Review text: "A specialist collection, but fascinating in its sociological insights."John Turnbull in: New Directions 3/2010.

ʻUmar II’s vast correspondence with governors is examined for the discussion of Islamization and acculturation. From the caliph’s point of view, these two processes had to be regulated and the dilemma was how to formulate a policy that was both in line with Islamic ethics and, at the same time, controlling Islamization by setting a high entrance bar for the converts. The struggle against acculturation attempted to preserve Muslim political dominance by controlling the administration.

This paper focuses on the image the Fāṭimids propagated and disseminated about themselves as is depicted in literary and documentary sources. The narrative the Fāṭimids constructed about their right to rule and the characteristics of their rule are also discussed.