Frequently Asked Questions About the Risale-i Nur

FAQs

How Many Books Does the Risale-i Nur Consist Of, and Where Can I Read Them?

The Risale-i Nur Collection consists of approximately 130 treatises, compiled into 14 major volumes. These works cover a wide range of subjects, from the fundamental truths of faith to profound spiritual, moral, and existential themes.

For those new to this extensive collection, it can be difficult to know which treatises address specific topics. To make the Risale-i Nur more accessible, the translations have also been organized into smaller, thematic books for English-speaking readers.

This approach allows readers to easily explore subjects that interest them most, such as faith (īmān), prayer, spiritual growth, sincerity, or life's deeper questions. Each thematic book is a self-contained selection of treatises that guides the reader step by step through the teachings and insights of the Risale-i Nur.

For example, the book Prayer consists of three treatises from the collection: The Fourth Word, The Ninth Word, and The Twenty-First Word. Together, these treatises provide a comprehensive understanding of the importance of prayer, its wisdom, and its spiritual benefits in the life of a believer.

Whether you choose to begin with a thematic volume or the complete collection, the Risale-i Nur offers a unique journey of reflection, faith, and spiritual discovery for readers of all backgrounds.

You can read all the books free of charge through the Risale-i Nur English app, available for both iOS and Android, or online at www.therisale.com.

There you will find the English translations of the Risale-i Nur, making it easy to explore its valuable lessons, insights, and spiritual guidance. Whether you are new to the collection or a long-time reader, the Risale-i Nur offers accessible and thought-provoking answers to questions of faith, purpose, and daily life, regardless of your background or level of knowledge.

I’m New to Reading the Risale-i Nur. Which Book Should I Start With?

Welcome to the world of the Risale-i Nur! Reading the works of Bediuzzaman Said Nursi is a unique spiritual and intellectual journey. Since the Risale-i Nur Collection is extensive and covers a wide range of profound topics, it can be difficult to know where to begin.

Here are a few suggestions:

In the English translations, the books have been organized by subject, allowing you to start with a topic that particularly interests you.

For example:

• Prayer brings together treatises that explain the meaning, importance, and wisdom of prayer.

• Message for the Sick presents twenty-five remedies and reflections intended to offer comfort, hope, and spiritual strength to those facing illness.

• The Stairway Of The Sunnah focuses on the importance of following the Prophet’s example and explains its significance in daily life.

If you do not have a particular topic in mind and simply want a good place to begin, we recommend starting with The Short Words. This book provides an accessible introduction to Bediuzzaman’s style, method, and way of thinking, while familiarizing readers with the foundational themes and principles of the Risale-i Nur.

Many readers find that beginning with The Short Words makes it easier to appreciate and benefit from the more detailed treatises that follow. It serves as an excellent gateway into the rich world of the Risale-i Nur.

Who Can Benefit from the Risale-i Nur?

The Risale-i Nur is a valuable resource that is accessible to everyone, regardless of background, education level, or prior knowledge. Its message is clear and meaningful for both young and old. Whether you have only completed primary school or hold a university professorship, anyone can benefit from the lessons and insights found in the Risale-i Nur.

Throughout the collection, Bediuzzaman makes extensive use of parables, comparisons, and illustrations that function like a telescope, bringing abstract truths closer and making them easier to understand. This method enables readers from all walks of life to grasp profound concepts according to their sincerity, reflection, and capacity.

The experiences of countless readers testify to this reality. Many people with only a basic education have gained a deep understanding of the lessons of the Risale-i Nur, sometimes even more readily than those with advanced academic training. Likewise, individuals who are unable to read have benefited greatly simply by listening to its teachings being read aloud.

This unique approach makes the Risale-i Nur an inclusive source of spiritual growth and personal development, inviting everyone to reflect on the deeper meanings of life, faith, and existence.

Why Are Some Words in the English Translations of the Risale-i Nur Left Untranslated, Such as the Names of Allah?

Many of these terms are Islamic expressions that originate directly from the verses of the Qur’an or the sayings and traditions of the Prophet Muhammed (saw). We choose to preserve these words in their original form so that readers can become familiar with the authentic terminology used in the Islamic tradition.

