Teaching Humanity: An Alternative Introduction to Islam

This book provides an alternative introduction to Islam, emphasizing humanity and the human being within Islamic thought and practice. It highlights the diversity of Islamic beliefs and practices, presenting them as responses to the shared concepts of tawhid, nubuwwa, and qiyama. It calls for a redefinition of "mainstream" Islam as a religious tradition focused on love and rooted in universal human virtues.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 22 March 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This captivating book delves into the intricate tapestry of Islam, offering a humanistic perspective by emphasizing the emotional traditions and expressions associated with Sufism and Shi'ism. While many introductory texts focus solely on the sharia, particularly the "Five Pillars," as the central defining aspect of Islam, Vernon James Schubel presents a fresh and alternative introduction that highlights the paramount importance of humanity and the human being within Islamic thought and practice. The book underscores the rich diversity of Islamic beliefs and practices, presenting them as diverse responses to the shared multivalent concepts of tawhid (the unity of God), nubuwwa (prophecy), and qiyama (the Day of Judgment). Readers are taken on a journey to explore essential aspects of Islam, including the life of the Prophet Muhammad, the Quran, the evolution of the shari'a, and the emergence of the Sunni, Shi'a, and Sufi traditions. The book concludes with a powerful call to redefine "mainstream" Islam as a religious tradition centered on the centrality of love and rooted in the significance of humanity and universal human virtues.

Islam is a multifaceted religion that encompasses a wide range of beliefs, practices, and traditions. One of the most significant aspects of Islam is its emphasis on the unity of God, known as tawhid. This concept is central to Islamic belief and is expressed through the belief in the oneness of Allah, the creator of the universe. Tawhid is one of the fundamental principles of Islam and is believed to be the foundation of all other Islamic beliefs and practices.

Another important aspect of Islam is its belief in prophethood, or nubuwwa. Muslims believe that God has sent prophets and messengers to guide humanity and reveal his teachings to them. The most famous of these prophets is the Prophet Muhammad, who is believed to be the final messenger of God and the source of the Quran, Islam's holy book. The Quran is believed to be the words of God and contains teachings on a wide range of topics, including morality, ethics, and religious law.

Islam also emphasizes the importance of the Day of Judgment, or qiyama. This day is believed to be the final judgment of humanity, when God will judge all people based on their actions and beliefs. Muslims believe that those who have followed the teachings of Islam and lived a righteous life will be rewarded with paradise, while those who have sinned will be punished in hell. The Day of Judgment is a significant event in Islamic history and is celebrated by Muslims around the world.

In addition to these core beliefs, Islam has a rich tradition of spirituality and mysticism. Sufism is a branch of Islam that focuses on the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and the attainment of a closer relationship with God. Sufis believe in the power of meditation, prayer, and the recitation of sacred texts to achieve this goal. Shi'ism, on the other hand, is a branch of Islam that emphasizes the importance of the imam, or spiritual leader, who is believed to be the successor of the Prophet Muhammad. Shi'ism has a more hierarchical structure than Sunni Islam and places a greater emphasis on the authority.

Islam is a religion that has a rich history and a diverse culture. It is a religion that emphasizes the importance of humanity and the human being within Islamic thought and practice. The diversity of Islamic beliefs and practices is a testament to the complexity and depth of Islamic thought and is a source of great pride for Muslims around the world. Whether you are interested in learning more about Islam or simply seeking to gain a deeper understanding of this fascinating religion, this book is an excellent resource. It provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to Islam, covering everything from its core beliefs to its historical and cultural significance. I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in exploring the world of Islam.

Weight: 456g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031223617
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023