Perspectives on Islamic Faith and History: A Collection of Analytical Essays »

Islam is both a monotheistic religion and a holistic one — its system of inter-related beliefs is linked to the observance of ritual practices. In addition to bringing its adherents closer to Allah, Islam also promotes secular responsibilities toward the environment and fellow human beings, whether believers or non-believers. The 25 essays assembled here — the majority from conference proceedings or regional magazines, sources not readily accessible to potential readers — are meant to give readers a more complete perspective on Islam. The pieces discuss topics like Islam's advocacy of social justice and human dignity and the key traits and contributions of its most prominent historical leaders. Divided into sections like Insights from the Holy Qur’an, Religious Observances, and Civic Society, Perspectives on Islamic Faith and History is perfect for anyone hoping to gain a deeper understanding of Islam.

Insights from the Holy Qur'an
Towards the Qur'anic Worldview, Part I: Tawhid (Monotheism)     6
Towards the Qur'anic Worldview, Part II: Tasleem (Submission)     15
Metaphor of Creation in the Qur'an     25
Analogy of Life in the Qur'an     28
The Challenge for the Qur'an, Part I: Individual Variability     31
The Challenge for the Qur'an, Part II: Temporal Validity     41
Prophet Muhammad and Imam Mahdis' Revolutions
"Bookend" Revolutions in Islamic History     49
The Prophet's Strategy for Socio-Economic Reforms     54
Sayyida Fatima's Role
Fatima is Fatima     60
The Larger Significance of Sayyida Fatima's Challenge of the Authority over Fadak     65
Imam Ali's Leadership
What makes a Leader Great? The Example of Imam Ali     70
A Principled or a Popular Leader?     75
Imam Husain's Mission
What was at Stake at Karbala?     79
Martyrdom: When and Why?     84
The Station and Spectrum of Karbala's Martyrs     88
Imam Husain's Strategy for Karbala: Suffering the Sacrifice     93
The Choice for Hazrat Abbas in Karbala: Display Bravery or Loyalty?     97
Pairs of Principals in the Planning and Publicity of Karbala's Campaign     101
Religious Observances
Forms of Worship inIslam     108
Role of Religious Practices in Forging Social Relationships     112
Is the Islamic Sharia Fixed, or can it Evolve?     116
Bases of the Festival of Eid     120
Symbolism of Two Contrasting "Movements" in Hajj     125
Civic Society
Twin Poles of an Islamic Society     128
System of Islamic Justice as Illustrated by Criminal Law     131
About the Author     135