An evaluation of the book by John L. Esposito: Islam The Straight Path.

In this book , Esposito provides a succinct, up-to-date survey of the Islamic experience, an introduction to the faith, belief, and practice of Islam from its origins to its contemporary resurgence. He traces the emergence and development of this dynamic faith and its impact on world history and politics. He discusses the formation of Islamic belief and practice (law, theology, philosophy, and mysticism), chronicling the struggle of Muslims to define and adhere to their Islamic way of life. Equally important is the essential information Esposito provides on the contemporary world of Islam, from Muslim responses to the challenges of colonialism and modernization to the reassertion of Islam in politics and society.

This introductory book in the teaching of Islam and Islamic way of life by Esposito can be categorized in three different sections with various sub-tittles.

First section concentrates on structural elements of Islam that includes Messenger

and the Message; that are Muhammad and the Holy Koran.

Second section is about The emergence of Islamic identity, as

Coming to an end at the Muslims of Western Europe, the presence of Muslims in Europe is not a new force, but a generation of siege and conquer. Over the years Ottomans and other missionaries have put forward their idea of Islam in many parts of Europe, including Bosnia and Romania.

As Esposito, introduces the faith, belief, and the practice of Islam from pre-historic times one can clearly see the religious events and the struggle of a religion through time. As on page 31, Esposito says, "...Muslims throughout the centuries, the message of the Koran and the examples of the Prophet..." are the essential building blocs of Muslim life. He also emphasizes on the importance of Islam history and civilization, because he believes that they are the "...record of that struggle to interpret and to follow the Straight Path." (Esposito 31:1998)

Our second question deals with the understanding of Islam. The message that this faith brings to the world is important to understand that Islam claims the holy message of God, a force that has brought a completion to the writings of the three holy books of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Islam is a religion that has brought peace, enlightenment, and unity to the faithful. I feel that this book could guide Muslims and non-Muslims in forming clear views on specific Islamic religious issues.

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 1099
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)