The exact number of prophets and messengers sent by Allah is not known, but the Qur'an makes clear that all of the prophets were sent to various nations to preach Islamic monotheism. Muslims believe that all the Divine Messengers including those in common with Judaism and Christianity - conveyed the same message of true monotheism and submission to the one God, Allah. Belief in these prophets and messengers is an essential part of the Islamic faith and Muslims do not differentiate between them, according them all the same respect and reverence. Darussalam is proud to present the abridged English translation of Al-Bidayah wan Nihayah (The Beginning and The End), by the renowned scholar Abu Al-Fida, 'Imad ad-Deen Isma'eel bin 'Umar bin Katheer (Ibn Katheer), recounting the stories of the prophets and their nations.