Understanding Islam

Contents: 1. Nazir Ahmads Introductory Remarks. 2. Islamic Beliefs. 3. Knowing God. 4. Oneness of the Creator. 5. Polytheism: Attributing Partners to God. 6. Existence of God. 7. Conveniences in Islam and Inconveniences in Other Religions. 8. Oneness of God is the Essence of Religion. 9. Sense of Good and Bad is Natural. 10. Prophethood. 11. Truthfulness of the Prophet of Islam. 12. Miracles and Prophecies. 13. The Real Aim of the Revelation of the Quran. 14. An Advice to the Maulvis of Today. 15. Asceticism. 16. Other Religions and the Doctrines of Islam. 17. Reforming the Conditions of Muslims. 18. Religion and this World are not Inconsistent. 19. Appendices. Select Glossary and Notes. Bibliography.

Understanding Islam is a translation of Ijtihad (Striving) written in Urdu by Nazir Ahmad (18361912) a leading Urdu writer, social and religious reformer.
The original work grew out of a response to the question, Why am I a Muslim? which had obsessed the author.
Nazir Ahmad critically examines questions that he felt had perhaps been inadequately understood by his co-religionists, and suggested areas where a change in their outlook might be conducive to the true spirit of Islam.
This book is a valuable introduction and guide to the essence of Islam.
Mohammed Zakirs translation is true to the original, and retains its flavour.