

Second, there is real possibility for democracy in the Middle East.

What we really have, Aslan says, is a clash of monotheisms, competing particularistic, and often exclusive, claims about the nature of God, revelation, and prophecy. First, Samuel Huntington’s Clash of Civilizations-the theory most pundits have gravitated toward since 9/11-is an inadequate description of the current world scene. But these helpful expositions are just the starting point for making two arguments. of Iowa) and New York Times Middle East consultant, walks through the life of the Prophet, the redaction of the Qur’an, and the Five Pillars that are fundamental to Muslim life and practice. Aslan, a professor (Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies/Univ. If it accomplished nothing else, Aslan’s first book would be worthwhile for its clear expositions of the basics of Islamic history and Muslim thought. While might claim to be a mere scholar of the Islamic Reformation, he is also one of its most articulate advocates.A lively and accessible introduction to Islam. “Thoroughly engaging and excellently written. For many troubled Muslims, this book will feel like a revelation, an opening up of knowledge too long buried.” - The Independent (U.K.) an incisive, scholarly primer in Muslim history and an engaging personal exploration.” -The New York Times Book Review “ Aslan offers an invaluable introduction to the forces that have shaped Islam eloquent, erudite paean to Islam in all of its complicated glory.” -Los Angeles Times Book Review a literate, accessible introduction to Islam.” -The New York Times “Grippingly narrated and thoughtfully examined. Timely and persuasive, No god but God is an elegantly written account that explains this magnificent yet misunderstood faith. He also provides an update on the contemporary Muslim women’s movement, a discussion of the controversy over veiling in Europe, an in-depth history of Jihadism, and a look at how Muslims living in North America and Europe are changing the face of Islam. Aslan explores what the popular demonstrations pushing for democracy in the Middle East mean for the future of Islam in the region, how the Internet and social media have affected Islam’s evolution, and how the war on terror has altered the geopolitical balance of power in the Middle East.

This updated edition addresses the events of the past decade, analyzing how they have influenced Islam’s position in modern culture. In No god but God, internationally acclaimed scholar Reza Aslan explains Islam-the origins and evolution of the faith-in all its beauty and complexity.
