With Islamic banking gradually becoming a more influential factor in the West, an analysis of the concept of riba - a definition of which is not given in the Qur'an - is long overdue. This text presents readers with various interpretations of this Islamic economic concept - generally perceived as 'interest'. Thomas provides a framework for understanding riba by examining: linguistics classical judicial analysis the historical context modern economics. Including contributions from prominent international scholars, the book fills a gap in the existing literature and will be welcomed by academics and professionals with an interest in Islamic studies, economics and legal history.