Compiled in the 14th century C.E. by a prominent Syrian scholar, the al-Sira al-Nabawiyya of Ibn Kathir, May Allah be pleased with him, is a full examination, in chronological order, of the background, life and mission of the Prophet Muhammad, May Allah bless him and grant him peace.

Drawn from the earliest and most reliable Arabic sources, it offers, in this close English translation, the fullest available account of the historical circumstances and personalities most important in the founding of Islam. Ibn Kathir’s work offers a fine example of Islamic scholarship; the quotations and anecdotes that constitute its core are evaluated in terms of the trustworthiness of their sources. Variant wordings that are related through differing lines of transmission are noted, and Ibn Kathir, May Allah be pleased with him, gives 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 of our knowledge of Islam during the lifetime of its founder.


Volume 1 : 424 pages - The first volume of this four-volume set relates the history of the Arab tribes who were the Noble Prophet’s May Allah bless him and grant him peace forebears, the lives of his parents, and the accounts of unusual events surrounding his birth. It then goes on to relate anecdotes regarding his childhood, the signs of the Prophethood, and the first revelations.
 

Volume 2 : 420 pages - Volume II looks at the early years of the prophethood and includes such episodes as the Night Journey from Makkah to Jerusalem and the ascent to Heaven, and the emigration to Madinah. It gives details of events in the two years following the emigration, including the building of the Holy Mosque and various military expeditions, and reveals how Islam, as a faith, developed.

 
Volume 3 : 560 pages - Volume III gives details of the numerous battles and campaigns waged between 3 AH and 8 AH to defend and spread the religion of Islam.


Volume 4 : 568 pages - 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 demise of the Prophet Muhammad May Allah bless him and grant him peace.