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Reviewer SHAIKH AHMED EL AZHARY points out that Dr Yasien Mohamed’s translation of a historical treatise is ‘a significant contribution to Islamic philosophy and ethics’.
Today, as the world grapples with moral relativism, the erosion of spiritual values, and the complexities of a rapidly evolving technological landscape, the need for a return to virtue ethics is more pressing than ever.
Imam Raghib al-Isfahani’s ethical treatise, The Art of Cultivating Noble Character, provides a beacon of light, reminding us that true success is measured not by power or wealth, but by the integrity and virtue with which we live our lives.
In a time when humanity often feels lost in the pursuit of material gains, this work re-centres our focus on what it truly means to live a good and meaningful life. The revival of virtue ethics, particularly through the lens of Islamic thought, offers a counterbalance to the disintegration of moral absolutes in the modern world. Isfahani’s treatise provides a timeless map for navigating the challenges of today, guiding us not only in personal conduct but in our collective responsibilities to society and the environment.
I am delighted to review Dr Yasien Mohamed’s monumental work, The Art of Cultivating Noble Character. This annotated translation of al-Raghib al-Isfahani’s Kitab al-Dhari’a ila Makarim al-Shari’a (The Means to the Noble Virtues of the Divine Law) represents a significant contribution to Islamic philosophy and ethics.
The book is structured into seven chapters, exploring human nature, morality and virtues. The first chapter deals with the psychology of the soul, followed by subsequent chapters on the intellect, knowledge and the virtues.
Author: Yasien Mohamed , Emeritus Professor, University of the Western Cape
Publisher: White Thread Press, 2024
Shaikh Hamza Yusuf writes the foreword, highlighting the impact of Kitab al-dhari’ah on Imam al-Ghazali’s ethical treatise. This work is a testament to the rich tradition of Islamic thought, which emphasises the cultivation of noble character as a means to achieving spiritual growth and moral excellence.
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In an era dominated by deontological and consequentialist approaches, Dr Mohamed’s work revives the rich tradition of virtue ethics within Islam. The Dhari’ah presents a comprehensive ethical framework, integrating Quranic principles with philosophical virtues. This synthesis offers profound insights into cultivating virtuous character for both worldly success and eternal felicity.
Mohamed’s meticulous translation and insightful commentary illuminate the relevance of these virtues in addressing contemporary moral dilemmas.
Isfahani reminds us that ethical living encompasses nurturing the soul, fostering wisdom and cultivating character. His treatise provides a timeless map for navigating the challenges of today, guiding us not only in personal conduct but in our collective responsibilities to society and the environment.
Mohamed has preserved a key piece of our intellectual heritage, ensuring it continues to inspire and guide future generations. His ability to convey the depth and complexity of Isfahani’s thoughts in accessible English showcases his expertise in Arabic and Islamic philosophy. The annotated translation is an invaluable resource for students, academics, and anyone interested in the intersection of Islamic ethics and philosophical inquiry. I wholeheartedly commend Mohamed for his dedication and scholarly rigour in bringing this classic text to a wider audience.
Shaikh Ahmed El Azhary is a researcher in Islamic intellectual history and a teacher of Islamic traditional sciences. He was formerly the Lead Researcher at Tabah Foundation.
