This is a timeless treatise whose reputation has spread far and wide, whose benefits are universal, and whose blessings have reached both scholars and the general public alike. It is among the works penned by Imam Abu Hamid al-Ghazali during the final period of his life, reflecting the maturity of his thought and spiritual insight. This epistle has received great scholarly attention throughout Islamic history, being widely taught and explained by leading scholars of the Ummah, who regarded it as a beacon of guidance illuminating the straight path. Its distinction is more than sufficient in that it is authored by Imam al-Ghazali, the renowned spiritual authority and master of the inner sciences—deeply knowledgeable of the human heart, its ailments and diseases, and fully aware of their remedies and cures, leading to true spiritual healing. Bidayat al-Hidayah (The Beginning of Guidance), despite its concise size, is considered one of the most essential keys to spiritual success, deserving the utmost care and attention from all seekers of guidance, from the beginning to the end of their journey. Indeed, it is rightly named The Beginning of Guidance, for it illuminates the path for spiritual travelers, directs beginners toward the way of the sincere, and rekindles the resolve of those who have fallen short of the ranks of the truthful. All of this is achieved through a compelling, refined, and engaging style that draws the reader into its spiritual gardens and invites the seeker to partake in its profound wisdom. How could it be otherwise, when its author is Hujjat al-Islam, the blessing of humanity, Imam Abu Hamid al-Ghazali? The author—may Allah have mercy on him—divided this book into three main sections: Acts of obedience and their proper manners Avoidance of sins and disobedience Etiquette of companionship and social conduct In addition, this edition includes Imam al-Ghazali’s creed (‘Aqidah), which represents the belief of Ahl al-Sunnah wa al-Jama‘ah, appended at the end of the book. Notably, this edition is distinguished by being carefully collated with a precious manuscript dated 596 AH, written 91 years after the author’s death, and it contains valuable marginal notes, which have been preserved exactly as found. ISBN: 978-9953-498-82-9Forfatter: Imam al-Ghazali
