Studying Islam The Critical Issues [Paperback]

This volume in the Studying World Religionsseries is an essential guide to the study of the Islamic faith. Clearly structured to cover all the major areas of study, including historical foundations, scripture, society, thought, ethics, rituals, spirituality and aesthetics, this is the ideal study aid for those approaching Islam for the first time.

Rather than attempting to cover all the material, the critical and methodological issues that students need to grasp in the study of Islam - and religion in general - are drawn out, and the major contemporary debates explored. With helpful suggestions for further study, pointing students towards material such as primary sources (scriptures), films and novels and including ideas for teaching, discussion topics and exercises, Studying Islamis the perfect companion for the fledgling student of Islam.

Series PrefaceIntroduction: Studying Islam - Identifying Issues1 Seminal Personality and Scripture2 Community Dimension and Social Involvement3 Conceptual Framework and Ethics4Rituals and Spirituality5 Aesthetics/Material Direction