Interfaith relations Books

Book SynopsisMultifaith spaces reflect the diversity of the modern world and enable a connection between individuals from different religious backgrounds. These spaces also highlight the complex and sensitive areas of political and social debates regarding the emergence of densely urbanised populations. They hold the potential to encourage connection and dialogue between members of different communities, promoting empathy, community and shared activity for the betterment of society. This book explores the history, development, design and practicalities of multifaith spaces from the early shared religious buildings that had to cater for two or more faiths, to the shared multifaith spaces of modern secular locations such as universities, airports and hospitals. Terry Biddington looks at the architectural, theological, social, legal and practical complexities that arise from the development and use of such spaces. The book also draws together research to enable further development of multifaith spaces.Trade ReviewThis book is the first in depth study on multifaith spaces, examining the new shape religion is taking in today's institutions. A `must read' for all engaged in planning, creating and running similar projects and all who want to get a understanding of one way in which religion is back in the public sphere with powerful symbols of peace and integration in diversity. -- Martin Rötting, Professor of Religious Studies, Paris-Lodron University Salzburg and Chair at House of Culture and Religion e.V. MunichTerry Biddginton's superb examination of multifaith spaces will make a big contribution to inter-religious understanding. It offers an encyclopaedia of examples of the many ways in which people have wrestled with the dilemmas of creating multifaith spaces. Equally it provides a clear-sighted analysis of the underlying challenges and tensions which must be negotiated to enable the cohabitation of different faiths. It's a book whose relevance and usefulness will surely increase in the future. -- Simon Keyes, Professor of Reconciliation and Peacebuilding, University of Winchester

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Book SynopsisThis book offers a fresh perspective on religious difference by setting local challenges within the global picture, and exploring the meaning of religious resurgence for Western secularist ideas. Theory and practical engagement are combined in an imaginative Christian approach to responding to religious difference, without resorting to relativism.Trade ReviewAt a time when some are fomenting divisions among religions, this wonderful book fosters understanding and compassion. Read it and you will feel more hopeful about the world. -- Dame Minouche Shafik, Director, London School of EconomicsThis book on interfaith engagement, by a distinguished leader in the field, not only vividly tells the story of a remarkable initiative but also gives its secret: an approach to faith communities and religious issues that is well-informed, imaginative, wise in strategy and execution, and deeply relevant to our conflicted world. -- David F. Ford OBE, Regius Professor of Divinity Emeritus, University of CambridgeA thoughtful account of how religion can play a constructive role amid conflicts, and why people of faith should make this effort. -- Craig Calhoun, University Professor of Social Sciences, Arizona State University, USAThis short, incisive Christian reflection on interfaith dialogue and practice could well become a landmark in identifying and resourcing the next generation's agenda for such encounter... This invigorating work could energise much theology, interfaith encounter, and religious education, as well as the teaching of politics and social sciences. -- Dr Philip Lewis, Consultant on Islam and Christian-Muslim Relations to the Bishop of Leeds, and former lecturer in Peace Studies at Bradford University * Church Times *Table of ContentsIntroduction. 1. Saved from the Way of Blood. 2. Things Fall Apart. 3. The Return of Religion. 4. Deeply Christian, Serving the Common Good. 5. Becoming Good Neighbours.

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Book SynopsisIn this interfaith book Lucinda Mosher investigates different understandings of destiny, loss, death, and remembrance in America's many religions. Using stories and interviews with a variety of religious adherents and health professionals, the book wrestles with questions such as: how can our religion guide us in making decisions about certain kinds of medical treatment options? What religion-related issues would it be helpful for a healthcare provider to know? How do different religious traditions help manage our grief?In a globalized society religious traditions sit alongside each other as never before, and the need for religious literacy and multifaith chaplaincy is increasingly recognized. By looking at multireligious America, this book provides an essential exploration of different attitudes to death, helping members of all faith communities to become more literate with each other's religious traditions.Trade ReviewDr. Mosher provides insights into how the big questions of life and death are answered within the rich tapestry of American religious life. This book is a must-read for anyone working in the caring professions, whether physicians, nurses, counselors, chaplains, or therapists. America is becoming a more diverse place and this book is a valuable guide to navigating it. -- Daniel Joslyn-Siemiatkoski, Seminary of the Southwest, Austin, TXThis book changed me as much as anything I have read in recent years. If you want to know more about the full humanity your new neighbors-and are willing to think more deeply about your own eventual demise as well-then you cannot have better companions than the ones Lucinda Mosher introduces you to in this book. -- Barbara Brown Taylor, author of Learning to Walk in the DarkIn the context of religious pluralism and the needs of healthcare professionals to increase their interfaith literacy, Mosher's book is a gift. Its thematic approach speaks to the heart of person-centered care, and is enriched by a mosaic of voices within and across faith perspectives which leads practitioners not into an acquisition of knowledge but a deep relational respect and wonder, that builds cultural competency from the inside out -- The Rev. Dr. Storm Swain, Associate Professor of Pastoral Care and Theology, United Lutheran SeminaryTable of ContentsPreface. 1. What We Are. 2. When We're Ailing. 3. Postponing Death, Extending Life. 4. Transition. 5. Recovery. Quick Information Guide to Religions. Suggestions for Further Reading. Glossary.

