Sources: The New Encyclopedia of Islam

Abstract

The 4th edition adds roughly 100 new items as well as revisions and updates to previously published entries. By and large, the entries are well researched and easy to follow, exceptions noted below. Islam's rituals, doctrines, early history, sects, and key figures in its development are covered thoroughly, as are the later scholars, philosophers, and rulers. From this standpoint the work is a straightforward ready reference source on the religion. There are however major omissions in this work. Namely, inadequate coverage of the modern era and non-Middle Eastern Muslim communities. Furthermore, Mr. Glasse is obviously partial to philosophical topics, which is not an issue in and of itself, but when other areas are neglected it becomes problematic.