Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Blessings - ash-Shinqiti

Friday, October 30, 2009

An Important Article



Assalamu 'alaykum,

Below is an important article by Sheikh Haitham al Haddad on "discussing terrorism & Jihad"

All praise belongs to Allah and blessings and peace be upon the final prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).


We have recently seen a number of articles and lectures by various speakers and scholars about jihad and terrorism, and although these brothers have sincere intentions (and we ask Allah to reward and guide them), I fear that this discourse is lacking the basic framework of an academic methodology, and as a result it can easily be misleading and cause more problems than it solves.

The most fundamental principle to be considered prior to any discussion concerning any given topic is to define the major terms used throughout that discussion. With reference to recent discussions, we find that they revolve around the terms 'terrorism' and 'jihad' and are used in an attempt to condemn those who misunderstand the two, yet commentators fail to provide comprehensive and accurate definitions for them. As a result, discussions become relative where all understand terrorism and jihad according to their own view. Modernists will see it as a proof that the concept of jihad should be re-interpreted according to Western imperial views dominated by an anti-Islamic agenda whereby the ‘correct’ and ‘moderate’ understanding of jihad does not include any type of physical engagement, including self-defence which of course is preposterously incorrect. Others will capitalise on this warped view in order to justify their ideological opinions regarding jihad in that it is limited to ones struggle against his/her own whims and desires.

For those who have become embroiled in this discussion, it makes no difference as to whether a clarification is offered that these incorrect forms are not the jihad that they meant, or that their statements were misunderstood. What is of importance however, is that which the average reader understands, and therefore, providing clear and precise definitions must be a priority in order to avoid any possible confusion. In addition, it is notable that many lectures and articles written against the so-called jihadists use an emotional tone – the same tool employed by ‘jihadists’ themselves, and this consequently lacks the ability to convince those who believe that they are the ‘authentic’ Mujahideen. It is also surprising that commentators use blanket statements and basic and very vague weak arguments given that ‘jihadist’ discourse has developed providing answers for most of the textual and rational evidences used against its mission and ambition.

Since 9/11, the ‘war on terror’ has become a legitimate justification by many non-Muslim governments to invade Muslim lands, confiscate their resources and torture Muslims in other parts of the world through the practice of military renditions. It is extremely evident that the term ‘war on terror’ is merely an excuse to terrorise Muslims wherever they are, and so, we should be asking as to who the real terrorists are? Do Muslims terrorise them or is it the other way round? Despite this, it is shocking that some of our scholars and speakers still talk and act in ways that play into the hands of the very agencies that are fighting their own people! It is ironic to see some, including speakers or even scholars, using the same terms these anti-Muslims use without exerting any efforts to provide clear definitions. Under the banner of ‘together united against extremism’ some Muslims support spying on Muslims living in non-Muslim countries, and even go to the extent of supporting the prohibition of well established Islamic practices since they are assumed to be symbols of extremism in the 'war against terrorism'. These speakers must not be as naive to assume that they themselves are viewed as extremists by many, including those who attribute themselves to Islam.

One of the major concerns at this given juncture is that those who believe in this so-called jihadist methodology become more content that their opponents’ rhetoric is falsehood and so weak that they cannot manage to even produce a consistent (let alone strong) argument! Let us remember that if one holds the truth but is unable to deliver it in a convincing manner it can instead become a source of misguidance for many. This is why Allah sent his Prophets with clear evidence, He said, “Then! Are the Messengers charged with anything but to convey the Message clearly?”[1] The Prophet also said "Every Prophet has been given signs/verses the like of which, people believe in.” The scriptural texts quoted in most anti-jihadist literature to prove that killing innocent people is an act of great corruption and mischief on Earth is overplayed, and there is a lack of clear and comprehensive interpretation clarifying the boundaries between what is true jihad and what is not. It is known that ‘jihadists’ agree with these texts, but countering the argument by simply stating that these verses speak about those who kill innocent people. They state that the people killed by their operations are not completely innocent but either guilty of killing Muslims in other parts of the world or aiding those who perpetrated those acts. An example of this issue is when anti-jihadists state that jihadists are extremists and evil as Allah says, “And those who invoke not any other ilah (god) along with Allah, nor kill such life as Allah has forbidden, except for a just cause, nor commit illegal sexual intercourse; and whoever does this shall receive the punishment. The torment will be doubled for him on the Day of Resurrection, and he will abide therein in disgrace”.[2] The jihadist simply respond by saying that this verse is actually proof against the anti-jihadists since Allah states the exception is a “just cause” and jihad and self defence is ‘a just cause’ for killing others who aim to kill you and rape your wives and daughters!

