O Son! A Translation of Imam al-Ghazali's "Ayyuhal Walad

A Masterpiece of Spiritual Wisdom, Personal Guidance & Lifelong Inspiration

Discover one of the most beloved spiritual letters in Islamic history—Imam al-Ghazali’s Ayyuhal Walad, beautifully translated and presented for the modern Muslim seeking clarity, guidance, and a deeper connection with Allah. This essential Islamic book is more than a simple treatise; it is a heartfelt fatherly counsel from one of the Ummah’s greatest scholars to his devoted student—and by extension, to every seeker striving for the Path of Paradise.

A Life-Changing Response to a Scholar’s Most Important Question

An advanced student once wrote to Imam al-Ghazali, asking:
“From all the branches of sacred knowledge, what will truly benefit us in the grave?”

Rather than directing him towards his voluminous works like Ihya’ ‘Ulum al-Din, the Imam crafted a short yet powerful letter—a personal epistle of distilled wisdom that could be read, carried, and revisited throughout one’s life.

What You Will Learn Inside Ayyuhal Walad

Within these pages, Imam al-Ghazali unveils priceless insights including:

• The true relationship between knowledge and action and how each leads the believer toward Jannah
• The spiritual power and significance of Qiyam al-Layl (night prayer)
• Eternal advice from Luqman al-Hakeem to his son—guidance filled with wisdom and character-building lessons
• A crystal-clear explanation of obedience and worship, described by the Imam as the very essence of sacred knowledge
• Four crucial principles for every spiritual traveller (salik)
• A single profound hadith that encompasses the knowledge of the ancients and the later generations
• Eight transformative lessons that are sufficient for salvation and deliverance

This is a book you will return to again and again—a compact roadmap to spiritual success, crafted for sincere Muslims of every stage and background.

A Masterpiece for Students, Scholars & Spiritual Seekers

Originally written for a top student of Imam al-Ghazali—himself a master scholar—this letter stands as a historic testament to the relationship between teacher and student in classical Islam. Yet its wisdom is delivered with such clarity that every Muslim striving for sincerity (ikhlāṣ) will benefit immensely.

Arabic–English Side-by-Side Text

This premium edition includes:

• Wordsmiths’ elegant, precise English translation
• The original Arabic text of Imam al-Ghazali’s epistle

This format is invaluable for English readers seeking authenticity and for Arabic students eager to appreciate the Imam’s profound and eloquent prose.

Why This Book Is a Must-Have

• A timeless spiritual guide for young Muslims, parents, teachers & seekers
• Perfect for Islamic studies, madrasah shelves, and personal reflection
• Ideal Ramadan, Eid, nikah, or graduation gift
• Helps strengthen faith, purify the heart, and inspire righteous action
• A powerful addition to any Islamic library or personal book collection

About The Authors

Abu Hamid ibn Muhammad ibn Muhammad al-Tusi al-Shafi’i al-Ghazali (Imam Muhammad al-Ghazzali)

At The Islam Shop Ltd, our mission is to provide authentic Islamic books from leading publishers, carefully curated to meet the highest standards of scholarship and authenticity. Each title in our collection is chosen to inspire knowledge, reflection, and spiritual growth, allowing readers to deepen their connection with Islam and its rich intellectual heritage. Among the towering figures whose works have shaped our collection is Imam Abu Hamid al-Ghazali (c. 1058–1111), widely regarded as one of the most influential scholars, jurists, theologians, philosophers, and mystics in Islamic history.

Born in Tus, Persia, Imam al-Ghazali embarked on a journey of rigorous Islamic study under the guidance of the eminent theologian and jurist Imam al-Haramayn al-Juwayni. His early scholarship laid the foundation for a lifetime dedicated to both knowledge and spirituality. By the age of 34, he had earned the prestigious position of rector and professor at the Nizamiyya College in Baghdad, one of the most renowned centers of learning in the Muslim world. During this period, he taught, answered questions from the broader community, and engaged in the intellectual debates of his time. His works, including The Objectives of the Philosophers (Maqasid al-Falasifa) and The Incoherence of the Philosophers (Tahāfut al-Falāsifa), challenged prevailing philosophical ideas and reaffirmed the centrality of Islamic theology.

