This will be our 3rd year reading Ihyā following the sequence of the books as organised by Imām AL-Ghazzālī. As we continue with our journey back to the hereafter through the insights of Imām Al-Ghazzālī, we will continue to discover new understandings on the importance of living a life guided by the principle of waṣat (justly-balanced). Imām Al-Ghazzālī’s Iḥyā’ is filled with examples and practical insights on balancing our worldly engagements with a heart that is in the presence of the Divine. Whether we are worshiping or carrying out our daily activities of eating and drinking and working, every part of our lives can be transformed into moments of worship that becomes our capital for the hereafter.
Book 8: Proper Conduct for Reciting the Qur’an
A gentle yet profound guide on how to approach the Qur’an with the etiquette it deserves. Imām al-Ghazālī explores not just the outward manners of recitation, but the inner states that allow the Qur’an to soften, transform, and elevate the heart. It’s a reminder that the true beauty of recitation lies in presence, humility, and sincere connection.
Book 9: Invocations and Supplications
This book opens the door to the intimate world of du‘ā’. Imām al-Ghazālī explains the significance of calling upon Allah—how, when, and why to make heartfelt supplication. It offers a meaningful look into the etiquettes, timings, and spiritual secrets of sincere invocation, helping us turn everyday moments into meaningful conversations with the Divine.
Book 11: Proper Conduct of Eating
Here, Imām al-Ghazālī reframes something as ordinary as eating into an act of worship. He outlines the manners, spiritual reflections, and mindful practices that turn meals into a pathway of gratitude and presence. It’s a beautiful reminder that the simplest acts, when done with intention, nourish both body and soul.
Book 12: Proper Conduct of Marriage
This book offers a balanced, spiritually-anchored look at marriage—its purpose, responsibilities, and the character required to build a harmonious home. Imām al-Ghazālī highlights the virtues, etiquettes, and mutual rights that nurture compassion and stability, showing how marriage can become a means of spiritual growth for both spouses.
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This course is open to all, ages 18 and above. No knowledge, exposure or familiarity to Islamic knowledge is required. However, students are encouraged to explore the first part of the course 'Journey with Imam Al-Ghazzali Continues...' covering Book 1 and Book 2 to follow through the rest of the books in his work, Ihya Ulum Al-Din.
Dr Muhammad Mubarak holds a PhD in Islamic Civilisation and Contemporary Issues from the University of Brunei Darussalam, a Master’s in Islamic Spiritual Culture and Contemporary Society from ISTAC, and a Master of Education in curriculum and teaching from NIE Singapore. He also holds postgraduate diplomas in Islamic Psychology and Education, as well as an in-service diploma in Physics. Dr Mubarak’s research focuses on classical Islamic intellectual thought and its application to contemporary issues, using the principle of tawḥīd to integrate Islamic tradition with modern knowledge for holistic solutions. Since 2009, he has been a member of the Religious Rehabilitation Group, mentoring detainees and preparing them for reintegration, and volunteers with FITRAH providing religious counselling with Singapore Prison Services. He is also a physics and mathematics educator at a secondary school in Singapore.
