Force and Fanaticism: Wahhabism in Saudi Arabia and Beyond

Force and Fanaticism: Wahhabism in Saudi Arabia and Beyond

Wahhabism is an Islamic reform movement found mainly in Saudi Arabia. Closely linked to the Saudi monarchy, it enforces a strict code of morality and conduct monitored by mutawa (religious police), and governs every facet of Saudi life according to its own strict interpretation of Shariah, including gender segregation. Wahhabism also prohibits the practice of any other faith (even other forms of Islam) in Saudi Arabia, which is also the only country that forbids women from driving.

But what exactly is Wahhabism? This question had long occupied Valentine, so he lived in the Kingdom for three years, familiarizing himself with its distinct interpretation of Islam. His book defines Wahhabism and Wahhabi beliefs and considers the life and teaching of Muham-mad ibn Abd'al Wahhab and the later expansion of his sect. Also discussed are the rejection of later developments in Islam such as bid'ah; harmful innovations, among them celebrating the prophet's birthday and visiting the tombs of saints; the destruction of holy sites due to the fear of idolatry; Wahhabi law, which imposes the death sentence for crimes as archaic as witch- craft and sorcery, and the connection of Wahhabism with militant Islam globally.

Drawing on interviews with Saudis from all walks of life, including members of the feared mutawa, this book appraises of one of the most significant movements in contemporary Islam.
Country USA
Brand C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd
Manufacturer Hurst
Binding Hardcover
ItemPartNumber 9781849044646
UnitCount 1
EANs 9781849044646
ReleaseDate 0000-00-00

Country	USA
Brand	C Hurst & Co Publishers Ltd
Manufacturer	Hurst
Binding	Hardcover
ItemPartNumber	9781849044646
UnitCount	1
EANs	9781849044646
ReleaseDate	0000-00-00

Force and Fanaticism: Wahhabism in Saudi Arabia and Beyond

You might also like...