In Understanding Islam, Idris Tawfiq explores the Islamic faith from a unique perspective: that of Roman Catholic priest turned Muslim scholar. In an engaging style, he lays out the core tenets of this widely misunderstood religion. Tawfiq draws on recent cultural phenomena in the West to examine the role of religion in this increasingly secular region, and he illustrates the many unexpected prisms through which Islam can be observed. He argues that Islam - far from contributing to any "clash of civilizations" - encourages and embodies spiritual enlightenment and tolerance, enabling Muslims and non-believers to live in mutual understanding. Understanding Islam elucidates some of the most pressing issues of our time.