Great World Religions: Islam

How familiar are you with the world's second-largest and fastest-growing religion? Many people in the West know little about Islam and are familiar only with the actions of a minority of radical extremists. Great World Religions: Islam helps you better understand Islam as both a religion and a way of life. In these illuminating lectures, expert Islamic scholar and Professor John L. Esposito takes you through Islamic history from the 7th century through today. Along the way you explore Muslim beliefs and practices in the context of their impact on Muslim life and society throughout the ages; how and why Muslims came to Europe and America; the issues of faith, identity, and integration that face them in their homelands; and other fascinating aspects of this great world faith.

Price: Paid
Platform: Great Courses
Categories: Philosophy & Religion Eastern & World Religions Medieval Philosophy

Learn More

Related Courses

Explore similar courses.

Introduction to the Qur'an

Despite the fact that nearly 25 percent of the world’s population is Muslim, misinformation and ignorance about Islam and its place in the world continue to thrive, and the result has been a great deal of conflict and confusion. Often, much of what is misunderstood about Islam is the result of a lack of information—and some dangerous and prolific myths. To combat these myths and to appreciate the complexity of Islam, Dr. Martyn Oliver, a Senior Professorial Lecturer at American University, presents the 12 in-depth lectures of Introduction to the Qur’an to provide you with a multifaceted approach to Muhammad, Islam, and the revelation known today as the Qur’an.

Great Courses Learn more

(SET) Introduction to the Qur’an & The History and Achievements of the Islamic Golden Age

Get an insightful, illuminating introduction to the Muslim faith in this two-course set. First, take a multifaceted approach to the Qur’an and its 1,400-year history, from its origins as a revelation to Muhammad to its role in the establishment of Islam as a world religion, in Introduction to the Qur’an. Then, in The History and Achievements of the Islamic Golden Age, discover how the philosophers, scientists, inventors, and poets of the Abbasid Empire paved the way for the Renaissance and the modern age.

Great Courses Learn more

(Set) Confucius, Buddha, Jesus, and Muhammad & Lost Christianities: Christian Scriptures and the Battles over Authentication

Explore the nature of some of the world's greatest religions by looking at their founding figures. First, in Confucius, Buddha, Jesus, and Muhammad, go inside the life stories, profound teachings, and enduring legacies of these four iconic figures. Next, in Lost Christianities: Christian Scriptures and the Battles over Authentication, explore the variety of provocative writings followed by some of Christianity's earliest sects and see how the official canonical New Testament emerged.

Great Courses Learn more

Great World Religions: Christianity

The lectures of Great World Religions: Christianity provide you with a clear survey of the most important elements of a vital religious tradition that has become the world's largest faith. In award-winning Professor Luke Timothy Johnson's course, consider fundamental issues including Christianity's birth and expansion across the Mediterranean world, the development of its core doctrine, its deep connections to Western culture, and more. Each one of these 12 lectures is filled with insights that will enhance your understanding of the history and nature of a great world religion.

Great Courses Learn more

Get the latest news!

Get the latest on new courses, sales, learning tips, site updates and community events.