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Book SynopsisThe Christians that lived around the Arabian Peninsula during Muhammad's lifetime are shrouded in mystery. Some of the stories of the Prophet's interactions with them are based on legends and myths, while others are more authentic and plausible. But who exactly were these Christians? Why did Muhammad interact with them as he reportedly did? And what lessons can today's Christians and Muslims learn from these encounters? Scholar Craig Considine, one of the most powerful global voices speaking in admiration of the prophet of Islam, provides answers to these questions. Through a careful study of works by historians and theologians, he highlights an idea central to Muhammad's vision: an inclusive Ummah, or Muslim nation, rooted in citizenship rights, interfaith dialogue, and freedom of conscience, religion and speech. In this unprecedented sociological analysis of one of history's most influential human beings, Considine offers groundbreaking insight that could redefine Christian and Muslim relations.Trade Review‘A path-breaking work.’ -- The Muslim World Book Review'A historical meditation on the fascinating complexity of Christian belief systems in Arabia which would have been encountered by Muhammad. This is a valuable text on the ancient co-existence of faiths, which, while honouring each other, weren't afraid to draw lines in the sand about their differences.' -- Barnaby Rogerson, author of 'The Prophet Muhammad: A Biography''An important exploration of monotheism during Prophet Muhammad's lifetime in seventh-century multicultural Arabia, citing the many surprising crossovers between Islam, Judaism and Christianity which deserve to be better known.' -- Diana Darke, author of 'Stealing from the Saracens' and 'The Merchant of Syria''At the birth of Islam, there was a spirit of Abrahamic ecumenism--only a vague memory for some Muslims today, and totally unknown to most non-Muslims. Considine skilfully highlights that lost spirit, reminding us that religious freedom and pluralism were not alien to the world-changing mission of Prophet Muhammad.' -- Mustafa Akyol, Opinion Writer, 'The New York Times', and Senior Fellow, Cato Institute'Based on impeccable scholarship, Considine makes the compelling case that the divine message received by Prophet Mohammad came amid real-life encounters. The interactions between Muslims and Christians bring a message of unconditional regard and gracious hospitality, as relevant now as it was then.' -- Reverend Dirk Ficca, Senior Advisor, A World of Neighbours, Church of Sweden'In this highly accessible account of seventh-century Christian-Muslim relations, Considine takes us on a journey to the multi-ethnic, inter-faith Ummah of Prophet Muhammad, where freedom of religion existed for Christians and Jews. These historical lessons resonate today. A unique and timely work.' -- Josef Meri, Historian in Interfaith Relations in the Middle East, Hamad Bin Khalifa University

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Book SynopsisThis is a book about dialogue, specifically about the dialogue between religions. But it is also a book formed in dialogue. I seek to bring together the two sides of my experience as an academic teacher and pastoral worker: on the one hand, the extraordinary world of the religions that is such an important feature of contemporary Western culture; on the other, my spiritual formation and religious practice which has acted as the primary motivation for everything that I do as a Jesuit priest. The book can be read both as a practical correlate to what I have written elsewhere on the theology of religions, and, at a more personal level, as a reflection on my experience ‘on the streets’, as it were. I am guided throughout by the conviction that Christian faith comes truly alive when it is communicated, brought into dialogue with what is ‘other’, different, even strange. God’s own story, what God seeks to reveal of God’s own self through the witness of the Bible, enters into dialogue with the story of one Jesuit who seeks to respond to the mystery of a loving God through the lens of Ignatian spirituality. The twelve linked chapters form a personal introduction, with a degree of autobiography and illustrative anecdote, to an interior dialogue between Christian faith and the challenging context of contemporary religious pluralism. Michael Barnes is the author of Religions in Conversation (SPCK 1989) , God East and West (SPCK 1991), Theology and the Dialogue of Religions (CUP 2002), Interreligious Learning: Dialogue, Spirituality and the Christian Imagination (CUP 2012), Waiting on Grace: a Theology of Dialogue (OUP 2020). Trade Review‘This is the story of one Jesuit who seeks to respond to the mystery of a loving God through the lens of Ignatian Spirituality. The author brings his expertise as a theologian and specialist in Asian religions together with his active engagement with people from other faith traditions in a reflection on his own personal experience, his ‘ongoing pilgrimage’. -- Eileen Quinn Knight * Catholic profiles *Dialoguing with a difference -this is a book both about dialogue and also formed through dialogue. Irish News June 2021 -- William Scholes * Faith Matters, The Irish News *‘... a most interesting book... an endless, but enriching exploration.’ The Irish Catholic June 2021 -- Peter Costello * The Irish Catholic *'stimulating and challenging…the book is filled with energy and texture' Thinking Faith -- Tom McGuinness SJ * Thinking Faith *‘...harmoniously blends theory and practice, doctrine and lived experience of interreligious dialogue. To a world lacerated by hatred and religious fundamentalism, this book could not have been more timely! * Gregorianum *

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Book SynopsisAre Islam and Christianity essentially the same? Should we seek to overcome divisions by seeing Muslims and Christians as part of one family of Abrahamic faith? Andy Bannister shares his journey from the multicultural streets of inner-city London to being a Christian with a PhD in Qur’anic Studies. Along the way, he came to understand that far from being the same, Islam and Christianity are profoundly different. Get to the heart of what the world’s two largest religions say about life’s biggest questions—and discover the uniqueness of Christianity’s answer to the question of who God really is.Trade ReviewA nuanced and sensitive examination, from an overtly Christian perspective, of how to negotiate a truth that is no less self-evident for being one that many prefer to draw a veil across: Christianity and Islam are not remotely the same. -- Tom Holland * author of Dominion and In the Shadow of the Sword *A must-read for the curious whether you have faith already or not. Prepare to be entertained, edified and gripped – I found myself unable to put it down. -- Dr Amy Orr-Ewing * President, OCCA The Oxford Centre for Christian Apologetics *Few topics are more important in today’s world, and few authors are more qualified to address it. -- Bruxy Cavey * Pastor of The Meeting House, author of The End of Religion *We need thinkers who have studied both religions extensively. Andy Bannister is just such an expert and he helps us wrestle with this important question with the depth and care it deserves. -- Randy Newman * Senior Fellow at The C. S. Lewis Institute and author of Questioning Evangelism. *This book is a must-read for all interested in inter-religious issues, both believers and non-believers. -- Peter G Riddell * SOAS University of London and Australian College of Theology *Persistently challenging, consistently provoking, deeply searching, and endlessly witty! -- Anna Robbins * President and Dean of Theology, Acadia University *A sharp witted, big hearted, and clear minded romp through one of the most pressing religious questions of our time. -- Dr Richard Shumack * Research Fellow, Centre for Public Christianity and Director, Arthur Jeffery Centre for the Study of Islam, Melbourne School of Theology *

