Description
For many non-Muslims, the terrorist attacks of 11 September 2001 in the US deepened an association of Islam with violence, despotism and suppression. They asked: Why are Muslims so violent? How can Islam justify the terrorism of al-Qaeda, the suicide bombers in Palestine, the beheadings under Islamic Law in Saudi Arabia, or stoning to death of adulterers in Nigeria? Why do Muslims ignore human and women's rights? Why is democracy in the Muslim world conspicuous by its general absence? Have the Muslims declared jihad (righteous struggle) against 'Western infidels'?But Muslims see Islam as about peace and justice. So, what is 'real Islam'? In this No-Nonsense Guide, Sardar and Davies explain the concepts and the rich history of the Muslim world. But they also call for urgent reforms within Islam, and for the West to end its bigotry.
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Even before 11 September 2001, Muslims were generally viewed in the West as enemies of “freedom” and “progress”. Yet there is far more to Islam than the stereotypical Occidental view. This No-Nonsense Guide looks at how Islam, a complex faith and civilization, can reconcile itself with the twenty-first century. Critically minded Muslims everywhere are rethinking and reformulating Islam as a contemporary moral and ethical force. Merryl Wyn Davies and Zia Sardar explain the Islamic worldview, examining the Qur’an and Islamic law (sharia), Islam in history, Islam’s relationship with the West and its contemporary nature. They analyse the struggle within the faith for a more humane and holistic interpretation of their religion; examine the issues surrounding women, democracy, and economic development; and suggest how we can all move forward after 9/11.
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