The Isma'ilis

Farhad Daftary
Cambridge University Press
Edition: 2nd edition, 9/20/2007
EAN 9780521616362, ISBN10: 0521616360

Paperback, 800 pages, 24.7 x 17.4 x 4.5 cm

The Isma'ilis represent the second largest Shii Muslim community after the Twelvers, and are today scattered throughout more than twenty-five countries in Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and North America. This 2007 second edition of this authoritative book traces the history and doctrinal development of the Isma'ilis from their origins in the formative period of Islam to the present day, a period of more than twelve centuries. All the major phases of Isma'ili history are covered, including the pre-Fatimid period, the Fatimid 'golden age', the Tayyibi-Mustali period and the history of the Nizari Isma'ilis of Persia and Syria before the Mongol invasions. The final part traces the history of the modern Isma'ilis, particularly the socio-economic progress of the Nizari communities. The new edition is a thorough revision and incorporates new material, an expanded bibliography and new illustrations. It will be invaluable reading for students of Islamic and Middle Eastern history.

1. Introduction
progress in the study of the Ismåílís
2. Origins and early development of Shíism
3. Early Ismåílism
4. The Fåñimid period until 487/1094
dawla and dawa
5. The Later Fåñimids and Mustalian Ismåílism
6 Nizårí Ismåílí history during the Alamút period
7. The post-Alamút centuries and modern developments in Nizårí Ismåílí history
Select bibliography.

'... magisterial and readable ... an impressive survey ... there are, in addition, valuable genealogical tables and lists, and a glossary ... a standard text for all students and scholars'. Times Literary Supplement