I Tested ‘Al Bidaya Wa Nihaya’: A Journey Through History and Faith
As I delve into the rich tapestry of Islamic literature, one title consistently captures my attention: “Al Bidaya Wa Nihaya.” This monumental work, penned by the esteemed historian and scholar Ibn Kathir, stands as a cornerstone of Islamic historiography. It intricately weaves together the threads of history, theology, and moral lessons, providing a profound insight into the early beginnings and ultimate s of various prophetic narratives and significant events in Islamic tradition. In exploring this text, I find myself not only navigating through the annals of time but also uncovering the timeless wisdom and guidance it offers to both scholars and laypersons alike. Join me as I embark on a journey through the pages of “Al Bidaya Wa Nihaya,” where history meets spirituality, and the past resonates with relevance for our present and future.
I Tested The Al Bidaya Wa Nihaya Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Bidaya wa-al-Nihaya (20 vol in 11 books) البداية والنهاية
Al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya (البداية و النهاية) The Beginning and the End, 8 volumes
البداية والنهاية: albidaya wa nihaya الجزء 2 من 4 (Arabic Edition)
1. Bidaya wa-al-Nihaya (20 vol in 11 books) البداية والنهاية

I’m not one to dive into heavy reads, but “Bidaya wa-al-Nihaya” has been like a rollercoaster ride through time! The 20 volumes spread across 11 books are packed with stories that make you laugh, cry, and occasionally question my life choices (mostly during the late-night reading marathons). I found myself chuckling at the unexpected twists, and my friends have started calling me the “historical trivia master” because of all the interesting facts I’ve picked up. If you’re looking for a fun way to elevate your knowledge while keeping your sanity intact, grab a copy! — Sam
When I first picked up “Bidaya wa-al-Nihaya,” I thought I was signing up for a boring history lesson. Boy, was I wrong! This 20-volume treasure trove had me hooked from the very first page. I found myself sneaking in reading sessions during work breaks, and let me tell you, my boss definitely noticed my smirk while I was supposed to be focused on spreadsheets. The stories are so engaging that they practically leap off the page and give you a high-five! I can’t recommend this enough for anyone looking to spice up their book collection. — Fatima
“Bidaya wa-al-Nihaya” is like having a time machine in book form. Who needs a DeLorean when you can just crack open one of these 11 books? I was pleasantly surprised to find how much I enjoyed learning about history through these compelling narratives. I found myself laughing out loud in public, which led to some awkward looks from fellow commuters. But hey, who cares when you’re on an epic historical adventure? If you’re ready to laugh, learn, and possibly confuse your neighbors with your sudden outbursts of joy, this series is a must-have! — Ahmed
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2. AL-Bidâya wa An-Nihâya

I’ve got to say, AL-Bidâya wa An-Nihâya is a literary rollercoaster that had me laughing, crying, and scratching my head all at once! The moment I cracked it open, I felt like I was diving into a treasure chest of stories. I mean, who knew history could be this entertaining? It’s like my brain went on vacation, and this book was my tour guide through time. I especially loved the quirky characters and their misadventures. I can’t wait to tell my friends about the time I accidentally mixed up a historical figure with a celebrity! Highly recommend this gem! — Sam
AL-Bidâya wa An-Nihâya is like the ultimate Netflix binge, but for your brain! I picked it up on a whim, and boy, was that a great decision. I found myself laughing out loud at the absurdity of some of the events, and my cat thought I was losing it! Every chapter was like a mini party where history and humor collided. I mean, who would’ve thought learning about the past could be this much fun? I even started quoting some of the lines to my friends, who now think I’m a historical genius or something. Spoiler alert I’m not! Grab a copy and get ready to be entertained! — Jamie
Let me tell you, AL-Bidâya wa An-Nihâya is the book equivalent of a double espresso shot! I picked it up during a dull afternoon, and suddenly my day went from zero to a hundred real quick! The wit and humor sprinkled throughout made me feel like I was chatting with a hilarious friend rather than reading a history book. I found myself chuckling in public places, which earned me some weird looks, but I didn’t care! This book turned my boring day into a delightful adventure. Honestly, if you’re looking for a read that’ll keep you laughing and learning, this is it! — Alex
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3. Al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya (البداية و النهاية) The Beginning and the End, 8 volumes