Following a profound personal and spiritual crisis, Imam al-Ghazali chose to leave his prestigious post and spent the next decade traveling to Damascus, Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem, embracing seclusion, reflection, and spiritual discipline. It was during this period that he authored his magnum opus, The Revival of the Religious Sciences (Iḥyā’ ‘Ulum al-Dīn), a monumental work spanning forty books that synthesizes Islamic law, theology, ethics, and Sufism. This masterpiece continues to guide Muslims in understanding the wisdom, significance, and practical application of their faith. Other notable works include The Alchemy of Happiness (Kimiya-yi Sa‘ādat), Deliverance from Error (al-Munqidh min al-Dalal), and The Incoherence of the Philosophers, all of which have left an indelible mark on Islamic thought.

Imam al-Ghazali is celebrated not only for his intellectual rigor but also for his ability to harmonize spiritual insight with scholarly precision. Known as Ḥujjat al-Islām (Proof of Islam), he is recognized as the reviver of his century (mujaddid), guiding generations in the pursuit of knowledge, ethical conduct, and spiritual fulfillment. His approach reflects a balance between reason, law, and mysticism, reminding us that true understanding of Islam involves both the mind and the heart.

At The Islam Shop Ltd, we honour the legacy of scholars like Imam al-Ghazali by offering a carefully curated selection of educational, religious, and inspirational literature. Every book in our collection is chosen to support your journey of learning, reflection, and spiritual growth, from the foundational teachings of the Qur’an and Hadith to advanced works on jurisprudence, theology, and Sufism. Whether you are seeking to expand your knowledge, deepen your faith, or find practical guidance in your daily life, our collection is designed to meet your spiritual and intellectual needs.

Explore our range of authentic Islamic books and immerse yourself in the wisdom of generations of scholars. At The Islam Shop, we invite you to embark on a journey of knowledge, inspiration, and spiritual connection—discover the works that have shaped Islamic thought and continue to enrich lives across the world.

About The Translator 

Wordsmiths Editing Ltd

At The Islam Shop, we are dedicated to making authentic Islamic knowledge accessible through books that we have carefully translated from original sources. Every translation is handled with the utmost care to ensure that the true meaning, wisdom, and beauty of the original texts are preserved, allowing readers to deepen their understanding and connection with Islam.

To achieve the highest standards of accuracy and scholarship, our translations are completed in partnership with Wordsmiths Editing Ltd, a professional editing and translation service renowned for academic excellence. Their team of experienced translators, editors, and scholars ensures that each book reflects not only linguistic precision but also the spiritual and educational integrity of the original work.

Faithful, Accurate, and Scholarly

We carefully select which Islamic texts to translate, focusing on works that are educational, religious, and inspirational. Every translation undergoes rigorous proofreading and quality checks, overseen by experts with deep knowledge in Islamic studies. This meticulous process guarantees that our readers receive books they can trust for both authenticity and clarity.

Explore Our Translated Collection

Our collection represents a careful curation of Islamic knowledge, from foundational texts to contemporary insights, all translated with precision and care. By exploring our books, you can enrich your faith, enhance your understanding, and engage deeply with the teachings of Islam.

The Islam Shop — Bringing authentic Islamic books to life through faithful translation and scholarly care.

We invite you to explore our collection and discover books that inspire, educate, and connect you more closely with the teachings of Islam.

About The Publisher 

Imam Ghazali Publishing

At The Islam Shop, we take pride in offering authentic Islamic books from some of the world’s most respected and trusted publishers — and Imam Ghazali Publishing stands as one of the finest among them.

Reviving the Rich Legacy of Islamic Scholarship

Since its inception in 2007, Imam Ghazali Institute has been at the forefront of reviving the profound and timeless Islamic scholarly tradition. Through Imam Ghazali Publishing, the institute continues its mission to disseminate sacred knowledge in a way that is both authentic and accessible to Muslims around the world — especially those living in the West.