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Book SynopsisFinalist for The Rabbi Sacks Book Prize 2023. A new paradigm for relations between religions, one of acceptance and collaboration, requires not only a willingness to move beyond a tradition of hostility and competition but also significant theological rethinking. Within Jewish Orthodoxy there have been very few voices that have advanced and justified a vision of other faiths in this light: to this day, the reigning paradigm is one of practical collaboration while avoiding theologically based engagement or reflection. Two of the most important Orthodox Jewish voices advocating change have been those of Irving Yitz Greenberg and Jonathan Sacks. This book presents the theological, moral, and social views of these two leading rabbis. It focuses on the significance of covenant for both, and how they adapt this concept to enable the development of a Jewish view of other religions. In considering how they may have influenced each other, it also studies the limitations and internal contradictions that characterize their work as they attempt to point the way forward, in a spirit of dialogue, to continuing theological reflection on Judaism’s approach to world religions.Trade Review‘Alon Goshen-Gottstein is unquestionably one of the leading Jewish practitioners and theorists of inter-faith dialogue. If this book is not yet Goshen-Gottstein’s own Jewish theology of world religions, it is nevertheless an important step towards that goal.’ Paul Franks, Professor of Philosophy, Yale University‘The time has come to equip contemporary Jews with the tools and analytics for interreligious discourse. This book will help realize this need, developing as it does the dimensions of difference as a major analytic and dialogical feature.’ Michael Fishbane, Nathan Cummings Distinguished Service Professor of Jewish Studies, University of Chicago‘Written with courage and great learning, this remarkable book argues for the importance of going beyond covenant theology to the notion of all human beings as created in the image of God as a basis for a truly positive relationship between individuals and their religions. It also serves as conspectus of contemporary Orthodox theology. Warmly recommended to all Jews who want to live in, and not only next to, the world around us.’ Menachem Kellner, Chair of Philosophy and Jewish Thought, Shalem College, Jerusalem‘Alon Goshen-Gottstein is one of the leading contemporary Jewish scholars and practitioners of interreligious dialogue. In this book he offers profound analysis and insight into the writings and thought of two of the most notable rabbinic personalities to emerge from Modern Orthodoxy. He highlights their commonalities and distinctions in a manner that provides much stimulation and enrichment, as well as providing a challenge ahead for Jewish theology.’ Rabbi David Rosen, KSG CBE, International Director of Interreligious Affairs, American Jewish Committee‘We have here a detailed analysis of the thought of two renowned rabbis and theologians on the challenges faced by Orthodox Judaism in relating to other world religions. As a leader in interfaith work and an outstanding scholar in the field, Goshen-Gottstein is uniquely suited to tackle this provocative and timely topic.’ Marc Shapiro, Weinberg Chair in Judaic Studies, University of Scranton‘This probing, respectful, and critical study articulates a pluralistic understanding of Judaism rooted in empathetic listening, personal friendships, and mutual theological cross-fertilization. Exceptionally clear and precise, this work is an excellent tool for those interested in interreligious dialogues.’ Hava Tirosh-Samuelson, Lowe Professor of Modern Judaism, Arizona State UniversityTable of ContentsNote on Transliteration Introduction Part I IRVING (YITZ) GREENBERG Covenant, Christianity, and World Religions 1 Introducing Irving Greenberg 2 Reading Religions: A God's Eye View 3 Confronting the Faith of Christians 4 Covenant: A Necessary Cornerstone of Greenberg's Thought? 5 Greenberg’s Theology: Reception and Evaluation 6 Interview with Irving Greenberg Part II JONATHAN SACKS Covenant, the Dignity of Difference, and Religious Pluralism 7 Introducing Jonathan Sacks 8 Covenant: Structuring Judaism, Structuring Human Relationships 9 The Dignity of Difference 10 Religious Pluralism 11 Viewing and Presenting Other Religions 12 What Is Dialogue for Sacks? 13 The Power of Religious Imagination and the Legacy of Sacks 14 Rowan Williams on Jonathan Sacks Part III Engaging with Greenberg and Sacks 15 A Comparative Appreciation 16 Jewish Theology of Religions: Continuing the Conversation Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisProjecting a global interdisciplinary vision, this insightful book develops a peer-to-peer learning methodology to facilitate reconciling religion and human rights, both in multilateral contexts and at the national level. Written by leading human rights practitioners, the book illuminates the tension zones between religion and rights, exploring how the ‘faith’ elements in both disciplines can create synergies for protecting equal human dignity.Ibrahim Salama and Michael Wiener analyse the place of religion in multilateral practice, including lessons learned from the ‘Faith for Rights’ framework. Based on the jurisprudence of international human rights mechanisms, the book clarifies ambiguities of human rights law on religion. It also unpacks the potential positive role of non-State actors in the religious sphere, demonstrating that the relationship between religion and human rights is not a zero-sum game. Ultimately, the book empowers actors on both sides of the ideological fence between religion and human rights to deconstruct this artificial, politically instrumentalized dichotomy.This innovative book will be a vital resource for faith-based actors, human rights defenders and policymakers working at the intersection between religion, culture and human rights. With the co-authors’ commentary on the #Faith4Rights toolkit, it will also be invaluable for peer-to-peer learning facilitators, scholars and students of human rights law, public international law and religious studies.Trade Review‘This book gives a carefully considered account of seeking to bring about sustainable human rights change in a particularly polarised space, inverting the contention around religion and human rights to set out an approach for the positive role of faith-based actors in advancing human rights.’ -- Nazila Ghanea, University of Oxford, UK‘The foundational concept of an "inherent dignity ... of all members of the human family" (1948 UDHR) deeply resonates in various religious and philosophical teachings. Ibrahim Salama and Michael Wiener demonstrate how we can effectively benefit from faith traditions in today's fight for universal rights across boundaries. A book both profound and highly practical!’ -- Heiner Bielefeldt, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany and former UN Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion or Belief‘This book offers a holistic approach to the relationship between religion and human rights. Holistic is an often overused, and at times, misleading adjective. This is not the case with this book. It offers solutions without undermining inherent challenges present in these fields. It explores the relationship between religion and all human rights, not only freedom of religion or belief. It can be a powerful tool for believers, as well as agnostics and atheists. It also provides a framework to equip not only religious leaders but also—as I have repeatedly employed in various situations—judges, politicians, and other civil servants who frequently struggle with these issues. While a comprehensive analysis and framework in this area may appear overly ambitious, the authors have vast expertise on the topic and have successfully tested its framework. Therefore, this book is a must-read for anyone working on the intersection of human rights and religion.’ -- Thiago Alves Pinto, University of Oxford, UK‘One of the most authoritative reflections on the linkages between the realms of faith and the imperatives of human rights. This is not only conceptually well-argued, but is a roadmap to human rights, achieved through a model we pioneered for UN outreach with faith actors: peer to peer learning.’ -- Azza Karam, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands and Religions for Peace InternationalTable of ContentsContents: 1. Prologue 2. Introduction: rationale of this book 3. Human rights law approaches to religion: the dancing shadows 4. Facilitating faith for rights 5. Prospects of mutual enhancement 6. Epilogue Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisOpen to New Light is not only for readers interested in exploring Quaker history and principles but also for anyone interested in different faiths and the relationships between them. The topics covered include Quakers' historic interfaith encounters, as well as more recent engagements with Muslims, Jews, Buddhists, Hindus and Jains, Sikhs, Baha'is, followers of Indigenous religions and Humanists.

