At a time when "scholars" and journalists are churning out books on Islam like clockwork, it has become alarmingly difficult to find an broad, balanced survey of Jihad, with its many meanings and applications. Rudolph Peters presents a diverse, yet coherent selection of sources on the topic. His own analyses are well-informed and highly respectful of how nuanced the institution of Jihad is.

Especially refreshing is the absence of a post-9/11 agenda, in contrast to other recent books. The book traces the evolution of Jihad throughout Islamic history by presenting a progression of sources from various times and places.

Admittedly, this is a relatively short read and therefore limited in scope. But the sources are well-chosen and provide an effective foundation for further study.