For further reading:

1. Shi‘i Islam: Origins, Faith and Practices

by Mohammad A. Shomali

(London: Islamic College for Advanced Studies, 2003)

“Muslims are divided into two major groups: the majority is called Sunni and the second Shi‘ite. What are the common features in virtue of which both groups are said to follow the religion of Islam? What are the fundamental differences in doctrine and practice between these two groups? Such questions are answered clearly and intelligently in this book by a Shi‘ite theologian and philosopher. This book will be of interest to students of Islam and of religious studies generally.” (Dr. Legenhausen)

“Dr Shomali has written a concise and scholarly introduction to the distinctive teachings of Shi‘i Islam, its cultural and intellectual as well as doctrinal features, its historical unfolding and contemporary situation. He is to be congratulated on his achievement.” (Prof. Hamid Algar, University of California, Berkeley)

ISBN: 1 904063 11 X

2. Love in Christianity and Islam:

A Contribution to Religious Ethics

by Mrs. Mahnaz Heydarpoor

(London: New City 2002)

“Her analysis of love in Christianity is scholarly and insightful, but it will be her exposition of the centrality of love in Islamic theology and ethics that will be of particular interest to many western readers, Christians and others.

It is to be hoped that Mahnaz’s initiative will be reciprocated by many more scholars searching, like her, for grounds for dialogue to further mutual appreciation and understanding between Islam and Christianity.” (Dr. Denis Bates)

ISBN: 0 904287 79 3

3. Introduction to Hadith

by ‘Abd al-Hadi al-Fadli

Translated by Mrs. Nazmina Virjee

(London: Islamic College for Advanced Studies, 2002)

This work studies the origins and development of Hadith literature. It treats the subject of Hadith from different perspectives, such as the historical beginning of the science, the onset of Hadith literature, compilation of Hadith works, the terminology and methodology within the science itself, authenticity and weakness of traditions, and the whole phenomenon of fabrication.

The same publication also includes a translation of one of the classical texts on the science of Hadith, Dirāyat al-Hadith, by the renowned tenth-century scholar al-Shahíd al-Thāní.

ISBN: 1 904063 04 7 (pb)

4. Lady Fatima Masuma (A) of Qum

by Masuma Jaffer

(Qum: Jami‘at al-Zahra, 2003)

This book attempts to chronicle her life, from her birth in 173 A.H in Madina, to her death at the young age of 28 in Qum. It includes her biography, education, and narration of traditions.

Also included is the history and description of her shrine and a brief glance at the city of Qum.

ISBN 964-438-455-5