One thing that is extremely questionable is the intended aim of this discussion. Are those who intend to blow themselves up going heed such advice? It is known that those who would carry out such actions would never listen to such commentators, and instead, such comments will only serve to alienate them further, ultimately fuelling the so-called jihadists to become even more active and resourceful. It will provoke many of them to refute these weak arguments inevitably aiding them to win over the same people whom these speakers want to ‘save’. Furthermore, many of these statements and comments articulated by scholars and speakers were welcomed by non-Muslim agencies with gratitude, something that ‘jihadists’ will undoubtedly claim confirms that these commentators are merely ‘agents of oppressive regimes’.

Commentators might argue that they must make such statements in order to protect their own projects and organisations against any accusation of extremism. If so, I implore them to carefully reconsider this position of theirs, as it could lead them, whether knowingly or unknowingly, to fall into Allah’s condemnation of those who side with people who have an anti-Islamic agenda in an attempt to guard themselves against them. He, the Most High says, "And you see those in whose hearts there is a disease (of hypocrisy), they hurry to their friendship, saying: "We fear lest some misfortune of a disaster may befall us." Perhaps Allah may bring a victory or a decision according to His Will. Then they will become regretful for what they have been keeping as a secret in themselves."[3] Moreover, they should not commit the very same mistake that they condemn! Both parties use incomplete and/or emotional arguments to prove their stance. They haste to an unsubstantiated conclusion believing that promoting it is nothing but advancing the interest of the Ummah. The situation becomes worse if the underlying motive is one’s self or organisation’s interest.

In conclusion, I would like to advise our brothers, whether they be preachers or scholars to exercise careful consideration in regards to anything they say, and in particular, complicated matters such as jihad in the current context. Our brothers should not be fooled by those who welcome their statements, something which might later be the cause of a regrettable reaction. If we feel that we have no choice but to speak about such issues, we should avoid projecting our views in a way that implies that ours is the ultimate truth and anyone who disagrees is an extremist or has gone astray. The same advice must be said to those who believe that they are protecting the honour of the ummah (Muslim nation) by calling for what they see as Jihad.

And Allah knows best.

Notes:
Source: www.islam21c.com

[1] 16:35
[2]25:68-69
[3]5:52

Friday, October 16, 2009

Revised Study Plan


Some of you may have read the study plan which I posted not long ago.

Well here is a revised version giving more info regarding the books on the essential booklist. I am planning to improve this study plan gradually as I want to learn from your feedback about its suitability, level, practicality etc.

The next stage for me will be to add a "review section" for each book. This will essentially be a set of basic questions for each chapter of each book. You will be able to use these questions to test your understanding of what you have read.

Please leave some feedback if you have any suggestions. (Remember, this is a beginner's study plan.)

Study Plan (revised)

This is a study plan for those who work/study full time.

Essential Booklist:

Qur’an:

· How to approach and understand the Qur’an – By J.Zarabozo. Publishers: al Basheer Publications USA. This book focuses on how we should truly read & study the Qur’an. Many unfortunately do not know how to approach the Qur’an and thus do not benefit from it. This book will transform the way you study the Qur’an especially for those who are not acquainted with the teachings of the Qur’an. NOTE: this book seems to be out of print yet should be available to purchase directly from the publishers (USA).

· Introduction to the sciences of the Qur’an. – By Yasir Qadhi. Publishers: al Hidayaah, UK. This book should be read after the previous book as it delves into more detail surrounding the ‘technical’ issues such as how the Qur’an was revealed, compiled, how it is arranged, interpreted, the history of its translation and other beneficial topics that will increase one’s knowledge of this sacred text and thus will bring one closer to Allah (swt)

· Etiquettes of the bearers of the Qur’an – Imam Aajurri. Publishers: al Qur’an Society, UK. This is a brief and concise book written centuries ago, which discusses the etiquettes for those who wish to bond a special relation with the Qur’an.

· Tafseer Ibn Katheer (10 volumes), Publishers: Darussalam, Saudi Arabic. This is a classical yet simple commentary of the Qur’an. It is recognised as the most reliable and accepted commentaries that exist. There are also many online versions as well.

