An in-depth history of the Islamic faith, from Allah's revelations to Muhammad in the 7th century, to the thriving Muslim world of the 21st Century<BR><BR>A fascinating overview of the spiritual aspects of Islam, as well as its wider influence on social institutions---including marriage, the family, businesses, courts and government<BR><BR>Describes the distinguishing features of the Sunni, Shia and Sufi denominations<BR><BR>A stunning visual study of one of the world's great and diverse religions<BR><BR>Islam is a powerful force in today's world. Statistically, Muslims represent around a quarter of the global population, some 1.4 billion people. Their religion - often misunderstood by outsiders - is one of the world's younger faiths, but in its 1400-year history its impact around the globe has been astonishing and immense. This book offers a refreshing, balanced portrait of Islam, its core beliefs and doctrine, religious practices and history.<BR><BR>Essential to any understanding of Islam is the message and life story of its founder, the Prophet Muhammad. With a vivid account of the early medieval Arabian society into which Muhammad was born around 570 CE, the book sets the scene for his prophetic mission. It describes the retreat in 610, when Muhammad received a visit from Archangel Jibril (Gabriel), who revealed to him the first few verses of the Quran.<BR><BR>Enshrined in the Quranic revelations is the divine law, Shariah. The Islamic community is also guided by Muhammad's prophetic teachings, which encourage Muslims to establish themselves as the ummatun wasata - `the middle nation'. The book explains this vital concept of a moderation placed between the extremes of disbelief and idolatry on the one hand, and religious zealotry and extremism on the other.<BR><BR>Beautifully illustrated with more than 500 paintings, sculptures, maps and photographs, the book unfolds the richness of the Islamic tradition and its comprehensive embrace. It is essential reading for anyone who wants to understand a religion that has powerfully shaped the world we live in and continues to do so.