Written in the form of a two-volume epic poem, each chapter describes the events of a single year of the Prophetic Mission.
Written in the form of a two-volume epic poem, each chapter describes the events of a single year of the Prophetic Mission.
For Muslims – and for that matter, many non-Muslims – there has never been a more significant figure in human history than Prophet Muhammad (ď·ş). His life, teachings, and example have been a source of continued inspiration throughout the centuries.
A number of different scholarly and literary traditions have thus emerged including As-Seerah an-Nabawiyyah (historical accounts of the life of the Prophet ď·ş); Asbab an-Nuzul (works which link the Revelation of certain Qur’anic Verses to specific incidents in the life of the Prophet ď·ş); and various forms of poetry in praise of him. There are many examples of each, available in virtually every language.
However, it is rare for any one work to combine all of these elements. The Messenger of Mercy: A Call in Makkah by Dr. Sarfaraz Hussain Shah, however, does just that. Unlike other works detailing his life, it is written in the form of a two-volume epic poem, where each chapter describes the events of a single year of the Prophetic Mission.
This volume begins in media res, with the first Revelation in the cave of Al-Hira, and ends with the Hijrah. Weaved throughout it are translated Verses of the Qur’an – at least one section from every Makkan Surah appears within this work in the appropriate context.
As an epic poem, it is written in an elevated language and follows a somewhat complex rhyming scheme and structure, but this work was specifically intended to be accessible to the general public – Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
In the interests of inclusiveness, it tends to avoid areas of controversies between different sects, and instead focuses on the merciful nature of the Prophet (ď·ş), and the struggles and achievements of all the early Believers throughout the course of the Mission.
It is packed with a wealth of additional material before and after the poem, which helps illuminate the wider context of the work. There is a brief introduction to the social and cultural practices, family trees, a chronology of events, specially-designed maps, a glossary of terms, and an encyclopedia of short biographies at the end for every personality mentioned within the main work.
The author also commissioned a number of high-quality original works of art, inspired by actual visits to various places. All of this makes for a much richer experience for the reader and takes them on a journey from perhaps knowing only a little, to becoming intimately familiar with the Seerah.
All proceeds of the book will go to the Middle Community: a charity co-founded by Dr Shah, which is dedicated to furthering the cause of unity between Muslims, as well as serving humanity in general through initiatives such as food banks and youth work. More information is available on their website here.
Get your copy of the book on Amazon here!
