Books and Authors

Al Manazir (Book of Optics) is a seven-volume treatise on optics and other fields of study composed by the medieval Arab scholar Ibn al-Haytham, known in the West as Alhazen or Alhacen (965–c. 1040 AD). It is considered one of the most influential works on optics ever written, and it had a profound impact on the development of science and mathematics in the Islamic world and Europe.

The book “Kashmir – Behind the Vale” was written by M. J. Akbar. It was published in 1991. The book is a historical account of the Kashmir conflict. It covers the period from the 19th century to the present day. The book is divided into three parts. The first part deals with the history of Kashmir before the partition of India in 1947.

The book Long Walk to Freedom was written by Nelson Mandela. It is an autobiography that chronicles his life from his childhood in South Africa to his presidency of the country. The book was first published in 1994, and it has been translated into more than 30 languages. It is considered to be one of the most important books of the 20th century.

D.H. Lawrence was an English novelist, poet, playwright, essayist, short story writer, and painter. He was born in 1885 in Eastwood, Nottinghamshire, England, and died in 1930 in Vence, France. Lawrence is best known for his novels, which are characterized by their frank treatment of sexuality and their exploration of the psychological and emotional lives of his characters. His most famous novel is Lady Chatterley’s Lover, which was published in 1928 and was banned in the United Kingdom for obscenity until 1960.

The book Bidayat al-Mujtahid, which translates to “The Distinguished Jurist’s Primer,” is authored by the renowned Andalusian jurist, philosopher, and theologian, Abū Walīd Muḥammad ibn Aḥmad ibn Rushd, or more commonly known in the Western world as Averroes (1126-1198 AD). This seminal work offers a comprehensive analysis of Islamic jurisprudence and serves as an essential reference for students of Islamic legal theory. The text delves into the intricacies of various schools of thought within Islamic law, presenting a comparative study of their methodologies, principles, and interpretations. Averroes meticulously elaborates on the intricate process of ijtihad, which refers to the independent reasoning utilized by jurists when interpreting Islamic law. Through his erudite exposition, Averroes enables readers to grasp complex legal concepts, fostering a deeper understanding of the diverse perspectives within Islamic jurisprudence. Furthermore, the text highlights the importance of engaging in rigorous intellectual discourse and considering dissenting opinions to arrive at well-founded legal judgments. By doing so, Averroes masterfully weaves the intricate tapestry of Islamic legal thought, drawing upon insights from psychology, cognitive science, and philosophy to illuminate the multifaceted nature of this rich tradition.