The Encyclopaedia of Islam First Edition was originally published between 1913 and 1936. The demand for an encyclopaedic work on Islam was created by the increasing (colonial) interest in Muslims and Islamic cultures during the nineteenth century. The scope of this still unique reference work is philology, history, theology and law until early 20th century. Such famous scholars as Houtsma, Wensinck, Gibb, Snouck Hurgronje, and Lévi-Provençal were involved in this scholarly endeavour.
Features and Benefits
- 9000 alphabetically arranged articles
- the first highly international collaboration of scholars in this field
- the start of a renowned academic tradition
- historically important as a reflection of the scholarly discourses of its time
From an interview with Orhan Pamuk by the New York Times (November 8, 2012): "Q: Which book would you take to a desert island? A: "...the first edition of Encyclopaedia of Islam (1913-1936). My imagination works best with facts — especially if they are a bit dated. After 10 years they should pick me up from the desert island to publish the novels I wrote there". For the full interview, please click here.
"...retains its place as the most complete and comprehensive work in the field." - Ellen Broidy, in: American Reference Books Annual, 1988
"...bleibt das Standardwerk für alle Bibliotheken, Professoren und wohlhabenden Laien..." - Volker S. Stahr, in: Neue Zürcher Zeitung, 1994