Islamic Law: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions)

Very Short Introductions: Brilliant, Sharp, Inspiring

Islamic law is one of the major legal systems in the world today, yet it is often misunderstood, particularly in the West. It is applicable in different forms as part of state law in countries across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, and also has a strong influence on Muslim communities throughout the Western world.

This Very Short Introduction provides an authoritative perspective on the evolution and nature of Islamic law. Mashood A. Baderin considers its theory, covering the history and nature of Islamic jurisprudence; its scope, covering Family Law, Inheritance Law, Financial Law, Penal Law, and International Law; and, finally, its practice. He takes into account both classical and modern scholarly perspectives in examining the various facets of Islamic law, to provide an overview of this key legal system.

ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

Mashood A. Baderin, Professor of Law, School of Law, SOAS, University of London

Professor Mashood A. Baderin is Professor of Laws at SOAS, University of London. He specialises in Islamic Law, Human Rights, International Law, and Law and Development in Africa. His books include Islamic Legal Theory, Vol. 1, Ashgate Islamic Law Series, (2014); Issues in Islamic Law, Vol. 2, Ashgate Islamic Law Series, (2014); Islamic Law in Practice, Vol. 3, Ashgate Islamic Law Series, (2014); and Islam and Human Rights: Selected Essays of Abdullahi An-Na'i, (2010).