Making a radical departure from the recently proliferating publications on Islam—journalist exposés on terrorist intrigues and solemn expositions on the clash of civilizations - renowned Islamicist Carl Ernst offers in this book a sympathetic yet reasoned and analytical view of the Islamic religious tradition and the contemporary issues that Muslims face. He introduces the reader to the profound spiritual and intellectual resources of Islam while clarifying debate and highlighting diversity within the tradition. Writing from within the framework of religious studies and the historical context he describes how Protestant definitions of religion and anti-Muslim prejudice have affected views of Islam in Europe and America. He also discusses the contemporary importance of Islam in both its traditional settings and its new locations and provides a context for understanding extremist movements like fundamentalism. Ernst concludes with an overview of critical debates on important contemporary issues such as gender and veiling, state politics, and science and religion. Revealing the human face of Islam, this timely and important volume aims at stimulating conversation between Muslims and non-Muslims in a world that they have commonly inherited. Contents Preface 1. Islam in the Eyes of the West 2. Approaching Islam in Terms of Religion 3. The Sacred Sources of Islam 4. Ethics and Life in the World 5. Spirituality in Practice 6. Postscript: Reimagining Islam in the Twenty-first Century Notes Suggested Further Reading Index