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Book SynopsisWorking daily with Muslims in central London, Rob Scott has discovered that many have a hunger for debate and an openness to talking about matters of faith. In this thoughtful and respectful book, he explores good answers to common questions his Muslim friends have discussed with him over the years. He equips ordinary Christians to tackle conversations about faith with their Muslim friends, with confidence and competence.

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Book SynopsisThe horrific acts of anti-Western and anti-Jewish terrorism carried out by Muslim fanatics during the last decades have been labelled by politicians, religious leaders and scholars as a "Clash of Civilizations". However, as the contributors to this book set out to explain, these acts cannot be considered an Islamic onslaught on Judeo-Christian Civilisation. While the hostile ideas, words and deeds perpetrated by individual supporters among the three monotheistic civilisations cannot be ignored, history has demonstrated a more positive, constructive, albeit complex, relationship among Muslim, Christians and Jews during medieval and modern times. For long periods of time they shared divine and human values, co-operated in cultural, economic and political fields, and influenced one another's thinking. This book examines religious and historical themes of these three civilising religions, the impact of education on their interrelationship, the problem of Jerusalem, as well as contemporary interfaith relations. Noted scholars and theologians -- Jewish, Christian and Muslim -- from the United States, Canada, Egypt, Indonesia, Israel, Pakistan, Palestine and Turkey contribute to this book, the theme of which was first presented at an international conference organised by the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs, and the Divinity School, Harvard University.

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Book SynopsisManifestations of hatred of Jews and Israel have risen over the last few decades in the Arab and Muslim world. This hatred is demonstrated in many ways -- from propaganda to terrorism. But is such hatred the result of Islamic anti-Semitism, as widely claimed? Or does it have other roots and reasons? This book sets the record straight by explaining that while anti-Semitism is the credo of fanatic groups and regimes, such an attitude is not representative of traditional and contemporary Islam. For centuries Muslim attitudes to Jews were ambivalent: contempt and antagonism alongside tolerance and co-operation. In fact Jews under Islam were better off than their Christian neighbours, and much better off than their Jewish brethren under Christianity. A similar pattern of relations has developed over the last several decades between Muslim nations and the Jewish state of Israel: hostility and violence, mostly by Muslim Arabs, but also dialogue and co-operation by and with many other Muslims. These complex relations are discussed here by Muslim and Jewish scholars -- from Azerbaijan, Egypt, India, Israel, Jordan, Pakistan, the USA, Palestine and Turkey -- who analyse the religious, cultural, political and economic factors that have shaped Muslim attitudes to Jews and Israel. Ideas and suggestions are put forward to improve Muslim-Jewish relations -- the theme of which was first conceived at an international conference organised by the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs, and the Divinity School, Harvard University.Table of ContentsPreface; Introduction by Moshe Ma'oz; Modern Myths of Muslim Anti-Semitism; The Image of the Jew/Zionist/Israeli in the Arab World; The Breakdown of Arab-Israeli Peace: Research from Remote, Reciprocal Stereotypes & Anti-Normalization - The Case of Jordan; Islam & the Question of Peace with Israel: Jad al-Haqqs Fatwa Permitting Egypts 1979 Peace Treaty with Israel; Saudi Arabia & Israel: The Essence of Strategic Pragmatism; Myth, History & Realpolitik: Morocco & its Jewish Community; Babylon versus Zion: Changing Iraqi Perceptions of Israel; Azerbaijani Public Perceptions of Jews & the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict; Turkish Policy towards the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict; Dancing in the Dark: Pulling the Veil off Israeli-Pakistan Relations; Indian Muslims & the Three Js: Jews, Jerusalem & the Jewish State; Indonesian Muslims Perceptions of Jews & Israel; African Islam: Its Attitudes towards Israel & Judaism; "The Triangle": Europeans, Muslims, Jews; An Examination of Current Attitudes of Muslim Americans Toward Jews, Israel & Jerusalem; Index.

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Book SynopsisManifestations of hatred of Jews and Israel have risen over the last few decades in the Arab and Muslim world. This hatred is demonstrated in many ways -- from propaganda to terrorism. But is such hatred the result of Islamic anti-Semitism, as widely claimed? Or does it have other roots and reasons? This book sets the record straight by explaining that while anti-Semitism is the credo of fanatic groups and regimes, such an attitude is not representative of traditional and contemporary Islam. For centuries Muslim attitudes to Jews were ambivalent: contempt and antagonism alongside tolerance and co-operation. In fact Jews under Islam were better off than their Christian neighbours, and much better off than their Jewish brethren under Christianity. A similar pattern of relations has developed over the last several decades between Muslim nations and the Jewish state of Israel: hostility and violence, mostly by Muslim Arabs, but also dialogue and co-operation by and with many other Muslims. These complex relations are discussed here by Muslim and Jewish scholars -- from Azerbaijan, Egypt, India, Israel, Jordan, Pakistan, the USA, Palestine and Turkey -- who analyse the religious, cultural, political and economic factors that have shaped Muslim attitudes to Jews and Israel. Ideas and suggestions are put forward to improve Muslim-Jewish relations -- the theme of which was first conceived at an international conference organised by the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs, and the Divinity School, Harvard University.Table of ContentsPreface; Introduction by Moshe Ma'oz; Modern Myths of Muslim Anti-Semitism; The Image of the Jew/Zionist/Israeli in the Arab World; The Breakdown of Arab-Israeli Peace: Research from Remote, Reciprocal Stereotypes & Anti-Normalization - The Case of Jordan; Islam & the Question of Peace with Israel: Jad al-Haqqs Fatwa Permitting Egypts 1979 Peace Treaty with Israel; Saudi Arabia & Israel: The Essence of Strategic Pragmatism; Myth, History & Realpolitik: Morocco & its Jewish Community; Babylon versus Zion: Changing Iraqi Perceptions of Israel; Azerbaijani Public Perceptions of Jews & the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict; Turkish Policy towards the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict; Dancing in the Dark: Pulling the Veil off Israeli-Pakistan Relations; Indian Muslims & the Three Js: Jews, Jerusalem & the Jewish State; Indonesian Muslims Perceptions of Jews & Israel; African Islam: Its Attitudes towards Israel & Judaism; "The Triangle": Europeans, Muslims, Jews; An Examination of Current Attitudes of Muslim Americans Toward Jews, Israel & Jerusalem; Index.

