The Visual Guide to Islam: History, Philosophy, Traditions, Teachings, Art & Architecture - Hardcover

Dr. Mohammad Seddon

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 085723921X ISBN 13: 9780857239211

Publisher: Hermes House, 2015

Synopsis

A complete guide to the history, philosophy, practices, art and architecture of Islam, magnificently illustrated with more than 1000 paintings, artworks, maps and photographs An insightful overview of Islamic beliefs, teachings, texts and traditions, and an exploration of the Quran, both as the revealed word of God and as a sacred text An in-depth study of the most spectacular artistic and architectural achievements of the Islamic world, from the 7th-century Dome of the Rock to today's Dubai skyscrapers Discusses the role of Islam throughout its history, from the birth and life of Muhammad in 570 CE to Islam in the modern world and the significance of holy sites, prayer, fasting and pilgrimage Features a survey of the beautiful artistic and architectural achievements, from calligraphy, ceramics and carpets to mosques, bazaars and palaces Supplemented with maps, fine-art paintings and a guide to the worldÆs greatest museum collections of Islamic art today With expert text and inspiring images, this is the perfect introduction for general readers and a handy resource for students and scholars alike The worldwide Islamic community encompasses a range of ethnic, linguistic, theological, political and socio-economic backgrounds, and the art and architecture of Islam includes many valuable treasures, buildings and indeed whole cities. This beautifully illustrated book explores the history, philosophy, traditions and teachings of Islam, as well as its calligraphy, fine-art paintings, ornaments and architecture. The first part of the book explores the life and work of the prophet Muhammad, his message, his life and the early medieval Arabian society into which he was born. It explains the history and development of Islam, the theological beliefs and ritual worship practices of Muslim life, and issues of morality, including controversial topics such as medical bioethics and 'just war'. The second part of the book focuses on the rich heritage of art and architecture of the Islamic world, including calligraphy, Quran manuscripts, pottery, tiling, accessories, carvings, carpets, costumes, palaces, mosques and monuments. From exquisite lustreware and Ottoman carpets to Jerusalem's golden-roofed Dome of the Rock and the breathtaking Dubai skyscrapers of today, a vast range of examples is covered. Gloriously illustrated with more than 1000 paintings, artworks, maps and photographs, this thoroughly researched book offers an excellent overview of a complex and often misunderstood religion, as well as its artistic and architectural achievements. It is a perfect study aid for students in school, college or university, or anyone with a general interest in the Islamic world.

About this title

About the Author

Dr Mohammad Seddon obtained his PhD in Religious Studies at Lancaster University and is currently Lecturer in Islamic and Religious Studies in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Chester, UK. He is a former Research Fellow at the Islamic Foundation, Leicester, and is an Executive Member of the Association of Muslim Social Scientists (UK). His research interests are historical and contemporary issues relating to Islam and British Muslim communities. He has published a number of related works and books, including British Muslims: Loyalty and Belonging (2003); and British Muslims Between Assimilation and Segregation: Historical, Legal & Social Realities (2004). Raana Bokhari s PhD in Religious Studies is based at Lancaster University, UK. Her specialist research area is women and Islam, and she has lectured extensively in this field. Dr Mohammad Seddon is a lecturer in Islamic and Religious Studies in the Department of Theology and Religious Studies at the University of Chester, UK.

Edition details

• Publisher: Hermes House
• Publication date: 2015
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 085723921X
• ISBN 13: 9780857239211
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 512