Islamic Thought: An Introduction

Islamic Thought is a comprehensive introduction to the philosophies, ideas and doctrines of Islam. Abdullah Saeed, a distinguished Muslim scholar, traces the development of religious knowledge from the pre-modern period to the present day. This book examines how Muslim thought has evolved, exploring the production, transmission, and interpretation of religious knowledge, and the trends, schools, and movements that have shaped it. Key topics in Islamic culture and thought are discussed, including the development of the Islamic intellectual tradition, the Qur’an and hadith, legal and theological thought, mystical traditions, Islamic art, philosophy, political thought, and contemporary renewal, reform, and rethinking. This thoroughly revised edition offers expanded coverage of Shi‘i and other non-Sunni perspectives, alongside the significant emphasis on the Sunni tradition covered in the first edition. Through this rich and varied discussion, Saeed offers a compelling portrayal of the workings of Islamic thought, both past and present. Islamic Thought is essential reading for students approaching the study of Islam for the first time and for anyone interested in learning more about one of the world’s great religions.