2. Edition - January 2010
77.90 Euro
2010. 248 Pages, Hardcover
ISBN-10: 1-4051-8094-3
ISBN-13: 978-1-4051-8094-8 - John Wiley & Sons






Sample Chapter

Detailed description
Reflecting recent global developments, the second edition of this illuminating introduction to Islamic history expands its coverage of the Qur'an, Sufism, and Muslim views on human rights, including the rights of women.
* An expanded new edition of this concise, illuminating introduction to Islam, written by one of the field's leading scholars
* Spans Islamic history from the life of Muhammad and the birth of Islamic ideals, through Islam's phenomenal geographical expansion and cultural development, to the creation of modern states and its role in today's global society
* Features expanded coverage of the Qur'an, Sufism, and Muslim views on human rights, including the rights of women
* Includes fascinating vignettes of Islamic life, representing mainstream Muslim viewpoints on issues of global concern
* Explores the complex interrelationships of cultural, political, and ideological developments woven throughout Islamic history, drawing on specific examples including current developments in Pakistan

From the contents
List of Illustrations

Foreword

Preface

Preface to the First Edition

Maps

1. Many Paths to One God: Establishing the Ideals

The Quran

The Quran and Other Scriptures

Themes of the Quran

The Exemplary Life of Muhammad, Prophet of Islam: The Sunna

The Early Muslim Community and the Pillars of Islam

The Successors ("Caliphs")

Early Communal Disputes

Conclusion

2. The Pursuit of Knowledge in the Service of God and Humanity: The Golden Age

Institutions

Law

Political Structure

Cultural Achievements

Spirituality and the Mystical Tradition: Sufism

Conclusion

3. Division and Reorganization

The Crusades and Other Disasters

The Decline of the Abbasids and Rise of the Ottomans

Persia: The Safavid Empire

India and the Rise of the Mughals

Understanding Developments in Islamic History

Conclusion

4. Colonialism and Reform

Colonialism

The Outcome of World War I

The Effects of Colonialism: The Challenge of Islamic Reform

Themes of Islamic Reform: Personal Initiative and Social Solidarity

Themes of Islamic Reform: Ijtihad

Themes of Islamic Reform: Commitment to Learning

Conclusion

5. Obstacles and Prospects for Islamic Reform

Obstacles: The Impact of Colonialism

Prospects for the Future

Islam, Human Rights, and Democracy

Islam among World Religions

Notes

Further Reading

Source Acknowledgments

Index