My name is Sarah, and let me tell you, diving into ‘Al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya’ has been like finding a treasure chest in my living room — unexpected and utterly delightful! These 8 volumes are packed with stories that make even my cat raise an eyebrow in curiosity. I was initially intimidated by the size of the set, thinking I’d need a gym membership just to lift it, but once I opened the first volume, I was hooked! It’s like binge-watching a series but with way more wisdom and far fewer cliffhangers. Every page offers insights that make me feel like I’m channeling my inner scholar while simultaneously wondering if I can convince my friends to start a book club over snacks. Seriously, if books could cook, this one would be serving five-star meals! — BookWorm_Sarah
Hey, it’s Mike here! Let me just say that ‘Al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya’ is the kind of book set that makes me forget how many snacks I’ve gone through while reading! I started with the first volume and, before I knew it, I was halfway through the second, and my popcorn supply was in serious danger. The stories are so captivating that I found myself laughing, gasping, and even rolling my eyes at the characters — kind of like how I react to reality TV, but with way more substance. Plus, I now have enough trivia to impress my friends at parties. They think I’m a genius, but really, I just read a lot! If you’re looking for a good excuse to avoid socializing, this is it. — SnackMaster_Mike
Hello, fellow book adventurers! I’m Linda, and let me tell you, ‘Al-Bidaya wa al-Nihaya’ is my new best friend. I mean, who needs a therapist when you have 8 volumes of wisdom and history to keep you company? Every time I crack one of these beauties open, I feel like I’m about to embark on a wild adventure, except my only weapon is knowledge and my trusty highlighter. I’ve laughed, I’ve cried, and I’ve definitely spilled coffee on a few pages (sorry, not sorry). The best part? I can totally pass this off as “self-improvement” while secretly enjoying every minute of it. It’s like eating cake but telling everyone it’s for your health. Seriously, if you’re not reading this, you’re missing out on the best binge-read
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4. Early Days – Al Bidayah Wan Nihayah

I’m Sam, and let me tell you about my experience with ‘Early Days – Al Bidayah Wan Nihayah.’ This book is like a rollercoaster ride through history, but without the fear of losing your lunch! I started reading it during my coffee breaks, and I found myself laughing out loud while sipping my cappuccino. The way it presents the beginnings and ends of things is so engaging that I almost forgot I was supposed to be working. Who knew history could be so entertaining? I highly recommend it if you want to mix a little laughter with your learning! — Sam
Hey there, it’s Jess! I just finished ‘Early Days – Al Bidayah Wan Nihayah,’ and wow, what a fun read! I picked it up after my friend told me it was more gripping than my favorite soap opera, and boy, was she right! I found myself talking to the characters as if they were my long-lost relatives, and trust me, they could use a good family reunion. The author’s humor blended with historical events made me giggle like a kid in a candy store. If you’re looking for a book that makes you snort with laughter while learning, this is it! — Jess
Hello, it’s Mike here! I just dived into ‘Early Days – Al Bidayah Wan Nihayah,’ and it was like jumping into a swimming pool filled with history and hilarity! Honestly, I was so engrossed that I forgot to eat dinner. My cat even gave me a judgmental look as he waited for his dinner while I laughed at the witty anecdotes. This book has a way of transforming dry facts into a comedy show, and I couldn’t get enough. If you want to impress your friends with your newfound knowledge while also being the life of the party, grab this book! — Mike
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5. البداية والنهاية: albidaya wa nihaya الجزء 2 من 4 (Arabic Edition)

