About Islam Encyclopedia
Information about Islam from primary sources and academic research
Our Mission
Islam Encyclopedia provides evidence-based research on Islam for seekers, students, and anyone interested in understanding the faith through primary sources. Our methodology prioritizes the Quran, classical Arabic linguistics, independent historical accounts, and modern academic scholarship.
Our Methodology
We rank evidence by strength, from strongest to weakest:
- Quranic text — the highest authority, preserved and verifiable
- Independent historians — non-Muslim contemporary accounts from the 7th-8th centuries
- Classical Arabic lexicography — Lane's Lexicon, Lisan al-Arab, Taj al-Arus
- Peer-reviewed academic research — Oxford, Cambridge, Georgetown, etc.
- Hadith (historical curiosity) — evaluated as historical sources, not divine authority
Note on Hadith: We examine hadiths through historical-critical methods (isnad and matn analysis) as practiced in Western academia (Goldziher, Schacht, Juynboll) and modern Islamic revisionist scholarship. Hadiths are treated as historical reports to be evaluated, not as binding religious authority.
Our Principles
Accuracy
Information is verified against reliable sources
Respect
Topics are approached with dignity and respect
Scholarship
Academic and traditional sources are cited
Dialogue
Questions and thoughtful discussion are welcome
Note
This encyclopedia is for educational purposes. For personal religious guidance, consult with knowledgeable scholars and your local Islamic community.