Mahdi of Allah: The Story of the Dervish, Mahammed Ahmed Book

"The real relation between al-Fatihah (the first chapter of the Qur'an) and the rest of the Qur'an is not that of an introduction to a book but that of a prayer and its answer. The Qur'an,was not merely to be recited, pondered, or investigated for hidden truths; it was rather to be read at face value and implemented. As an answer to mankind's prayers, the Qur'an would solve social maladies."

Abul A'la Maududi is regarded as one of the most important modern Islamic ideological thinkers, philosophers and jurists. As a writer of over 73 books and virtually the creator of a whole sect, his works not only shaped South Asia but also bear their marks across a large number of Muslim nations. It can easily be concluded that Maududi is to "Political Islam" what Karl Marx is to "Communism".

Nasr gives us a rare insight into the life of the great revivalist, showing how Maududi's ideas took shape in the unconventional circumstances of communalism in pre-partition India and the secular governments of Pakistan. Written in a progressive manner, this book isn't just a biography but goes on to explain the origin of Maududi's perspectives on Islam, society and politics.

"The Paradise us not reward for mere profession of the bargain (covenant with God), it is the reward for the faithful execution of it."

For anyone who wishes to read into the deeper aspects of Maulana Abul A'la Maududi's personality and his ideology, this book is a most recommended read.