Legacy of Jihad, The

Book Description

This comprehensive scholarly examination presents eight centuries of historical documentation exploring the concept of jihad within Islamic tradition. Andrew Bostom assembles an extensive collection of primary source materials, drawing from the Quran, Hadith, and classical Islamic jurisprudence to trace how religious warfare has been understood and justified throughout history.

The work brings together writings from both classical Muslim jurists and modern twentieth-century scholars, offering readers access to many texts translated into English for the first time from their original Arabic, Farsi, and French sources. Through careful documentation, Bostom demonstrates how these religious concepts influenced historical conquests and territorial expansion across vast regions over thirteen centuries.

The book examines the relationship between religious doctrine and political action, showing how theological interpretations shaped interactions between Muslim and non-Muslim populations throughout history. By presenting both classical commentaries and contemporary scholarship side by side, the author creates a detailed picture of how religious ideas translated into social and political realities.

For readers seeking to understand the historical development of religious thought and its real-world applications, this 759-page volume offers substantial documentation and analysis. The work provides insight into how spiritual concepts can influence human behavior across cultures and centuries, making it valuable for those studying the intersection of faith, politics, and social organization throughout history.