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Book SynopsisThe influence of Ibn 'Arabi, the 12th century Andalusian mystic philosopher extended beyond the Muslim world from Spain, to China, to Indonesia. Interest in Ibn 'Arabi in the west has grown over the last century. "Ibn Arabi and the Contemporary West" examines 'Arabi's teachings through the work of the Beshara Trust and the Muhyiddin Ibn 'Arabi Society. The study investigates how the Beshara School has used Ibn 'Arabi's teachings in assisting a range of students from around the world towards personal, spiritual development and how the Muhyiddin Ibn 'Arabi Society has evolved into an international organisation with increasing influence in both the West and the Muslim world.Trade Review'Ibn Arabi and the Contemporary West tells several remarkable and intertwined stories. In the context of Islamic Studies, it recounts the recent transmission of universal spiritual teachings that were once central to the spread of Islam as a world religion and civilization, but then were lost and often rejected in the aftermath of colonialism, to the UK and the wider English-speaking world; and it concludes with the unexpected ways that spiritual heritage is now being rediscovered by new generations across the Muslim world. In that new, global setting, this study also sketches the background of the multi-faceted, increasingly global adaptation of Ibn 'Arabi's teachings - which for centuries had helped integrate and inspire the burgeoning creative expressions of the Islamic humanities and spirituality across Asia and Africa - by contemporary artists and thinkers working in many of those same fields today: including philosophy, ecology, architecture, psychology, spirituality, and religious thought. And on a more human, immediate level, this is the story of the lasting inspiration and personal influences of a single quiet spiritual teacher and those he inspired, detailing the formation, teachings, and expanding development and outreach of the Beshara movement.' Professor J. W. Morris, Boston CollegeTable of ContentsIntroduction 1. Bulent Rauf 2. The Beshara Trust: Early Years 3. Chisholme and Sherborne: The Introduction of Structured Residential Courses 4. An Introduction to the Texts and Teachings of Ibn 'Arabi Used for Study by the Beshara School 5. Recent Beshara Education: The Curses and their Aims 6. Student experiences During and Following the Courses 7. The Pilgrimage through Turkey 8. Outreach 9. The Muhyiddin Ibn 'Arabi Society Conclusion

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Book SynopsisThe influence of Ibn 'Arabi, the 12th century Andalusian mystic philosopher extended beyond the Muslim world from Spain, to China, to Indonesia. Interest in Ibn 'Arabi in the west has grown over the last century. "Ibn Arabi and the Contemporary West" examines 'Arabi's teachings through the work of the Beshara Trust and the Muhyiddin Ibn 'Arabi Society. The study investigates how the Beshara School has used Ibn 'Arabi's teachings in assisting a range of students from around the world towards personal, spiritual development and how the Muhyiddin Ibn 'Arabi Society has evolved into an international organisation with increasing influence in both the West and the Muslim world.Trade Review'Ibn Arabi and the Contemporary West tells several remarkable and intertwined stories. In the context of Islamic Studies, it recounts the recent transmission of universal spiritual teachings that were once central to the spread of Islam as a world religion and civilization, but then were lost and often rejected in the aftermath of colonialism, to the UK and the wider English-speaking world; and it concludes with the unexpected ways that spiritual heritage is now being rediscovered by new generations across the Muslim world. In that new, global setting, this study also sketches the background of the multi-faceted, increasingly global adaptation of Ibn 'Arabi's teachings - which for centuries had helped integrate and inspire the burgeoning creative expressions of the Islamic humanities and spirituality across Asia and Africa - by contemporary artists and thinkers working in many of those same fields today: including philosophy, ecology, architecture, psychology, spirituality, and religious thought. And on a more human, immediate level, this is the story of the lasting inspiration and personal influences of a single quiet spiritual teacher and those he inspired, detailing the formation, teachings, and expanding development and outreach of the Beshara movement.' Professor J. W. Morris, Boston CollegeTable of ContentsIntroduction 1. Bulent Rauf 2. The Beshara Trust: Early Years 3. Chisholme and Sherborne: The Introduction of Structured Residential Courses 4. An Introduction to the Texts and Teachings of Ibn 'Arabi Used for Study by the Beshara School 5. Recent Beshara Education: The Curses and their Aims 6. Student experiences During and Following the Courses 7. The Pilgrimage through Turkey 8. Outreach 9. The Muhyiddin Ibn 'Arabi Society Conclusion

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Book SynopsisIn the last two centuries, some of Hinduism's greatest saints and scholars have lovingly embraced Christ and made him their own. Continuing and aggressive Christian mission in India is now making some Hindus anti-Christ as well as anti-Christian. Mission agencies are pouring millions into India to "save" the "heathens." Religious tensions are increasing, hitting the headlines and claiming lives. Find out why mission disturbs Hindus. Find out how they have responded to their encounter with Christ and Christianity from colonial to contemporary times, in India and in the West. This is their story in their words. Discover how Hindus revere the Christ of faith rather than the Jesus of history. Explore the universal but not exclusive Christ of Hinduism. Find out the rich social and spiritual dimensions Hindus bring to reflection on Christ. Knowing and understanding others is always challenging. Make your own interfaith journey and discover what happened when Christ crossed the Ganges.Trade ReviewFrom Foreword: Marcus Braybrooke, President, World Congress of Faiths Hindu responses to Jesus Christ have been summarised by a number of Christian writers, but it is valuable to have an account that is written from a Hindu perspective. Sandy Bharat, with her wide reading and personal contacts, allows us to hear what Hindu thinkers have actually said and she puts their remarks in context. She includes a wide range of Hindu teachers from the eighteenth century right up to the present day. There is much to learn from Sandy Bharat's important book. I hope it will encourage many Christians and Hindus to enter into a deeper dialogue with each other. This will surely bring them spiritual enrichment and be a sign of hope in a divided world. In her well-researched book, Sandy Bharat has studied in depth some of the Hindu encounters with Christ. This book is part of the growing literature on the Interfaith movement, and will be of value to students both of Hinduism and Christianity. One can only hope and pray that despite the negative factors, the process of dialogue and the attempt to genuinely understand the foundations of the world's religions will continue to grow, so that even though each one of us will continue to follow our own religious tradition we will be able to approach the others with a positive mindset. HE Dr Karan Singh, member of the Rajya Sabha (Upper House) of the Indian Parliament Hindu Encounters with Christ provides a fascinating account of interaction between Hindus and Christians, offers a refreshing view of Christ seen through the eyes of some of the greatest Masters who walked the face of the earth...The book is an open window into a wonderful world where labels and designations break down to reveal the unifying expressions of love, devotion and self-realization. There is no doubt in my mind that it will be an invaluable resource for those who seek to build bridges of understanding and dialogue between faith communities. Ramesh Kallidai, Secretary General, Hindu Forum of Britain Faith is at the centre of dialogues on issues confronting the world. Multiculturalism in Western society is being questioned and too often communities are guilty in interpreting religions to suit their beliefs. It is for this reason that your book will make an important contribution in understanding Hinduism and its encounters with Christianity. The Lord Dholakia of Waltham Brooks OBE DL, House of Lords, UK Anyone interested in spiritual matters and the connection between religions - especially Eastern and Western at this time in our history - would be interested in this book. Carol Jordan, Alexander Therapist A fascinating and challenging Hindu argument that Jesus Christ is best understood as an avatar. Dr Robert Traer, Dominican University of California The book contains writing from many respected Hindus; it is time to have the perspectives of genuine practitioners rather than Christian interpretations. Celia Storey, Christians Aware I think this would be of the greatest interest to many people involved in interreligious relations; I know of nothing like it, which brings the story right up to today. Dr John May, Irish School of Ecumenics This is a fascinating and wide-ranging overview of a subject of great importance. It is a must for anyone interested in the history of religious traditions and in the interaction between faiths. Marianne Rankin, Alister Hardy Society

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Book SynopsisAnalyses the complexities of Christian-Muslim conflict that threatens the fragile democracy of Nigeria, and the implications for global peace and security. In northern Nigeria, high levels of ethnic diversity have coincided with acute polarization between Muslims and Christians, increasingly fuelling violent conflict. The climate of insecurity threatens northern Nigeria's development, accentuates the inequalities between it and the rest of the country, and undermines the attempt to stabilize democracy in the country. Externally, fears have also been expressed that Islamist movements in northern Nigeria form part of a wider network constituting a threat to global peace and security. Refuting a "clash of civilizations" between Muslims and Christians, the authors of this new study highlight the multiplicity of Muslim and Christian groups contending for influence and relevance, and the doctrinal, political and historical drivers of conflict and violence between and within them. They analyse three of the most contentious issues: the conflicts in Jos; the Boko Haram insurgency; and the challenges of legal pluralism posed by the declaration of full Sharia law in 12 Muslim majority states. Finally, they suggest appropriate and effective policy responses at local, national and international levels, discussing the importance of informal institutions as avenues for peace-building and the complementarities between local and national dynamics in the search for peace. Abdul Raufu Mustapha is Associate Professor in African Politics, University of Oxford. David Ehrhardt is Assistant Professor of International Development at Leiden University College. Companion volume: Sects & Social Disorder: Muslim Identities &Conflict in Northern Nigeria edited by Abdul Raufu Mustapha (James Currey 2014) Nigeria: Premium Times BooksTrade ReviewIndispensable to making sense of the persistent bloodletting that has long characterised northern Nigeria. * THE ROUND TABLE, THE COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL OF INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS *A very recommendable book. Its authors have managed to share a wealth of data and discussions about contentious issues in an impartial way, but with a message about the possibilities of mutual understanding and tolerance, of restoring damaged relations, and of transforming contra-existence into co-existence. * AFRICAN JOURNAL ON CONFLICT RESOLUTION *[...]provides a clear and invaluable survey. * AFRICAN AFFAIRS *Table of ContentsPreface - David Ehrhardt Introduction: Religious Encounters in Northern Nigeria - Abdul Raufu Mustapha PART ONE: THE MUSLIM & CHRISTIAN CONTEXT The Muslim Majority in Northern Nigeria: Sects & Trends - Philip Ostien The Significant Minority: Christians & Christianity in Northern Nigeria - David Ehrhardt and Jibrin Ibrahim Historical Contexts of Muslim-Christian Encounters in Northern Nigeria - Abdul Raufu Mustapha and David Ehrhardt and Rachael Diprose PART TWO: KEY CONTEMPORARY ISSUES Challenges of Legal Pluralism: Sharia Law & its Aftermath - Abdul Raufu Mustapha and Aminu Gamawa Boko Haram, Youth Mobilization & Jihadism - Marc-Antoine Pérouse de Montclos Complementarity, Competition & Conflict: Informal Enterprise & Religious Conflict in Northern Nigeria - Kate Meagher PART THREE: JOS: CONFLICT & PEACE BUILDING Jos: Fear & Violence in Central Nigeria - Abdul Raufu Mustapha and Adam Higazi and Jimam Lar and Karel Chromy Rural Insecurity on the Jos Plateau: Livelihoods, Land & Cattle amid Religious Reform & Violent Conflict - Adam Higazi Jos: Bottom-Up & Top-Down Approaches to Peace Building - Abdul Raufu Mustapha and Adam Higazi and Jimam Lar and Karel Chromy CONCLUSION Diversity, Religious Pluralism & Democracy - Abdul Raufu Mustapha and David Ehrhardt

