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White Thread Press

The Art of Cultivating Noble Character (NEW)

The Art of Cultivating Noble Character (NEW)

Raghib al-Isfahani's Kitab al-Dhari'a ila Makarim al-Shari'a

Imam Raghib al-Isfahani (author)

Yasien Mohamed (translator)

Abdur-Rahman ibn Yusuf Mangera (editor)

Publisher: White Thread Press

This groundbreaking translation revives Imam Raghib al-Isfahani's seminal ethical treatise, integrating Qur'anic principles with philosophical depth. Isfahani's timeless exploration of moral virtue, the soul and spiritual refinement is characterized by his unique weaving of Qur'anic verses and prophetic traditions into ethical discourse.
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Detailed Description

This groundbreaking translation revives Imam Raghib al-Isfahani's seminal ethical treatise, integrating Qur'anic principles with philosophical depth. Isfahani's timeless exploration of moral virtue, the soul and spiritual refinement is characterized by his unique weaving of Qur'anic verses and prophetic traditions into ethical discourse. 

Yasien Mohamed, Emeritus Professor of Arabic and Islamic Philosophy at the University of the Western Cape, brings Isfahani's insights to the English speaking world. The Art of Cultivating Noble Character offers a rich, contemplative journey into Islamic moral thought, ideal for philosophy students, spiritual growth seekers and those deepening their understanding of Islamic virtue ethics. 

Following a meticulous three-year review, this expertly translated edition, featuring a critical introduction, is now available. As a seminal influence on thinkers like Imam Ghazali, Isfahani's masterpiece continues to provide timeless wisdom for life's most pressing moral questions.  

Editorial Reviews

Yasien Mohamed was the first modern scholar to write in English about Raghib al-Isfahani and the field of Islamic Studies remains in debt to his vision and initiative. This book is the culmination of a lifetime of rigorous scholarship and profound expertise. It will be a fundamental reference point for all interested in Raghib's ethical thought - one of the most fecund and innovative syntheses in the premodern Islamic world.

Alexander Key

Stanford University, USA

You hold in your hands one of the most important books of the Islamic tradition. The proof of Islam, Abu Hamid al-Ghazali, memorised by heart Kitab al-Dhari'a. Anyone familiar with Imam Ghazali's works will recognise the immense influence this book had on him... We owe a great debt to Dr Yasien Mohamed for bringing this exceptional work into English... With excellent knowledge of Arabic and English, coupled with a serious background in ethics, he provides us with a translation that works well and conveys the contents of the Imam's works.

Hamza Yusuf

Zaytuna College, USA

This seminal philosophical work by Rāghib al-Iṣfahānī, grounded in the Sharīʿah, demonstrates the synthesis of reason and revelation in ethical thought and the unity of transmitted (naqliyyah) and rational (‘aqliyyah) sciences, a hallmark of the tenth and eleventh century Islamic thought. By providing an excellent annotated English translation of this classical work, Yasien Mohamed has made a significant contribution to contemporary Islamic thought and scholarship. This work has the potential to inspire fresh perspectives in the contemporary discourse on comparative ethical thought, facilitating a deeper understanding of the rich intellectual heritage of Islamic philosophy.

Osman Bakar

International Islamic University of Malaysia

The 10th–11th century Muslim Ethicist, al-Rāghib al-Iṣfahānī is a pivotal figure in the development of Islamic virtue ethics. Expanding on an Aristotelian model, he builds an ethical system that aims beyond flourishing in this world to flourishing in the afterlife, looking to the Prophet Muḥammad as an exemplar, taking guidance from Muslim scripture, and connecting the philosophical virtues to Islamic law and ritual. His synthesis is an important milestone in the Islamic tradition and a central inspiration to al-Ghazālī. No scholar knows al-Iṣfahānī better than Yasien Mohamed, whose elegant new translation of The Art of Cultivating Noble Character, along with extensive annotation, makes this important work accessible to an English reading audience.

