Question: What are the books you recommend a young person that is starting out his Islaamic studies to read?

Answer:  If he is a novice, then from the books of Fiqh, we advise him to read “Fiqh As-Sunnah” of Sayyid Saabiq, while seeking assistance from some of its references, such as “Subul-us-Salaam” (of Imaam As-Sana’aannee, rahimahullaah).  And if he looks into “Tamaam-ul-Mannah” (of Al-Albaanee) then that will be stronger for him.  And I advise him to read “Ar-Rawdat-un-Nadiyyah” (of Sideeq Hasan Khaan).

As for the subject of Tafseer, then he should habitually read from the book “Tafseer Al-Qur’aan-ul’Adheem” of Ibn Katheer - even though it is somewhat long - for it is the most authentic from the books of Tafseer today.

Then, on the subject of religious exhortation and heart-softening narrations, he should read the book “Riyaad-us-Saaliheen” of Imaam An-Nawawee.

Then with regard to the books related to Creed, I advise him to read the book, “Sharh Al-’Aqeedat-ut-Taahaawiyyah” of Ibn Abee Al-Izz Al-Hanafee.  And he should seek assistance, also , from my comments and explanations to it.

Then, he should make it his customary practice to study from the books of Shaikh-ul-Islaam Ibn Taimiyyah and his student Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyyah, may Allaah have mercy on them.  For I hold them to be from the rare and unique Muslim Scholars that have treaded upon the methodology of the Salaf As-Salih (righteous predecessors) in their understanding, while having Taqwaa and righteousness.  And we do not purify anyone over Allaah.

[Al-Asaalah, Issue #5]