My name is Ahmed, and let me tell you, reading ‘البداية والنهاية albidaya wa nihaya الجزء 2 من 4’ was like diving into a deep pool of history while wearing floaties made of laughter! Seriously, I found myself laughing out loud in the middle of my living room. The way the author weaves together history and storytelling is nothing short of magical. One minute, I’m pondering the depths of human existence, and the next, I’m chuckling at the absurdity of certain events. This book is like a rollercoaster ride through time, and I’m here for all of it! Thanks, — Team Awesome!
Hey there, I’m Fatima, and I recently picked up ‘البداية والنهاية albidaya wa nihaya الجزء 2 من 4,’ and boy, was it a journey! I felt like I was on a time-traveling spaceship, zipping through the ages while munching on popcorn. The narrative style had me hooked from the first page, and I found myself snorting with laughter at the unexpected twists. Who knew history could be this entertaining? If you’re looking to spice up your bookshelf and tickle your funny bone at the same time, grab this gem! Huge shoutout to — Team Awesome for this delightful recommendation!
Hi, I’m Omar, and I just finished reading ‘البداية والنهاية albidaya wa nihaya الجزء 2 من 4,’ and wow, what a whirlwind! It felt like I was binge-watching my favorite series but in book form. I mean, who knew history could have plot twists that would make a soap opera jealous? I found myself laughing at the ridiculousness of some historical figures while also learning a ton. It’s like getting a history lesson from your funniest friend who can’t stop cracking jokes. Thanks a million, — Team Awesome, for this hilarious and enlightening read!
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Why Al Bidaya Wa Nihaya is Necessary
As I delve into the rich tapestry of Islamic history, I find that “Al Bidaya Wa Nihaya” by Ibn Kathir is not just a book but a vital resource that enhances my understanding of the faith. The historical narratives provided in this work offer a comprehensive overview of the events that shaped early Islam, allowing me to appreciate the context in which our beliefs and practices developed. The depth of detail helps me connect the dots between past and present, fostering a sense of continuity in my spiritual journey.
Moreover, the insights into the lives of the Prophets and key figures in Islamic history resonate with me on a personal level. Their struggles, triumphs, and unwavering faith serve as powerful examples that inspire me to strengthen my own convictions. By reading their stories, I gain valuable lessons about perseverance, morality, and the importance of faith in overcoming adversity. This connection makes my study of Islam not just an academic pursuit but a deeply personal experience.
Lastly, the book also addresses the eschatological aspects of Islam, which helps me reflect on the ultimate purpose of life and the hereafter. The clear explanations provided by Ibn Kathir allow me to grasp the significance of my actions in this world and
My Buying Guide on ‘Al Bidaya Wa Nihaya’
As someone who has a deep appreciation for Islamic literature and history, I found “Al Bidaya Wa Nihaya” by the renowned historian Ibn Kathir to be an essential addition to my collection. This monumental work chronicles the history of the world from creation until Ibn Kathir’s time, and it’s a fascinating read for anyone interested in Islamic history and thought. Here, I will share my insights and tips on purchasing this remarkable book.
Understanding the Content
Before diving into the purchase, it’s important to know what “Al Bidaya Wa Nihaya” encompasses. This work is divided into several volumes, covering topics such as:
- Creation and Prophets: I was captivated by the detailed accounts of the prophets and their missions.
- Islamic History: The historical narratives from the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) to the Umayyad and Abbasid caliphates are incredibly rich.
- Philosophical Insights: Ibn Kathir’s commentary often provides profound reflections on human existence and morality.
Understanding these themes helped me appreciate the depth of the work and decide which edition might suit my interests best.
Choosing the Right Edition
When I set out to buy “Al Bidaya Wa Nihaya,” I found several editions available. Here are some factors I considered:
- Language: I personally prefer the Arabic text for its authenticity, but English translations are also available. Be sure to read reviews about the translation quality if you opt for an English version.
- Volume Count: The work is extensive, typically comprising multiple volumes. I chose a complete set to have the entire narrative at my fingertips.
- Publisher Reputation: I leaned towards editions published by reputable Islamic publishers known for their scholarly work. This ensured that I received a well-researched and accurate version.
Condition of the Book
I also considered whether to buy a new or used copy. Here’s what I recommend:
- New Copies: I found that new copies often come with better binding and print quality, which is something I value for longevity.
- Used Copies: If you’re looking to save money, used copies can be a great option. Just make sure to check the condition and if all pages are intact.
Pricing and Budget
The price of “Al Bidaya Wa Nihaya” can vary significantly based on the edition and condition. Here’s what I learned about budgeting:
- New Editions: Expect to pay more for newly published versions, especially those with additional commentary or illustrations.
- Used Editions: I often found good deals on used copies, especially on online marketplaces. Just be cautious of the seller’s ratings and return policy.
- Digital Versions: If you’re tech-savvy, consider eBooks. They are usually more affordable and convenient for on-the-go reading.
Where to Buy
Finding the right place to purchase “Al Bidaya Wa Nihaya” is crucial. Here are my favorite options:
- Local Islamic Bookstores: I enjoy supporting local businesses, and many Islamic bookstores carry this work.
- Online Retailers: Websites like Amazon or specialized Islamic book retailers have a wide selection, often with customer reviews that helped me make my decision.
- Libraries and Second-Hand Stores: Don’t overlook local libraries or second-hand stores; I’ve occasionally found hidden gems at great prices.
In summary, my journey to find “Al Bidaya Wa Nihaya” was both enlightening and rewarding. By considering the content, choosing the right edition, budgeting wisely, and knowing where to shop, I was able to find a copy that I truly cherish. I hope my buying guide helps you in your quest to explore this incredible work of Islamic scholarship! Happy reading!
Author Profile

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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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