Islam is the only religion, under the sun, which encompasses a whole of the life of man in this world and the world hereafter. Complete as per the natural needs of man, Islam was introduced in this world, over one thousand and four hundred years ago. Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh), who is the last and final prophet in the line of about one lakh and twenty-four thousand prophets, and messengers, was endowed with the Holy Quran by Allah, the Almighty for the benefit of mankind, in general. Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) was sent to this world as mercy for all the worlds--Rahmat-ul-lil-Aalamin. The period when Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) came to this world was very much under the blanket of ignorance and inhuman practices. Idol-worship was rampant and there were numerous idols of Gods in Mecca and the surrounding areas. With the arrival of Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) on the scene, a sea change came in the world of Arabs. And gradually, an Islamic culture came on the scene.
Islam discarded all Gods, besides Allah, the Almighty and urged to worship Him only. People were asked to accept whole-heartedly that Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) was His Prophet and Messenger. Similarly, prayers five times a day, fasts in the month of Ramadan, poor-due or charity generously, pilgrimage to Mecca, once in life, respect for parents, rights of neighbours without any distinction of faith, marrying widows, payment of dower to wives, without delay, loving kids and respecting elders etc. became some of the distinguishing features, Islamic culture stood for.
No doubt, there are a number of books on the subject, already in the market, yet there was being felt a need for such a comprehensive and all-encompassing Encyclopaedic work, which may cover most of all aspects of this subject between its covers. Thanks Allah, we have succeeded in bringing out the dream Encyclopaedic work in your service. This painstaking work is the fruition of toilsome, labour by the undersigned. Rightly, it must prove to be beneficial for all the concerned, alike. Positive comments are always welcome. |
