Search results for ""Author Carl W. Ernst""

Recipient of the 2004 Bashrahil Prize for Outstanding Cultural Achievement in the Humanities An introduction to Islam, today the faith of more than a billion people, set in the context of world history and of religious studies. Carl Ernst brings together Islamic religious thought and lived experience to examine traditional spirituality and the contentious issues confronting Muslims today. His approach is balanced - both sympathetic and critical. Besides providing a guide to the fundamental aspects of Islam - its sacred sources, ethical systems and spiritual practices - the author encourages the reader to reflect on these topics. This compact introduction appeals to all those who want to understand both the historical aspects of Islam as well as the place of Islam in the contemporary world. Features: *A critical perspective on Western attitudes toward Islam. *A clarification of the contemporary importance of Islam both in Euro-American and in Afro-Asiatic countries and a context for understanding extremist movements like fundamentalism. *Access to the voice of Muslims, through translations of texts into English. *An overview of the critical debates on such important contemporary issues as gender and veiling, state politics, and science and ethics.

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'Outstanding, timely and much needed.' Amir Hussain, Professor of Theological Studies, Loyola Marymount University 'A very well-written, remarkably accessible, timely and important book. It is sure to be read widely.' Muhammad Qasim Zaman, Robert H. Niehaus '77 Professor of Near Eastern Studies and Religion, Princeton University A compact introduction and reader's guide to the Qur'an This is an ideal introduction to the Qur'an, featuring the most up-to-date methods for reading and understanding the text. It deals with sensitive issues regarding the interpretation of sacred texts as well as differing points of view and major debates. A substantial explanatory introduction summarises the historical and literary issues and engages with the religious and political context of understanding the Qur'an today, including an appreciation of the ritual and oral uses of text. Key Features: * Includes new translations of 725 Qur'anic verses * Promotes an understanding of multiple interpretations of the Qur'an * Designed for use on introductory courses and for self-study Keywords: Qur'an; sacred; translation; text.

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'Outstanding, timely and much needed.' Amir Hussain, Professor of Theological Studies, Loyola Marymount University 'A very well-written, remarkably accessible, timely and important book. It is sure to be read widely.' Muhammad Qasim Zaman, Robert H. Niehaus '77 Professor of Near Eastern Studies and Religion, Princeton University A compact introduction and reader's guide to the Qur'an This is an ideal introduction to the Qur'an, featuring the most up-to-date methods for reading and understanding the text. It deals with sensitive issues regarding the interpretation of sacred texts as well as differing points of view and major debates. A substantial explanatory introduction summarises the historical and literary issues and engages with the religious and political context of understanding the Qur'an today, including an appreciation of the ritual and oral uses of text. Key Features: * Includes new translations of 725 Qur'anic verses * Promotes an understanding of multiple interpretations of the Qur'an * Designed for use on introductory courses and for self-study Keywords: Qur'an; sacred; translation; text.

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