Across the Worlds of Islam: Muslim Identities, Beliefs, and Practices from Asia to America

Muslim people are found all over the world, with most living outside the Middle East. This book offers an inclusive view of the diversity and complexity of the many worlds of Islam, investigating ethics and aesthetics as much as scriptures and theology. It provides a comprehensive and all-embracing vision of the religion and its many interrelated communities, including those who are socially, culturally, doctrinally, or politically marginalized. Contributors from a range of personal and intellectual backgrounds explore the capaciousness of Muslim identities, helping readers achieve a broader understanding of the past, present, and future of the Muslim world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 18 July 2023
Publisher: Columbia University Press

Muslims are a global community, with the majority residing outside the Middle East, spanning from Asia to the Americas. While a significant portion of contemporary Muslims may not possess fluency in Arabic, speakers of languages like Persian, Urdu, and Turkish have played pivotal roles in shaping Islamic history and culture. Unfortunately, mainstream courses on Islam often overlook the diversity and richness of the Islamic world beyond the Middle East, emphasizing Arabic texts and elite theological and doctrinal discussions.

In response to this gap, this book presents a comprehensive and inclusive exploration of the multifaceted worlds of Islam. It delves into ethical and aesthetic dimensions, alongside scriptures and theology, to provide a holistic understanding of the religion. By focusing on Muslims who are often marginalized socially, culturally, doctrinally, or politically, the book offers a comprehensive and all-encompassing vision of Islam and its diverse communities. Contributors from diverse personal and intellectual backgrounds contribute their insights, fostering a broader understanding of the past, present, and future of the Muslim world.

This book encompasses communities such as the Nation of Islam and Alevi Muslims, extending beyond traditional practices like prayer and fasting to consider a broader range of practices, including tattooing. It is designed to be accessible to students as well as general readers, offering nuanced portraits of Muslim life across geographic and sectarian boundaries. By examining Muslim identity and practice from the perspective of the margins, the book offers a fresh and nuanced perspective on the world's largest religion, contributing to a more inclusive and accurate understanding of its rich tapestry.

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 147 x 225 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780231210645