Jewels of Literature

There is no description or introduction for this precious treasure, better than what Al-Hashimi provided when describing what his book contained: ((... The sweetest thing sung by the nightingales of the pens, and the most valuable that has been encompassed in the contracts of eloquence and harmony, and the most delightful way to describe (the jewels of literature) is praise for our Lord who honored the language of the Arabs, and sent us a prophet, an Arab, pure from all doubt, our master Muhammad, peace be upon him and his family and those who followed him. As for what follows, this is a book I named “Jewels of Literature, in the Eloquence and Composition of the Arabic Language,” or I called it what my choice fell upon, not from prose or poetry, so I have no pride in its authorship except in the choice, and choosing is a piece of one's mind, indicating one's virtue and excellence. The virtue of this compilation is gathering what was scattered, what is suitable and harmonious, selecting the finest, and arranging the arts, from prophetic sayings, literary correspondence, brilliant wisdom, rare verses, stray proverbs, incoming news, beneficial advice, comprehensive sermons, amusing debates, extraordinary scenes, noble descriptions, social speeches, so that its owners may benefit from it, and the one seeking it may be independent of others; for it is better than flowers and gardens, parks and groves, emeralds and corals, pearls and agate, wreaths and crowns, and the fragrant and the garden. If called upon, it responds quickly; if spoken to, it entertains; if asked, it answers; if judged, it is correct. A companion for his friend in the city, and a friend for him in travel, a witty friend, and a humorous companion. I have exaggerated in refining it, and put effort into its good arrangement, and I have generously offered gifts, selected the finest, and chosen the most amusing. With Allah’s help, and He is sufficient for us and the best disposer of affairs)).