Imam Nawawi's classic manual of Islam, 'al-Maqasid', was first composed as a 'fiqh matn', or synopsis of the practical requirements of Islam - faith, purification, the prayer, charity, fasting, and pilgrimage - for students to memorise. The handbook's clear and concise style will help anyone seeking to learn the essentials of Islamic practice and spirituality from a reliable, traditional source. Although best known for his work on 'hadith', Yahya ibn Sharaf al-Nawawi (d. 676AH/1277AD) was also the Imam of the later Shafi'i school of jurisprudence, and widely acknowledged as the intellectual heir of Imam Shafi'i. He was a great scholar and jurist who dedicated his life to the pursuit of Islamic learning.

This collection of forty 'hadith' by one of the most famous compilers of 'hadith' is generally regarded as the most popular anthology and the best introduction to the study of the Prophet's sayings which, together with the Qur'an, contain the essential teachings of Islam. The Arabic original has been printed alongside the English translation for the benefit of those with a knowledge of Arabic. The translation, by two scholars working in close collaboration, combines accuracy with readability.