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Book SynopsisWestern Christians in the twentieth century viewed Islam through a lens of social and political concerns that would have appeared novel to their medieval and early-modern predecessors. Concerns about the predicament of secular 'modernity' infused Christian discourse with distinct assumptions that shaped engagement with Islam in fundamentally new ways. J. N. D. (Norman) Anderson (1908-94), a highly influential British Christian scholar of Islam, embodied this new orientation in his commitment to 'modernise' Islam. Anderson's engagement with Islam as a missionary, intelligence agent, scholar of Islamic law and advisor to various Muslim governments, spanned multiple decades and continents. As well as shaping Western understandings of Islamic law and its application, he was involved in debates about the end of the British Empire and the transformation of Christian missions following formal decolonisation. Because of Anderson's location at the intersection of so many different debates concerning Islam, his life provides unique insights into the ways in which Christians reconfigured their response to Islam in the last century. Given Christianity's continued influence on British and American ideas about Islam, this study provides crucial insight into the persistent focus on 'modernising' and 'secularising' Islam today.Trade Review'Thompson's research is meticulous . . . this is a thorough depiction of the ambitious efforts of Anderson and others like him who sought to advocate for the modernization of the Muslim world.’ ‘[The book is] meticulously researched … and will appeal to those interested in Christian-Muslim relations, Islam, Islamic law, Orientalism, and missiology in the twentieth century, as well as in modern British intellectual and religious history more broadly.’ -- Journal of British Studies'An excellent book … exhaustively researched.’ -- Islam and Christian-Muslim Relations Journal‘[A] valuable study.’ -- Reading Religion'Todd Thompson’s book is an illuminating study of Sir Norman Anderson, a prominent Evangelical layman in the twentieth-century Church of England. As a leading scholar of Islamic law, Anderson made a significant impact on policy while wrestling with the enduring theological issue of how Christians should relate to Muslims.' -- David Bebbington'Todd Thompson does an excellent job in demonstrating Anderson’s continued relevance, with very useful insights into debates on what it means to be Muslim in the twenty-first century. This book will serve as an invaluable resource for Muslims and non-Muslims interested in the evolution of British colonial and Western cultural engagement with Islam.' 'An invaluable resource for anyone interested in Christian theological reflection on Islam, the relationship between the World of Islam and the West, or debates about Islamic Law, as they developed in the period between the 1930s and the 1980s.' — H

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Book SynopsisIs what, or whether, one believes the significant religious question? Although the religious communities differ in belief, how much do they really differ in faith? Do two people who assert a particular statement of belief necessarily share the same faith? Written by a highly respected scholar in the field of comparative religion, these issues are directly addressed in this investigation of the personal quality of faith, and its relationship to the concept of belief.Table of ContentsThe Buddhist instance - faith as atheist?; the Islamic instance - faith as theocentric; a Hindu contribution - Sraddha; "Credo" and the Roman Catholic church - baptism, St. Thomas Aquinas, Vatican I, the 20th century, Varia; the English word "believe"; conclusion - faith as generically human, belief and understanding, the intellectual dimension of faith.

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Book SynopsisIn this study, Cragg attempts to reconcile the importance of Muhammad with the very nature of the Christian faith.

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Book SynopsisEdited by two of the most prominent names in interfaith dialogue, this is an introduction to the complex relationships between Christianity and the other world faiths. Featuring essays from some of the key thinkers in the Christian faith. It covers both Catholic and Protestant approaches, and features all the rival points of view, including the uncompromising absolutism of Karl Barth and Pope John Paul II, the more ecumenical approaches of Karl Rahner and Hans Kung, and the religious pluralism of Wilfred Cantwell Smith and John Hick, among others.Table of ContentsKarl Barth - The Revelation of God as the Abolition of Religion. Karl Rahner - Christianity and the Non-Christian Religions. Vatican II - Declaration on the Relation of the Church to Non-Christian Religions. Wilfred Cantwell Smith - The Christian in a Religiously Plural World. Aloysius Pieris - The Place of Non-Christian Religions and Cultures in the Evolution of Third World Theology; Leslie Newbigin - The Christian Faith and the World Religions. Hans K ng - Is There One True Religion? An Essay in Establishing Ecumenical Criteria. Paul Knitter Christian Theology of Liberation and Interfaith Dialogue. John Hick - The Theological Challenge of Religious Pluralism. J rgen Moltmann - Dialogue or Mission?; Christianity and the Religions in an Endangered World. Pope John Paul II - Address of the Holy Father to the Congregation or the Doctrine of the Faith, together with extracts from that Congregation's "Dominus Jesus" - On the Unity and Salvific Universality of Jesus Christ and the Church.

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Book SynopsisThis classic study by Norman Daniel explores the political and religious considerations behind distorted western views of Islam, examining Christian-Muslim interaction from medieval times to the modern world. First published over 30 years ago, the message within this great scholarly achievement is more relevant today than ever before. This timeless and accessible book should be of interest to students and for anyone wishing to gain a deeper insight into the complex relations between two of the world’s greatest religions.Trade Review"The importance of the late Norman Daniel’s updated study… is as great now as it was when the first edition was published." * The Times Literary Supplement *"Painstakingly thorough. Twenty Years after its first publication, Islam and the West remains the standard work on views of Christian polemicists towards Islam." * Religious Studies Review *"Carefully researched. An important addition to public and academic libraries." * Library Journal *"A justly celebrated account of the reaction to the Christian world to the phenomenon of Islam." * Expository Times *"A monumental work of painstaking scholarship." * Impact International *

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisAs a result of world events over the past few years, Islam has entered our consciousness in an unprecedented way. The Qur''an, guiding text for over one billion Muslims, is being looked to for answers to questions like: does the Qur''an promote peace and harmony or discord and conflict, does it contribute to pluralism or exclusivism, is its message spiritual or fanatical? Based on a profound study of the Sufi perspectives of the likes of Ibn ''Arabi, Rumi and Ghazali, The Other in the Light of the One is an attempt to answer the above questions and is an invitation to study the universality that is present in the Qur''an. Its aim is to relate some of the most profound interpretations of the Qur''an to philosophical and spiritual questions concerning interfaith dialogue.For Muslims, The Other in the Light of the One offers a pioneering view of da''wa, in that it allows them the tangible means of putting into practice the many Qur''anic verses that commend discoursing with others on the basis of ''the finest, most beautiful manner.''