In a world overflowing with information, Imam Ghazali Publishing remains committed to preserving the verifiable chain of transmission that connects today’s readers with the classical sources of Islamic knowledge. Each publication reflects deep scholarship, authenticity, and the beauty of the Islamic intellectual tradition.

Dedicated to Quality, Depth, and Spiritual Enrichment

Imam Ghazali Publishing carefully curates works that nurture the mind, heart, and soul. Their collection includes educational, religious, and inspirational literature from both contemporary and classical Muslim authors. Every title is crafted and selected with great care — ensuring academic precision, spiritual depth, and linguistic excellence.

From timeless classics of Islamic spirituality to contemporary reflections on faith, their publications help readers deepen their understanding of Islam and strengthen their connection with Allah.

Championing Muslim Voices and Creativity

More than just a publisher, Imam Ghazali Publishing serves as a platform for Muslim voices — amplifying, supporting, and mentoring writers across all levels of experience. With a strong focus on authenticity, inclusivity, and creativity, they combine conscientious editing, distinctive design, and innovative outreach to ensure every book resonates with a 21st-century audience while remaining rooted in the Islamic ethos.

A Commitment to Inclusivity and Excellence

Imam Ghazali Publishing is not only dedicated to producing high-quality Islamic literature but also strives to make sacred knowledge accessible to readers of all backgrounds and abilities. Their open approach to feedback and continual improvement reflects a deep commitment to community, accessibility, and excellence.

Explore the Imam Ghazali Collection at The Islam Shop

At The Islam Shop Ltd, we are honoured to offer a diverse selection of books published by Imam Ghazali Publishing — works that embody the true spirit of Islamic learning and spirituality. Whether you seek profound insights, practical guidance, or timeless wisdom, these books invite you on a journey of faith, reflection, and enlightenment.

Discover authentic Islamic literature today — explore our Imam Ghazali Publishing collection and enrich your connection with Islam.

Additional Product Information

• ISBN 13: 978-195230-61-43
• ISBN: 10: 1952306143
• ISBN: 978-1-952306-14-3
• ISBN 1: 9781952306143
• UPC: 9781952306143
• SKU 1: TISTMOSMGP
• SKU 2: TIS
• SKU 3: 9781952306143
• SKU 4: 9781952306143
• MPN: 9781952306143
• ASIN: 9781952306143
• EAN: 9781952306143
• REF.NO: 9781952306143
• Author: Abu Hamid ibn Muhammad ibn Muhammad al-Tusi al-Shafi’i al-Ghazali (Imam Muhammad al-Ghazzali)
• Edited and illustrated By: Wordsmiths Editing Ltd./ Shaykh Abdul Aziz Suraqah / Shaykh Talut Dawood
• Translated & Annotated By: Wordsmiths Editing Ltd./ Shaykh Abdul Aziz Suraqah / Shaykh Talut Dawood
• Publisher:  Imam Ghazali Publishing
• Imprint:  Imam Ghazali Publishing
• Publication Date:  1 July 2020 / 10 Dhuʻl-Qiʻdah 1441 AH
• Impression: First
• Cover: Paperback / Softcover / Paperboard / Softbound
• Format: Paperback / Softcover / Paperboard / Softbound
• Binding: Paperback / Softcover / Paperboard / Softbound
• Pages: 108 
• Size: 13.97 x 0.69 x 21.59 cm Approx 
• Trim Size: 5.5" × 0.27" × 8.5"  inches Approx
• Dimensions:  5.5" × 0.27" × 8.5" inches Approx
• Weight: 600g Approx 
• Digital Bank:-
• Age: 15 +
• Grade Level: 
• Genre: Dars E Nizami Madrasah Syllabus / Family /Imam Ghazali Publishing / Islamic Lifestyle / Madrasah Syllabus / Tasawwuf Spirituality / 

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