THe New Encyclopedia of Islam is written by a scholar for the general reader and researcher, without assuming any prior knowledge of the subject. Detailed cross-references lead the reader into deeper knowledge of Islam, whatever his strarting point. Many quotations, and hitherto untranslated prayers, support the religious and philosphical entries.

"Revised edition of the Concise encyclopedia of Islam."

Author's preface -- Introduction to the first edition / by Professor Huston Smith -- Notes to the first edition -- The encyclopedia -- Appendix A: Reference maps. Historical synopsis of the Islamic world ; Historical synopsis of the Middle East ; Arabia and its neighbours at the time of the prophet's birth ; Islam in the modern world -- Appendix B: Mecca and the Ḥajj. Chart of the Ḥajj ; Map of Mecca ; Plan of the Grand Mosque -- Appendix C: Branches of Islam -- Appendix D: Genealogical tables. The Quraysh ; The Umayyads ; The 'Abbāsids ; The 'Alids -- Chronology.