· In the shade of the Qur’an (15 Volumes) - By Sayyid Qutb. Publishers: Islamic Foundation, UK. Written by a somewhat controversial figure, this author has penned downt an earnest, sincere and sober look at man's contemporary achievements and difficulties in the light of the message of the Qur'an. It is an effort to vigorously explore its rich wisdom, and expand its invaluable guidance for the benefit of an increasingly ‘sophisticated’, yet highly perplexed modern society. A pdf version can be found here: http://www.kalamullah.com/shade-of-the-quran.html

· Translation of the Qur’an. There are numerous translations available, from amongst the most accurate translations is the Saheeh international print.

Sunnah:

· The authority and importance of the Sunnah – By J.Zarabozo. Publishers: al Basheer (USA). As can be seen from the title, this books focuses on the role of the Sunnah in our religion and how important it is. In a time where people are beginning to ignore the sunnah as well as down play its role, this work serves to be an important effort in defining and establishing a major aspect of our faith.

· Basics & Benefits from the Forty Hadeeth of Imam an-Nawawi (2 Parts) By Nathim Sultan. Publishers: Dar of Islamic Heritage, USA. The Forty Hadith of Imam an-Nawawi is a small collection of unique Prophetic traditions covering different aspects of our religion. This concise commentary provides very beneficial principles and benefits that can be derived from the sayings.

· Commentary of Imam- an-Nawawi’s Forty Hadeeth: J.Zarabozo’s three-volume commentary. Publishers: al Basheer (USA). This is another commentary but far more extensive and detailed and extremely beneficial. This work is a true masterpiece.

· Introduction to the science of Hadith – By S.Hasan. Publishers: al Qur’an Society, UK. This is a brief text covering matters related to hadith compilation and how traditions are authenticated and declared weak. The text also covers the definitions of hadith terminology that are extensively used in other books of Islamic knowledge.

· Textbook of Hadith studies – Hashim Kamali, Publishers: Islamic Foundation. (Similar to the above but in more detail)

· Nukhbatul Fikr – Ibn Hajar. This is a classical text covering Hadith terminology. It is a useful text to study in order to get a feel of classical literature.

· Summarised Saheeh al Bukhari, Publishers: Darus Salam, Saudi. The most authentic collection of Prophetic traditions and the most authentic book after the book of Allah. This is not a text that one can study by themselves but nevertheless useful to have as a basic reference as well as.

‘Aqeedah:

· Explanation of the three fundamental principles - By Ibn ‘Uthaymeen. Publishers: al Hidaayah, UK. Every person will be asked by the angels in his grave: Who is your Lord? Who was your Messenger and what was your deen? These pivotal questions require that a person is aware of the answers to these questions based upon certainty and sound knowledge. This introductory text alongside its explanation will equip its reader with the fundamental knowledge that every believer should be aware of.

· Explanation of Kitaab at-Tawheed – by as-Sa’adi , al Hidaayah Publications, UK. (Preferably studied with a teacher). This text covers vital matters related to Monotheism and Polytheism. As a believer one should be aware of matters of shirk in order not to fall into it.

· The Creed Series (6 vols) by Sulayman al Ashqar. Publishers: IIPH, Saudi. This is a detailed series covering the topics: Belief in Allah, The world of the Noble Angels, The World of the Jinn and Devils, The Messengers and Messages, The Final Day (3 parts) and Divine Will and Predestination. This is an extremely thorough and well-researched series.

· Al ‘Aqeedah al Waasitiyyah – By Ibn Taymiyyah. Publishers: Dar us Sunnah (translated by Abu Rumaysah), UK. (This has to be studied with a teacher. An audio explanation is available by Abu Talha http://www.lewishamislamiccentre.com/media/theology ).

Fiqh:

· Manhaj as-Salikeen – Sa’adi

· ‘Umdatul Fiqh – Ibn Qudamah.

· Buloogh al Maram. (all three need to be studied with a teacher.)

History/Seerah:

· Lessons from the Seerah – Mustafa Siba’I. Publishers: IIPH, Saudi. This is a simple & small text covering the major events of the like of the Prophet (saw) and covers some of the important benefits that one can gain from his life.

· Seerah of Muhammad (saw) – Ali as-Sallaabi (3 vol) Publishers: Darus-Salam.

Arabic Studies:

· Medinah Books

· Al Ajaroomiyyah.

Heart Softeners/Spirituality.

· Riyadh as-Saliheen – By Imam an-Nawawi. Publishers: Darus Salam, Saudi. This is a hadith collection pertaining to the virtues of actions as well as matters related to the heart and day-to-day etiquettes of a believer. This is an essential book that no one can do without.

