In the name of The Most High

Dear reader,

This book is a publication of the Foundation of Islamic Thought, a non-profit organisation which publishes Islamic books and magazines in various languages. The Foundation's aim is to present Muslims and non­Muslims throughout the world with useful, factual, information about Islamic subjects. We hope that this book fulfils our purpose, which is to be a guiding beacon of Islamic information, dispelling doubt, misunderstanding and prejudice.

We would sincerely appreciate our readers' comments, criticisms and suggestions regarding this publication. Please include the book title and page number(s) in your remarks. Worldwide Islamic unity is our goal.

Foundation of Islamic Thought Tehran,

Islamic Republic of Iran