ROME, AUG. 28, 2007 (Zenit.org).- Understanding Islam is as easy as the ABC's, thanks to a new guidebook on the religion, culture and politics of the Muslim world.
"ABC per Capire i Musulmani" (ABC's of Understanding Muslims), is written by a priest from the Society of the Missionaries of Africa, known as the White Fathers. It aims to show that Christians and Muslims should live and work together in friendship and at the service of the common good.
In the 63-page volume published by San Paolo, author Father Maurice Borrmans explains terminology like Shariah, jihad and the Muslim concept of society and state.
The four sections of the book go through the history of Islam; the Muslim religion, including its worship and spirituality; the law, culture and politics of Islam; and interrelgious dialogue.
Father Borrmans lived in Algeria and Tunisia for 20 years and then moved to Rome to teach at the Pontifical Institute for Arabic and Islamic Studies.
Father Borrmans highlights the example of recent Popes in dealing with Islam and speaks of the "Christian challenge," which requires "theological discernment" and "prophetic effort."
Father Borrmans, who was a consultant of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, is also the author of "Guidelines for Dialogue Between Christians and Muslims," (Paulist Press, 1990.)
ZE07082803 - 2007-08-28