Answering Jihad: A Better Way Forward

Bestselling author Nabeel Qureshi (Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus) takes on a highly controversial question: Is Islam a religion of peace? Qureshi, a Muslim turned Christian, thinks not. Structured around 18 questions about jihad, radical Islam, sharia, Muhammad, and more, the book provides an examination of history, as well as perspectives from contemporary scholars. Qureshi wrestled with Islam's traditions and scripture, concluding that Islam "glorifies violent jihad arguably more than any other action a Muslim can take." This suspect conclusion left Qureshi with, he believes, three options: abandon the faith, ignore the foundations of the faith, or become "radicalized." He chose the first. Unfortunately, Qureshi's Christian publisher fails in its treatment of such an inflammatory thesis. First, the text does not deliver on the promise of the title: neither is jihad answered with a compelling alternative, nor is a way forward developed (other than acting with compassion toward Muslims). Second, if the intent is to present a Christian apologetic, then a direct case must be made for Christianity as a "religion of peace," rather than arguing only that Islam is not one. As a polemic for emboldening debate among Muslims, Qureshi's case will no doubt be successful. Aimed at a Christian market in the current Islamophobic cultural context, however, Qureshi's argument risks becoming weaponized. (Mar.)