Understanding Islam: A Primer

by Idris Tawfiq

in Understanding Islam, Idris Tawfiq explores the Islamic faith from a unique that of a Roman Catholic priest turned Muslim scholar. In an engaging style, he lays out the core tenents of this widely misunderstood religion.

Genres: Religion

122 pages, Paperback

First published September 30, 2008

Reviews

[Pat · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a primer for readers who want to understand the basics of Islam. I would highly recommend this book. Reading it has allowed me to further research the faith of Islam on my own. The terrorists who kill innocent people in the name of Allah (God) are not true believers. The media needs to stop calling them "Islamic" or "Muslim" terrorist. They are simply terrorist and murderers.

"If we had the ability, or the great gift, of being able to see things from another's point of view, of being able to walk in someone else's shoes, we would see that Islam as a religion is neither violent or aggressive. We would see that Muslims believe Islam to be the religion of peace, and the answer to man's problems. If we can suspend our disbelief just long enough to hear what the other has to say, Islam might be given the chance to speak for itself."

"The image that some give to the world is a false image of Islam. Islam is not violent. the idea of a "Muslim or "Islamic" terrorist is abhorrent to true Islam.."

[Bonnie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is very informative, once you work your way past the obvious attempts at indoctrination and male-centric writing style. I'm thinking there are probably better books for getting the Muslim message across to western audiences, but this has still given me a good idea of what parts of Islam are actually in the Quran, and what practices have only been adopted as a part of Middle Eastern culture. Violence is not something recommended in the Quran, and women are not told they shouldn't leave the house or that they should cover their faces, or that they cannot work. All of these appear to only be characteristics of Saudi/Afghani cultures and their "interpretation" of Islam.

[Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Christian, it was very helpful and informative. The author wrote in a way that was easily understood and used great examples and analogies. I appreciate that he explained without going too greatly into details that aren't absolutely necessary. I liked seeing the similarities between my beliefs and those of Muslims. I also liked that the book was never "preachy" and I never felt like the author was trying to get me to become Muslim or put down any other religion.

[Fredrick Danysh · Rating 3 out of 5]

Islam is one of today's major religions and one of the most misunderstood, even by its followers. As the Bible is taken out of context and misquoted by many Christians so is Islam by Muslims. This small book attempts to explain the the concepts and beliefs of Islam.

[RosZalin Rosidin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Im a Muslim woman, born and raised Muslim. Understanding Islam covers about the 5 Pillar of Islam, which I was taught in my elementary school because it is the basic for the Muslim. I have read the physical copy of this book. Very well written. The analogy he tried to put match the content very well, thus become more enlightened. Reading this as someone come from the Southeast Asia, I enjoyed Mr. Idris writing as he came from the Europe, the very opposite block of the wall of mine. I encourage both Muslim and non-Muslim to read this with an open mind and heart. Peace!