UNDERSTANDING ISLAM
WINDOWS ON THE HOUSE OF ISLAM: MUSLIM SOURCES ON SPIRITUALITY AND RELIGIOUS LIFE edited by John Renard
Integrating a wide range of literary, intellectual and visual forms, this anthology presents a broad sketch of the spiritual values, traditions, institutions and inspirations-over time and culture-within the Islamic religious experience. It also contains illustrations that document a full range of artistic forms and historical periods, from architecture to manuscripts of ancient texts.
REMEMBERING GOD: REFLECTIONS ON ISLAM, Charles Le Gai Eaton
This book explains many of modern-day issues facing the Muslim ummah in a clear and accessible way that is easily absorbed by a Western mind. His other book, Islam: The Destiny of Man, is another 'must read'—particularly for Muslims wishing to delve deeper into essentials of their faith. Both available at www.fonsvitae.com.
RESPONSES TO 101 QUESTIONS ON ISLAM, by John Renard
This is a useful book in giving the reader an overview of Islam. Renard has a number of other books on Islam, including Seven Doors to Islam, and Windows on the House of Islam, that explore Islamic spirituality. He writes beautifully.
ISLAM, by Karen Armstrong
A good and accessible introduction to the history of Islam.
ISLAM, A SEARCH FOR MEANING, by Feisal Abdul Rauf
This book deals with a number of themes such as the search for oneself, the Qur'an, and human free will and divine predestination. It is very accessible for non-Muslim and/or Western readers. Available at www.fonsvitae.com.
UNDERSTANDING ISLAM, by Frithjof Schuon
This small book is for those who love an intellectual challenge. The author, Schuon, was a Sufi, and has written a number of excellent but hard to read books on spirituality and religious thought. Schuon is not an easy writer to understand, but plowing through his writing has many rewards. Available at www.fonsvitae.com
THE HEART OF ISLAM: ENDURING VALUES OF HUMANITY, by Seyyed Hossein Nasr
Written after the attacks of 9/11, Seyyed Nasr, a George Washington University professor, aims to investigate the authentic teachings of Islam in light of contemporary challenges. The book is great for reference, and for comparing the holy texts of the three Abrahamic faiths.
WHAT EVERYONE NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT ISLAM, by John Esposito
A clear, easy to read and understand Q and A-style book about Islam.
UNDERSTANDING ISLAM AND THE MUSLIMS: THE MUSLIM FAMILY, ISLAM AND WORLD PEACE, by TJ Winter and John A Williams
A clear and concise overview of Islam, with key precepts, answers to frequently asked questions, photos.
ISLAM, A SACRED LAW, by Feisal Abdul Rauf
The principles of Islamic jurisprudence made clear and simplified. Available at www.fonsvitae.com.
THE SCIMITAR AND THE VEIL: EXTRAORDINARY WOMEN OF ISLAM, by Jennifer Heath
Meet the queens, saints and warriors whose courage, insights and influence have enriched the legacy of Islamic history, from the first wife of the Prophet Muhammad to Muslim women of today.
THE ESSENTIAL KORAN, by Thomas Cleary, Castle Books, 1993
FEATURED BOOK
WHAT'S RIGHT WITH ISLAM: A NEW VISION FOR MUSLIMS AND THE WEST, by Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf
(click here to read endorsements)
RECOMMENDED READING LIST
Understanding Islam
Translations & Books about the Quran
Life of the Prophet Muhammad
Islamic Prayers & Practice
Investigating Sufism
Politics & History
Muslim Identity
Interfaith
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