In this text, John L. Esposito clearly and carefully explains the teachings of Islam - the Quran, the example of the Prophet, Islamic law - about jihad or holy war, the use of violence and terrorism. He chronicles the rise of extremist groups and examines their frightening worldview and tactics.

In this brief, clear-sighted book, one of the world's leading authorities on the Islamic world answers the many troubling questions raised in the wake of the September 11, 2001, attack.

"Unholy War advances an excellent argument in lucid language to masterfully interpret Islam and Muslim understandings of jihad and the context within which it becomes a source of instability. This book achieves its goal of educating the public with its exceedingly clear and an easy flowing style."--Middle East Journal