Al-Ghazali - The Book of Contemplation

Translated by Muhammad Isa Waley The Book of Contemplation is the thirty-ninth of the forty Books of The Revival of the Religious Sciences (Ihya’ ‘ulum al-din) – and is the very last to appear in English translation. Abu Hamid al-Ghazali’s purpose in this book is to explain the nature and importance of contemplation, or reflection, as an act that enriches the thinking person with increased knowledge of, and wonder at, the Creator and His creation. In part 1, the author defines and introduces the subject, explaining its importance with reference to the Qur’an, Hadiths, and sayings of wise and pious Muslims. Part 2, he expounds his own highly original views as to the nature and fruits of contemplation.  Part 3 offers detailed guidance as to the most appropriate and beneficial subjects for reflection, some relating to human traits and actions and others to Divine Attributes and Actions. Part 4, Ghazali explores in detail aspects of God’s creation, which, when viewed with an observant eye