Book overview
We say, and we are not shy to say it: Prophet Muhammad (s) is our light; Prophet Muhammad (s) is our heart; Prophet Muhammad (s) is our life; For without our beloved Prophet (s) we would never have been guided to know of Allah, the Mighty and Sublime, nor of the Angels, the prophets, the books of revelation nor of the Afterlife. When our master 'Ali (r) was asked about the strength of his devotion to Allah's Prophet (s) he replied: "By Allah, we cherished him more than we did our children, our parents, and all of our possessions. He was much dearer to us than fresh water is for a thirsty soul." Such was the esteem and the honor the Prophet (s) was held in by his Companions. By the same token, the hearts of true believers ought to be filled with similar devotion to the Prophet (s). Sending blessings on Allah's Beloved (s) is certainly the best way of invoking him, in compliance with the command of the Lord Almighty. In thus blessing him we show him gratitude and acknowledge his countless favors to us. To send blessings on the Prophet (s) is only a negligible payment for the unending benefits and good we have seen through him. In truth, to thank the Prophet (s) is to thank Allah, and Allah Himself is Champion and Supporter of those who honor His Beloved Messenger (s). Blessing the Prophet (s) is a token of devotion, obedience and the highest form of worship to bring the believer closer to Allah. The Almighty reserves the best of rewards and the most complete forgiveness for those who continually bless His Prophet (s). Suffice it to point out in this respect that it is out of honor and commendation of His Prophet (s) that Allah, revealed this Quranic verse starting with His Divine Self and followed by His Angels, orders His servants thus: Allah and His Angels send blessings on the Prophet; O ye who believe! Send your blessings on him and salute him With all respect. Following this verse, obligating believers to praise the Prophet (s), Allah then describes the incomparable Bounty that He (s) is: Allah did confer a great favor on the believers, when He sent among them a messenger from among themselves, rehearsing unto them the signs of Allah, purifying them and instructing them in the Book and wisdom, while, before that, they had been in manifest error. In obedience to the Divine Order and in expression of our love and admiration for the Treasurehouse of Allah's Munificence and the Manifestation of the Reality of The Almighty's Divine Names and Attributes, and in the blessed tradition of our ancestors and predecessors in faith, we present this book of perfumed verse dedicated to the love of our Master, and the Master of All Creation, Prophet Muhammad (s), upon whom be the choicest of Allah's peace and blessings, and upon his Family, Companions, House and Followers, up to the Day of Rising.
