A New Introduction to Islam, 4th Edition

A globally expanded, critically engaged introduction to Islam thoroughly updated

Now in its Fourth Edition, A New Introduction to Islam combines historical narrative, global reach, and engagement with historical-critical scholarship on Islamic origins, the Qur'an, and hadith. Daniel W. Brown, Director of the Institute for the Study of Religion in the Middle East, introduces Islam both as a religious tradition and as an object of critical academic inquiry.

New to this edition is expanded coverage of Africa, Central Asia, South Asia, China, and Southeast Asia, along with substantial material on Islamic expansion and globalization from the Mongol period through the early modern era. Updated discussions address secularism, modernism, revivalism, and post-Islamism. Coverage of Islamic origins, the Qur'an, and hadith has been thoroughly revised to reflect recent scholarship. Pedagogical features include study questions and further-reading sections throughout.

Readers will find:

• Increased coverage of Islamic theology and philosophy within the broader context of intellectual history and scholarly debate
• Expanded treatment of Islamic legal, theological, philosophical, and mystical traditions presented within their historical contexts and regional variations
• Updated engagement with contemporary scholarship on the Qur'an, hadith, and Islamic origins reflecting the latest critical research
• Global scope encompassing Islam across Africa, Central Asia, South Asia, China, and Southeast Asia beyond the traditional Middle Eastern focus

A New Introduction to Islam is ideal for undergraduate courses in Islam, Islamic civilization, religious studies, Middle East history, and world religions. Students and instructors in theology, history, and area studies will also benefit.