Question: Assalamu ‘alaykum. How does someone who has reached her early 30’s in an abysmal state of iman and self-discipline reach a level of ihsan or get their nafs to nafs al-muṭmaʾinnah? Are there books in English with a good quality translation or live online classes? There are no local options. I read that books like Ihya Ulum Al-Din are not well translated. I want a step-by-step guidebook.
Answer:
Wa ‘alaykum assaalm wa rahmatullah wa barakatuh.
I pray you are well.
There are many resources on our site to help you along the way. You could start with our many live and on-demand courses. “First Principles of Islamic Spirituality” is a good on-demand course to start with. If you want a live course, then start with ‘The Path of Muhammad.’
There are score options on our site – each giving a structured approach. Some are directly on spirituality, such as ‘The Beginning of Guidance,’ and others are essential elements needed for the journey, such as the courses on Belief, Fiqh, the Qur’an, the Hadith and life of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace)
If you want books then there are many sections of the Ihya that have been capably translated. Look for translations of Shaykh Abdal Hakim Murad (Timothy Winter). All of Imam Haddad’s works are beneficial, and very well translated by Dr. Mostafa Badawi.
Please see:
https://seekersguidance.org/answers/islamic-belief/how-do-i-grow-closer-to-allah/
https://www.meccabooks.com/509-the-beginning-of-guidance-bidayat-al-hidaya-9781933764061.html
Find some good, like-minded company – even if it is virtual for now. It will help you along your journey. May Allah facilitate the entire matter for you. Amin.
[Shaykh] Abdul-Rahim Reasat
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani