This book investigates, both theoretically and in considerable empirical detail, the teachings of Islam vis-a-vis politics. It defines the essence of Islamic civilization and highlights aspects of the colonial encounter as a background for understanding contemporary dynamics of the Muslim world. It shows, through textual, intellectual, and historical evidences, the linkage between Islam and politics and the nature of Islamic research methodology. Additionally it deals with a range of key issues and institutions including the law, the community, the legal and political order and the strategies and tactics of various Islamic movements. Useful distinctions are made between Islamic and Western perspectives which should prove illuminating to experienced professionals and students alike.

ABDUL RASHID MOTEN

Preface - Acknowledgements - Islam, Secularism and the Muslim World - Politics in Islam - Islamic Methodology in Political Science - Shari'ah: The Islamic Legal Order - Ummah: The Islamic Social Order - Khilafah: The Islamic Political Order - Muhasabah: Accountability in Islam - Nahdah: The Islamic Movement - Glossary - Appendix A: Framework of an Islamic State - Appendix B: Model of an Islamic Constitution - Appendix C: Profile of the Muslim World - Bibliography - Index