Bridges To Islam: A Christian Perspective On Folk Islam

by Phil Parshall

In the acclaimed book, Phil Parshall devotes one chapter to "bridges" which can assist in facilitating understanding between Islam and Christianity. In he expands that key chapter into a book. The most promising bridges can be found not in orthodox Islam, contends the author, but in "folk Islam," which is less well known in the West but which influences about 70 percent of the world's Muslims. "Popular Islam consists largely of people who desire to know God and to be accepted by him," writes the author. "They have a high view of one God who is . . . all-powerful and merciful." The mystical Sufis press for a more satisfying personal relationship with Allah. These teachings and aspirations, argues the author, have immense potential as bridges, which he has personally witnessed spending many years ministering among Muslims. This thorough and in depth study of ways to bridge folk Islam will be invaluable to missionaries, students, and those interested in reaching Muslims for Christ.

Genres: Islam, Christianity

163 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 1991

Reviews

[BJ Richardson · Rating 3 out of 5]

The words "In India" should be added to the subtitle. Phil Parshall served for over twenty years in ministry to Muslims in India and Bangladesh. Almost all of the examples and illustrations come from that with a few from his later years in the Philippines peppered in. Also, the folk Islam he is describing seems to be exclusively from the sub-continent. I have served for eight years in Turkiye. There are definitely many folk elements mixed into the Islamic culture and practice here. Turkiye was, after all, the home and epicenter of sufism even though less than 6% of modern Turks are Sufi. That said, the folk elements I come across are vastly different from those described in this book.

If someone is going to minister or even just live among Muslims in India, Bangladesh, or Pakistan, this book will likely be an invaluable tool. However, for those encountering folk Islam from other parts of the world, this book has limited value.

[Joe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book on folk Islam which is more mystical and looking for relationship with Allah.

This is practiced by many Muslims around the world in contrast to Orthodox Islam in Saudi Arabia.