Fazaill E Amaal Vol 2 Sheikh Muhammad Zakeriya Kandhlavi Idara Urdu

Introduction and Background

“Faza’il-e-A’mal” (The Virtues of Deeds) is one of the most influential Islamic texts of the 20th century, authored by Sheikh Muhammad Zakariya Kandhlawi (1898–1982), a renowned Islamic scholar and a key figure of the Tablighi Jamaat movement. The book is widely read among Muslims for its emphasis on practical spirituality and moral development, making it accessible to ordinary readers as well as students of Islamic knowledge.

Volume 2 continues the teachings of Volume 1 and focuses on the virtues of specific Islamic practices, including prayer, remembrance of Allah (Dhikr), charity, visiting graves, recitation of the Quran, and guidance on righteous behavior. Unlike classical fiqh books, “Faza’il-e-A’mal” presents Islamic teachings in a narrative, engaging style that blends hadith, sayings of the companions, and stories of pious predecessors, making abstract concepts tangible and applicable to everyday life.

Core Objectives of the Book

Encourage Religious Practice: The book motivates readers to engage in obligatory and voluntary acts of worship sincerely.

Instill Moral Discipline: By recounting the lives and practices of pious predecessors, it encourages ethical behavior, humility, patience, and devotion.

Strengthen Faith: Through stories of faith, sacrifice, and divine assistance, readers develop a deeper love for Allah and His Messenger.

Promote Da’wah and Spiritual Growth: The text encourages the reader to share the message of Islam and undertake spiritual self-improvement.

Main Themes and Content of Volume 2

Virtues of Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah):
Volume 2 places great emphasis on the power and benefits of engaging in regular Dhikr. Sheikh Zakariya explains that constant remembrance of Allah cleanses the heart, strengthens faith, and protects a believer from sins. The book cites numerous hadith emphasizing phrases like SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar, and the significance of morning and evening remembrances. Stories of the companions and righteous individuals illustrate how Dhikr brought them spiritual tranquility and divine blessings.

Excellence of Prayer (Salah) and Voluntary Prayers (Nawafil):
Salah is highlighted as the backbone of a believer’s life. The author explains not only the importance of performing the five daily prayers but also encourages Nawafil, such as Tahajjud and Duha prayers. Volume 2 recounts anecdotes demonstrating how consistent prayer helped the pious avoid sins, attain spiritual rank, and receive Allah’s guidance. Emphasis is also placed on performing prayers with concentration, humility, and sincerity.

Recitation of the Quran:
The book underscores the virtue of reciting and reflecting on the Quran. It explains that Quranic recitation brings light to the heart, provides guidance in life’s challenges, and serves as intercession on the Day of Judgment. The text provides practical encouragement, urging readers to recite regularly, understand meanings, and implement Quranic teachings.

Charity and Generosity:
Sheikh Zakariya elaborates on the immense rewards of Sadaqah (charity) and feeding the needy. Volume 2 includes stories of individuals whose sincere charity led to divine blessings, protection from calamities, and spiritual elevation. The author emphasizes that charity should be voluntary, sincere, and devoid of showing off. He links charity directly to spiritual purification and moral development.

Visiting Graves and Remembrance of Death:
Another significant portion of Volume 2 deals with the etiquette and virtues of visiting graves. Zakariya explains that such visits remind believers of the transient nature of life, encouraging humility, repentance, and preparation for the Hereafter. He also addresses common misconceptions and superstitions regarding grave visitation, guiding readers to practice this Sunnah appropriately.

Stories of Pious Predecessors:
One of the most engaging aspects of this volume is its narratives about the Sahaba (companions), Tabi‘in (successors), and later saints of Islam. Through these stories, readers learn practical examples of patience, sacrifice, honesty, and devotion. These narratives are intended not only to inspire but also to serve as moral lessons that can be applied in daily life.

Etiquettes of Daily Life:
Sheikh Zakariya also addresses practical moral conduct, such as honesty, humility, avoiding backbiting, and speaking good words. He explains that spiritual development is incomplete without ethical behavior, linking outward actions with inward faith.

Methodology and Style

Hadith-Based: The text heavily references authentic hadith from Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, Sunan Abu Dawood, and other reliable sources. Each hadith is explained with contextual understanding to make it relevant for modern readers.

Narrative Style: Rather than being purely academic, the book narrates stories and incidents that are relatable, helping readers internalize lessons effectively.

Practical Orientation: Sheikh Zakariya emphasizes implementation rather than theoretical knowledge. The book encourages readers to practice what they learn, gradually improving their spiritual and moral state.

Accessibility: Written in simple Urdu, the book is easy to read for both scholars and laypersons. Its translation into English and other languages has expanded its reach globally.

Impact and Importance

Spiritual Revival: “Faza’il-e-A’mal” has played a major role in reviving personal spirituality and religious awareness among Muslims worldwide.

Tablighi Jamaat Influence: The book forms a core text for the Tablighi Jamaat, a movement focusing on grassroots Islamic revival, emphasizing personal reform and outreach.

Moral Guidance: By combining the virtues of worship, ethical conduct, and historical examples, the book offers a comprehensive guide to living a life pleasing to Allah.

Educational Tool: It is widely used in madrasas and Islamic study circles to teach practical aspects of faith and piety.

Conclusion

Volume 2 of “Faza’il-e-A’mal” continues the mission of Sheikh Zakariya Kandhlawi by inspiring readers to lead a life centered on faith, piety, and ethical conduct. It provides practical guidance on worship, moral conduct, charity, remembrance of Allah, and preparation for the Hereafter. By presenting lessons through narratives, hadith, and practical advice, the book bridges the gap between knowledge and action, encouraging spiritual growth and societal harmony.

For readers seeking to deepen their understanding of Islam and strengthen their personal relationship with Allah, Faza’il-e-A’mal Volume 2 remains an invaluable resource, blending inspiration, education, and practical guidance in a way that is both accessible and transformative.