£19.99
This volume opens the eight-part Tabaqat series, taking you back to the noble ancestry and miraculous childhood of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. It is the essential first step in understanding the world that shaped the early Muslims.
Available in:
Read More
Free UK Shipping for Orders Over £40
Free Bookmark with Every Order
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
-
Many Seerahs start at or just before the birth of the Prophet. In order to fully understand how history unfolded to prepare the world for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his mission, we need to start at the beginning, with Prophet Adam, peace be on him.
The Biography of the Prophet I does just that and provides a foundational look at the Prophet’s noble ancestry, his miraculous childhood, and the unmistakable signs of his prophecy. It uses early narrations to describe his physical appearance and character with such clarity that you feel as though you are sitting in his presence.
This is the first volume of Kitab at-Tabaqat al-Kabir by Muhammad ibn Sa‘d, one of the most important and earliest surviving primary sources for the study of early Islamic history. The series is a meticulously preserved record of the lineages, characters, and contributions of the men and women who built the foundational community of Islam.
This collection is masterfully translated by the renowned Aisha Bewley, whose work is celebrated for retaining the technical nuances of the original Arabic while providing a flowing and clear narrative for the lay reader.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this too academic for a general reader?
While it is a scholarly text, Aisha Bewley’s translation is specifically designed to be readable and engaging, focusing on the narrative rather than technical terminology.
Is the translation reliable?
Aisha Bewley is a world-renowned, award-winning translator with decades of experience in bringing classical Arabic texts to the English-speaking world.
Does it include the chains of narration (isnad)?
No, this abridged version focuses on the core text to ensure a smooth reading experience while maintaining historical integrity.
Why should I buy Ibn Sa‘d’s books over a modern history book?
Because Ibn Sa‘d was writing within a few generations of the events themselves, these books give you a flavour that modern books simply cannot come close to. This is the raw primary source that will take you back to those foundational years of pure Islam.
How does this differ from a standard Seerah book?
Most Seerah books are modern syntheses. This is a primary source. It is the raw material that modern authors use, giving you a direct link to the early tradition.
We Recommend For You
Because You’ve Browsed This Category, You’d Enjoy These Reads
Since 1980
Who We Are
One of the First Islamic Publishers in the United Kingdom
Connecting English-speaking Muslims to the heart of their faith with authentic, accessible books.
At a time when there were limited faith-based resources to learn and teach Islam to the Muslim community in English, Afsar & Jamal-un-Nisa Siddiqui founded one of the first Islamic publishing houses in the UK. Leaving behind professional careers, they paved the way for future generations to enjoy a wide range of Islamic literature. Almost fifty years later, we continue to provide the highest quality books worldwide and support literacy charities.
Family Owned
Gives Back
45+ Years in Business
Customer Service
Our friendly customer support is here for you






