An Introduction to Islam

by Frederick Mathewson Denny

The author's extensive field work, experience, and scholarship combined with his engaging writing style and passion for the subject sets this text apart. An Introduction to Islam, Third Edition, provides students with a thorough and unified topical introduction to the global religious community of Islam. It places Islam within a cultural, political, social, and religious context and examines its connections with Judeo-Christian morals. The text's integration of the doctrinal and devotional elements of Islam enables students to see how Muslims think and live--engendering understanding and breaking down stereotypes. An Introduction to Islam, Third Edition also reviews pre-Islamic history so students can see how Islam developed historically.

Genres: Islam, Religion, History, Nonfiction, School

418 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1985

Reviews

[Noelle]

I read this for a class on Islam. Over all the book and class were perfectly put together allowing all my questions about Islam to be answered. From the pre history though modern practices, beliefs, and social life this book educates Muslim and Christian alike showing how news and media have twisted the religion based on the actions of very few. I learned alot.

[Javier]

This was an absolute delight to read. It can be dense at times (I struggled particularly with the part on Sufism) and it can be hard to keep up with the terminology when you are not familiar with Arabic or Islam. It is, however, extremely thorough and well-balanced. I'd say this is an excellent resource for those who really want to know more about Islam and perhaps try to understand Muslim communities across the world and here in North America. It was refreshing to see a book didn't push a certain agenda but rather portray many different views and perspective. The book even points out some of the contradictions that exist, and how they are currently being dealt with. It is a long read but worth every minute of it!

[astropixie]

Not my favorite textbook. But when you get past the dry writing, the information is clear and lucid. You don't get the biased undertones you might see from other books on Islam. It's funny seeing where Denny gets excited on the topic of Islam and where he just supplies information because he has to. But that was the only source of fun for me. Overall, a good resource.

[Chris]

Great book for those want learn and understand Islamic culture, religion and their society

[Wesley]

Read this for my study abroad in Egypt. I needed coffee to stay awake while reading it, but it's informative.