An Introduction to Islam, Fourth Edition, provides students with a thorough, unified and topical introduction to the global religious community of Islam. In addition, the author's extensive field work, experience, and scholarship combined with his engaging writing style and passion for the subject also sets his text apart. An Introduction to Islam places Islam within a cultural, political, social, and religious context, and examines its connections with Judeo-Christian morals. Its integration of the doctrinal and devotional elements of Islam enables readers to see how Muslims think and live, engendering understanding and breaking down stereotypes. This text also reviews pre-Islamic history, so readers can see how Islam developed historically.

The second edition of this student-friendly textbook explores the origins, major features and lasting influence of the Islamic tradition. Traces the development of Muslim beliefs and practices against the background of social and cultural contexts extending from North Africa to South and Southeast Asia Fully revised for the second edition, with completely new opening and closing chapters considering key issues facing Islam in the 21st century Focuses greater attention on everyday practices, the role of women in Muslim societies, and offers additional material on Islam in America Includes detailed chronologies, tables summarizing key information, useful maps and diagrams, and many more illustrations

A revised and updated edition of Waines' wide-ranging account of the history and theology of Islam.

From one of the most prominent intellectuals in the Muslim world comes a timely new introduction to one of the world's most practiced-and most misunderstood-religions. In frank, unapologetic language, Tariq Ramadan walks readers through Islam and its principles, rituals, diversity, and evolution. Ramadan, known for his efforts to reform and change the understanding of Islam in the West, avoids ideology and idealism, instead attempting to depict the true meaning of Islam for readers who have no previous experience with the religion. The book is therefore focused on defining the basic principles of Islam and offering an overview of the faith's history: from its beginnings in prophetic mission, to the Sunni-Shi'a schism, to the formation of distinct schools of law, theology, philosophy, and mysticism. Perhaps the most misinterpreted aspect of Islam, shariah, literally translated as "the way that leads to a source of water," receives an entire chapter of attention. Ramadan explains the ways in which shariah has been reduced by fundamentalism to a mere criminal code and expands upon its place in the larger Islamic worldview. He then confronts some of the most pressing issues facing Muslims today, including gender equality, religious diversity, and violence. Both sensitive and accessible, Introduction to Islam is a much-needed guide to understanding the role of Islam in the modern world.

Helping Jews understand Islam--a reasoned and candid view

Do you want to learn more about this fascinating and complex world religion? Islam - an Introduction is a complete guide to the history, beliefs, and practicalities of this often misunderstood faith. Fully updated, it also addresses the key questions currently surrounding the religion, including women's rights, terrorism and fundamentalism, to give you a better understanding of Islam in the world today. NOT GOT MUCH TIME? One, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started. AUTHOR INSIGHTS Lots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience. TEST YOURSELF Tests in the book and online to keep track of your progress. EXTEND YOUR KNOWLEDGE Extra online articles at www.teachyourself.com to give you a richer understanding of psychology. FIVE THINGS TO REMEMBER Quick refreshers to help you remember the key facts. TRY THIS Innovative exercises illustrate what you've learnt and how to use it.

Carole Hillenbrand, long acknowledged as a preeminent authority on Islam, has now written a superb introduction to this great world religion, a book that promises to be the most lucid, nuanced text of its kind on the market. Beginning with the life of Muhammad, Hillenbrand firmly establishes in historical and global context the beliefs and ideals of Muslims and the branches and movements within the faith. Rather than portraying Islam as a monolithic entity, Hillenbrand emphasizes its diversity and variety. Featured chapters include, but are not limited to: Law, Diversity, Sufism, Jihad, and Women. Finally, a concluding chapter on Islam in the globalized twenty-first century is bound to appeal to instructors and students alike.