Terrorists, not Muslims, are waging a war on the United States.
Recent world events have caused many of us to realize that we have little understanding of the Islamic faith, the Middle East, and the government of Islamic nations. What are the differences between Islamic extremists and fundamentalists? How is Islam practiced worldwide and what are its various interpretations? Who are the Taliban? If you are asking yourself these questions and others, read on...
Islam is a monotheistic religion founded in the seventh century. Muslims, or followers of the Islamic faith, believe the Prophet Mohammed is the messenger of God, or Allah; Abraham, Moses, and Jesus are also considered prophets. There are over one billion Muslims worldwide, with seven million living in the United States.
Learn more about Islam and its tenets in this overview:
Islam : A Very Short Introduction> By Malise Ruthven (2000)
Discover the Prophet Mohammed, the Five Pillars of Islam, and the Koran:
The Vision of Islam> By Sachiko Murata and William Chittick (1994)
Explore Muslims, their history, and their faith throughout the world: Islam in the World> By Malise Ruthven (2000)
Read the holy text: The Koran> Translated by Arthur Arberry (1955)
"Islamic fundamentalist" is a term used by many to describe people who follow a strict observance of Islamic law and values. "Extremists" extend their belief beyond the basic teachings of Islam. Find out more: Islamic Fundamentalism > By Lawrence Davidson (1998)
"Jihad" is to strive or struggle to follow the precepts of Islam. Jihad is sometimes interpreted to mean a holy war in defense of Islam. Explore: Jihad : The Origin of Holy War in Islam> By Reuven Firestone (1999)
The Taliban was founded by Islamic students during the Afghan war. Although the Taliban currently control much of the country of Afghanistan, they are not widely recognized as a legitimate government internationally. Learn about Afghanistan, the Afghan War, United States support of Muslim fighters, and the Taliban in: Afghanistan: Mullah, Marx, and Mujahid> By Ralph Magnus and Eden Naby (1998)
The Middle East, a region including southwest Asia and northwest Africa, is traditionally rich with culture, history, and religion. More recently, however, the region has been marked by turmoil and strife. For an introduction try:
A Concise History of the Middle East> By Arthur Goldschmidt (1999)