· Purification of the Soul, (group of authors), Publishers: al Firdous Publications. An essential read for those who want to cleanse their hearts from the spiritual diseases around us.

· Invocation of God. By Ibn al Qayyim, Publishers: Islamic Texts Society. Written by one of the greatest authors in Islamic Spirituality, Ibn al Qayyim offers in this text the wonders and benefits of remembering Allah (swt) and being close to him. It also elucidates the various aspects of spirituality that a believer should be aware of. This text is without a doubt one of the most valuable translations of classical Islamic literature available.

· The Spiritual Cure & Its Diseases – By Ibn al Qayyim, Publishers: al Firdous, UK. This book was written in response to a letter sent by a young Muslim who felt he was on the verge of destruction due to the sins that he was committing and couldn’t let go of. This work covers in great detail the ill effects of sin and how one can avoid them.

· The Exquisite Pearl – By as-Sa’adi. Publishers: al Jawziyyah Institute, UK. This is a basic poem related to the actions of the heart, such as loving, fearing, having reliance in Allah (swt) etc. Though it is a simple text, it is a

great text to use in a study circle where it could be elucidated on by someone who is familiar with the knowledge of sulook (spirituality).

The above is a very concise list of books that you should have to study from. Naturally there are a plethora of other books you can read for each subject, but these books should act as your pillars of knowledge. I have put the books in order of what book you should study first. (The order of the subjects was written randomly)

Devising a timetable:

Adhering to a timetable requires:

1. Dedication

2. Consistency

3. Discipline

4. Patience

Sit down for a while and ponder over the above four terms.

Ideally you should be studying a number of different subjects per week. Some are of the view that you should stick to one book and not move to another book until you have finished the first book, otherwise one’s reading could get confused and information muddled up. However the benefit of studying a number of subjects per week prevents boredom and makes reading more of an enjoyable and refreshing experience.

Remember to base your timetable around the lessons you already attend. Some of you will be attending the 40 Hadith and ‘Umdah class so make these two subjects the major subjects for your weekly studies. Add to that, the Arabic language.

Try and make one of subjects that you will be studying based on an audio explanation (e.g. al ‘Aqqedah al Waasitiyyah – Abu Talha). This will make your studying experience more dynamic and enjoyable.

The following is an example of what your timetable should be like:

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

‘Umdah Class

How to Approach.

10 Pages

The Authority of Sunah 10 Pages

Expl. 3 Fundamentals.

15 Pages.

Memorise Hadith for Friday.

Revise Hadith memorization.

Arabic H/W

40 Hadith Class.

Arabic H/W

Arabic Class.

Lessons of Sirah: 15 pages.

Revise ‘Umdah class and re-write notes.

· The above is only an example of how your timetable should look like.

It is important that when you are reading you set yourself a target of how many pages you should be reading. Always set yourself goals, as this will make you feel as though you are achieving something and therefore make it less likely for you to give up and feel de-motivated.

Remember, when setting your reading targets, be realistic! Start off with a comfortable amount for each reading session and if you find you are consistent in reaching your target; increase your reading target by a few pages.

· Have a monthly review of your reading achievements.

· NOTE TAKING: This is a science in and of itself. The aim in note taking is to be as minimal as possible. This is enable to revise the information you have studied very quickly and hence making the intake of knowledge easier. Note taking from textbooks is essentially summarising the text in front of you. If you find you are writing too much, then find ways of cutting out non-essential information or leaving out information that you already know very well.

· When completing a chapter in a book, pause and reflect on what you have learnt. If you have a friend, brother, sister, wife etc, sit them down and summarise to them what you have learnt from that chapter. If you have no one, try and jot down the main points from memory. Keep a hold of these chapter summarisations as they are an excellent way of revising.

· Always remember to read the Qur’an every day. Set yourself a wird, which is a fixed amount of Qur’an you set for yourself. The Qur’an is divided into juz’ / hizb (half’s and quarters). Set a target for memorization on a daily basis alongside revision. Remember, revision is just as important as memorization.

· With your reading, try and have a ‘casual’ reading book. Ideally this is a book that should give you spiritual nourishment. Have it by your side at home/work at all times. Whenever you have 5-10 minutes pick it up and read it.

· Finally, remember to seek Allah’s (swt) assistance in your studies. Make du’a constantly that He increases your knowledge and makes the knowledge that you gain beneficial for you in this dunya and akhirah.

