The author says in the introduction of the second edition, “The overall purpose of this book is to acquaint the reader with the historical factors behind the formulation of Islamic law (Fiqh), in order that he or she may better understand how and why the various schools of Islamic law (Madh-habs) came about. It is hoped that this understanding will in turn, provide a basis for overcoming the petty differences and divisions which occur when present-day followers of different schools of people without definite schools try to work together. Thus, another aim of this book is to provide a theoretical framework for the reunification of the Madhhabs and an ideological basis for Islamic community work free from the divisive effects of Madh-hab factionalism.” The book consists of six chapters: foundation, establishment, building, flowing, consolidation, and stagnation and decline.
Author: Abu Ameenah Bilal Philips
A nice book covering many aspects of wudoo, ghusl, tayammum, and wiping over socks and bandages.
Author: AbdulRahman Bin Abdulkarim Al-Sheha
Source: http://www.islamhouse.com/p/1381
Fiqh us-Sunnah
Author: Sayid Sabiq
People face many obstacles which they think stand between them and repentance, some of which exist within their own selves, and others in the world around them. This brief book clears up this confusion, dispel doubts, explain wisdom and drive away the Shaytaan.
Author: Muhammad Salih Al-Munajjid
An summarised text detailing the rules governing the Criticism of Hadeeth. From its introduction -'A hadith (pl. ahadith) is composed of two parts: the matn (text) and the isnad (chain of reporters). A text may seem to be logical and reasonable but it needs an authentic isnad with reliable reporters to be acceptable; 'Abdullah b. al-Mubarak (d. 181 AH) is reported to have said, "The isnad is part of the religion: had it not been for the isnad, whoever wished to would have said whatever he liked." During the lifetime of the Prophet (SAS) and after his death, his Companions (Sahabah) used to refer to him when quoting his sayings. The Successors (Tabi'un) followed suit; some of them used to quote the Prophet (SAS) through the Companions while others would omit the intermediate authority - such a hadith was known as mursal (loose). It was found that the missing link between the Successor and the Prophet (SAS) might be one person, i.e. a Companion, or two persons, the extra person being an older Successor who heard the hadith from the Companion.'
Author: Mahmood Al-Tahaan
Forty Encounters With the Beloved Prophet -Blessings and Peace Be Upon Him- His Life, Manners and Characteristics: these encounters in a brief and simple way in order to present Muslims with a glimpse of Prophet Muhammad -pbuh-, his guidance and some of the aspects which made him a role model
Author: Adel ibn Ali Al-Shiddy