Abstract

What is the role of scripture in illuminating the lives of the faithful today? In this book, three experts in Judaism, Christianity and Islam respectively discuss and debate this question, by exploring the core messages of the Torah, Bible and Qu'ran. Taking a deeper look at the wide range of theological, political and social issues that divide (and sometimes unite) their religions, they reveal how inspiration and guidance can be drawn not only on life's big questions such as sin and the afterlife, but also on societal issues including war, suffering, marriage and justice.
The book offers a useful trialogue between the authors - as well as between the Hebrew Bible, the Christian Bible and the Quran - concerning the views of these three scriptures on a variety of topics, from creation to afterlife, and from land to God. As such, it not only offers the readers a glimpse into each scripture, but also a background for understanding the differences and similarities between the three scriptures, and the religions which they represent.
Dr Zohar Hadromi-Allouche

In this most illuminating and engaging volume, three authors, from (their) committed standpoints as Jew, Christian and Muslim, present their informed positions on a wide range of topics, ranging from the interpretation of the Word of God to gender and ethnicity, aspects that vitally affect how we live, communicate with, and understand each other in today's world. Dispelling ignorance and misunderstanding, the volume will surprise the reader as to the extent of those values and beliefs we actually share in common rather than what keeps us apart.

This is a most readable, and informative book, usefully divided into helpful sections so that it can act as a reference volume as well as a work to be read in one sitting. It is an ideal resource for those engaged in interfaith dialogue, at either an academic or pastoral level and is a major contribution to promoting understanding and respect for others, whose beliefs we may not personally hold ourselves.

Dan Cohn-Sherbok is Professor Emeritus of Judaism, an American rabbi and the author of numerous books dealing with the Jewish heritage and interfaith dialogue.

George Chryssides is an honorary research fellow in Contemporary Religion at York St John University and the University of Birmingham, UK.

Usama Hasan is a UK-based imam, scientist and translator of classical Islamic works. He is currently a contributor to BBC Radio 4's Thought For The Day.