Wa billahi at-Tawfeeq

And from Allah (swt) comes success.


Wednesday, October 07, 2009

al Murabitun





Assalamu 'alaykum,

Here is a lecture on the famous battle of Zallaqah (Spain) where the Murabitun under the leadership of Yusuf bin Tashfeen defeated Alfonso VI.

I am sure many of you have never even heard of the Murabitun and that is why I am posting this lecture on the blog.

I hope you benefit from it.

Tuesday, October 06, 2009

Personal Study Plan

Assalamu 'alaykum,

The following is a very basic study plan for those who wish to study Islam via English. This is not for the serious student of knowledge but for someone wishing to study Islam in a more systematic manner.


Study Plan

This is a study plan for those who work/study full time.

Essential Booklist:

Qur’an:

· How to approach and understand the Qur’an – J.Zarabozo

· Introduction to the sciences of the Qur’an. – Yasir Qadhi.

· Etiquettes of the bearers of the Qur’an – Imam Aajurri (al Qur’an Society).

· Tafseer Ibn Katheer/In the shade of the Qur’an (Sayyid Qutb) (Juzz Amma).

Sunnah:

· The authority and importance of the Sunnah – J.Zarabozo.

· Commentary of Imam- an-Nawawi’s forty hadeeth: Compendium of knowledge & wisdom – Ibn Rajab. Or J.Zarabozo’s three volume commentary.

· Introduction to the science of hadith – S.Hasan. (al Qur’an Society)

· Textbook of Hadith studies – Hashim Kamali

· Nukhbatul Fikr – Ibn Hajar. (This has to be studied with a teacher).

‘Aqeedah:

· Explanation of the three fundamental principles - Ibn ‘Uthaymeen.

· Explanation of Kitaab at-Tawheed – Sa’adi (preferably studied with a teacher)

· The ‘Aqeedah Series by Sulayman al Ashqar.

· Al ‘Aqeedah al Waasitiyyah – Ibn Taymiyyah. (This has to be studied with a teacher. An audio explanation is available by Ali Tamimi and Abu Talha).

Fiqh:

· Manhaj as-Salikeen – Sa’adi

· ‘Umdatul Fiqh – Ibn Qudamah.

· Buloogh al Maram. (all three need to be studied with a teacher.)

History/Seerah:

· Lessons from the Seerah – Mustafa Siba’I.

· Seerah of Muhammad (saw) – Ali as-Sallaabi (3 vol) Darus-Salam.

Arabic Studies:

· Medinah Books

· Al Ajaroomiyyah.

The above is a very concise list of books that you should have to study from. Naturally there are a plethora of other books you can read for each subject, but these books should act as your pillars of knowledge. I have put the books in order of what book you should study first. (The order of the subjects was written randomly)

Devising a timetable:

Adhering to a timetable requires:

1. Dedication

2. Consistency

3. Discipline

4. Patience

Sit down for a while and ponder over the above four terms.

Ideally you should be studying a number of different subjects per week. Some are of the view that you should stick to one book and not move to another book until you have finished the first book, otherwise one’s reading could get confused and information muddled up. However the benefit of studying a number of subjects per week prevents boredom and makes reading more of an enjoyable and refreshing experience.

Remember to base your timetable around the lessons you already attend. Some of you will be attending the 40 Hadith and ‘Umdah class so make these two subjects the major subjects for your weekly studies. Add to that, the Arabic language.

Try and make one of subjects that you will be studying based on an audio explanation (e.g. al ‘Aqqedah al Waasitiyyah – Abu Talha). This will make your studying experience more dynamic and enjoyable.

The following is an example of what your timetable should be like:

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

‘Umdah Class

How to Approach.

10 Pages

The Authority of Sunah 10 Pages

Expl. 3 Fundamentals.

15 Pages.

Memorise Hadith for Friday.

Revise Hadith memorization.

Arabic H/W

40 Hadith Class.

Arabic H/W

Arabic Class.

Lessons of Sirah: 15 pages.

Revise ‘Umdah class and re-write notes.

· The above is only an example of how your timetable should look like.

It is important that when you are reading you set yourself a target of how much you should be reading. Always set yourself goals, as this will make you feel as though you are achieving something and therefore make it less likely for you to give up and feel de-motivated.

Remember, when setting your reading targets, be realistic! Start off with a comfortable amount for each reading session and if you find you are consistent in reaching your target; increase your reading target by a few pages.

