The Life of the Prophet Muhammad Volume IV, Al-Sira al-Nabawiyya by Ibn Kathir; edited by Mustafa 'Abd al-Wahid; translated by Trevor Le Gassick; reviewed by Muneer Fareed - 2010

Reading (UK): Garnet Publishing, 2010. Paperbound . BINDING/CONDITION: paperbound; Very Good condition. Following is taken from the publisher's blurb: this ''was compiled in the fourteenth century AD by a prominent Syrian scholar, and is a full examination, in chronological order, of the background life and mission of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. Drawn from the earliest and most reliable Arabic sources, it offers the fullest available account of the historical circumstances and personalities most important in the founding of Islam. The quotations and anecdotes that constitute its core are evaluated in terms of the trustworthiness of their sources. Variant wordings are noted, and Ibn Kathir give both his own assessments and those of the earliest Islamic authorities concerning the likely authenticity of these records. The comments and conversations, derived from ancient texts, that are quoted in this work constitute the basis our knowledge of Islam during the lifetime of its founder.'' This translation was published in 2000; this copy is a later printing of the paperback edition. From the publisher's series, Great Books of Islamic Civilization. ''Volume IV continues with the events of 9 AH and 10 AH, and presents the different accounts of the hajjat al-wada' (the farewell pilgrimage) and the events surrounding the death of the Prophet Muhammad.'' about 9.5 inches tall by 6.5 inches wide 538 pages. Glossary, index.