Now in a new edition, this exceptionally successful survey text introduces the faith, belief, and practice of Islam from its earliest origins up to its contemporary resurgence. John L. Esposito, an internationally renowned expert on Islam, traces the development of this dynamic faith and its impact on world history and politics. Lucidly written and expansive in scope, Islam: The Straight Path, Fourth Edition, provides keen insight into one of the world's least understood religions. It is ideally suited for use in courses on Islam, comparative religions, and Middle Eastern history and culture.

Table of Contents:
Preface to the Fourth Edition Introduction 1. Muhammad and the Quran: Messenger and Message Muhammad and the Muslim Community Muhammad and the West The Quran: The Word of God Conclusion 2. The Muslim Community in History Muhammad and the Medinan State The Caliphate (632-1258) Islam and the West: The Crusades and Muslim Response to Militant Christianity The Sultanate Period: Medieval Muslim Empires Islam in the West 3. Religious Life: Belief and Practice Theology Islamic Law Popular Religion 4. Modern Islamic Reform Movements From Imperial Islam to Islamic Revivalism Revivalism in Islam Modern Islamic Movements Conclusion 5. Religion & Politics The Islamic Resurgence Ideological Worldview of Revivalism A Quiet Revolution Osama Bin Laden and Global Terrorism The Globalization and Hijacking of Jihad Sayyid Qutb: Martyr of Islamic Radicalism The Making of a Terrorist and his Global Jihad Terrorists and Suicide Bombing Conclusion 6. The Struggle for Islam in the 21st Century The Struggle in Islam: The Debate The Bifurcation of Society The Ulama and Reform Tradition: Anchor or Albatross? A Spectrum of Reformers and Approaches Cyberspace and High-Tech Islam Critical Areas of Islamic Reform The Challenge of Religious Pluralism Global Multifaith and Intercivilizational Initiatives The Challenge of Pluralism for Western Secular Democracies Conclusion Timeline Glossary Select Bibliography Index