This book examines the extensive writings and documents about the history of the Baha'i Faith by Western authors not themselves Baha'is.

The youngest of the world religions and the second most widespread after Christianity, the Baha'i Faith is well known for its belief in the oneness of all religions. In this clear, readable, and informative guide, Momen provides a vibrant introduction to all aspects of this fast-expanding faith, which now has over 5.5 million adherents. From its teachings on the spiritual development of the individual to the belief in the need for world peace, Momen's comprehensive study gives anyone interested in the contemporary religious landscape an authoritative insight into this 150-year old tradition, whose spiritual and social teachings are so much in tune with the concerns of today.

This book is a general introduction to Shi’i Islam—specifically to Twelver Shi’ism, to which the majority of Shi’is belong today.  It deals with the history and development of this important religion, giving an account of Shi’i doctrines and focusing in particular on those areas in which it differs from Sunni Islam.  “Momen’s book fills an important gap in the general literature in English on Twelver Shi’ism, and should be carefully studied by anyone who wants to know more about what is happening in the Middle East today….This is a fine work which deserves the widest possible readership.�—Malise Ruthven, The Middle East “An extremely useful reference source on the establishment and evolution of the Shi’ite branch of the Islamic religion.�—Cecil V. Crabb, Jr., Perspective “An unpretentious style, interpretive clarity and . . . sound judgment characterize Momen’s writings. The various aspects of Twelver Shi’ism are carefully distinguished to satisfy both the general reader and the aspiring student.�—Norman Calder, Times Literary Supplement “Specialist and nonspecialist alike will benefit from its lucid exposition of both elite and popular Shi’ism. Especially valuable is the way the work presents modern critical scholarship on Shi’i history alongside the orthodox history, which still has great influence on the religion’s self-understanding.�—Mel Piehl, Library Journal  Moojan Momen has written extensively on Iran and Middle East religion.

From infallible Imams to Ayatollahs in Iran, Shi'ism has long been a prominent, if misunderstood, branch of Islam. It regards Ali, Muhammad's son-in-law, as the Prophet's legitimate successor. But theological differences between the Shi'ah and Sunni Muslims have led to sectarian violence, massacres and the desecration of holy sites. In this Beginner's Guide, Dr Moojan Momen offers an accessible and comprehensive overview of Shi'ism, tracing the history of the community, its leadership and doctrines, from its inception to modern times. Packed with useful tables, family trees and text boxes, this engaging and up-to-date guide is a perfect introduction to the historical and geopolitical causes of religious tensions still troubling the Middle East today.

Worldwide in its membership and increasingly being recognized as the youngest of the world religions, the Baha'i faith is enjoying rapid expansion. In this captivating book, Moojan Momen gives a brief survey of the life, the works, the claims and the teachings of Baha'u'llah, its founder. Covering the resistance he encountered, including successive forced exiles and vitriolic opposition, this book highlights his dedication and that of his followers who were often willing to sacrifice their lives for his teachings. Comprehensive and yet concise, this is a perfect book for anyone interesting in knowing more about the Baha'i faith and its inception.

An innovative, thematic presentation of the role of religion in human society, from traditional cultures to the modern world. Invaluable for anyone seeking an understanding of the nature and significance of diverse religious experience. Drawing from all major religious traditions in the world, as well as a variety of non-religious disciplines such as psychology, philosophy and sociology. Includes nearly 400 illustrations and will appeal to students, experts and the interested general reader.

Dr Momen examines the Baha'i approach to: * Darshana * Dharma * Moksha and gives an account of: * significant Hindu prophecies * the Baha'i social teachings, laws and history * the Baha'i community. Hinduism is one of the most ancient of the existing religious traditions; the Baha'i Faith is the most modern. Here is an introduction to the Baha'i Faith for those of the Hindu tradition. Most presentations of the Baha'i Faith have been from Western, Christian or Islamic viewpoint. This approach excludes much of the world's population. By presenting it from the perspective of the Hindu tradition, Dr Momen provides people from this background with information about the Baha'i Faith in a way which is meaningful to them while giving Baha'is new insights into their religion.