Purification of the Heart: Signs Symptoms, and Cures of the Spiritual Diseases of the Heart

I learned a great deal about the Muslim community and what the religious leaders expect from the faithful in Purification of the Heart: Signs Symptoms, and Cures of the Spiritual Diseases of the Heart by Hamza Yusuf.  

The book describes how each of the various spiritual diseases which can occur in society stem from our own weaknesses as humans.  With each weakness, Yusuf draws upon the Quran, which is said to be verbally revealed by God to Muhammad.  In this reading, the author shares a disease, followed by ways in which the disease afflicts and suggestions on how to remove the evil.  He does note that it is not unusual that the youth have problems with some of these challenges, but as an adult, especially over 40, one must live life with full purity.  Unlike Christian belief that people can just repent and be loved by God, one must live life with a keen sense of the expectation of God to attain eternal life. 

The list of diseases include: Miserliness; Wantonness; Hatred; Iniquity; Love of the World (having things – too many); Envy; Blameworthy Modesty; Fantasizing; Fear of Poverty; Ostentation; Relying on Other than God; Displeasure with the Divine Decree; Seeking Reparation; False Hope; Negative Thoughts; Vanity; Fraud;  Anger; Heedlessness; Rancor; Boasting and Arrogance; Displeasure with Blame; Antipathy toward death; Obliviousness to Blessings; and Derision.  The last three chapters share comprehensive treatment plans and actions to purify the Heart, giving great suggestions moving forward as a Muslim.  And finally, the book ends with the roots of the diseases.  There are a number of appendixes with historical citations and sources for further reading.  The work is steeped in history and is a cornerstone in the thinking and actions for practicing Muslims.  It provided much insight for me and I would encourage all to read to better understand Muslim beliefs.  Thanks for suggesting it.  Very helpful!