Ebook: On British Islam: religion, law, and everyday practice in shari'a councils

'On British Islam' examines the history and everyday workings of Islamic institutions in Britain, with a focus on shariʻa councils. These councils concern themselves with religious matters, especially divorce. They have a higher profile in Britain than in other Western nations. Why? Taking a historical and ethnographic look at British Islam, John Bowen examines how Muslims have created distinctive religious institutions in Britain and how shariʻa councils interpret and apply Islamic law in a secular British context. Bowen focuses on three specific shariʻa councils: the oldest and most developed, in London; a Midlands community led by a Sufi saint and barrister; and a Birmingham-based council in which women play a leading role. Bowen shows that each of these councils represents a prolonged, unique experiment in meeting Muslims' needs in a Western country.