The Word of Islam by John Alden Williams (Editor)

Publisher: University of Texas Press

Since the 1970s, Islam has been undergoing an incredible resurgence throughout the globe. This resurgence has often been labeled “Islamic fundamentalism” by the media, but it includes believers of each persuasion, from the foremost conservative to the foremost liberal.

Given this fact, it’s vital for the West to know the terms during which Islam thinks and to speak effectively with Muslims. This anthology includes writings central to Islamic thought, some translated earlier but here redone, et al which haven’t before appeared in any Western language.

The selections include an interpretation of the Qur’an, still as portions of the Hadith, or sayings and actions of the Prophet; Islamic law; mysticism (Sufism); theology; and sectarian writings. A final essay on Islam today places these writings in their contemporary context and shows the breadth and form of Islamic belief and practice.

Compiled with the intention of letting Islam describe itself in its own words, the book is a vital source for all students of Muslim culture and world religions. This book is analogous in scope to Williams’ well-known 1961 George Braziller publication, but freshly written and far improved.