Although Islam as a faith can be distinguished through the degree to which it is practiced, unfortunately in our day, this practice has lacked the spirit of Islam. The rituals are mechanically performed as if only a kind of social custom, while the spirit of Islam has been almost totally lost. This book aims to illuminate the spiritual radiance of mainstream (Ahli Sunnah) Islam and to clothe it in stories of the lives of the Prophets and their Companions and also in the lives of exemplary Sufis. In particular, many references to the poetry of Rumi, Yunus Emre and other Sufis aim to unite the passion of our spiritual practice with its ritual form. The chapters on paying charity and poor-due possess great beauty. The deep analysis they afford of the economic philosophy integral in Islam, abundantly demonstrates their inherent value in our grossly material world.

In order for us to attain to the superior virtues that will make us acceptable to Allah, we must nourish heartfelt love for the friends of Allah and the Blessed Prophet to whom they are devoted. And it is him that we must follow. For this reason it is hoped that, as we become truly acquainted with the Prophet and take as our model his superior characteristics, which have been praised by Allah, we will have the honour of being amongst those brothers that the Prophet gave glad tidings of. If we recognize him today, he will recognize us tomorrow in that great gathering on the last Day. If we reach a state in which we see him in reality then he will see us. If we listen to him and do as he says, then he will hear our cries and take us by the hand. In this way we will become for others, an exhibition of his beautiful example. This is the greatest virtue of all! - from Amzon