· Have a monthly review of your reading achievements.

· NOTE TAKING: This is a science in and of itself. The aim in note taking is to be as minimal as possible. This is enable to revise the information you have studied very quickly and hence making the intake of knowledge easier. Note taking from textbooks is essentially summarising the text in front of you. If you find you are writing too much, then find ways of cutting out non-essential information or leaving out information that you already know very well.

· When completing a chapter in a book, pause and reflect on what you have learnt. If you have a friend, brother, sister, wife etc, sit them down and summarise to them what you have learnt from that chapter. If you have no one, try and jot down the main points from memory. Keep a hold of these chapter summarisations as they are an excellent way of revising.

· Always remember to read the Qur’an every day. Set yourself a wird, which is a fixed amount of Qur’an you set for yourself. The Qur’an is divided into juz’ / hizb (half’s and quarters). Set a target for memorization on a daily basis alongside revision. Remember, revision is just as important as memorization.

· With your reading, try and have a ‘casual’ reading book. Ideally this is a book that should give you spiritual nourishment. Have it by your side at home/work at all times. Whenever you have 5-10 minutes pick it up and read it.

· Finally, remember to seek Allah’s (swt) assistance in your studies. Make du’a constantly that He increases your knowledge and makes the knowledge that you gain beneficial for you in this dunya and akhirah.

Wa billahi at-Tawfeeq

And from Allah (swt) comes success.



Study Plan

Sunday, September 20, 2009

عيد مبارك



To all viewers of this blog: taqaballahu minna wa minkum, wa kullu 'aamin wa antum bi khayr!

This is a joyous occasion to remember the blessing that Allah (swt) bestowed upon us for giving us the ability to fast this blessed month and for hopefully being forgiven.

قُلْ بِفَضْلِ اللَّهِ وَبِرَحْمَتِهِ فَبِذَٰلِكَ فَلْيَفْرَحُوا هُوَ خَيْرٌ مِمَّا يَجْمَعُونَ [١٠:٥٨
Say: In the bounty of Allah and in His mercy: therein let them rejoice. It is better than what they hoard. (10:58)

وَلِتُكْمِلُوا الْعِدَّةَ وَلِتُكَبِّرُوا اللَّهَ عَلَىٰ مَا هَدَاكُمْ وَلَعَلَّكُمْ تَشْكُرُونَ [٢:١٨٥

(He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful. (2:185)


Akhukum, Abu Qutaybah



Friday, September 18, 2009

ash-Sharh al Mumti available to download


Assalamu 'alaykum,

I have mentioned Shiekh ibn 'Uthaimeen's commentary on Zaad al Mustaqni' in many posts (see review of Zaad here:Abu Qutaybah: Book Review: Zaad al Mustaqni')

Well, I am pleased to say that you can download the entire 15 volumes from here in PDF format.

Note: Since writing the review of Zaad, I have come across two more prints of Zaad which probably beat all other prints in terms of accuracy and presentation.

The first was published (third print) by Ibn al Jawzi in 1429h and was overseen by Sheikh Muhammad bin Saalih al Habdaan and introduced by Sheikh Ibn 'Aqeel. This is a critical edition that compares a number of different manuscripts. The muhaqqiq also done a good job in typesetting the text as you can see:
المحرمات في النكاح

As you can see, he has broken the text into bullet points and spaced them out nicely allowing one to scribble some notes to its left. If you can get a pen with a very fine nib (o.1) you can surprisingly write a lot down. The following is an example of that:

باب الشروط و العيوب في النكاح

I would recommend that if anyone really wants to study this book in some detail they should abridge Ibn 'Uthaimeen's al Mumti' into the aforementioned print of Zaad. Doing so will allow to you to have the main points of the 15 volumes in one book, making revision of the text very easy.

You can download a PDF of the second edition from here.

The second print was published by Madar al Watan some five years ago and was edited by 'Abdur Rahman al 'Askar. The text comes fully vowelled with a good typeset. This print also has some good appendices:
  1. Those masaa'il that not mentioned in Muqni'
  2. Those masaa'il which have been placed in a difference place than was done in Muqni'
  3. Repeated masaa'il
  4. The masaa'il that differ from what is mentioned in Muqni'
  5. The masaa'il that oppose the mashoor from the Madhab.

I recall Sheikh Haitham saying that this particular print is the best print available. You can also download it from here.

Wassalamu 'alaykum