Introduction to Islam: Beliefs and Practices in Historical Perspective

by Carole Hillenbrand

A comprehensive history of Islam and the diverse beliefs and practices of Muslims, written by one of the most eminent historians of Islam working today 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 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. 79 color illustrations

Genres: Islam, Philosophy, Religion, History

316 pages, Paperback

First published January 15, 2015

Reviews

[Sarah]

Read this for my Modern Islamic Civilizations class, good introduction to Islam and its beliefs, very helpful for providing context. It's very respectful of Islam and seems to prefer Islam to Christianity in all comparisons.

[Coleman Jones]

Very concise and informative understanding of the wide variety of sects of islam. Good textbook

[Mills College Library]

297 H651 2015

[Emily Sarah]

Good book. Informational, nonbiased, and entertaining.

[Maria Freeman]

Read parts of this book for an Early Islamic History class