Muslim Cultures of the Indian Ocean: Diversity and Pluralism, Past and Present

Explores the role of Islam in forming and transforming interconnectivity across the Indian Ocean World from a longue durée perspective

• Highlights the centrality of Muslim cultures in understanding interconnectivity across the Indian Ocean
• Explores the role of Islam in forming and transforming global interactions and local agencies across the Indian Ocean
• Offers intra-Muslim perceptions of beliefs, practices and activities, both religious and other
• Presents 15 case studies across Ethiopia, Gujarat, Java, Kerala, the Malay-Indonesian archipelago, Maldives, Oman, Tanzania, Zanzibar and the Persianate cultural zone

This book examines the role of Muslim communities in the emergence of connections and mobilities across the Indian Ocean World from a longue durée perspective. Spanning the 7th century through the medieval period until the present day, this book aims to move beyond the usual focus on geographical sub-regions to highlight different aspects of interconnectivity in relation to Islam. Analysing textual and material evidence, contributors examine identities and diasporas, manuscripts and literature, as well as vernacular and religious architecture. It aims to explore networks and circulations of peoples, ideas and ideologies, as well as art, culture, religion and heritage. It focuses on global interactions as well as local agencies in context.

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