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Book SynopsisAs a result of world events over the past few years, Islam has entered our consciousness in an unprecedented way. The Qur''an, guiding text for over one billion Muslims, is being looked to for answers to questions like: does the Qur''an promote peace and harmony or discord and conflict, does it contribute to pluralism or exclusivism, is its message spiritual or fanatical? Based on a profound study of the Sufi perspectives of the likes of Ibn ''Arabi, Rumi and Ghazali, The Other in the Light of the One is an attempt to answer the above questions and is an invitation to study the universality that is present in the Qur''an. Its aim is to relate some of the most profound interpretations of the Qur''an to philosophical and spiritual questions concerning interfaith dialogue.For Muslims, The Other in the Light of the One offers a pioneering view of da''wa, in that it allows them the tangible means of putting into practice the many Qur''anic verses that commend discoursing with others on the basis of ''the finest, most beautiful manner.''

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Book SynopsisThis book explains the rejection by Smith and Adams of 'normal' Christian replacement theology and sets out the apologetics by which Smith and Adams promoted courage and conviction in all who joined them in encouraging the gathering of the Jewish exiles to Jerusalem. Joseph Smith Jr, founder of the Mormon movement and George J Adams, one of his least known followers -- two Gentile dreamers of Zion -- were instrumental in encouraging Jews and Christians to support the restoration of Israel.

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Book SynopsisIn the early twentieth century, The Eastern Buddhist journal pioneered the presentation of Buddhism to the west and encouraged the west's engagement in interpretation. This interactive process increased dramatically in the post-war period, when dialogue between Buddhist and Christian thought began to take off in earnest. These debates and dialogues brought in voices with a Zen orientation, influenced in part by the philosophical Buddhism of the Kyoto School. Also to be heard however were contributions from the Pure Land and the Shin Buddhist traditions, which also have a strong tradition in the city. The book brings together a wide range of authors who have significantly influenced subsequent Buddhist-Christian dialogue and the interaction between east and west.Table of ContentsGeneral Introduction PART I: FLASHBACK TO SOME EARLY EXCHANGES 1. Buddhism and Moral World Order, Kiba, Ryohon 2. On Zen Buddhism, Otto, Rudolf 3. Dengyo Daishi and German Theology, Petzold, Bruno 4. The Unity of Buddhism, Pratt, James Bissett 5. Shinran's Concept of Buddhist History, Soga, Ryojin PART II: THINKING ABOUT ZEN BUDDHISM IN THE SIXTIES 6. Zen: Its Meaning for Modern Civilization, Hisamatsu, Shin'ichi 7. The Awakening of Self in Buddhism, Nishitani, Keiji 8. Introducing Martin Heidegger, Nishitani, Keiji 9. Home: The Seven Hundredth Anniversary of the Town of Messkirch, Heidegger, Martin 10. Zen and Compassion, Abe, Masao PART III: RESPONSES TO SUZUKI DAISETSU 11. The Stone Bridge of Joshu, Kondo Akihisa 12. The Enlightened Thought, Kobori Sohaku 13. The "Mind-less" Scholar, Watts, Alan 14. Memories of Dr. D. T. Suzuki, Fromm, Erich 15. A Personal Tribute, Conze, Edward 16. Zen and Philology: On Ui Hakuju and Suzuki Daisetsu, Ueda, Yoshifumi 17. D.T. Suzuki and Pure land Buddhism, Bando, Shojun PART IV: THINKING ABOUT THE PURE LAND 18. The Concept of the Pure Land, Kaneko, Daiei 19. The Pure Land of Beauty, Yanagi, Soetsu APPENDICES Synoptic List of Text Titles Character List for Historical Persons Original publication details A note on The Eastern Buddhist Index

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Book Synopsis

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Book SynopsisThis book explores several issues in the emerging field of science and religion which are of common interest to different religions. The main idea underlying this book is that modern science poses challenges shared by religions. As such, discussing them in an interfaith setting is expected to offer new perspectives to those issues. The first of four parts of the book addresses issues which often have not been discussed in the science and religion discourse - issues around what may be termed 'customisation of sciences'. A form o of such customisation is known as the ideas of the Vedic science, and Islamic science. The secnd part discusses science and the sacred from Islamic and Christian perspectives. Similarly, the third part takes up those perspectives in discussing religious resonse to new theories in cosmology and biology. The book ends with an article about the care of the earth, and the creation of sustainble global community, which is proabbly today's biggest challenge for both religion and science.

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Book SynopsisThis volume of the series "Key Concepts in Interreligious Discourses" investigates the roots of the concept of "body" in Judaism, Christianity and Islam.The Body and being a created being stands in the focus of all the thre major monotheistic faiths. It is not just by the christian idea of man's likeness to God that indicates that the human body is a central object of religious thinking, both culturally and theologically charged. Here, the body stands in the crossfire of terms like "pure" and "unpure", "sacred" and "profane", "male" and "femal". And besides the theological controversies, everyday experiences like sexuality, gender equality and how to dispose of the own body (and that of others) are undoubtly recent and highly contentious discussion points in the debate of a peaceful living together of different religions and cultures.The volume presents the concept of "body" in its different aspects as anchored in the traditions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. It unfolds commonalities and differences between the three monotheistic religions as well as the manifold discourses about peace within these three traditions. The book offers fundamental knowledge about the specific understanding of the body in each one of these traditions, their interdependencies and their relationship to secular world views.

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Book SynopsisThis volume of the series "Key Concepts in Interreligious Discourses" investigates the roots of the concept of "soul" in Judaism, Christianity and Islam.The human soul fascinates not only believers in the three monotheistic faiths. Believing in an immortal entitiy, surpassing body, materia and their temporality and thus seeming to be closer to the creator that the mere body was and remains to be a vividly discussed theme in theological and practical debates. Even our secular, postreligious environment is unable to disengage from the key concept of the soul. Numerous proverbs, undefined concepts and hopes prove this fact. Asking for the soul means asking fundamental questions like life after death and therefor asking for one of the most fundamental and uniting hopes of human beings, be they secular or religious.The volume presents the concept of "soul" in its different aspects as anchored in the traditions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. It unfolds commonalities and differences between the three monotheistic religions as well as the manifold discourses about peace within these three traditions. The book offers fundamental knowledge about the specific understanding of the soul in each one of these traditions, their interdependencies and their relationship to secular world views.

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