Lata'if al-Minan wa-al-Akhlaq fi Bayan Wujub al-Tahadduth bi-Ni'mat Allah 'ala al-Itlaq al-Ma'ruf bi-al-Minan al-Wusta لطائف المنن والاخلاق في بيان وجوب التحدث بنعمة الله على الاطلاق المعروف بالمنن الوسطى

"Lata’if al-Minan wa-al-Akhlaq fi Bayan Wujub al-Tahadduth bi-Ni’mat Allah 'ala al-Itlaq" (لطائف المنن والأخلاق في بيان وجوب التحدث بنعمة الله على الإطلاق), famously known as “Al-Minan al-Wusta” (المنن الوسطى / The Medium Book of Divine Graces), is a monumental autobiographical, ethical, and spiritual work by the legendary 10th-century AH Egyptian scholar, mystic, and jurist Imam Abu al-Mawahib ‘Abd al-Wahhab bin Ahmad al-Sha’rani (d. 973 AH / 1565 CE).

Imam al-Sha’rani was a highly respected Shafi’i jurist, a master of Hadith, and one of the most prominent spiritual guides of his era. This book is considered one of the most unique and introspective works in Islamic spiritual literature.

The Core Meaning and Purpose of the Book

The lengthy title translates to: “Subtle Graces and Ethics in Explaining the Absolute Obligation of Speaking of the Blessings of Allah.”

"Know, my brother, that speaking of one's virtues for an improper reason is a deadly poison. But for the proper reason, it is called for."

This aphorism serves as the foundation for the entire work, distinguishing sincere gratitude to Allah from vanity and showing off. It sets the tone for Imam al-Sha'rani's reflections on divine blessings, humility, and spiritual refinement. Imam al-Sha’rani argues that expressing, showcasing, and speaking about the blessings Allah has bestowed upon a person—whether spiritual, intellectual, or material—is not an act of pride (kibr) or showing off (riya’). Rather, when done with the correct intention of showing absolute gratitude (shukr), it is an obligatory duty (wajib).