The Pocket Idiot's Guide to Islam

by Elias, Jamal J.; Lewis, Nancy D.

• ISBN13: 9780028644837
• ISBN10: 0028644832
• Edition: Miniature
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2002-12-03
• Publisher: DK Publishing, Inc.

Summary

-- Islam has experienced the sharpest growth in the U.S. of any non-Christian religion over the last several decades.

-- Recent events related to 9/11 and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East are motivating Americans to desire an accurate picture of the Islamic faith as it's currently practiced.

-- This guide provides accurate information while no prior knowledge is required.

Islam is practiced by a diverse number of peoples from various cultures - estimates show there are nearly I billion Muslims worldwide - and yet westerners are not well acquainted with the faith. The deep divide between Muslim and Christian worlds has made the knowledge gap more pronounced, but increasingly, Muslim communities are intermingling with Christian ones in the U.S., raising hopes that greater mutual understanding will result. The Pocket Idiot's Guide "RM" to Islam covers the rise of Muhammad and the development of the Islamic community into its two main branches today - Sunni and Shi'i. This condensed guide furthermore explains Islam's central tenants, concepts and ritua

Table of Contents

Foreword	p. 5
Preface	p. 7
Islam in Everyday Life and Society	p. 13
The Birth of Islam	p. 28
Theology, Law, and Mysticism	p. 44
Beliefs, Rituals, and Practices	p. 61
Islamic Thought in the Modern World	p. 82
Looking to the Future	p. 98
Notes	p. 110
Glossary	p. 113
Holy Days and Festivals	p. 119
Pronunciation Guide	p. 120
Suggested Further Reading	p. 121
Internet Resources	p. 125
Index	p. 127
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