An Islamic centre in Forest Gate has published a book to challenge misconceptions about the Prophet Muhammad.

Minhaj-ul-Quran released the book – Muhammad the Merciful – earlier this month out of its small publishing house in Romford Road.

Shahid Mursaleen, director of publishing and a spokesman for the centre, said the book is part of an effort to combat extremism among young Muslims in east London.

He said: “We try to de-radicalise young people who have taken the wrong message from extremist preachers, that Islam allows jihad [holy war] against civilians, non-combatants.

“In east London there are groups with extremist tendencies that are growing.

“We believe this is all due to the kind of literature they are reading.”

The book is co-written by Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri, a Pakistani theologian and the centre’s founder, who authored a fatwa against terrorism and suicide-bombing in 2010.

The centre has also produced an English translation of the Koran which it claims is more accurate than other versions, and will release a book on jihad in the summer.

“Our struggle is to provide a peaceful, merciful and compassionate message of the Prophet,” said Mr Mursaleen.

“This book relates to his teachings and dealings and how merciful he was when he was in a powerful position.

“He had enemies, but he forgave them.”

For more information on the book visit minhajpublications.com.