‘This study of the eighteenth-century Muslim scholar and Sufi Shah Waliyullah Dihlavi describes in fascinating detail why his life and thought are relevant for the Islamic tradition today. Tareen argues that the central notion for understanding his legacy is what he calls “Islamic cosmopolitanism” – the specific ability to reconcile apparently opposed Islamic ideas and interpretations in a thoughtful, productive manner. This learned book should be read by everyone who is seriously concerned with the intellectual challenge that contemporary Islamic thought is encountering.’

– Talal Asad, Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Anthropology and Middle Eastern Studies, City University of New York Graduate Center

‘Nimbly navigating a multi-lingual oeuvre of stunning complexity, Tareen offers an accessible introduction to one of Islamic history’s most influential and contested figures. His multi-dimensional portrait is relevant without being presentist, and gives both India and the eighteenth century the central place that they deserve.’

– Marion Holmes Katz, Professor of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies, New York University

‘Shah Waliyullah was an intellectual and spiritual giant whose influence traverses the Middle East and South Asia alike. On the cusp of the colonial era, he both consolidated and critiqued previous centuries of Sunni tradition. In lucid, readable prose, SherAli Tareen surveys his key concerns which continue to shape Muslim debates. This is an excellent introduction to Waliyullah’s life and thought.’

– Nile Green, Ibn Khaldun Endowed Chair in World History, UCLA