Answering Jihad: A Better Way Forward
By Nabeel Qureshi (Zondervan)
In Answering Jihad: A Better Way Forward, Christian apologist and former Muslim Nabeel Qureshi addresses 18 common questions about the relationship between Islam and religious violence. Qureshi insists the teachings of Islam and the practice of Muslims need to be discussed separately. Islam is violent in its foundations, the life and teachings of Muhammad as recorded in the Quran and authoritative hadith, he insists. However, most Muslims live and practice peacefully, despite the presence and commandments of violence in their sacred texts. Modern Islamic extremism, he claims, arises when individuals return exclusively to Islam’s most basic tenets and documents.
Qureshi argues this idea strongly. The book is largely compelling and well-reasoned— although it does have some faults in some of its responses to accusations of similar issues in Christianity—and very compassionate to the people group being discussed. It includes plentiful reminders the information presented applies to Islam’s foundational writings and not necessarily to what most Muslims practice.
Careful and compassionate readers will find helpful and pertinent information on responding to a global issue. Less careful readers looking for back-up for biases and stereotypes will find it as well, despite the author’s intentions. As with any hot-button issue, read, but read carefully.
Jake Raabe, student
Truett Theological Seminary
Waco
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