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BOOK
RECOMMENDATIONS
Introduction to Islam
Inquiries about Islam
Muhammad Jawad Chirri
This book is an exchange of letters between Shaykh Chirri and a western academic, Dr. Wilson H. Guertin, which resulted in his acceptance of Islam. It is formatted in a Question and Answer format, making it easy to read and understand.
Faces of Muhammad (S)
John V. Tola
An overview of different perceptions, views and statements made by Western thinkers from the time of the Middle Ages until now. Much of the research reflects a common Shi'i narrative regarding Islamic History & Imam Ali (AS).
Shi'a Beliefs & Creed
Lessons on Principles of Faith
Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi
50 chapters of important lessons on fundamental beliefs that are especially relevant for the youth of today. Designed to be easy to read and understand for any beginner. Those completely unfamiliar with Shi'a creed can begin here.
Level: Beginner
A Shiite Anthology
Allama al-Tabataba'i
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A selection of sermons and hadiths regarding the principles and fundamentals of Islam with provided commentary. It was written for a western audience to get a grasp of Islamic beliefs while introducing the Shi’a Hadith corpus to them.
Level: Beginner
Philosophy & Logic
Theory of Knowledge
Ayatollah Murtadha Mutahhari
A series of lecture by Shahid Mutahhari on Islamic epistemology and how knowledge is studied. Provides a list of other useful information that makes it a great beginner read. [No PDF available]
Level: Beginner
Introduction to Logic
Sayyid Ali Murtadha
AA translation of al-Muzaffar's book on logic, with annotations and organisations to make it more beginner friendly. To further facilitate learning, the work includes exercises, lesson objectives, and illustrations. Has clear writings and explanations, making it a vital beginning. [No PDF available]
Level: Beginner
Shi'a Polemics and Da'wah Books
The Real followers of Sunnah
Mohammad Tijani
The work argues that Shi'a Muslims are the true followers of Ahlus Sunnah, highlighting doctrinal differences and advocating for unity within the Islamic community while addressing misconceptions about Shi'ism.
Level: Beginner
Origin and Faith of Shiasm
Kashif al-Ghita
The author explores the origins and beliefs of Shi'ism, discussing its historical development, core doctrines, and the significance of leadership in Shi'a Islam, emphasizing its distinct identity within the Muslim community.
Level: Beginner
Ahl al-Bayt & Biographies
The Twelve Imams
Ja'far Subhani
A concise yet comprehensive study of the Twelve Imams (as), discussing their personalities, roles, and historical impact. The book is structured to offer an accessible overview of each Imam's life, emphasizing their contributions.
Kitab al-Irshad
Shaykh al-Mufid
An early history of the Twelve Imams (as), covering their Imamate, virtues, miracles, and deaths, with a focus on Ali b. Abi Talib (as). A list of their children and wives are mentioned at the end of each chapter.
Islamic History
Firaq al-Shi'a
Al-Nawbakhti
A concise introduction of how the sects of Islam divided from the Prophet's lifetime until the last Imams (AS). One of the best books for introduction to Islamic history for simplicity and the range it covers.
The Succession
Wilfred Madelung
A western academic analysis of the events that took place after the Prophet's death and the history of the early first 4/5 caliphs. Despite being non-muslim, the author's research often reflect Shi'a narrative.
Books
QatÄ«lu Al-‘Abrah
The Martyr of the Tear
Maqtal of Imam al-Husayn (a) taken from Ahadith
Refutations
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