Islam for the Western Mind

Book excerpt: Prophecy, politics, and the birth of a religion More than a billion people consider themselves Muslim. It is the world’s second-largest religion. Yet Western portrayals of the Islamic mind are often flawed. Islam for the Western Mind is an intensive look--from a Christian perspective--at what inspires and motivates Muslims, namely Muhammad and the teaching of the Koran. Dr. Drummond, an ordained Presbyterian minister and former professor, presents a balanced look at the life and teaching of Islam's founding Prophet, paying detailed attention to the religious and political community that existed during Muhammad's time as well as after his death. Dr. Drummond also looks at the larger cultural impact of Islam, examining what he calls the lightning-like spread of the new religion across much of the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Europe, and examines Muhammad’s teaching about women, pagans, and Jesus, the Messiah, Son of Mary. He gives detailed attention to the ethical teaching of the Koran. All this is with primary emphasis upon God as Lord of the Worlds, yet merciful and compassionate, and upon prophecy as divine revelation. Islam for the Western Mind is an essential text for anyone wanting an unbiased look at Muhammad, the Koran, and the religion they inspired.