The Book of Knowledge is said to contain the entire Ihya. Imam al-Ghazali’s teachings and metaphors are presented in story form for children of any age, but are also suitable for the spiritual lives of both parents and teachers. Themes that are repeated to emphasize their importance in the 40 stories are concerned with: True Learning itself, the purpose of our brief lives, the Two Worlds, Trust in God’s Will, the polishing of the Spiritual Heart through self observation and correction, key virtues and harmful vices, and the responsibility of being a true teacher by putting one’s Knowledge into practice.
An included introductory DVD shows how the stories can be easily retold for very small children, who then in art projects are encouraged to illustrate what they have understood. This helps them to remember what they are learning.
This book is a part of the Ghazali Children’s Project Book Set. This first volume contains a DVD and is 215 pages in length with colored illustrations. It is part of an educational series that includes workbooks and a curriculum.
Although al-Ghazali’s Book of Knowledge was directed at a community of theologians, jurisprudents, and scholars, Fons Vitae found his insightful counsels could be usefully adapted for all ages.
The stories in this series are written for older children, but our intention is that parents and teachers read each one and then convey the ideas in such a way that it is clear to a child yet unable to read. Examples of how to do this are to be found on the accompanying instructional DVD. Many exercises in the workbooks are designed for small children with guidance from their family. The workbooks also con- tain material for older children, as well as activities and a curriculum to help reinforce Imam al-Ghazali’s teachings in a practical way.
Please frequent our interactive website: ghazalichildren.org, where children may meet their global brothers and sisters and work together to create a better world. Essay and art competitions will be announced and submissions displayed. A section for parents and teachers invites contributions for further activities and reflections. Useful curriculum updates will regularly be provided. The Series’ books can also be downloaded on this new website where a variety of other resources may be enjoyed as well.
REVIEW
“Oh, 1000s all over the world follow your project! It’s a great and beneficial effort. Although I’m not on Facebook, I can read the Ghazali Children Facebook page and see the comments. InshaAllah. I’m from the UK. I have your children’s Ghazali biography which I and my 9-year old son read together. Thank you for this too. InshaAllah, I hope to work with him on your Ghazali Children series of books too. May Allah bless you. Eid greetings.”
