One of the best general introductions to Islamic law Despite its age this is still one of the best general introductions to Islamic law. It remains a standard work in scholarly bibliographies. Offering both a history and a critical analysis, this book is enriched by a 66-page appendix containing complete translations of primary texts. Macdonald [1863-1943], a professor at the Hartford Seminary, established the field of Islamic studies in the United States in 1893. His efforts led to the creation of what is now the Duncan Black Macdonald Center for the Study of Islam and Christian-Muslim Relations at the Hartford Seminary. Introduction PART I Constitutional Development I. From Death of Muhammad to Rise of Abbasids II. To Rise of Ayyubids III. To Present Situation PART II Development of Jurisprudence I. To Close of Umayyad Period II. To Present Situation PART III Development of Theology I. To Close of Umayyad Period II. To Foundation of Fatamid Khalifate III. To Triumph of Ash'arites in East IV. Al-Ghazzali V. To Ibn Sab'in and End of Muwahhids VI. To Present Situation APPENDICES Illustrative Documents in Translation Selected Bibliography Chronological Table Index