The principles of Islamic faith are not some abstract ideas. They are vital values to be known, reflected upon, believed and internalised, and with which one should achieve the true submission to God the Almighty. These values will be deepened with reflection and remembrance and nourished by worship in the broadest sense of the terms. If we consider them in our human relations and daily affairs, we will not be overcome by our desires and immoralities. In this way, a believer can stay in the sphere of faith all the time, revolving around its main axis. Matters of faith and its practice are reflected in the first Quranic chapter al-Fatiha (the Opening) in a great harmony. In this book, Fehullah Gulen interprets the verses of the most important chapter of the Qur'an for a deeper understanding of its relevance to the essence of Islam. Gulen's analysis is well grounded in the Islamic tradition yet provides fresh insights into the message of the Qur'an for today's readers.
Known by his simple and austere lifestyle, Fethullah Gulen, affectionately called Hodjaefendi, is a scholar of extraordinary proportions. This man for all seasons was born in Erzurum, eastern Turkey, in 1941. Upon graduation from a private divinity school in Erzurum, he obtained his license and began to preach and teach about the importance of understanding and tolerance. His social reform efforts have made him one of Turkey's most well-known and respected public figures during the 1960s. Gulen has spent his adult life voicing the cries and laments, as well as the beliefs and aspirations, of Muslims in particular and of humanity in general. He bears his own sorrows, but those of others crush him. He feels each blow delivered at humanity to be delivered first at his own heart. He feels himself so deeply and inwardly connected to creation that once he said: "Whenever I see a leaf fall from its branch in autumn, I feel as much pain as if my arm had been amputated.
Preface The Opening (Al-Fatiha) Introduction A Brief Journey to the Magical World of the Qur'an *Implications of the Word Qur'an"*The Qur'an: The Eternal Music*The Collection and Preservation of the Qur'an*The Qur'an as the Word of God*The Qur'an as a Miracle*Definitions of the Qur'an Prelude to Fatiha * Taking Refuge in God from Satan* In the Name of God"*Harmonious Relation between Commentary on the Verses *All praise is for God, the Lord of the worlds."*The All-Merciful, the All-Compassionate."*The Master of the Day of Judgment."*You alone do We worship, and from You alone do we seek help."*Guide us to the Straight Path."*The Path of those whom You have favored, not of those who have incurred (Your) wrath, nor of those who are astray." Summary Bibliography
