Islam [Paperback]

George W. Braswell Jr. (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 10, 1996

This book is essential reading for anyone who desires a complete, balanced view of Islam beyond what appears on the nightly news, Written from a western Christian viewpoint, but with a detailed first-hand knowledge of Muslim life, Islam: Its Prophet, Peoples, Politics, and Power digs deep beneath the surface to reveal Islam as a rich, proud and powerful force in world affairs. Though Dr. Braswell's book is thorough and scholarly, his personal experiences and insights make it a practical travel guide as well. And despite the enormous scope of Islam, the book's clear organization and careful research have produced a valuable reference for ministers, missionaries, diplomats, businessmen, students and travelers.
-- Historical overview of Islam
-- Details of prayer rituals, social customs and traditions
-- Special focus on Islam in North America
-- Reference section including maps, diagrams and glossary

Editorial Reviews

From Publishers Weekly

Braswell, a professor of world religions who has spent much of his academic life living and teaching in Iran, tries to correct American stereotypes of Muslims in this well-balanced and judicious overview of the history and teachings of Islam. He opens with 20 questions constantly asked by modern Western society about Islam, and he structures the book around his answers, which concern the customs, practices and theology of the religion. In addition, Braswell examines in detail the intersections of a Muslim's personal and family life with his or her social life and political life. Finally, he demonstrates the ways in which Islam responds to contemporary issues like abortion and AIDS. Braswell's book should be required reading for all journalists, business people and tourists traveling to an Islamic culture.

Copyright 1996 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

From Library Journal

Structuring his book around 20 questions constantly asked about Islam, Braswell (world religions and missions, Southeastern Seminary) explores the history and development of the Islamic religion from Muhammad to the 20th century. In an even-handed manner, the author, who lived and taught in Iran for 20 years, paints an intimate portrait of the variety of ways in which the personal religious experience of Muslims informs their economic, social, and cultural lives. In addition, Braswell examines Islam's response to a number of social issues like abortion and homosexuality. A comprehensive survey that captures beautifully the living character of Islam; for all libraries.
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: B&H Academic (July 10, 1996)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0805411690
• ISBN-13: 978-0805411690
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (5 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #352,472 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

16 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Book on Islam and Christianity. Fair and comprehensive, April 2, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Islam (Paperback)

Not to many Chritians write books about Islam that are fair or flattering. That is not the case with George Braswell. His book not only gives the key historical and theological insights on Islam, but presents a short explanation that compares certain Islamic teaching with Christianity. He is neither degrading or accusatory against Islam. And that's why I like about this book. Finally, a Christian book on Islam from someone with a level head!

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A fair introduction, July 4, 2005

By 

A Happy Teacher (Oregon, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Islam (Paperback)

I studied Braswell's book in a class on Islam and found it to be general and easy to read. Because of its general nature, further reading needs to be pursued for more in-depth understanding of Islam. Also, the complex nature of any culture, religion or ideology needs to be seen from many viewpoints. The back cover of the book says the book provides a "complete introduction" to Islam.

In response to the comment here in this review section, I don't think it is fair to say that Braswell was hiding his Protestant Christian background, as this can be seen in several places in the text. In the Preface he says, "I do not write as an insider but as one informed by western civilization and experienced in the Protestant Christian tradition. Yet I write as one who strives for objectivity." He also states that many of his sources were Muslims and Islamic scholars.

Furthermore, this book is published by Broadman & Holman, who specialize in "inspirational" literature and Bibles. If you scan the table of contents you will find that one of the themes of the book is to compare the ideology of Islam with that of Christianity. However, I feel he does this with objectivity and sensitivity. Braswell followed one of the basic rules of writing to craft this book - write to a specific audience.

It is my opinion that he gives a good overview of a very old, and complex culture/religion and for those interested, a good yet basic comparison between two world religions. There are several really good books produced by Muslims that do the same thing. I highly recommend this book as an introduction to the study of Islam, especially for those who want the basic comparison of Islam and Christianity.

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Islam, March 3, 2011

By 

Andrew G. Barnes Jr. (Bloomsburg, PA) - See all my reviews
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Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Islam (Paperback)

Excellent book for those who want to learn about islam to have an understanding its' origin and teachings. Then, it provides an understanding of the real truth that we must all know.