Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths

Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths
Cover for the 1995 fourth edition
EditorIsmail al-Faruqi
LanguageEnglish
SeriesIssues of Islamic Thought, no. 1
SubjectInterfaith dialogue
GenreConference proceedings
Published1995 (4th edition)
PublisherAmana Publications
Publication placeUnited States
Media typePrint[1][2][3][4]
Pages103
ISBN9780915957255
OCLC31970376

Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths is a collection of papers edited by Ismail al-Faruqi. First published in 1982 by the International Institute of Islamic Thought,[1] the book brings together scholars from Islam, Christianity, and Judaism to explore how the three religions understand and engage with one another. The book's focus is on fostering dialogue, respect, and shared values among the Abrahamic faiths.

Background

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The book compiles discussions from a meeting held at the 1979 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Religion in New York City.[5] Participants included scholars from Islam, Christianity, and Judaism who aimed to revive the kind of respectful interfaith dialogues that historically took place in locations such as Damascus and Cordoba. The event was organized by the Inter-Religious Peace Colloquium, later known as the Muslim-Jewish-Christian Conference. The gathering sought to identify common values while recognizing the unique perspectives of each faith.[6][7][8][9]

Contents

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The book is divided into three main sections, each exploring a different theme with contributions from scholars representing Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The discussions examine theological perspectives, the role of the nation-state in society, and the global responsibilities of faith communities.

The Other Faiths

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This section discusses how each religion views the others, examining both shared beliefs and differences. The aim is to promote understanding and reduce misconceptions that have historically strained interfaith relations.

  • Islam and Christianity in the Perspective of Judaism: Michael Wyschogrod explores how Judaism views Islam and Christianity. He emphasizes the shared belief in monotheism while addressing the theological differences that set Judaism apart from the other two religions. Wyschogrod discusses Judaism's covenantal relationship with God and its implications for engaging with other faiths.[10]
  • Judaism and Islam in the Perspective of Christianity: Krister Stendahl examines Christianity's perspective on Judaism and Islam, focusing on how misunderstandings and stereotypes have shaped Christian views. He argues for a more nuanced understanding of each religion based on their self-definitions. Stendahl advocates for respect and accurate representation as key to building better interfaith relations.[11]
  • Judaism and Christianity in the Perspective of Islam: Muhammad Abdul Ra'uf discusses Islam's recognition of Jews and Christians as "People of the Book" in the Quran. He highlights the common ground shared by all three religions, such as their monotheistic beliefs and respect for prophetic traditions. Abdul Ra’uf also addresses the theological differences that exist while emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.[12]

The Nation State as a Form of Social Organization

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This section examines how Judaism, Christianity, and Islam view the nation-state's role in social order. The discussions explore the relationship between religious teachings, governance, and ethical responsibilities within modern political structures.

  • The Nation State and Social Order in the Perspective of Judaism: Seymour Siegel reflects on the significance of the nation-state in Judaism, particularly after the establishment of Israel. He analyzes the interplay between Jewish law and civil governance, discussing how the concept of a Jewish state aligns with global ethical obligations. Siegel also examines the broader role of Judaism in promoting justice beyond national borders.[13]
  • The Nation State and Social Order in the Perspective of Christianity: John Raines discusses the Christian approach to governance, drawing on theological traditions such as those of Augustine and Aquinas. He explores how Christian ethics influence the principles of justice, governance, and human rights. Raines also addresses how Christians navigate the balance between religious values and the authority of the state.[14]
  • The Nation State and Social Order in the Perspective of Islam: Isma'il Raji al-Faruqi outlines the Islamic view of governance, emphasizing the integration of ethical leadership and divine law. He discusses how the state's role in Islam is to promote justice, protect rights, and ensure social harmony. Al-Faruqi's analysis highlights how Islam envisions a balanced approach to governance that serves both spiritual and material needs.[15][7]

The Faith-Community as Transnational Actor for Justice and Peace

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This section explores the global role of religious communities in promoting justice and peace. The discussions emphasize the ethical obligations of faith communities to address social inequalities and work for the common good beyond national borders.

  • The Faith Community and World Order in the Perspective of Judaism: Henry Siegman discusses the Jewish commitment to ethical values that extend beyond national and territorial boundaries. He explores how Jewish teachings advocate for global responsibility and the role of Jewish communities in addressing issues such as poverty and conflict. Siegman also highlights how Judaism's principles align with broader efforts to promote human rights and social justice worldwide.[16][7][9]
  • The Faith Community and World Order in the Perspective of Christianity: James Finn emphasizes how Christian communities contribute to international advocacy and humanitarian work. He highlights the role of Christian ethics in driving peacebuilding efforts and social justice initiatives across the globe. Finn argues that Christian teachings call for active engagement in addressing global challenges and fostering harmony among nations.[17]
  • The Faith Community and World Order in the Perspective of Islam: Mahmoud Awan explores how the Muslim ummah is guided by Quranic principles to promote justice and peace on a global scale. He emphasizes the importance of engaging with global challenges while adhering to Islamic values. Awan discusses how the principles of unity, compassion, and ethical conduct serve as the foundation for the Muslim community's efforts in promoting social welfare and resolving conflicts.[18]

