The Concise Encyclopaedia of Islam

Your Definitive Gateway to Understanding Islam: The Encyclopedia That Bridges Knowledge Gaps

In an age of misinformation about Islam, where do you turn for accurate, comprehensive information? "The Concise Encyclopaedia of Islam" stands apart as the first major Islamic reference work authored by a Muslim scholar specifically for global audiences. With over 1,400 meticulously researched entries, Cyril Glassé has created not just a book, but an essential intellectual toolkit for anyone seeking to understand the Islamic world - from its profound spiritual dimensions to its rich historical tapestry.

For Pakistani readers - whether students navigating academic requirements, teachers preparing lessons, or curious minds exploring their own heritage - this single volume offers what would otherwise require an entire library.

Why This Encyclopedia Belongs in Every Pakistani Home and Institution:

For Students at All Levels: From high school projects to PhD research, find reliable, well-sourced information on any Islamic topic without wading through questionable online sources.

For Educators & Teachers: Prepare accurate lesson materials with confidence using cross-referenced, academically sound entries that present Islam in its full complexity.

For Professionals & Writers: Journalists, policymakers, and authors can quickly verify facts, understand contexts, and avoid common misconceptions about Islamic concepts.

For General Readers: Satisfy your curiosity about Islamic history, culture, rituals, and beliefs with accessible explanations that respect both intelligence and faith.

What Makes This Edition the Gold Standard:

Unmatched Comprehensiveness: 1,400+ entries spanning:

• Beliefs & Practices: Prayer rituals, fasting, pilgrimage, Islamic law (Sharia)
• Historical Framework: Prophets, caliphs, empires, and pivotal events
• Cultural Dimensions: Art, architecture, literature, science, and philosophy
• Contemporary Relevance: Modern movements, nations, and current affairs context

Unique Dual Perspective: Written by a Muslim scholar (Cyril Glassé) with deep understanding of Islamic tradition, yet presented with the clarity needed by Western-educated readers - perfect for Pakistan's bilingual intellectual landscape.

Exceptional Accessibility:

• Clear Cross-Referencing: Follow knowledge pathways from basic concepts to sophisticated understanding
• Visual Learning Aids: Maps, dynastic charts, Hajj diagrams, and organizational charts of Islamic branches
• Original Source Material: Previously untranslated prayers and quotations that bring authenticity
• No Prior Knowledge Needed: Starts from first principles while offering depth for advanced inquiry

About the Author: Why Cyril Glassé's Work Stands Apart

Cyril Glassé represents a unique bridge between Islamic scholarship and Western academic standards. As a Muslim convert and scholar, he brings:

• Insider Understanding: Deep appreciation of Islamic spirituality and practice
• Academic Rigor: Commitment to factual accuracy and balanced presentation
• Pedagogical Skill: Ability to make complex concepts accessible without oversimplification
• Global Perspective: Experience presenting Islam to diverse international audiences

This combination explains why his work has earned praise from both Muslim scholars and Western publications like the Daily Telegraph and Washington Post.

Why This Reference Is Particularly Valuable for Pakistani Readers:

In Pakistan's educational environment - where quality reference materials can be scarce or expensive - this encyclopedia provides:

Academic Excellence: Meets international scholarly standards while being accessible to Urdu-medium and English-medium students alike.

Cultural Relevance: Covers South Asian Islamic history, Sufi traditions in the subcontinent, and regional variations of practice.

Reliable Foundation: Counteracts the fragmentary and sometimes inaccurate information circulating in popular media and online spaces.

Lifelong Resource: Serves primary school students, university researchers, and general readers throughout their intellectual journeys.

Practical Features That Make Research Effortless:

• Detailed Chronology: Islamic history timeline from Prophet Muhammad to present
• Geographical Coverage: Major cities, centers of learning, and historical sites
• Comparative Framework: Understand relationships between different Islamic schools and traditions
• Recommended Bibliography: Guided pathways for deeper exploration of specific topics
• Updated Content: Revised edition reflecting contemporary developments and scholarship

Perfect For:

• School & University Libraries across Pakistan
• Islamic Studies Departments at colleges and universities
• Madrasah Libraries seeking quality English reference materials
• Journalists & Media Professionals covering Islamic topics
• Government Offices & NGOs working in Muslim contexts
• Home Libraries of intellectually curious families
• Diaspora Pakistanis explaining their heritage to others

Premium Hardback Reference Edition:

• Durable library-quality binding for decades of use
• High-quality paper with clear, readable typography
• Ribbon bookmark for easy reference during study
• Comprehensive index for quick information retrieval
• Elegant design worthy of display in homes and offices

Praise from Respected Sources:
"Erudite, accurate and comprehensive. All this factual information is given in detail, yet readably, with clarity and elegance." – Daily Telegraph

"This beautifully illustrated book is a feast of fact and insight... An enormous amount of information is contained here, all of it fascinating." – Washington Post

More Than a Book - An Intellectual Companion:
Whether you're verifying a fact for an article, helping your child with homework, preparing a lecture, or simply satisfying personal curiosity, this encyclopedia provides authoritative answers while encouraging deeper exploration. It's the reference that grows with your understanding.

Order Your Reference Cornerstone Today:
We deliver throughout Pakistan to educational institutions, libraries, and individual readers. Special pricing available for bulk orders by schools and universities. Invest in a resource that will serve students, families, and communities for generations.