Kenneth Garden

Tufts University, USA

What drives our actions: ethical values or power and interests? This fundamental question divides the world today. Yasien Mohamed makes a valuable contribution to the academic community by introducing the argument for virtue ethics from the prominent Muslim scholar, Rāghib al-Iṣfahānī. This enriches the discussion on ethics from an Islamic perspective. Ethics is inherently relational, involving the self and others. Therefore, understanding the self and others is a prerequisite for ethical engagement. Iṣfahānī’s approach begins with self-knowledge from an Islamic perspective, then explores the vertical relationship with God and horizontal relationships with other creatures. His ethical framework is triangular, analysing interpersonal relationships in light of the divine connection. The vertical dimension is crucial, as it infuses human relationships with meaning and purpose. This may be Iṣfahānī’s most significant contribution to contemporary ethical discussions.

Recep Şentürk

Hamad Bin Khalifa University, UAE

Yasien Mohamed’s masterful translation of the Dharīʿah marks a monumental contribution to the study of Islamic ethics and philosophy. With meticulous care, this work revives the profound teachings of Rāghib al-Iṣfahānī, offering contemporary readers a unique opportunity to engage with classical Islamic thought on virtues and moral character. By integrating philosophical virtues with Islamic theological principles, this book enriches our understanding of virtue ethics and underscores the timeless relevance of Iṣfahānī’s insights for today’s pursuit of moral and spiritual growth. This book is essential reading for scholars and students interested in the intersection of ethics, religion, and philosophy.

Alparslan Açıkgenç

Uskudar University, Turkey

In an era dominated by deontological and consequentialist approaches to moral philosophy, Dr. Mohamed’s work on Rāghib al-Iṣfahānī revives the rich tradition of virtue ethics within Islam. The Dharīʿah presents a comprehensive ethical framework, harmoniously integrating Qur’anic principles with philosophical virtues. This synthesis offers profound insights into cultivating virtuous character for both worldly success and eternal felicity. Dr. Mohamed’s meticulous translation and insightful commentary illuminate the relevance of these virtues in addressing contemporary moral dilemmas. Al-Iṣfahānī reminds us that ethical living encompasses more than adhering to external laws or calculating outcomes; it’s about nurturing the soul, fostering wisdom, and cultivating character. Dr. Mohamed’s scholarship is truly commendable. His ability to convey the depth and complexity of Iṣfahānī’s thoughts in an accessible language showcases his expertise in Arabic and Islamic philosophy. The annotated translation, enriched with scholarly references and contextual analysis, is an invaluable resource for students, academics, and anyone interested in the intersection of Islamic ethics and philosophical inquiry.

Ahmed El Azhary

Tabah Foundation

The Art of Cultivating Noble Character is an exceptional work that illuminates the ethical philosophies of one of the most profound scholars in the Islamic tradition. As the first English translation of Rāghib al-Iṣfahānī’s ethical treatise, this book represents a monumental contribution to the field of virtue ethics. Iṣfahānī’s examination of virtue ethics, within the Islamic intellectual framework, offers a distinctive perspective that seamlessly integrates classical philosophical traditions with Islamic thought. His profound insights into the nature of intellect, the pursuit of knowledge, adab (proper conduct), and the pivotal role of education are particularly enlightening. Yasien Mohamed’s meticulous translation not only makes Iṣfahānī’s seminal work accessible to a global audience but also significantly enriches the discourse on virtue ethics by introducing an authentic Islamic perspective. This translation’s scholarly rigour, lucidity and precision ensure that it will become an indispensable resource for scholars, students, and anyone deeply interested in ethical philosophy.

Yusef Waghid

University of Stellenbosh, South Africa

Through this lucid and skilful translation of al-Rāghib al-Iṣfahānī’s Kitāb al-Dharīʿah, Professor Yasien Mohamed has rendered a valuable service to the English-speaking reader who now has access to this magisterial work on virtue ethics. It is a significant contribution to a resurgent global discourse on the place of ethics in an increasingly dystopian world and, therefore, highly recommended for both a specialist and general readership.

