Although Abul A’la Mawdudi is usually referred to as a controversial scholar, no one can deny that in “Towards understanding Islam” he succeeds in presenting the doctrine in a succinct and clear way for both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. He discusses a wide variety of problems, such as political, economic, cultural, social and theological; while attempting to state who the teachings of Islam are related to them. An extremely productive writer, who produced more than 120 books,

This book was given to me as a present when I expressed an interest in Islam. Personal reasons aside, I dare say that no one can deny the logic that exists in its doctrine. Once we’re pass the “hijab” or head-dress for women as a way of subjugation, the separation that exists between them and men in public -unless they are related, the fact that it “just happens” to be the religion of the terrorists from 9/11, as well as the one from the “uncultured” people of the desert, etc.; we can finally allow ourselves to come to the realization that what is revealed in The Holy Qu’ran just has to be true, simply because it makes absolute, logical sense. And, just like Aristotle would more or less say, the human mind tends to accept naturally whatever is logical.

Thus, the book exposes the firm belief in the existence of the one true God, a necessary source to keep men from using their own resources or talents against each other. This was revealed through the prophethood of Muhammad (SAW); an illiterate man with a heart of gold, the patience of a saint and a soul as pure as that of a child. “He was the one whose example and teachings inspired the thoughts of the oneness of mankind, the equality of the human race, the concepts of true democracy and real freedom in the world.” (Page 63) Try that for those who qualify Islam as a religion solely based on Fundamentalism. The two final chapters on Islamic Law, Jurisprudence and Mysticism - although concise, provide a wealth of information about how the moral system of Islam works and what its bases are. They refer not just to individual but moral conduct of men, women, family and community.

I found the work a good bedrock to go on the hunt for more. I would recommend to anyone either interested in learning about Islam or taking it up as his or her religion, to first read this book before reading the Holy Qu’ran. It would give you a full, rounded picture of what to expect and what it is all about.

A’la Mawdudi is known for his tenacious adherence to his ideas, regardless how much controversy they may arise. On a world as controversial as the Islamic one, this trait just oozes character, and who can resist that?

A'la Mawdudi is considered one of the greatest scholars in the muslim world, who claimed to trace his ancestry back to Prophet Muhammad himself (SAW). His works have been translated into more than forty languages. He is the founder of Jamaat Islami, a half-political, half-religious movement headquartered in Pakistan.

Should this be your first book about Islam? Not necessarily. Should it be your last? Most likely not. It should, however, be one you read at some point. And mark it down, because you’ll keep referring to it as a source for discussion further discussion.

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Created Mar 04, 2005 at 11:16pm • Submit your own review...