One of the most formidable weapons in the battle against Islamic fundamentalism Islam is currently passing through a transformative moment no less dramatic than the movements that swept through Europe during the reformation. At this critical juncture there are two completely opposed worldviews within Islam competing to define this great world religion. The stakes have never been higher and the future of the Muslim world hangs in the balance.

Drawing on the rich tradition of Islamic history and law, The Great Theft is an impassioned defense of Islam against the encroaching power of the extremists. As one of the preeminent Islamic scholars in the world, Khaled Abou El Fadl roots his arguments in the longstanding historical legal debates and point-by-point delineates the beliefs and practices of moderate Muslims from the corrupting influences of the extremists.

From the role of women in Islam to the nature of jihad, from democracy and human rights to terrorism and warfare, Abou El Fadl builds a vital vision for a moderate Islam. At long last, the great majority of Muslims that oppose extremism have a desperately needed voice to help reclaim Islam’s great moral tradition.