The Book of Iran


Book Description




The Bustan of Sadi


Book Description

Saadi of Shiraz (1210-91) was a major Persian poet and prose writer of the medieval period. Admired for the quality of his writings and for the depth of his social and moral thoughts, he is recognized as one of the greatest poets of the classical literary tradition, earning him the nickname of 'Master of Speech', or simply 'Master, ' among Persian scholars. His best-known works are Bustan (The Orchard), completed in 1257, and Gulistan (The Rose Garden), completed in 1258. Bustan is written entirely in verse (epic metre) and consists of stories aptly illustrating the standard virtues recommended to Muslims (justice, liberality, modesty, contentment), and reflections on the behaviour of dervishes and their ecstatic practises. This English translation by A Hart Edwards, who also wrote the introduction, was published in 1911 as part of John Murray's The Wisdom of the East series










In the Name of my Father


Book Description

In this compelling and insightful work, Ahmad Massoud reflects on the struggle for freedom and democracy in Afghanistan. As the leader of the National Resistance Front, Ahmad Massoud articulates a vision for a liberated Afghanistan, free from the grasp of the Taliban and other terrorist groups. It's no coincidence that his father, Ahmad Shah Massoud, was a military commander who led the resistance against the Soviet occupation in the 1980s and later against the Taliban regime until his assassination on September 9, 2011. In this remarkable memoir, Massoud describes the influence his father has had on him as the current leader of the resistance. His efforts, like those of his father, have always been about restoring peace—a peace that offers freedom, justice, and democracy to all citizens of Afghanistan. Massoud also explores Afghanistan's history, explaining how it has become so broken, and outlines his ideas for reforming the current political system and restoring stability. Massoud delves into the principles of democracy, decentralization, and pluralism, emphasizing the importance of equality for all citizens, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or religious beliefs. He also emphasizes the promotion of a rational and moderate interpretation of Islam in the Muslim world, advocating for a religious framework that supports rationalism, peace, tolerance, and coexistence. This aspect of his work underlines the importance of harmonizing religious beliefs with the principles of modern democracy and human rights. This book is not just a political manifesto, but also a personal narrative that intertwines Massoud's experiences and aspirations for his nation's future, portraying a deep commitment to the values of liberty, justice, and human rights. "Even if our paths were different," he writes, "the message that my father left for me is to never give up. I won't run away from the mission that awaits me."




East India (education)


Book Description