Ar-Raheequl Makhtum (The Sealed Nectar): Review

Name:           Ar-Raheequl Makhtum (The Sealed Nectar)

Author:        Safiur Rahman Al Mubarakpuri

Language:   English

Publisher:   Darussalam Publications

Category:     Biography

Review of Ar-Raheequl Makhtum

Ar-Raheequl Makhtum (The Sealed Nectar), the most popular and authentic biographic book won first place out of 1,187 manuscripts in the first open Sirat book competition organized by Alam Al-Islami in Rabeta in 1979. This book was written by sir Safiur Rahman Al Mubarakpuri. And subsequently published in book form as per the terms of the competition. The book has been translated into several languages all over the world.

Author’s Profile

Sir Safiur Rahman Al Mubarakpuri was born in 1942 in Mubarakpur, Hossainabad, Azamgarh district, India. He studied Arabic Language, Grammar, Literature, Fiqah, Tafsir, and other subjects. During his career, he held teaching and administrative duties in various Madrasahs. He has authored several books in Arabic and Urdu. This great Islamic scholar died in December,01 in 2006.

Discussion of Ar-Raheequl Makhtum

Ar-Raheequl Makhtum (The Sealed Nectar) begins with a description of the various communities in Eastern Arabia and their living conditions upon the arrival of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In this book, the author has highlighted spontaneously everything from the geographical condition of Arabia to the ethnic groups of Arabia, their administrative, political, religious beliefs, economic, and other aspects.

Then, this book has described the Thirteen years of Prophethood in Makkah, the different stages of Da’wah, the obstacles of the pagans, the oppression, the stubbornness, and the thunderbolt determination of the Prophet (PBUH). The author has also included clearly the emigration of the Messenger (PBUH), 10 years of Prophethood in Madinah, the struggle to shape a new social system, that chapter of armed struggle, etc. in this book. The contents of this book have also presented carefully the Chronology of each chapter in the life of the Prophet (PBUH), including the Treaty of Hudaybiyah, the period of expansion of Islam, the conquest of Mecca, the farewell Hajj, and the final journey of the Prophet (PBUH).

The description of all the historical events, the introduction of the Prophet’s (PBUH) family, and the description of the His characteristics and physical beauty is an exceptional presentation of the author concludes the book. The author has beautifully illustrated the importance and significance of the advent of the Prophet (PBUH) in this world. Then an impeccable presentation of the image of the holy and struggling life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) made the book come alive. This wonderful book acquaints us with Sirat-Un-Nabi (Biography of The Prophet PBUH) in such a way that we get a fuller picture of the life of the Messenger Muhammad (PBUH).

Critical Analysis of Ar-Raheequl Makhtum

In writing the book Ar Raheequl Makhtum, the author has described a series of historical events and in describing them, he has arranged them sequentially with different chapter titles. But where there are differences in the various texts, the author has mentioned what he thinks is correct after reviewing everything. In cases where the arguments of dissenters did not seem correct to the author, he provided indications of proof. Again, the author cites numerous book names and page numbers as sources of information. At relevant points of discussion, the author has inserted several historical maps. He has also presented many quotations from ancient texts on the Sirat, which are free of errors.

The beautiful and fluent expression of the book ‘Ar Raheequl Makhtum’ and the charming power of the author has made a place in the hearts of billions of people in the world. Keeping the reader in mind, the author has not made the book unusually long, nor has he made it too short. But it is also a complete book of Sirat.

My Recommendation and Rating

Ar-Raheequl Makhtum (The Sealed Nectar) is a unique and pure work of Sir Safiur Rahman Al Mubarakpuri. This book is undoubtedly one of the best among the books written on the biography of the Prophet PBUH. In this book, every chapter of the Prophet’s PBUH life has been presented very accurately. This book gives an excellent insight into how He became a great man and a chosen Messenger of Allah the Almighty from the beginning to the end of His life. I think every Muslim should read this book at least once in his life to know the life of the Holy Prophet PBUH.

Ar-Raheequl Makhtum (The Sealed Nectar) actually does not depend at all on the rating of a person with little knowledge like me. Its all recognition and acceptance, purity, and demand make the book unique and incomparable. However, I would definitely give the book a ten out of ten although I would give it more if given the chance.

Conclusion

The Prophet PBUH was the emancipator of humanity and the right and true guide for all nations. Therefore, all of us need to know about the various aspects and chapters of this great man’s life as His Ummah. And knowing about the Sirat of the Prophet PBUH even plays an important role in the life of a Muslim. Ar- Raheequl Makhtum is a book of pure Sirat of Prophet PBUH. The book is universally accepted and famous all over the world indeed. This is undoubtedly an excellent creation of Sir Safiur Rahman Al Mubarakpuri.  Let’s all read the book, learn about the life of the greatest man and the last Prophet Muhammad PBUH, and continue to strive to lead our lives according to that ideal.

More on Book Review: