Historical Dictionary of the Ismailis

(Hardback, 2nd edition)

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The Ismailis represent an important Shii Muslim community, who are now scattered in more than 30 countries of Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and North America. The Ismailis have had a long and eventful history dating back to the formative period of Islam. This dictionary, the first work of reference of its kind, presents the findings of modern scholarship on the Ismailis and different facets of their heritage. It covers all the major phases of Ismaili history and thought. There are entries also on the major and minor divisions of the Ismaili community. The main theological and doctrinal concepts are also covered. Designed as a mini encyclopedia, this dictionary will serve as first point of reference for information on all the key Ismaili figures, concepts, institutions, and traditions, as well as regions of importance in Ismaili history. In addition, numerous Muslim dynasties and figures with whom the Ismailis have come into contact are included. This second edition of the dictionary, first published in 2012, represents a thorough updating of the entries, with many new entries also added. Another main feature of this edition is the inclusion of many new items to all sections of the dictionarys extensive Bibliography.

Historical Dictionary of the Ismailis, Second Edition contains a chronology, an introduction, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section contains cross-referenced entries on key Ismaili figures, concepts, institutions, and traditions, as well as regions of importance in Ismaili history. In addition, numerous Muslim dynasties and figures with whom the Ismailis have come into contact are included. This book is an excellent resource for students, researchers, and anyone wanting to know more about Ismailis.

Author Bio

Farhad Daftary is Director Emeritus and a member of the Board of Governors of the Institute of Ismaili Studies, London. An authority in Ismaili studies, Dr Daftary has published and lectured widely in this field of Islamic studies. His own research has contributed to a better understanding of aspects of Ismaili history. As well as serving on various editorial and advisory boards. He has written and edited 27 books and more than 250 articles and encyclopedia entries. In 2011, a Festschrift entitled Fortresses of the Intellect was produced to honor Daftary by a number of his colleagues and peers.