Publisher's Synopsis
One of the fastest-growing religions in the world, Islam is second only to Christianity in numbers of adherents. Muslims constitute a majority in 57 different countries and a significant minority in many others and are therefore playing a major role in world affairs. The World of Islam series discusses the origins of the religion, its major developments over time, how it spread worldwide and some common practices and beliefs. Each book explores a different aspect of Islam in the 21st century.