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. 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.