The keynote address, "The Catholic Church and the Jewish and Muslim Faiths: Trialogue of the Three Abrahamic Faiths," delivered by Cardinal Sergio Pignedoli, provides an overview of the shared values and challenges faced by the three faiths. It reflects on how these communities can work together for the common good.[19]

Themes

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The book underscores the importance of interfaith dialogue, mutual respect, and collaboration in addressing global challenges. It highlights how shared ethical principles among Judaism, Christianity, and Islam can provide a foundation for religious communities to work together in promoting justice, peace, and social harmony.[7][9]

Reception and influence

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Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths has been praised for its contribution to interfaith studies. Reviewers have noted the depth of understanding demonstrated by contributors from all three religions. The discussions remain relevant today as efforts to foster mutual respect and cooperation among Judaism, Christianity, and Islam continue.[7][8]

Publication history

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Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths was first published in 1982 by the International Institute of Islamic Thought in Washington, D.C. This initial edition compiled presentations focused on fostering dialogue among the Abrahamic religions.[1] In 1986, a second edition was released by the same publisher, this time from Herndon, Virginia. The content of the second edition remained largely the same, with minor updates.[2]

A third edition was published in 1991 by Al Saʻdāwī Publications in collaboration with the International Institute of Islamic Thought. This edition was distributed from Alexandria, Virginia, and Herndon, Virginia, and included additional content relevant to interfaith dialogue.[3]

The fourth edition was published in 1995 by Amana Publications in Beltsville, Maryland. This edition has been cited in various discussions on interfaith relations and religious studies.[4]

References

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  1. ^ a b c Al-Faruqi, Isma'il Raji (1982). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths. Washington, D.C.: International Institute of Islamic Thought. p. 88. OCLC 11470804.
  2. ^ a b Al-Faruqi, Isma'il Raji (1986). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths (2nd ed.). Herndon, Va.: International Institute of Islamic Thought. ISBN 0912463066. OCLC 17803711.
  3. ^ a b Al-Faruqi, Isma'il Raji (1991). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths (3rd ed.). Alexandria, Va.; Herndon, Va.: Al Saʻdāwī Publications; International Institute of Islamic Thought. ISBN 0912463406. OCLC 23287132.
  4. ^ a b Al-Faruqi, Isma'il Raji (1995). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths (4th ed.). Beltsville, Maryland: Amana Publications. ISBN 9780915957255. OCLC 31970376.
  5. ^ Al-Faruqi, Ismail R. (1982). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths. Herndon, Virginia: International Institute of Islamic Thought. pp. 1–15.
  6. ^ Hashi, Abdul Razak Abdulahi (August 5–7, 2008). Methodological Approach of Studying Religious Ethics of Other Faiths between Ismail al-Faruqi and Toshihiko Izutsu: A Comparative Study. International Conference on Contemporary Scholarship on Islam. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
  7. ^ a b c d e Sabri, Ahmad (2005). Understanding Isma’il Raji Al-Faruqi’s Approach to Religious Pluralism and Ethics. Kuala Lumpur: IIUM Press. pp. 18–22.
  8. ^ a b Ganaie, Ab Majeed (2024). "Faith-Based Understanding: A Trialogic Perspective within the Abrahamic Religions". Lectures: Journal of Islamic and Education Studies. 3 (2): 136–148. doi:10.58355/lectures.v3i2.82.
  9. ^ a b c Shaharud-din, Suhaida; Khambali, Khadijah Mohd (2012). "Analisis Konsep Abrahamic Faiths dan Kaitannya dengan Pluralisme Agama". International Journal of Islamic Thought. 2 (1): 62–67. doi:10.24035/ijit.2.2012.006.
  10. ^ Isma'il Raji al-Faruqi, ed. (1982). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths. Beltsville, MD: Amana Publications. pp. 12–18. ISBN 9780915957255.
  11. ^ Isma'il Raji al-Faruqi, ed. (1982). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths. Beltsville, MD: Amana Publications. pp. 19–24. ISBN 9780915957255.
  12. ^ Isma'il Raji al-Faruqi, ed. (1982). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths. Beltsville, MD: Amana Publications. pp. 25–32. ISBN 9780915957255.
  13. ^ Isma'il Raji al-Faruqi, ed. (1982). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths. Beltsville, MD: Amana Publications. pp. 35–40. ISBN 9780915957255.
  14. ^ Isma'il Raji al-Faruqi, ed. (1982). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths. Beltsville, MD: Amana Publications. pp. 41–47. ISBN 9780915957255.
  15. ^ Isma'il Raji al-Faruqi, ed. (1982). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths. Beltsville, MD: Amana Publications. pp. 48–55. ISBN 9780915957255.
  16. ^ Isma'il Raji al-Faruqi, ed. (1982). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths. Beltsville, MD: Amana Publications. pp. 60–67. ISBN 9780915957255.
  17. ^ Isma'il Raji al-Faruqi, ed. (1982). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths. Beltsville, MD: Amana Publications. pp. 68–74. ISBN 9780915957255.
  18. ^ Isma'il Raji al-Faruqi, ed. (1982). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths. Beltsville, MD: Amana Publications. pp. 75–82. ISBN 9780915957255.
  19. ^ Isma'il Raji al-Faruqi, ed. (1982). Trialogue of the Abrahamic Faiths. Beltsville, MD: Amana Publications. pp. 83–89. ISBN 9780915957255.
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