Overview

This easy-to-read yet comprehensive book invites readers to explore Islam as a cohesive and holistic way of life, highlighting the intricate beauty of one of the world's major religions. Central to Islamic teachings is the concept of divine love, which permeates daily life through service to humanity, contemplation, introspection, and meaningful rituals that nurture spiritual, moral, and social development. While many works focus on individual aspects of Islam-such as history, theology, mysticism, or worship-this book responds to the contemporary need for an integrated understanding of Islam as a practical framework for everyday living. It elucidates divine love within the Islamic tradition, addressing both its spiritual dimensions and its practical applications, a defining strength of Islamic teachings. Grounded in precise citations from the Quran and Hadith, the book functions as both a scholarly textbook and a practical guide. It clearly explains core rituals, distinguishing between obligatory and supererogatory elements of prayer, charity, fasting, and pilgrimage, while illuminating their deeper spiritual significance. Organized into three sections and seventeen chapters, the book explores Quranic foundations, modes of worship, and key philosophical questions, presenting profound insights in a clear and accessible manner.

Full Product Details

9798992083200

Table of Contents

Reviews

Endorsement from Dr. Ibrahim Negm Senior Advisor to the Grand Mufti of Al-Azhar, Egypt; Secretary General, General Secretariat of Fatwa Authorities Worldwide Love of God: Practical Spirituality in Islam by Dr. Yousuf H. Rahman stands as a remarkable achievement that transcends conventional approaches to Islamic theology and practice. What distinguishes this work is its innovative architecture. Rather than presenting Islam as abstract doctrine disconnected from lived experience, Dr. Rahman constructs a comprehensive framework that integrates the spiritual foundations of Islam with its practical obligations. The book's tripartite structure-moving from the spiritual core, through obligatory practice, to contemporary applications-reflects a sophisticated pedagogical design that serves both the scholar and the sincere believer. This methodological innovation makes the text simultaneously rigorous and accessible; a difficult balance rarely achieved in Islamic literature. The structure allows readers to perceive Islam not merely as a system of rules, but as a coherent spiritual journey rooted in divine love, ethical responsibility, and lived devotion. The book's scholarly rigor is evident throughout. Dr. Rahman grounds his analysis firmly in the Qur'anic and Prophetic traditions while engaging meaningfully with classical Islamic jurisprudence and philosophy. His treatment of foundational concepts-taqwa, tafakkur, 'ibadah, and ihsan-demonstrates profound theological depth. Yet he avoids the academic detachment that often alienates general readers. Each chapter moves seamlessly from theological principle to practical application, illustrating how abstract concepts manifest in daily devotion and ethical conduct. Perhaps most commendable is the book's inclusive and intellectually honest approach to Islamic spirituality. Dr. Rahman does not dismiss legitimate theological questions or paradoxes; rather, he engages them directly, offering readers a framework for navigating complexity with sincerity and balance. His discussion of Islam's positive approach to worship, his treatment of al-'amal al-salih (righteous deeds), and his emphasis on the interconnectedness of intention, action, and divine love result in a spirituality that is both psychologically sound and theologically grounded. The richness and breadth of content deserve particular mention. With seventeen substantive chapters covering foundational spiritual concepts, historical theological developments, and contemporary applications-supplemented by practical appendices on ritual procedures and Prophetic traditions-the work functions as both a spiritual guide and a reference text. Clear explanations of complex Arabic terminology further enhance its accessibility, making it valuable for audiences ranging from university students to established scholars. Dr. Rahman's portrayal of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)as both exemplar and human, his nuanced discussion of theological paradoxes, and his practical guidance on matters ranging from supplications to modern ethical challenges demonstrate an author deeply attuned to both the timeless principles of Islam and the lived realities of contemporary Muslims. This book deserves recognition as a significant contribution to Islamic literature-one that restores practical spirituality to its rightful place at the heart of Islamic identity while maintaining uncompromising scholarly standards. It will undoubtedly serve the Muslim community as both an educational text and a trusted companion in sincere practice.

Author Information

Dr. Yousuf Habibur Rahman is a distinguished economist and fiscal policy expert who served at the New York City Office of Management & Budget (OMB) from 1986 to 2013, spanning four mayoral administrations. During his long tenure, he played a central role in shaping key economic and fiscal policy reforms, overseeing major public projects, and directing the city's economic and tax revenue forecasting. For over a decade, he held the position of Chief Economist of New York City and represented the OMB at professional conferences across the United States.Alongside his government service, Dr. Rahman maintained a deep and sustained engagement with academia. He served for over 25 years as an adjunct professor of public policy at New York University's Wagner Graduate School of Public Service. He earned his Ph.D. in economics from the Graduate Center of the City University of New York, specializing in econometrics and public finance. Earlier in his career, he held full-time faculty positions at the State University of New York and, briefly, at the University of Dhaka.Dr. Rahman's contributions extend well beyond the realms of government and academia. A respected figure in the Downtown Manhattan Muslim community, he co-founded Masjid Manhattan near Wall Street and has long been a source of spiritual and civic leadership. In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 attacks, he played a vital role in offering guidance, support, and reassurance to the local Muslim community during a time of intense adversity and scrutiny. He is also a lifetime member of the Long Island Muslim Society of New York, where he regularly delivers lectures on the spiritual foundations of Quranic teachings.Since retiring from public service, Dr. Rahman has dedicated himself to Islamic scholarship and spiritual education. LOVE of GOD - Practical Spirituality in Islam, is the culmination of over a decade of rigorous study and research, contemplation, and devotion. He regards this endeavor as a profound blessing from the All-Loving Lord.

Tab Content 6

Countries Available