of the Arabic language and the various Islamic Sciences. During his studies, he also earned a CIFE Certificate in Islamic Finance. Over the years he has developed a masterful ability to craft lessons that help non-Arabic speakers gain a deep understanding of the language. He currently teaches courses in the Arabic Language at SeekersGuidance.
Shaykh Jamal Ud-Deen Hysaw
Shaykh Jamal Ud-Deen Hysaw is a SeekersGuidance instructor. Shaykh Jamal accepted Islam in 1992 in Chicago, Illinois. He has a degree in Political Science from Southern Illinois University, and has studied Islamic studies in Damascus, Syria for 3 years. In 1995 he studied for 2 years at Abu Nur Islamic Institute and 1 year at the University of Damascus Language program for Foreigners. In 1995 Shaykh Jamal moved to Tarim, Yemen and studied in Dar Al-Mustafa for 5 years. He returned to the USA in 2003 and began an Islamic studies program that lasted for 1 year, and held courses in Fiqh, the 40 hadith, and beginning Arabic around the Atlanta area.
Imam Yama Niazi
Imam Yama Niazi has studied with local scholars in the USA for a number of years which culminated in him becoming an imam of the Islamic Society of Santa Barbara for 8 years. He served the community by teaching and leading prayers. In 2015 he founded “ the blessed tree “ a nonprofit specifically for bridging gaps between the Muslim community and others. He has spoken on many Muslim platforms throughout the USA and Canada and conducted programmes in local communities in North America. He is an instructor at SeekersGuidance.
Ustadha Shazia Ahmad
Ustadha Shazia Ahmad completed her bachelor’s degree at the University of Toronto in Arabic and French. She then lived in Damascus, Syria for two years where she studied aqidah, fiqh, tajweed, tafsir, and Arabic. She then attended the University of Texas at Austin, where she completed her Masters in Arabic. Afterwards, she moved to Amman, Jordan where she resided for 15 years, and studied fiqh, Arabic, and other sciences with local and travelling scholars. She recently moved back to Mississauga, Canada, where she lives with her husband and children.
Shaykh Yusuf Weltch
Shaykh Yusuf Weltch is a teacher of Arabic, Islamic law, and spirituality. After accepting Islam in 2008, he then completed four years at the Darul Uloom seminary in New York where he studied Arabic and the traditional sciences. Subsequently, he travelled to Tarim, Yemen, where he stayed for three years studying at Dar Al-Mustafa under some of the greatest scholars of our time, including Habib Umar Bin Hafiz, Habib Kadhim al-Saqqaf and Shaykh Umar al-Khatib. In Tarim, Shaykh Yusuf completed the memorization of the Qur‘an and studied inheritance law, legal methodology, hadith methodology, Qur‘anic exegesis, Islamic history, and a number of texts on spirituality. He joined the SeekersGuidance faculty in the summer of 2019.
Shaykh Abdullah Misra
Shaykh Abdullah Misra was born and raised in Toronto, Canada, into a Hindu family of North Indian heritage. He became Muslim at the age of 18, graduated from the University of Toronto with a degree in Business Administration and worked briefly in marketing. He then went abroad with his wife to seek religious knowledge full-time, first in Tarim, then in the West Indies and finally in Amman, Jordan, where he focussed his traditional studies on the sciences of Sacred Law (fiqh), hadith, Islamic belief, tajwid, and sira.
Shaykh Muhammad Idris Watts (Guest Contributor)
Born and raised in Kent, Muhammad Idris Watts accepted Islam in 1998. He travelled to Fez, Morocco to embark on an intensive period of study. He attended classes at the Qarawiyeen University in the Old City studying with the likes of the adept grammarian Shaykh Abdel-Hayy al-‘Amrāwī and many other teachers. He studied classical texts including the Ajrumiyah, Lāmiyat al-Af’āl, Matn az-Zanjānī, Alfiyah in Grammar and Morphology, Ibn ‘Ashir, al-Akhdarī, Risālah of Ibn Abī Zayd and sections of the ‘Asimiyyah in Mālikī Fiqh, as well as Jawharat at-Tawhīd in Creed. He also had the opportunity of sitting with the students of the late Shaykh Makkī bin Kīrān, (may God bless his soul), who was a master of the ten variant recitations of the Qur‘ān and studied Tajwīd and four of the variant recitations with them. the etiquette (adab) and only when this is adopted, can the reciter be changed by the blessings of the Qur’an to imperceptible degrees.
Shaykh Muhammad Carr
Shaykh Muhammad Carr has dedicated his life to studying and transmitting our beautiful deen; his studies have taken him around the globe, where he has benefitted from many luminaries including Shaykh Taha Karan, Shaykh Yaseen Abbas, Shaykh Muadh Ali and many others. He completed his memorization of the Quran at Dar al-Ulum Zakariyyah in September 1997 and received an Alimiyya Degree in 2006. He is also affiliated with Masjid Auwal in Bo Kaap, Cape Town, South Africa (the oldest mosque in South Africa), where he serves as a co-imam, along with Dar Al-Safa, where he has taught since 2018. As a teacher, he imparts the wisdom of our heritage and tradition by opening the door for students and facilitating their affairs. As an imam, he has the unique opportunity to serve his community in daily life. He continues to pursue traditional Islamic Sciences, possessing a keen interest in Islamic Contract Law and Finance. His passion for learning & teaching is matched by his appreciation for the diversity of scholarship, and attention to the value of good character. His contributions to SeekersGuidance are welcomed, as we strive to grow as righteous believers under the guidance of qualified scholars such as Shakyh Muhammad Carr.
