Surrendering to God

by Eren Tatari

Overview

Tatari presents a unique understanding if Islam, rooted in the rich tradition of Islamic history and scholarship, as well as contemporary exegeses of the Qur'an. The word Muslim is commonly used like a brand name: One is either a Muslim or not. In this book, Tatari expounds on the literal meaning of being a Muslim, which" is the verbal noun submitter. She explains that one is a submitter (aka. Muslim) if and when she is surrendering her mind, heart, and actions to God's will. The book engages all intellectuals who seek a deeper knowledge of Islam. It offers insights into the worldview presented by Islam to common theological, spiritual, and social issues and existential questions.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781597842709
Publisher:	Tughra Books
Publication date:	01/31/2013
Pages:	186
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.97(h) x 0.47(d)

About the Author

Dr. Eren Tatari is an Assistant Professor at a university in the United States. She teaches courses on Islam.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements vii

Foreword ix

Part I Introduction 1

A Brief Overview of Islam 9

Can We Avoid Our Existential Questions? 17

Do We Need a Religion? 21

Affirmation by Mind and Heart, Confirmation by Action 25

Part II Faith / Affirmation by Mind and Heart 31

1 Belief in the Oneness of God 35

There is no Deity but God, Muhammad is His Servant and Messenger 35

Tawhid is not Solely Belief 39

Associating Partners with God (Shirk) 45

2 Belief in God's Messengers 49

The Path of God's Messengers (Sunnah) 55

3 Belief in the Scriptures 59

Why Study the Qur'an? 59

How to Approach the Qur'an 67

The Nature of Divine Scriptures 71

Education (Tarbiyah) of the Qur'an 77

4 Belief in the Angels 81

5 Belief in the Day of Judgment and Afterlife 83

6 Belief in Destiny (Qadar) 89

Partial-Freewill (Iradah al-Juz'iyyah) 89

Pre-Determination 93

Part III Worship / Confirmation by Action 101

Purpose of Creation 105

"God Has Created Adam in His Image" 113

Ways Leading to God 117

The Role of Intellect and Heart 119

Thanksgiving (Shukr) 123

Renewing our Faith 131

Disbelief and Satan's Whisperings 137

Significance of Halal and Haram 139

Prayer 145

Fasting 151

Modest Dress and Etiquette (Adab) 159

References 166