Title: Allah Loves …
Author: Omar Suleiman
Publisher: Kube Publishing Ltd.
Cover Design, Illustration, Typesetting: Jannah Haque
Published: 2020
Genre: Self-development, Spirituality, Religion
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 168
The book ‘Allah Loves … ‘ is based on a 30-episode series of talks by Ustadh Omar Suleiman, conducted in Ramadan 1441/May 2019, in association with Yaqeen Institute.
The book is divided into 30 short chapters, each named on the characteristics and practices that Allah Loves, which we can adapt and improve on, to gain His Closeness and Pleasure.
- Piety
- Repentance
- Excellence
- Angelic Praise
- Sincere Supplication
- Those Who Are Trying
- Tears and Traces
- Trust
- Patience
- Justice
- The Beneficial People
- Strength
- Independence
- Healthy Pride
- Honor
- Gentleness
- Humility Without Disgrace
- Forbearance and Deliberation
- Due Diligence
- Consistency
- Punctual Prayers
- Cleanliness
- The Mosque
- Love
- Your Mother
- The Unnoticed
- Generosity in trade
- Those Who Follow the Prophet (peace be upon him)
- Acceptance of His Gifts
- Beauty
Each chapter is approximately 4-6 pages long. The book quotes authentic references from Quran, Sunnah and Hadith, and each chapter ends with a Dua.
Because the book is a transcript of the video series, the format of the book is conversational style rather than a formal bookish style which makes it even more easy to understand and grasp.
We might be familiar with some of these behaviors but the author presents them very beautifully with a whole new perspective.
My Analysis & Reflections:
In our communities and societies, where the criteria for some (most?) people to approve and accept (or reject) us is our color, height, weight, qualification, financial status, or number of Instagram followers, it’s a relief to know that to Allah none of this matters!
Allah’s Love for us does not depend on our physical appearances, possessions or socio-economic status, but on good behavior, and deeds beneficial to others.
An important question to ask ourselves is: Are we also, subconsciously, basing our judgements of other people on the same criteria because we too are part of the same society!
At a time when we base self love and self worth on standards set for us by society, this book is an eye opener, that we need only Allah’s Approval to validate ourselves.
At a time when even some religious/Islamic people or books make you feel ‘not good enough’ this book is a heart-warming and assuring read.
Instead of tiring ourselves by seeking others approval why not gain our validation from Allah by practicing things HE LOVES.
Although we might already be aware of these traits and are practicing them randomly, as a habit or as part of etiquettes, it’s interesting to know that these are actually things that Allah Loves. What an honor it is to be beloved to Allah. And the best part is that practicing these characteristics will not only make us beneficial to our fellow human beings, but will also help us gain reward in the aakhirah.
This book will help us reflect on where we stand, and how we can work on ourselves to be worthy of Allah’s Love because that is what should matter.
This book will make you feel strong, positive and confident. When you feel that you are not worthy of anyone, this book is a breath of fresh air. It will help you realize your true potential and make you fall in love with Allah even more.
Allah’s Anger and Wrath is true, and we must fear Him but we also need to know that His Love and Mercy is All-Encompassing and prevails over everything. Alhamdulillah.
A heart softening inspirational read, I highly recommend this book to everyone.
The beautiful cover design, illustrations and typesetting make this book a visual delight.
All royalties from this book go to Yaqeen Institute
*The book was provided gratis by the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.