Westerners have a strong impression that Islam does not allow religious imagery. Elias corrects this view. Unearthing shades of meaning in Islamic thought throughout history, he argues that Islamic perspectives on representation and perception should be sought in diverse areas such as optics, alchemy, dreaming, vehicle decoration, Sufi metaphysics.
Central themes and concepts essential for understanding Islamic religion and society are explored in this comprehensive study. It serves as a valuable resource for both students and experts from various fields, providing insights into how Islam intersects with important contemporary issues. The book aims to foster a deeper comprehension of Islam's relevance in today's world, making it an indispensable tool for those seeking to engage with the subject meaningfully.
From Muhammad and the Community of Believers to Islam in the Global Community
Focusing on the rich history and contemporary significance of Islam, the book offers an engaging overview for those new to the religion. It covers essential aspects such as Islamic beliefs, rituals, and customs, while also delving into the importance of Islamic law. Additionally, it explores the major sects, including Sunnism, Shi'ism, and Sufism, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the diverse facets of Islam.
Alef Is for Allah is the first groundbreaking study of the emotional space occupied by children in modern Islamic societies. Focusing primarily on visual representations of children from modern Turkey, Iran, and Pakistan, the book examines these materials to investigate concepts such as innocence, cuteness, gender, virtue, and devotion, as well as community, nationhood, violence, and sacrifice. In addition to exploring a subject that has never been studied comparatively before, Alef Is for Allah extends the boundaries of scholarship on emotion, religion, and visual culture and provides unique insight into Islam as it is lived and experienced in the modern world.
A concise presentation of the Muslim faith and its practices in the lives of believers throughout history and in the present.