THE MUSLIM 100: The Life, Thought And Achievement Of The Most Influential Muslims In History
Most of us can name a handful of great Muslims from the past. But the story of Islam is far bigger than a few famous names. It is a story of scholars and scientists, rulers and poets, mystics and athletes, all of whom left a mark on the world because of their faith. The Muslim 100 by Muhammad Mojlum Khan brings that story together in one remarkable book, and it's one we think every Muslim bookshelf deserves.
What Is The Muslim 100 About?
Rather than telling Islamic history as a long list of dates and dynasties, The Muslim 100 tells it through people. The book explores the lives, thoughts and achievements of one hundred of the most influential Muslims in history, beginning with the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, whose life and journeys (like the miraculous Night of Israa and Miraaj) changed the course of humanity, and ending with the boxing legend Muhammad Ali in the twentieth century.
The author didn't choose his hundred based on fame or popularity. His main measure was influence: what each person contributed, and how deeply that contribution shaped the world around them. The result is a wonderfully varied collection that includes theologians, generals, architects, writers and many more, giving readers a rich and many-sided view of Islam as a global faith and civilisation.
Why Islamic History Still Matters Today
It's easy to think of history as something that belongs to the past. But the great historian Ibn Khaldun taught that studying history lets us learn from the examples of those who came before us, in both religious and worldly matters.
Mojlum Khan echoes this idea throughout the book. He reminds us that our past, present and future are deeply connected. Without understanding where we came from, we can't truly understand where we are today, and without that, we can't shape where we are going. That's a powerful thought for anyone who is trying to set intentions that truly matter for their own life.
Knowledge as a Journey Towards Allah
One of the most beautiful ideas in the book is the author's view of knowledge. He describes it as an endless ocean with no shores, one that flows from Allah Himself, Al-Aleem (the All-Knowing) and Al-Waasi' (the All-Encompassing).
It's a humbling reminder that every great scholar in this book began as a simple seeker. Their learning brought them closer to their Creator, and ours can too. If you'd like to reflect more deeply on names like Al-Aleem and what they mean for your everyday life, our 99 Names of Allah Guided Journal walks you through each Name, one reflection at a time.
Who Should Read This Book?
The Muslim 100 is written in an accessible, readable style, which makes it just as suitable for curious general readers as it is for students and history lovers. Because each chapter focuses on one person, you can read it cover to cover or dip in and out whenever you like.
It's also a wonderful book to share with older children and teenagers. The author himself fell in love with Islamic history in his early teens, which shows just how early that spark can begin. For younger children, you can start building that love of faith even sooner with our My Little Legacy Bundle, designed to help little ones learn about Allah and their deen in a fun, hands-on way.
Final Reflection
The people in The Muslim 100 lived in different centuries, spoke different languages and worked in very different fields. Yet they all shared one thing: a faith that pushed them to do extraordinary things.
As you read about their lives, try taking one lesson from each person and applying it to your own. Our Faith & Focus Daily Planner is a great place to note down those lessons and turn inspiration into daily action.
Because the greatest Muslims in history didn't just leave behind stories. They left behind examples, and it's up to us to follow them.
The Muslim 100 - Muhammad Mojlum Khan - Revised Edition - Kube Publishing, 2021- 9781847741707
Frequently Asked Questions
Who wrote The Muslim 100?
Muhammad Mojlum Khan, a British author and researcher of Islamic history and civilisation. The revised edition was published by Kube Publishing in 2021 (ISBN 9781847741707).
How were the 100 Muslims chosen?
By influence rather than fame: what each person contributed and how deeply it shaped the world. The list begins with the Prophet ﷺ and ends with Muhammad Ali.
Is The Muslim 100 suitable for teenagers?
Yes. Its readable, one-person-per-chapter style suits older children and teens. For younger ones, the My Little Legacy Bundle builds a love of faith through hands-on activities.
What does Ibn Khaldun say about studying history?
Ibn Khaldun taught that history lets us learn from those who came before us in religious and worldly matters. See lessons from the Prophet’s journey for one such example.
How can I apply lessons from the book to my life?
Take one lesson from each person and write it down. The Faith & Focus Daily Planner turns inspiration into daily action, and setting intentions keeps it purposeful.