The Zahiris

Abstract

That Ignaz Goldziher (1860-1921) was the pivotal figure in the modern academic study of Islam (or “Orientalism”) is beyond dispute. His writings and thought left an indelible mark on all future scholars, and he set the bar for at least another two generations. Law, jurisprudence, theology, Islamic history – all subjects related to Islam were discussed by him at a time when Orientalism was still in its infancy. While many of his ideas have long since been abandoned or modified, his presence remains looming in the field almost a century after his death. While most authors of his time are merely read as historical oddities, his works alone retain elements of originality that still make them required reading for any serious student of the field ...