al-Tariq ila al-Islam
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- Editions
- Dār Ibn Khuzaymah
al-Tariq ila al-Islam (The Path to Islam) is an introductory treatise on Islamic faith and civilization by the Saudi author Muhammad bin Ibrahim al-Hamad, written primarily to present the essential tenets and worldview of Islam to non-Muslims .
Purpose and Approach
The book was conceived specifically as an introductory guide for non-Muslims seeking to understand Islam . In light of its intended audience, the author adopted an accessible and clear style, intentionally limiting specialized footnotes and technical digressions . The work invites the reader to pursue genuine and enduring happiness through sound belief in God, presenting Islam as an open faith that welcomes thoughtful inquiry and provides coherent answers to existential and theological questions .
Contents and Themes
The book begins with an examination of the human search for happiness and peace of mind, arguing that while various thinkers, philosophers, and physicians have sought remedies for inner distress, true and lasting happiness is attainable only through faith in God and adherence to His guidance .
It then outlines the story of humanity, beginning with the creation of Adam, his honored status, the refusal of Iblis to prostrate, and Satan’s ensuing enmity toward mankind . The text traces the lineage of divine revelation across history, noting that humanity lived in pure monotheism for ten generations before polytheism emerged, prompting God to send messengers starting with Nuh (Noah) and continuing through Ibrahim (Abraham), Isma'il (Ishmael), Ishaq (Isaac), Ya'qub (Jacob), Yusuf (Joseph), Musa (Moses), Dawud (David), Sulayman (Solomon), and 'Isa (Jesus), culminating in the final, universal mission of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ .
The work also provides a concise overview of the Prophet Muhammad's ﷺ life and mission, highlighting the scriptural prophecies foretelling his coming—such as the prayer of Ibrahim and the tidings of 'Isa concerning Ahmad . It discusses the historical and moral state of the Arabian environment into which he was born, emphasizing the Arabs' intellectual independence, personal honor, linguistic eloquence, and sound natural disposition (fitrah), which prepared them to receive and transmit the final revelation to humanity .
Publication
The author's preface to the second edition is dated 10 Muharram 1426 AH, recorded from al-Zulfi, Saudi Arabia .
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