A little over thirteen centuries ago; the prophet Muhammad converted a few Arab desert tribes to the belief in a single god; Allah; thus founding the religion of Islam. Within a century; that belief had created one of history's mightiest empires—and today Islam continues to shape events around the globe.This comprehensive guide offers an informative and insightful introduction to Islam both as a religion and as a political-economic force. It tells the story of Muhammad—and the rise of Islam; outlines the sacred book; the Koran; explains "the five pillars of faith"; explores the interplay between religion and government; describes the differences that divide Islam; and; above all; shows the influence of Islam on world affairs. This second revised edition provides crucial new material on the Islamic community today; including discussion of the Gulf War and the Salman Rushdie affair; the rise and ebb of fundamentalist fervor in Iran; Algeria; and elsewhere; and the relationships among different factions of the Islamic faith. There are also updated descriptions of internal politics in Syria; Egypt; Pakistan; and other Islamic nations. Complete with glossary; bibliography. and index; Understanding Islam is engrossing; essential reading for both students and all who seek a clearer understanding of the world in which we live.
#424623 in Books 2002-09-16 2002-09-16Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x .23 x 6.06l; .23 #File Name: 044842597148 pages
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. I bought this for a former student who visits my ...By WWII sonI bought this for a former student who visits my class regularly. He is very interested in the Civil War. I hope that more American History will be taught in all public schools rather than the mind-numbing test drills .2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Mary BakerMy 9 year old loved this story!1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy cynthiameadows1Good summary of Hunley history.
