"This two-volume set on Islam is a timely resource aimed at the general reader. More than 500 articles, 200-5,000 words in length, describe the Islamic world from its known beginnings to the present day. A 'Synoptic Outline of Entries' at the beginning of volume one presents a thematic overview of the encyclopedia that facilitates browsing. A glossary of terms and a pronunciation key appear at the end of volume two, followed by genealogies, timelines, and a detailed index."--"Reference that rocks," American Libraries, May 2005. - (Baker & Taylor)
Written for advanced high school as well as undergraduate college students, this reference the editors' selection of just over 500 topics that focus on key political and religious figures worldwide; geographic areas and cities; and general issues such as gender, globalization, reform (with separate entries for five geographic areas), and terrorism. Though topics that are specifically of interest to non-Muslim westerners are included, the strength of this work derives from its coverage of topics that are perennially pertinent to the Islamic world per se, particularly those that involve traditional aspects of religion (both Sunni and Shiite) and traditions of behavior. This focus is a reflection of the editorship: Martin (Islamic studies and history of religions, Emory U., Atlanta) is joined by three other Islamists representing different fields (sociology, theology, Islamic studies), and from different countries (the US, Canada, Iran, and South Africa). Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com) - (Book News)
The second edition of this well-received two-volume study of Islam updates and adds to its predecessor 40 percent new content. It updates and revises most of the original 500+ entries and adds new topics to reflect changes in the Muslim world since 2004, from the emergence/re-emergence of Islamic regimes to challenges to the rule of religious leaders (Iran), to continuing instability across North Africa and the Middle East. The set will build on the first edition's approach to this still-growing religion: documenting and analyzing its history, as well as its doctrinal, legal,
social, and spiritual tenets, while assessing its influence on all areas of human activity in the regions where it is most established--the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
KEY FEATURES:
Most up-to-date Analyses. The ever-growing numbers of students matriculating in disciplines connected to the teaching and understanding of Islam need accurate, current information on this religion and its impact on the world.
Balanced Coverage. Rich historical content is partnered with coverage of the issues, countries, and people that are important in today's world, allowing for an assessment of Islam's influence on all areas of human activity throughout the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas
Fully Updated Content. More than 50% new and revised content, including more than 160 new entries and 60 sidebars.
Beautifully Illustrated in Full Color. This edition doubles the number of photos and maps from the first edition, all in color.
WHAT'S NEW:
286 new/updated entries and sidebars
Now in full color
More than 360 images, more than double the number of images from the first edition
60 sidebars embedded in larger entries to help readers understand the importance of a person or group in context with a key
issue or country.
Revamped table of contents includes entries at the forefront of current events, including entries on oil, water rights, social
media, and ISIS, as well as greatly expanded coverage of Islam in specific countries. - (Gale / Cengage Learning)
Library Journal Reviews
Hailed as the fastest-growing religion of the 21st century, Islam contends with Christianity for the highest number of adherents. The terrorist attacks of 9/11 on U.S. soil instigated mass interest in the Islamic worldview (e.g., interpretations of the Qur'an, doctrines such as Jihad, and the role of women in Arab societies). This encyclopedia, edited by Martin (Islamic studies & history of religion, Emory Univ.) provides an interdisciplinary examination of the 1400-year-old tradition, which began with prophet Mohammed's revelation. It not only addresses core tenets of Islamic beliefs but also broaches how the Muslim vision interacts with or relates to other major world religions. For example, specific entries focus on "Christianity and Islam," "Judaism and Islam," "Hinduism and Islam," etc.; articles also concentrate on Islam's interface with other cultures (e.g., "American Culture and Islam"). Broadly speaking, this work has a global and interconnected tone. There's even an entry about the Internet and how Islam's "digital presence" will impact both microcosms and the macrocosm. Overall, the work succeeds in demonstrating that the Islamic faith has permeated and left an indelible mark on history as well as the future. Each of the more than 500 signed A-to-Z entries features a bibliography as well as cross references, and the work as a whole is enriched with genealogies, time lines, maps, and even a few color photographs (an eight-page insert in each volume). One caveat: the publisher rather ostentatiously states that this is a one-of-a-kind resource, though other publishers have staked their claims in the area. (Just do a subject search on "Islam-Encyclopedias" in the Library of Congress catalog.) Although this set will benefit primarily high school and college students, it can also serve the broader audience of lay readers. Strongly recommended for both public and academic libraries, as well as specialized collections that focus on religion and theology.-C. Brian Smith, Arlington Heights Memorial Lib., IL Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.