In the text, these terms are highlighted, and readers can view their meanings through the accompanying glossary or explanatory notes. This allows them to learn the original terms while still understanding their intended meaning and context.

Another reason is that many Islamic terms carry rich and layered meanings that cannot be fully conveyed by a simple one- or two-word translation. Translating them directly often risks losing important nuances and spiritual depth. By retaining the original wording, we seek to preserve the full richness of these concepts while providing explanations to help readers understand them accurately.

This approach allows readers to engage more closely with the language of the Qur’an and the Prophetic tradition, while benefiting from the depth and precision of the original expressions.

Is the Risale-i Nur Suitable for People Who Are New to Islam?

Absolutely. The Risale-i Nur explains the teachings of Islam in a clear, logical, and accessible manner, making it suitable for readers of all backgrounds who are seeking spiritual knowledge, understanding, and reflection.

Rather than assuming extensive prior knowledge, the Risale-i Nur addresses fundamental questions about faith, the purpose of life, the existence of Allah, prophethood, and the Hereafter through reasoned arguments, examples, and relatable illustrations. This makes it especially valuable for those who are exploring Islam for the first time or looking to strengthen their understanding of its core beliefs.

Whether you are a new Muslim, someone interested in learning about Islam, or simply a seeker of truth, the Risale-i Nur offers a thoughtful and engaging introduction to the spiritual and intellectual foundations of the Islamic faith.

Are There Any Activities or Lectures Related to the Risale-i Nur?

Yes. Regular study circles, lectures, and educational gatherings are organized in which the Risale-i Nur is studied and discussed.

These sessions typically involve reading passages from the Risale-i Nur, followed by explanations, reflections, and discussion of the topics covered. In many cases, participants are also encouraged to ask questions and share their thoughts, helping to deepen their understanding of the teachings and insights presented in the text.

These gatherings provide an opportunity to learn in a welcoming environment, benefit from collective study, and explore the profound spiritual, intellectual, and practical lessons of the Risale-i Nur.

For more information about upcoming activities, lectures, or study groups, please contact us using the contact details provided on our website.

What Can I Do If I Have Difficulty Understanding Certain Passages?

The Risale-i Nur is a profound collection of works that often invites careful reflection and contemplation. By reading attentively and taking time to ponder its meanings, most readers are able to understand and benefit from the greater part of its message.

If you encounter difficulties understanding certain passages, do not be discouraged. Many readers find that revisiting a passage several times, reading related treatises, or discussing it with others helps to clarify its meaning and deepen their understanding.

The Risale-i Nur was written to guide people on a lifelong journey of learning and spiritual growth, and some concepts naturally reveal their depth over time through study and reflection.

If you still have questions or would like further guidance, we encourage you to contact us through our contact page. We would be happy to assist you and provide additional explanations to help you benefit more fully from the teachings of the Risale-i Nur.

How Reliable Are the English Translations of the Risale-i Nur on Your Website, and Who Are the Translators?

The English translations available on our website have been prepared by a committee of translators and reviewers with extensive knowledge of both the Islamic sciences and the Risale-i Nur itself.

Producing an accurate and faithful translation of the Risale-i Nur requires more than linguistic expertise alone. It also requires a deep understanding of the work’s message, methodology, terminology, and the subtle meanings conveyed throughout the text. For this reason, our translators have spent many years studying and engaging with the Risale-i Nur in depth.

Every effort has been made to preserve the meaning and spirit of the original text while presenting it in clear and accessible English. The goal is to provide readers with translations that are both faithful to Bediuzzaman Said Nursi’s writings and understandable for contemporary English-speaking audiences.

Through this careful approach, we strive to offer translations that allow readers to benefit from the teachings of the Risale-i Nur as accurately and effectively as possible.

Are the English Translations of the Risale-i Nur Available Free of Charge?

Yes, the English translations of the Risale-i Nur are available free of charge.

Through our website, TheRisale.com, you can read a wide range of translations and articles from the Risale-i Nur Collection. In addition, the Risale-i Nur English app, available for both iOS and Android devices, provides free access to the translations, allowing you to read them anytime and anywhere.

We warmly invite anyone interested to explore these resources and discover the profound insights, spiritual guidance, and timeless wisdom found in the Risale-i Nur.