Al-Ghazali's The Book of Knowledge for Children : Polishing the Heart

ISBN: 9781941610176
Author: Imam Al-Ghazali (Author)
Publisher: Fons Vitae
Pages: 215 Binding: Paperback

Description from the publisher:

In collaboration with Shaykh Hamza Yusuf Hanson; Fons Vitae has taken on the monumental task of bringing out Imam al-Ghazali's magnum opus; 'The Revival of the Religious Sciences' based on the 2011 Dar al-Minhaj critical Arabic edition ; as an educational package re-crafted for families and schools. Each translation of the 40 books will be accompanied by an adaptation for children as well as workbooks with activities and a school curriculum; all supported by an interactive parent-children's website and Pilot School Program. Over the centuries; the Ihya has been regarded as the greatest compendium of Islamic spirituality and ethical behavior for everyday life. It lays down practical teachings and explains how the outer aspects of Islam can; through their inner spiritually transformative meanings; change every situation into one which strengthens the innate human nobility of character. The Prophet Mohammad said; 'I was only sent to perfect good character'.

The Book of Knowledge is said to contain the entire Ihya. Imam al-Ghazali's teachings and metaphors are presented in story form for children of any age; but are also suitable for the spiritual lives of both parents and teachers. Themes that are repeated to emphasize their importance in the 40 stories are concerned with: True Learning itself; the purpose of our brief lives; the Two Worlds; Trust in God's Will; the polishing of the Spiritual Heart through self observation and correction; key virtues and harmful vices; and the responsibility of being a true teacher by putting one's Knowledge into practice.

An included introductory DVD shows how the stories can be easily retold for very small children; who then in art projects are encouraged to illustrate what they have understood. This helps them to remember what they are learning.

Although al-Ghazali's Book of Knowledge was directed at a community of theologians; jurisprudents; and scholars; Fons Vitae found his insightful counsels could be usefully adapted for all ages.

The stories in this series are written for older children; but our intention is that parents and teachers read each one and then convey the ideas in such a way that it is clear to a child yet unable to read. Examples of how to do this are to be found on the accompanying instructional DVD. Many exercises in the workbooks are designed for small children with guidance from their family. The workbooks also contain material for older children; as well as activities and a curriculum to help reinforce Imam al-Ghazali's teachings in a practical way.

Please frequent our interactive website: ghazalichildren.org; where children may meet their global brothers and sisters and work together to create a better world. Essay and art competitions will be announced and submissions displayed. A section for parents and teachers invites contributions for further activities and reflections. Useful curriculum updates will regularly be provided. The Series' books can also be downloaded on this new website where a variety of other resources may be enjoyed as well.