This title offers a concise introduction to the contemporary challenges and key issues facing Islam. This new introduction aims to present Islam through the lens of contemporary issues. Illustrated with examples and case studies taken from lived religion, each chapter looks at Islam in a modern context, and modern issues relevant to the religion. After an initial chapter providing an overview of the Islamic faith, its history and basic theological tenets, Ron Geaves moves through key contemporary themes: Islam and diversity, ethics and morality, gender, fundamentalism, and the relationship between Islam and the West. Concluding with a final section looking at the future for Islam, its relevance in modern times, the future for the religion in question and what it can contribute to society in terms of inter-religious dialogue and harmony between different communities. These useful guides aim to introduce religions through the lens of contemporary issues, illustrated throughout with examples and case studies taken from lived religion. The perfect companion for the student of religion, each guide interprets the teachings of the religion in question in a modern context and applies them to modern day scenarios.

Concise introduction to the contemporary challenges and key issues facing Islam.

About the Author
Ron Geaves is Professor of the Comparative Study of Religion at Liverpool Hope University, UK. He is Co-editor of the Journal of Fieldwork in Religion and the Journal of Religions of South Asia.

Reviews
"Primarily drawing on Muslim sources, Geaves discusses a range of contemporary issues, some contentious. Aware of Islam's diversity, he consistently avoids generalizations. Specialist and beginners alike will be interested in Geaves' contention that the West should listen to Muslim voices. Despite regrettable acts by some, he argues, most Muslims want to engage in constructive dialogue. Muslim criticism of Western materialism, social injustice and equality merits serious discussion. So does Muslim insistence that values have a place in public discourse. Geaves is equally clear that Muslims do not always translate ideals into practice. What emerges is balanced, sensitive, informed and insightful. Avoiding caricature and calumny, Geaves resists the opposite - apology for an idealized Islam. Focusing on Islam as a lived experience, Geaves is concerned with Muslim realities, not romanticized versions. I am delighted to recommend Islam Today as a positive contribution to literature on Muslim life and thought. Hopefully, it will achieve what it sets out to do - improve Muslim-non-Muslim understanding." - Professor Clinton Bennett, The State University of New York at New Paltz, NY, USA



Book Information
ISBN 9781847064783
Author Professor Ron Geaves
Format Paperback
Page Count 200
Imprint Continuum International Publishing Group Ltd.
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing PLC