An Introduction to Islam (Introduction to Religion) - Softcover

Waines, David

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0521429293 ISBN 13: 9780521429290

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1995

Synopsis

Islam is a world-wide religion embracing many cultures and nations, comprising today nearly 900 million people. Muslims believe that God (Allah) revealed to the Prophet Muhammad guidance for proper conduct in this world and salvation in the next. These revelations are contained in the Muslims' scripture, the Qur'an. From modest beginnings in Mecca fourteen centuries ago, Islam spread rapidly throughout the Middle East and then into south-east Asia. This book is the story of the Muslims' beliefs and practices as they developed during the formative period. Separate chapters are devoted to a description of the sacred law (the Shar'iah), theology, and mysticism. Attention is given also to the beliefs and practices of the important Shi'ah minority of Muslims. The story comes down to the present day, recounting the period over the last two centuries during which Muslims have been challenged by Western hegemony and have sought to establish a modern sense of identity.

About this title

Review

'... will deservedly be the standard introduction to Islam for some time.' Oliver Leaman, Expository Times

'... an excellent introductory text on Islam ... wonderful passages of classic writings.' Religion

Book Description

This comprehensive and up-to-date introduction offers a thematic approach to the beliefs and practices of Muslims together with a historical treatment of Muslim thought and concerns in the pre-modern and modern periods. Attention is given to Khumayni and the Iranian revolution and to the so-called Rushdie Affair.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 1995
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0521429293
• ISBN 13: 9780521429290
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 348