Synopses & Reviews
This timely work explores two influential religious traditions that might seem to have little in common: Twelver Shi'i Islam and Roman Catholicism. With the worldwide rise of religious fundamentalism, it is imperative that religious movements such as Christianity and Islam begin working harder to understand one another's history and beliefs. Myths and misunderstandings continue to prevail, and observers tend to focus on the differences between the two faith systems.
Without denying these differences, the authors of this book reveal a number of interesting linkages between Roman Catholicism and Twelver Shi'ism. They compare the histories of the two faiths, consider parallels between important figures in each, and highlight the doctrinal, structural, and sociopolitical similarities they share. Balanced in tone and carefully researched, the book helps explain the essence of both traditions while enriching our understanding of each.
There are an estimated 140 million Twelver Shi'is in the world today. The highest percentages live in Persian Gulf countries, including Iran and Iraq, and in Azerbaijan, Lebanon, and Afghanistan. Sizable numbers also inhabit Pakistan, India, and Turkey. The largest Christian denomination, Roman Catholicism is present across the globe, though its population of more than one billion people is concentrated in North and South America and in Europe.
Review
An important contribution to the understanding and mutual cooperation that must be built up to sustain a fruitful Muslim-Christian encounter. (Kail Ellis, Villanova University)
Review
An important addition to the literature of Christian-Islamic dialogue. (Seyyed Hossein Nasr, George Washington University)
Review
The comparison of Roman Catholicism and Shi'i Islam will surprise and provoke readers, who, at the same time, will value the comparison and gain deeper insight into both faiths. (G. R. Garthwaite, Dartmouth College)
Review
[A] fascinating study. May it be granted the reception in popular as well as international academic circles that it richly deserves. (Middle East Policy)
Review
A valuable resource for students and general readers alike. (Booklist)
Review
A trustworthy and timely work that will reward frequent use by anyone interested in the shape and future of religion in the modern world. (Middle East Insight)
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"Such a timely perspective could save the zealots on both sides, at least from themselves. (Times Literary Supplement)"
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Each chapter is loaded with stimulating gems. (Publishers Weekly)
Synopsis
An insightful comparison of Roman Catholicism and Shi'i Islam, focusing on their similarities rather than differences. The authors discuss the histories of each faith, highlight parallels between important figures in each, and consider common doctrinal, structural, and sociopolitical characteristics.
Table of Contents
A trustworthy and timely work that will reward frequent use by anyone interested in the shape and future of religion in the modern world. (
Middle East Insight) "Such a timely perspective could save the zealots on both sides, at least from themselves. (
Times Literary Supplement)" Each chapter is loaded with stimulating gems. (
Publishers Weekly) [A] fascinating study. May it be granted the reception in popular as well as international academic circles that it richly deserves. (
Middle East Policy) A valuable resource for students and general readers alike. (
Booklist) An important contribution to the understanding and mutual cooperation that must be built up to sustain a fruitful Muslim-Christian encounter. (Kail Ellis, Villanova University) An important addition to the literature of Christian-Islamic dialogue. (Seyyed Hossein Nasr, George Washington University) The comparison of Roman Catholicism and Shi'i Islam will surprise and provoke readers, who, at the same time, will value the comparison and gain deeper insight into both faiths. (G. R. Garthwaite, Dartmouth College)