Naming God: Christian and Muslim Perspectives

The contributors to Naming God explore the many ways Christians and Muslims refer to and describe God, and the significance of naming God differently. This book provides guidance and materials for faith leaders, students, and scholars of theology, dialogue theory, and conflict resolution.

Format: Hardback
Length: 188 pages
Publication date: 01 November 2023
Publisher: Georgetown University Press

A fresh perspective on how Christians and Muslims talk about God

Naming God is an intricate task, as it involves labeling the indescribable. However, the Bible itself exhibits a fascinating contradiction, oscillating between denying that God can be named and describing instances where God reveals Godself nonetheless.

In Naming God, the outcome of the 2021 Building Bridges Seminar, an international dialogue between Christian and Muslim scholars, the contributors delve into the diverse ways in which Christians and Muslims refer to and depict God, as well as the profound significance of naming God differently. This book offers valuable guidance and resources for faith leaders, students, and scholars of theology, dialogue theory, and conflict resolution. Non-specialists will find an entry point into the theme of naming God, while specialists will be encouraged to expand and refine their thoughts on this crucial topic.

The contributors to Naming God approach the subject from various theological and cultural backgrounds, bringing a wealth of insights and perspectives. They explore the historical and cultural factors that have shaped the ways in which Christians and Muslims name God, as well as the theological implications of these differences. They also examine the ways in which naming God can contribute to interfaith dialogue and understanding, as well as the challenges and opportunities that arise from different naming practices.

One of the key themes explored in Naming God is the concept of transcendence. The contributors argue that while God is ultimately beyond human comprehension, naming God can help us to connect with God on a deeper level. They discuss the various ways in which Christians and Muslims describe God's transcendence, such as God's omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence, and how these descriptions can help us to understand God's nature and relationship with humanity.

Another important theme is the idea of immanence. The contributors argue that while God is transcendent, God is also immanent, present in the world and engaged with humanity. They discuss the ways in which Christians and Muslims express this immanence, such as through the concept of God's love and mercy, and how these expressions can help us to experience God's presence in our daily lives.

The contributors to Naming God also explore the significance of naming God differently in different contexts. They discuss the ways in which different religious traditions have named God, and how these names have evolved over time. They also examine the ways in which naming God differently can contribute to interfaith dialogue and understanding, as well as the challenges and opportunities that arise from these differences.

In addition to its theological and cultural insights, Naming God offers practical guidance for faith leaders and students. The book includes case studies and examples that illustrate the ways in which different naming practices have been used in interfaith dialogue and conflict resolution. It also provides resources for further study and reflection, such as a bibliography and a glossary of key terms.

Overall, Naming God is a thought-provoking and insightful book that provides a fresh perspective on how Christians and Muslims talk about God. It is a valuable resource for faith leaders, students, and scholars of theology, dialogue theory, and conflict resolution, and will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing dialogue between these two religious traditions.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781647123659