Beyond Belief: Islamic Excursions Among the Converted Peoples by V.S. Naipaul (Hardcover)

“Beyond Belief: Islamic Excursions Among the Converted Peoples” is a book by V.S. Naipaul, published in 1998. The book is a travelogue that explores the Muslim societies of Indonesia, Iran, Pakistan, and Malaysia. Naipaul examines the impact of Islam on the people of these societies and provides insights into the cultural and political dynamics of these countries.

Naipaul portrays Islam as a religion that is in a state of flux and is struggling to reconcile its past with the demands of the modern world. He argues that Islamic societies are characterized by a deep sense of insecurity and a lack of confidence in their own cultural heritage. Naipaul also explores the tensions between traditional Islamic beliefs and the forces of modernization and secularism.

Overall, “Beyond Belief” is a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the complexities of Islam and its relationship with the modern world. Naipaul’s writing is nuanced and insightful, and his observations provide a valuable perspective on the challenges facing Islamic societies today.