Hospitality and Islam: Welcoming in God's Name

Welcoming in God's Name

Siddiqui Mona

A groundbreaking examination of a crucial concept in Islamic thought and tradition from an author noted for her work on interfaith and intercultural dialogue Considering its prominent role in many faith traditions, surprisingly little has been written about hospitality within the context of religion, particularly Islam. In her new book, Mona Siddiqui, a well-known media commentator, makes the first major contribution to the understanding of hospitality both within Islam and beyond. She explores and compares teachings within the various Muslim traditions over the centuries, while also drawing on materials as diverse as Islamic belles lettres, Christian reflections on almsgiving and charity, and Islamic and Western feminist writings on gender issues. Applying a more theological approach to the idea of mercy as a fundamental basis for human relationships, this book will appeal to a wide audience, particularly readers interested in Islam, ethics, and religious studies.

About the Author

Mona Siddiqui is professor of Islamic and interreligious studies, Divinity School, Edinburgh University, and author of numerous articles on Christian-Muslim themes. Her four previous books include "How to Read the Qur'an". She lives in Edinburgh.

Reviews

"A lucidly written work that straddles academic analysis and normative activism, and offers an excellent overview of the how the idea of hospitality nourishes and inspires different facets of Islamic thought and Muslim practice" – Tehseen Thaver, THES

"This study pioneers a critical conversation between religious traditions on a fundamental human concept – hospitality – in an age where the world community is confronting so many problems, from displaced peoples and refugees to victims of human trafficking and dispossession. In this important book, Siddiqui rightfully recognises the significant contributions of the Islamic tradition and Muslim cultures to this field. This is an important book, not just for students of comparative religions but for anyone interested in human rights and the future of humanity" – Khaled Abou El Fadl, author of "Reasoning with God: Reclaiming Shari Ah in the Modern Age"

"Siddiqui... explores the theological underpinnings of hospitality in Islamic traditions in an accessible way" – Christian Century

"Siddiqui's work on hospitality will remain a central and definitive starting point on the subject for years to come" – Martin Nguyen, Reading Religion

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