The Destitute [Kitab al-Masakin]

A Powerful Reflection on Poverty, Social Justice, and Human Dignity Through an Islamic Lens

What happens when wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few while the poor are left to suffer? The Destitute (Kitab al-Masakin) offers a profound and deeply moving exploration of poverty, inequality, and social responsibility during one of the most turbulent periods in modern Egyptian history.

Written against the backdrop of the First World War, when widespread hardship and economic exploitation devastated the lives of ordinary Egyptians, this remarkable work captures the struggles of society's most vulnerable members with compassion, insight, and moral clarity. As food shortages, poverty, and social injustice intensified, the author produced a timeless reflection on the condition of the poor and the ethical responsibilities of individuals and communities.

More than a historical account, The Destitute is a powerful reminder of Islam's emphasis on mercy, justice, compassion, and care for those in need. Readers will gain valuable insights into social ethics, human dignity, and the enduring relevance of Islamic teachings in addressing societal challenges.

This special edition features the English translation alongside the original Arabic text, making it an excellent resource for students of Arabic, Islamic studies, and readers seeking a deeper engagement with classical Islamic literature.

Why Read The Destitute (Kitab al-Masakin)?

• Explore a powerful Islamic perspective on poverty and social justice.
• Gain insights into the human impact of war, inequality, and economic hardship.
• Discover timeless lessons relevant to modern society and the Muslim lifestyle.
• Benefit from a bilingual Arabic-English edition ideal for Islamic learning.
• Deepen your understanding of compassion, charity, and social responsibility in Islam.
• Perfect for students of Islamic studies, history, and Arabic language.
• A valuable source of authentic Islamic knowledge and reflection.

An Essential Addition to Every Islamic Library

Whether you are seeking an educational Islamic book, exploring classical Islamic literature, or looking for works that inspire spiritual growth and reflection, The Destitute (Kitab al-Masakin) offers a unique and thought-provoking reading experience. Combining historical insight with enduring moral wisdom, this important work encourages readers to reflect upon faith, humanity, and their responsibilities towards others.

A meaningful gift for Muslims, students, and lovers of Islamic literature, this book remains a timeless contribution to faith and knowledge that continues to resonate with readers today.

About The Author

Mustafa Sadiq al-Rafi'i

The author Mustafa Sadiq al-Rafi'i was born in January of 1880 in Egypt to parents of Syrian descent. His father Abd al-Razzaq al-Rafi'i was a learned man and maintained a sizeable personal library that would play an important part in the development of the author as a poet-critic and respected literary figure in early twentieth-century Egypt. His family was devoted to scholarship in the classical Islamic sciences he was blessed with several generations of gifted offspring. Among all of these, however, Mustafa Sadiq would alone rise to prominence in the literary world.

About The Translator

Yusuf Talal DeLorenzo

The translator Yusuf Talal DeLorenzo is best known as a scholar of Islamic transactional law and an advisor on Shariah compliance issues to global financial institutions. He is also an experienced translator and has published several works from Arabic Farsi and Urdu into English. Thus in addition to his three-volume Compendium of Legal Opinions on the Operations of Islamic Banks in English and Arabic, he has translated many classics.

About The Publisher

Turath Publishing

Founded in South London in 1998, Turath Publishing has become a respected name among Islamic publishers, dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of authentic Islamic scholarship. The name Turath means "heritage," reflecting its mission to reconnect Muslims with the timeless wisdom of the Qur'an and Sunnah through high-quality translations, contemporary works, and previously unpublished manuscripts.

Beginning with the publication of The Muwatta of Imam Muhammad, a landmark project that took over five years to complete, Turath Publishing has since developed a catalogue of more than sixty titles covering Islamic studies, spirituality, creed, jurisprudence, history, and faith development.

At The Islam Shop, we are proud to offer a carefully curated selection of authentic Islamic books from Turath Publishing. Their publications combine scholarly excellence with accessibility, making them ideal for students, academics, and everyday readers seeking reliable Islamic knowledge.

Committed to the highest academic standards, beautiful presentation, and affordable pricing, Turath Publishing continues to produce trusted Islamic books that inspire Islamic learning, strengthen faith and spirituality, and preserve the legacy of traditional Sunni scholarship for future generations.

Additional Product Information

• Author: Mustafa Sadiq al-Rafi'i
• Publisher: Turath Publishing
• Publication Date: 2017
• Edition: First English Edition 
• Format: Print Book
• Binding: Paperback
• Pages: 273
• Dimensions: 22.8 x 15.2cm
• Language: English
• Genre: Islamic Literature, Social Commentary, Islamic Ethics
• Category: Islamic Studies, Classical Islamic Literature, Social Justice & Society
• ISBN-13: 9781906949228
• Translator: Yusuf Talal DeLorenzo
• Editor: N/A 
• Illustrator: N/A
• Suitable Age: 16+
• Grade / Level: Intermediate to Advanced; suitable for students of Islamic studies, Arabic literature, and general readers interested in Islamic thought
• Country of Publication: Türkiye

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