Books published by Oneworld Publications

This work is a highly readable introduction to Shaykh Mufid, the leading Shi'i scholar of his time, and it examines his contributions in the fields of jurisprudence, theology, and sacred history in clear and straightforward language.

From quarks to computing, this fascinating introduction covers every element of the quantum world in clear and accessible language. Drawing on a wealth of expertise to explain just what a fascinating field quantum physics is, Rae points out that it is not simply a maze of technical jargon and philosophical ideas, but a reality which affects our daily lives.

This book studies an important icon of medieval South Asian culture, Indian courtier, poet, musician and Sufi, Amir Khusraw (1253-1325), chiefly remembered for his poetry in Persian and Hindi, today an integral part of the performative qawwali tradition.

This is the first book to present the life, times and poetry of one of the greatest poets in the Arab tradition, Abu Nuwas. Author Philip Kennedy provides the narrative of Abu Nuwas's fascinating life, which was full of intrigue and debauched adventure, in parallel with the presentation of his greatest poems, across all genres, in easy and accessible translations, giving commentary where needed.

A concise introduction to scripture in the world religions that offers an evaluation of the sacred word and covers everything from the role of the mantra in the eastern relgions to the lives of the ancient scribes.

Drawing on the rich diversity of humanity's common spiritual heritage, God's BIG Instruction Book explores the eternal themes of the spiritual life.

The compelling account of the life of the man described by 'Abdu'l- Baha as "my spiritual associate...my participator and co-sharer!"

An exploration of sex and religion together within the historical and contemporary contexts of each of the world's major living religions, from the ancient traditions and practices of both Eastern and Western religions to the modern influences of medicine, psychology and women's rights

The first volume of a three-volume study programme designed to help Baha'Is familiarize themselves with the Bible and Christian beliefs.

Evolutionary Psychology: A Beginner's Guide is a uniquely accessible yet comprehensive guide to the study of the effects of evolutionary theory on human behaviour. Written specifically for the general reader, and for entry-level students, it covers all the most important elements of this interdisciplinary subject, from the role of evolution in our selection of partner, to the influence of genetics on parenting. The book draws widely on examples, case studies and background facts to convey a substantial amount of information, and is authored by the UK's leading experts in the field, from the only dedicated research and teaching institute.

Muhammad ibn Idris al-Shafi'i (767-820) was one of Islam's foundational legal thinkers. Shafi'i considered law vital to social and cosmic order: the key obligation of each Muslim was to obey God, and it was through knowing and following the law that human beings fulfilled this duty. Drawing on the most recent scholarship on Shafi'i's work as well as her own investigations into his life and writings, Kecia Ali explores Shafi'i's innovative ideas about the nature of revelation and the necessary if subordinate role of human reason in extrapolating legal rules from revealed texts. This study sketches his life in his intellectual and social context, including his engagement with other early figures including Malik and Muhammad al-Shaybani. It explores the development and refinement of his legal method and substantive teachings as well as their transmission by his students. It also shows how he became the posthumous "e;patron saint"e; of a legal school, who remains today a figure of popular interest and veneration as well as a powerful symbol of orthodoxy.

Thoughtful and challenging, this book argues for a reassessment of the role historically played by Islam in Africa, and offers new hope for in creased mutual understanding between African people of different faiths. Drawing on a wealth of sources, from the colonial period to the most up-to-date scholarship, the author challenges the widely held perception th at, while Christianity oppressed and subjugated the African people, Islam fitted comfortably into the indigenous landscape. Instead, this penetrating account reveals Muslim settlers to be as guilty of enforcing slavery and conversion as those of their more maligned sister tradition. Only with an acknowledgement of the true roles of both faiths in African history, suggests Azumah, can the people of both traditions move themselves and their continent towards a new future of tolerance and self-awareness.

Excavates the rich vein of wisdom that characterises Arab literature, from Kahlil Gibran to the fabled delights of the Arabian Nights and the sacred verses of the Qur'an.

From the Crusades to the present day, the interrelationship between Islam and Christianity has been fraught with conflict, both theological and military. Yet events in 20th-century history, particularly the communications revolution, have meant that, after centuries of living in isolation from each other, Christians and Muslims find themselves participating in the same intellectual culture, and are having to review their assumptions about each other. In this work, Zebiri analyzes modern Muslim writings on Christianity and Christian writings on Islam to explore the issues central to Muslim-Christian relations. The literature surveyed is diverse - both popular and scholarly, varying in function, authorship and intended audience. Through its juxtaposition of the mutual perceptions of Muslims and Christians, the book provides an overview of the more important contrasts and similarities between the two religions.

Sudan has been in the headlines for all the wrong reasons. After decades of civil war, rebel uprisings and power struggles, in 2011 it gave birth to the world's newest country South Sudan. But it's not been an easy transition, and the secession that was meant to pave the path to peace, has plunged the region into further chaos.In this updated edition of his ground-breaking investigation, Jok Madut Jok delves deep into Sudan's culture and history, isolating the factors that continue to cause its fractured national identity. With moving first-hand testimonies, Jok provides a decisive critique of a region in turmoil, and addresses what must be done to break the tragic cycle of racism, poverty and brutality that grips Sudan and South Sudan..

A collection of spiritual teachings which is intended for all religious persuasions and those who seek a spiritual life. These meditational verses which were composed by Baha'u'allah, about the year 1858, while in exile to Iraq, explore the relationship between God and man.

Maulana Husain Ahmad Madani (1879 1957) was a political activist, Islamic scholar, and supporter of Gandhi during the struggle for India's independence. Humane and fiercely dedicated whether campaigning against the separation of Pakistan, or in favour of democracy and inter-religious peace, he brooked no nonsense and fought relentlessly for what he believed in. Spanning a lifetime of campaigning and controversy, Barbara Metcalf's compelling biography draws from Madani's letters and autobiographies, as well as detailed knowledge of the prevailing political climate, to create an intimate and revealing account of one of the most important men in the history of modern Islam.

An attractive book combining comprehensive coverage of the Baha'i faith's teachings, leaders, and practices, with images reflecting its architectural heritage and international diversity.

Professor Ayoub of Temple University, Pennsylvania, is one of the best known scholars of Islam in America today. He firmly believes that it is important to learn about Islam, its history, beliefs, and practices from believing Muslims. In this book, he combines his objective scholarship with the insights of an insider, to present a unique introduction to Islam as a living religion. From the starting point of his own spiritual journey, Ayoub explores all aspects of Islam: from its origins to the modern-day challenges of the world; from the Qur'an and Islamic law to the epic poetry of the Sufis; and from the spread of Islam worldwide to the present role of Islam in the US and Europe. A unique blend of personal understanding and scholarly endeavour, this digestible account will enable the reader to gain an insider's perspective on Islam and experience its significance from within.

Adopting the role of tour guide, award-winning writer Kevin Hart leads the reader through the pitfalls, conundrums and complexities that characterize postmodernism, while providing an overview of the many different approaches (philosophical, cultural, literary) to the subject. All the major thinkers are introduced from Derrida to Blanchot, Irigaray to Foucault, and more besides while the book is unique among introductory guides in its consideration of the role of religion in a postmodern world.

This is a collection of prayers and devotional writings in contemporary worship in the Muslim world. Drawing on a range of sources representing the spiritual influence, this book traces and analyzes the evolution of Islamic theological thought from the early saints and mystics to the present day.