The Muslim Handbook of Etiquette and Manners by Imam al Ghazali

This book is a new translation of Imam al-Ghazali’s Adab fi al-Din, a concise yet thorough guide to proper Islamic conduct and character in a wide range of life situations. While numerous works discuss adab – translated here as “etiquette and manners” – this text stands out for its practical approach, structured in the manner of a handbook for quick and easy reference when the need appears.

Al-Ghazali begins by outlining the essential principles that govern all interactions with other people and with oneself, and which every Muslim should strive to embody and cultivate within his or her life. He then proceeds to a discussion of adab with Allah, as the relationship with the Creator is at the heart of a Muslim’s character. The Imam details how one may cultivate reverence, humility, and mindfulness in this relationship, and provides practical advice regarding how to consistently remember Allāh, fulfill His commands, and show patience during life’s challenges.

The core of the book is a sort of practical manual of adab, and includes sections on such everyday issues as:

The Adab of the Scholar, Student, Reciter of the Qur’an, Muhaddith, Khatib, and many other roles related to worship and seeking knowledge

Adab of fasting, eating, drinking, giving and receiving charity, giving and receiving gifts, and of being wealthy or poor

Adab of sleep, waking, being in public and in social gatherings, and other ordinary life situations

Adab of husbands and wives, parents and children, and other relationships

Adab of some common professions

Most individual sections occupy no more than one page, with some requiring only a short paragraph to cover the essential issues that guide one’s approach to each scenario. The book then concludes with a discussion of universal adab, a general discussion that applies to many disparate areas of life.