"[This collection] is distinguished by its wide range and the care which has clearly gone into the selection of texts for inclusion. . . . Attention has understandably been focused on what might be called the religious aspects of Islam, such as scripture, theology, sects, law, ritual and mysticism, but within those limits the texts chosen are marked by substantially of content, by geographical, chronological and social diversity, and by an intelligent use of less well known authors. . . . An excellent starting point for a systematic and analytical examination of Islam."—G. R. Hawting, Bulletin of the School of Oriental and African Studies

Andrew Rippin is professor of religious studies at the University of Calgary. Jan Knappert was senior fellow in the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London. John R. Hinnells is professor of comparative religion in the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London. He is the author of Handbook of Living Religions and editor of the Penguin Dictionary of Religions.