Biblical and Qur'anic Missiological Perspectives: A Comparative Analysis

Abstract

PREFACE Dr. Patrick Mburu Kamau has written an exciting book, “Biblical and Qur’anic Missiological Perspectives: A Comparative Analysis.” The book intends to provide a historical perspective of Christian and Islamic missiology since it looks at both Christian and Islamic missions in Africa. Both faiths are the most predominant in Africa since African Traditional Religions do not claim to be missionary. The two faiths have significantly influenced African communities over several centuries and have become the basis of African socio-political and cultural development. The sacred texts of the two religions (the Bible and the Qur’an) are taken as a repository of God’s/Allah’s self-revelation to humanity in a way that guides human behavior and morality. The two religions have been embraced in the African moral ethos. Living in a pluralistic society, we realize that cultural and religious enrichment helps us overcome inter-religious tensions between religious persuasions. Religious intolerance exists where there is minimal understanding of other religions that co-exist within the same environment. The author has set the basis for inter-religious dialogue between Christianity and Islam. This approach helps students study the Bible and the Qur’an with openness, sympathy, and respect, thus promoting mutual acceptance and appreciation. Such an attitude would be promoted by religious adherents, political leaders, and policymakers in Africa and, ultimately, the world. The author’s emphasis on the value of love and hospitality as a demonstration of our devotion to God/Allah is pivotal in building viable communities despite religious and cultural differences. Treating neighbors with compassion and respect is the proper foundation of both religions since the Bible and the Qur’an encourage adherents to be benevolent and compassionate to all people. The notion of hospitality becomes the basis of devotion to God/Allah and anchors adherents' faith and attitude. Against the socio-political and religious challenges the continent faces, which sometimes breed religious violence, intolerance, and insecurity, this book contributes to a healthy religious understanding and coexistence. It demonstrates how a balanced and faithful study of the two religious traditions can overcome intolerance and promote greater social cohesion among religious societies. This book should form the basis for inter-religious dialogue between Muslims and Christians. The basis for any meaningful dialogue is mutual listening and understanding. Participants of such a dialogue must have an intimate conversation with each other, fostering a spirit of respect and trust. In a collaborative attitude, dialogue seeks an everyday basis devoid of biases and preconceived notions. It seeks to restore broken relationships. Participants in a dialogue are encouraged to speak their minds without fear of being misunderstood or rejected. The spirit of dialogue ought to be that of humility. Participants must be able to recognise the similarities and differences of each tradition. In this book, the author has taken pains to identify similarities and irreconcilable differences between the Christian and Islamic faith. He avers that while dialogue may not constitute reconciliation, it would foster a shared understanding and tolerance. I commend the author for taking the time to exude this stimulating work.