📖 Overview
Islam: Beliefs and Teachings serves as an introductory text covering the fundamental principles and practices of Islam. The book explains core Islamic concepts including the Five Pillars, articles of faith, and key historical events.
Author Ghulam Sarwar presents Islamic teachings through straightforward explanations supported by references to the Quran and Hadith. The text includes sections on Islamic law, prophets, family life, and moral conduct according to Islamic principles.
This guidebook functions as both an educational resource for students and a reference work for those seeking to understand Islamic traditions. Its systematic organization allows readers to explore topics progressively while building knowledge of Islamic beliefs and customs.
The work reflects Islam's emphasis on knowledge, education and ethical living while demonstrating the religion's comprehensive approach to spiritual and practical aspects of human life.
👀 Reviews
Readers describe this book as a basic overview for students and non-Muslims learning about Islamic principles. The book defines Islamic concepts and Arabic terms through plain language explanations.
Likes:
- Straightforward format suitable for classroom use
- Clear definitions of terminology
- Explains fundamental practices and beliefs
- Includes references from the Quran and Hadith
- Easy to follow chapter organization
Dislikes:
- Some readers note outdated social views
- Writing style can be dry
- Occasional printing/binding quality issues
- Limited depth on complex topics
- Some report factual errors in historical sections
Ratings:
Goodreads: 4.1/5 (108 ratings)
Amazon UK: 4.5/5 (89 ratings)
Amazon US: 4.3/5 (24 ratings)
One reader noted: "Perfect for students studying Islam at GCSE level, covers all the basics needed." Another commented: "Good introduction but needs updating for modern contexts."
📚 Similar books
Understanding Islam by Frithjof Schuon
This text presents Islamic doctrine, practices, and spirituality through examination of Quranic teachings and prophetic traditions.
Islam: A Short History by Karen Armstrong The book traces Islam's development from its origins through major historical periods and examines its fundamental concepts.
The Vision of Islam by William Chittick, Sachiko Murata This work explains Islamic beliefs, practices, and spiritual teachings through the traditional Muslim framework of submission, faith, and perfection.
Islam: Faith, Practice & History by Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi The text covers Islamic principles, religious practices, and historical developments with references to original sources.
What Everyone Should Know About Islam and Muslims by Suzanne Haneef This book provides information about Islamic beliefs, worship, principles, and customs based on the Quran and prophetic teachings.
Islam: A Short History by Karen Armstrong The book traces Islam's development from its origins through major historical periods and examines its fundamental concepts.
The Vision of Islam by William Chittick, Sachiko Murata This work explains Islamic beliefs, practices, and spiritual teachings through the traditional Muslim framework of submission, faith, and perfection.
Islam: Faith, Practice & History by Sayyid Muhammad Rizvi The text covers Islamic principles, religious practices, and historical developments with references to original sources.
What Everyone Should Know About Islam and Muslims by Suzanne Haneef This book provides information about Islamic beliefs, worship, principles, and customs based on the Quran and prophetic teachings.
🤔 Interesting facts
🌙 First published in 1980, this book has become one of the most widely-used introductory texts about Islam in English-speaking schools and madrasahs across the globe.
📚 Author Ghulam Sarwar established the Muslim Educational Trust in the UK in 1966, an organization that continues to promote Islamic education and understanding today.
🕌 The book has been translated into over 20 languages and has sold more than one million copies worldwide, making it one of the most successful modern Islamic educational texts.
📖 Unlike many religious texts, this book uses simple, accessible language specifically designed to help young readers and newcomers understand Islamic principles without getting overwhelmed by complex theological concepts.
🎓 The text is structured as a comprehensive curriculum, complete with end-of-chapter questions and review sections, making it particularly valuable for both self-study and classroom use.