The Islamic faith is embraced by more than 1.6 billion people, and Arabic is the official language of 22 countries. This edition provides an authoritative list of more than 1,500 definitions of Arabic and Islamic terms.

This concise, accessible glossary of key Islamic terms is written by two of France's most eminent scholars of Islam. It offers brief explanations of the core background elements required by those beginning the study of Islam and covers the following:* Famous historical figures* Theological schools* Juridicial schools* Qur'anic symbols and themes* Religious rites and institutionsFocusing primarily on classical Islam, the historical references are mainly to the Sunni, Arab and Ottoman realms. This short book is an ideal text for those new to the subject of Islamic Studies and Islamic and Middle Eastern History.

It is every Muslim's duty to read the Koran and try to understand it, which can be a problematic task for those unacquainted with Arabic. The study and appreciation of Arabic literature likewise demands a thorough familiarity with the Koran; the majority of works by Muslim writers abound in allusions to its precepts and quotations from its pages. The sacred text's purity of style and elegance of diction make it the standard of Arabic. This classic guide to one of the world's most widely read books permits everyone, Muslim and non-Muslim alike, to understand the Koran — even those with no prior knowledge of Arabic. Geared toward beginners, it was written to answer the need for an American version of the Koran in contemporary English. Each word is listed under its verbal root, grouping words without roots alphabetically, and numerous explanations of the text appear throughout to help beginners master some inevitable difficulties and to assist more advanced readers of Arabic in solving problems.

The Dictionary of Islamic Architecture provides the fullest range of artistic, technical, archaeological, cultural and biographical data for the entire geographical and chronological spread of Islamic architecture - from West Africa through the Middle East to Indonesia, and from the seventh to the eighteenth centuries of the Common Era. Over 500 entries are arranged alphabetically and fully cross-referenced and indexed to permit easy access to the text and to link items of related interest. Four main categories of subject matter are explored: * dynastic and regional overviews * individual site descriptions * biographical entries * technical definitions Over 100 relevant plans, sketch maps, photographs and other illustrations complement and illuminate the entries, and the needs of the reader requiring further information are met by individual entry bibliographies.