Al-Ghazali on Disciplining the Soul & on Breaking the Two Desires: Books XXII and XXIII of the Revival of the Religious Sciences (The Islamic Texts Society's al-Ghazali Series)

Al Ghazali is regarded as a more cerebral and exoterically inclined Sufi, as a pose to the more esoteric practitioners such as Shibli, Ruzbihan and Bayazid. As such he is regarded as the 'renewer' of the 5th Muslim Century and to quote the author 'the most influential thinker of medieval Islam'. He provides a moral framework in this book for clean living that today finds form in many contemporary Sufi Masters writings. The essential thrust of this work is to lay open the anatomy of human weakness, the observations of which are as relevant today as they were in the 11 century when this treatise was written. Fundamentally mans weaknesses boil down to gluttony and sexual desire, out of the lack of disciplining these two urges, spring forth all the manifestations of depravity and moral degeneration. The greatest mortal vice is gluttony of the stomach- the primer for sexual voraciousness and the provider of fuel for lusting after fame and wealth. Hence in Islamic thought, the great importance attached to fasting, as a means for consciously weakening these base urges, all of which find their well spring in gustatory greed. Al Ghazali does not forbid eating, but advocates moderation, the practice of sharing, and putting the needs of one companions ahead of oneself- this etiquette of feeding being a schooling in higher minded values way beyond the simple practice of eating. This is a well written and highly readable book, interesting from a historical view and a spiritual view for people of any religious or spiritual tradition. It is stuffed with observations on spiritual shades of character that are simply not found in this detail in any other traditions writings that i can think of. It provides real food for thought- no pun intended- on how one sets about moderating ones vices, giving clear insights into the spiritual significance of certain character failings, providing ample practical solutions and spiritual reasons for addressing and rectifying these vices. For a thousand year old book this is timeless wisdom.

For those on a path of enlightenment, this one is definitely worth reading. Fascinating how the more you read, the more you realise, you dont know much!

Such a beautiful and insightful book. It truly is a gem for those looking to widen their knowledge of self development or of Islam.

I am not a Sufi but I like a lot of Ghazalis works. This is a great book and I am constantly re reading chapters. This book focuses on implementing good character traits and the impact of bad character on your worldly life and worship.

Assalamu Alaykum. This book is perfect for someone who is intellectually blessed. Along with the two chapters of Imam Ghazali Radi Allahu Anhu, the author Dr. Abd'al Hakim Murad has put forward an lengthy but logical introduction, and has used terms/words that reflects His Academic achievements, hence, a person who has Higher education knowledge will understand this and read it with ease. Im half way through this book and am loving this so much.

Easy to read, small chapters. Great book.

Very good and insightful. I thought TJ Winters' notes at the beginning were a bit long though, and found that more difficult to get through that Imam Ghazali's book. But overall, I love that book, translated beautifully and easily to reach for the 21st century.

Beautifully written,and of course the content is something else

I love this translation. Pretty transformative stuff written inside.

Must read. These are the essential basic lessons for life. When we read and try to follow them practically then we realise the inner peace. May Allah honour Imam Al-Ghazali with great rewards. Also, I am thankful to all those who translated it with great effort. "May Allah bless you with His rewards.".

Great book, but I will give a warning, it is VERY philosophy heavy. I enjoy reading it when I am in a learning mood and willing to take notes, but when I just want something to read for fun I don't pick this book up. Unless you have stellar reading skills and a good understanding of Islamic Philosophy already, it will be difficult for you to understand some of the concepts in this book. I am a revert to Islam, and not a student of philosophy, so I struggled to comprehend some of the concepts. Overall, I think it is very informative and a good read for an experienced reader.

Abdul Hakim Murad is a gem and jewel of our era. Don’t miss this opportunity and read his introduction a million times.

Highly recommend. Key to building your character