John O. (buzzby) -
Author (he's a male) is a religious studies major, so be prepared for words like "monotheism", "Monatanists", and "Rahmanists". There is a glossary in the back.
Sophia C. reviewed No god but God : The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam on + 289 more book reviews
No god but God: the Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam is an articulate, scholarly primer on the history of Islam. Starting with the religious beliefs of pre-Islamic Arabia, Resa Aslan describes the life of the Prophet, and the social, political, and economic context in which this new religion—based on religious pluralism and social egalitarianism—developed. It's the familiar story of how a prophet's message is altered by successors that have institutionalized it while sometimes promoting their own agendas. This engaging book argues that rather than a clash-of-civilizations or monotheisms, Islam can see seen in the midst of its own reformation, trying to reconcile Muhammad's message and centuries of legal and moral interpretations with the modern world and various forms of social organization, including democracy. Published in 2005, there is no mention of the Arab Spring, yet it could fit in with the overall arc of this book which will leave the reader with a more nuanced understanding of one of the world's great religions and current events.
Martin D. reviewed No god but God : The Origins, Evolution, and Future of Islam on + 7 more book reviews
This is an exceptionally readable & straightforward history of Islam. Aslan recounts huge swaths of history concisely & practically with a frankness and lack of fearful reverence that will delight the lay reader & upset only the ultra orthodox. Similar to Karen Armstrong's writings. The best history of any religion I've read.
