Abaqat (Diffusion of perfume) is the nearest source towards the understanding of the philosophy of Shah Waliyullah of Dehli. The Author has attempted successfully at explainig some of the mystical and philosophical points which had been summarily mentioned by shah sahib whom he rightly considers as “best of investigator (Afdal-Ul-Muhaqqiqin)”. He was Deeply impressed by his two famous treatises ‘Lamahat’ and ‘sata’at which cover two third of his field of philosophy. In Consequence he prepared his ‘Abaqat which more or less is an elucidation of their substance. On the Strength of these two works in particular, he was preference to him over shaik Akbar Ibn -ul-‘Arabi and Imam Rabbani.’ Though shah shahid was not a mystic but at times, the mystical revelations were made to him. His discussion on the esoteric science in his book are an indication to the vast knowledge he possessed about mysticism, philosophy and the traditional literature. He has written this book in the form of a text with an intention to follow it with a commentary but he sis not live to do so. This is the reason why it is difficult to understand certain points without elaboration. The translator had before him to urdu translation of the ‘Abaqat, the printed by Manazir Ahsan Gilani and the other in the shape of a manuscript once dictated by the late Maulana ‘Ubaid-ullah sindhi in Mecca when he was in exile.

Al-Ghazali’s classic commentary upon the Quranic verse of lights is translated with authentic excellence by William Henry Temple Gairdner.

A revered Islamic philosopher, theologian and astronomer of the 11th century, Al-Ghazali’s commentaries upon religious topics are celebrated along with his more scientific works. The mystical nature of the Verse of Light fascinated scholars of Islam, its passages are considered many-faceted in meaning, its beauty and evocative imagery an example of the rich literary prowess present in the Holy Qur’an.

The first half of this book contains an extensive scholarly analysis of Al-Ghazali, his life, writings and ideas on a variety of pertinent topics. Through these informed essays we are immersed in the culture of Medieval-era Islamic society, and prepared for the translation of the Mishkat which follows. Gairdner’s guidance is poignant and well-written, allowing the curious reader to appreciate the symbolism that underpins the philosophy of Islamic thinkers. Scholars of the era considered the Qur’an as a guiding light upon matters of science and learning as well as religious observance, and such concepts are voiced in studies like the Mishkat.