Islam Today: An Introduction

Description

This new introduction aims to present Islam through the lens of contemporary issues. Informed by research taken from lived religion, each chapter looks at Islam in a modern context, and explores issues relevant to the religion today. After an initial chapter providing an overview of the Islamic faith, its history and basic theological tenets, Ron Geaves moves through key contemporary themes: Islam and diversity, ethics and morality, gender, fundamentalism, and the relationship between Islam and the West. Concluding with a final section looking at the future for Islam, its relevance in modern times, the future for the religion in question and what it can contribute to society in terms of inter-religious dialogue and harmony between different communities.

Ron Geaves is Visiting Professor in the Centre for the Study of Islam in the UK based in the School of History, Archaeology and Religion, Cardiff University, UK.

"Primarily drawing on Muslim sources, Geaves discusses a range of contemporary issues, some contentious. Aware of Islam's diversity, he consistently avoids generalizations. Specialist and beginners alike will be interested in Geaves' contention that the West should listen to Muslim voices. Despite regrettable acts by some, he argues, most Muslims want to engage in constructive dialogue. Muslim criticism of Western materialism, social injustice and equality merits serious discussion. So does Muslim insistence that values have a place in public discourse. Geaves is equally clear that Muslims do not always translate ideals into practice. What emerges is balanced, sensitive, informed and insightful. Avoiding caricature and calumny, Geaves resists the opposite - apology for an idealized Islam. Focusing on Islam as a lived experience, Geaves is concerned with Muslim realities, not romanticized versions. I am delighted to recommend Islam Today as a positive contribution to literature on Muslim life and thought. Hopefully, it will achieve what it sets out to do - improve Muslim-non-Muslim understanding." - Professor Clinton Bennett, The State University of New York at New Paltz, NY, USA