The Journey of the Strangers

"The Journey of the Strangers" is a book written by Ibn Rajab al-Hanbali and Imam al-Ajurri that describes the characteristics and virtues of the strangers or the "Ghuraba" mentioned in a prophetic narration. These strangers are a group of people who uphold the truth and adhere to the teachings of Islam, even when it is unpopular or goes against the norm of society.

The book is divided into several chapters that cover various aspects of the characteristics of the strangers. The first chapter discusses the meaning and significance of the prophetic narration about the strangers, while the subsequent chapters cover topics such as their beliefs, manners, worship, and relationship with Allah.

The authors also discuss the challenges that the strangers may face in their journey towards the truth, including opposition from society, persecution, and hardships. They provide examples of historical and contemporary figures who embody the characteristics of the strangers, such as the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companions, as well as scholars and righteous individuals throughout Islamic history.

Overall, "The Journey of the Strangers" is a powerful and inspiring book that encourages readers to strive towards the path of righteousness and to embody the characteristics of the strangers in their own lives. It provides valuable insights and practical guidance for anyone seeking to live a life of faith and devotion to Allah.

From The Back

In this age of materialism, consumerism, and extreme liberalism, the Muslim often finds himself at a loss, at odds with the ebb and flow of society, and holding to divinely revealed values that contrast starkly with the values held by many around him. They are looked at as askance, accused of being backward, non-conformist, and refusing to integrate. In the face of peer pressure, the resolve of some may weaken, the result being a watering-down of one's adherence to Islam and the values it calls to.

The Prophet warned us that a time would come when Islam and Muslims would be beheld as strangers, not just by non-Muslims but by many Muslims as well! He informed us that days were coming in which trying to keep hold of one's religion would be like holding red hot coals, and he stressed the paramount importance of holding fast to Islam in its pristine purity during that time, stating that this, and only this, was the path to success in this life and the next.

The Journey of the Strangers is a compilation of two tracts that explain the hadith, 'Islam began as something strange, and it will return to being strange just as it began, so tuba for the strangers!' It is hoped that it will be a source of comfort and inspiration for the Muslims striving to follow Islam at a time when Muslims could feel alienated and alone in the world.

The first is a treatise penned by the great Imam, Al-Ajurri (d.330H), a scholar known for his deep knowledge and piety, his quality being recognized by all. The second is a monograph written by Imam Ibn Rajab Al-Hanbali (d.795H), a scholar praised extensively for his vast knowledge, asceticism, and expertise in the Hanbali school of thought. An introduction has been added from the words of Shatibi and an appendix from ibn Al-Qayyim's monumental Madarij al-Salikin