An Introduction to Shi`i Islam

This book is a general introduction to Shii Islamspecifically to Twelver Shiism, to which the majority of Shiis belong today. It deals with the history and development of this important religion, giving an account of Shii doctrines and focusing in particular on those areas in which it differs from Sunni Islam. Momens book fills an important gap in the general literature in English on Twelver Shiism, and should be carefully studied by anyone who wants to know more about what is happening in the Middle East today.This is a fine work which deserves the widest possible readership.Malise Ruthven, The Middle East An extremely useful reference source on the establishment and evolution of the Shiite branch of the Islamic religion.Cecil V. Crabb, Jr., Perspective An unpretentious style, interpretive clarity and . . . sound judgment characterize Momens writings. The various aspects of Twelver Shiism are carefully distinguished to satisfy both the general reader and the aspiring student.Norman Calder, Times Literary Supplement Specialist and nonspecialist alike will benefit from its lucid exposition of both elite and popular Shiism. Especially valuable is the way the work presents modern critical scholarship on Shii history alongside the orthodox history, which still has great influence on the religions self-understanding.Mel Piehl, Library Journal Moojan Momen has written extensively on Iran and Middle East religion.