Asma Afsaruddin

Indiana University, USA

The Art of Cultivating Noble Character is essential reading for anyone who wishes to understand the nature of moral reasoning in Islamic philosophy. We have known for a long time the significance of Iṣfahānī, thanks largely to the scholarship of the author of this book in his earlier work, and here we have a judicious and accurate translation of one of Iṣfahānī’s major works. The scholarly notes are particularly helpful and this is going to be the definitive text in the area for some time. Mohamed presents the material with clarity, and he has done great service to those interested in Islamic philosophy in this account of an influential and powerful thinker.

Oliver Leaman

University of Kentucky, USA

Additional Information for The Art of Cultivating Noble Character (NEW)
Attribute Value
Book Authors Imam Raghib al-Isfahani
Book Publishers White Thread Press
Book Dimensions 6x9 inches
Year of Publication 2024
Number of Pages 304

Customer Reviews

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S
S.H.

One of the most profound works of Islamic Literature I've come across in the past 20 years.
Provides amazing insights, is written in a beautiful style with the Qur'anic verses weaved into the text rather than just being quoted.
Excellent quality.

Z
Zeshan Zafar
A Profound Journey into The Art of Cultivating Noble Character”

After a wait spanning over two decades, it is with profound delight that I encounter this long-anticipated translation. The Art of Cultivating Noble Character, now rendered with exceptional clarity, is a remarkable addition to the corpus of great works within the Islamic intellectual tradition. For the first time, readers are presented with a complete and meticulously translated version of this historically significant yet challenging text. The lucidity of the translation underscores its fidelity to the original, offering access to a work that has long been revered but remained inaccessible to many due to its complexity.

This book, once carried by the illustrious Imam al-Ghazali himself, now stands as a bridge between the past and the present. It is not a simple or casual read; rather, it demands focused engagement and deliberate reflection, as the depth of its narrative invites readers into a profound exploration of ethical and spiritual dimensions. It is precisely this intellectual and moral rigour that makes it an indispensable guide for individuals seeking to cultivate an ethical framework grounded in a rich, historical tradition.

For me personally, this book serves as a compass, one that I will undoubtedly revisit repeatedly to draw upon its timeless wisdom. It will continue to inform and inspire the ethical dimensions of my faith, encouraging a deeper alignment between belief and practice. In a world grappling with moral fragmentation, The Art of Cultivating Noble Character is not merely a text but a book that illuminates the enduring relevance of classical wisdom in shaping a more harmonious, purpose-driven life.

This translation is more than an academic triumph; it is a vital resource for scholars, faith leaders, and practitioners dedicated to bridging tradition and contemporary challenges. It invites us all to engage with the perennial questions of character, responsibility, and spiritual development in an era that urgently needs such reflections.

M
Mohummed Sadek Docrat
The Art of Cultivating Noble Character

An excellent book! I have started reading it and have completed the Introduction. One of the few books on Purification of The Self that is so well written and can easily implement to improve our character.
The publication and quality is excellent. A book to be treasured.

B
British Muslim
Essential Reading

As Shaykh Humza Yusuf says, “one of the most important books of the Islamic Tradition”. Indeed, according to the Shaykh “a book that was memorised by the Proof of Islam, Abu Hamid Al-Ghazali” himself.

In my opinion, ownership of this first-class English translation is essential for every British Muslim’s home library - not as a collector’s item but to be read and acted upon!

Many a local Imam could benefit by reading out the contents of this book at Friday Sermon, for the words herein are as relevant today as they were a thousand years ago when this work was penned.

May Allah bless the folks at White Thread Press for bringing this highly readable work into the domain of British Islam.

Note: I merely purchased this book. I have no interest (financial or otherwise) with the translator or White Thread Press