Chapter 1

Understanding the Call

1.1. The purpose of our existence 13

1.2. The need for conveying the message and benefits 21

1.3. The most valuable gift 30

1.4. Continuity 33

1.5. Moral obligation 40

1.6. Spiritual guidance, the individual, and society 45

1.7. Faith and hypocrisy 55

1.8. Stories of heavenly destructions 63

1.9. A measure of preserving religion 73

Chapter 2

Guidelines

2.1. Knowledge 79

2.2. Awareness of the era 86

2.3. The relationship between the Qur'an and the heart 88

2.4. Legitimate means for legitimate ends 90

2.5. Compensation 91

2.6. Knowing the person and empathy 97

2.7. The inter-play of faith, spiritual mentoring, and action 113

2.9. Relationship with authorities and the elite 136

2.10. Being resolute 138

2.11. Being insightful & conforming with innate human nature 140

Chapter 3

The Spiritual Characteristics of a Mentor

3.1. Compassion 149

3.2. Selflessness 153

3.3. Prayer 155

3.4. Being rational and realistic 156

3.5. Tolerance 157

3.6. Being caring 158

3.7. Spirituality 159

3.8. Enthusiasm 162

3.9. Purity of heart and spirit 164

Conclusion167

Endnotes173

Index178

Calling to Good

Islamic Mentoring and Guidance in a Modern World