This book provides a concise yet panoramic overview of Islam, unlike most introductory books, which focus mainly on the development of Islamic institutions in the classical period.
To place Islam in perspective, Neal Robinson discusses the problems raised by Western perceptions of Islam and provides a brief account of Islamic history down to the present. He then explains major topics in Islamic worship to help readers understand it as a living faith. Appendices guide the novice through the structure of Arabic names, transliteration, and the Islamic calendar and festivals.
This book covers history, tradition, and beliefs in Islam. It provides context for the world where Islam is most often seen in the news in a negative light. I found some of the history hard to focus on with so many names. I also found some of the explanation regarding development and splits within the religious tradition tedious. Despite those challenges - due mostly to the density of information- I would recommend this introduction text.
Sebuah buku yang ditujukan bagi perspektif barat yang mengagungkan rasionalitas untuk mengenal Islam lebih objektif. Buku yang cukup lengkap membahas wacana seputar Islam, mulai dari sejarah kekhalifahan, ibadah-ibadah, golongan serta Islam di dunia modern. Menurut saya, buku ini layak dibaca sebagai pengantar menuju pendalaman Islam secara komperhensif.