Being Muslim Today

by Saqib Iqbal Qureshi

Accessible introduction to Islam and the Qur’an that explains how Muslims live and avoids the extremes of Orthodoxy and Islamophobia. The truths of every religion are typically challenged and re-written, serving as potent grounds for some of history’s most enduring debates and conflicts. Perhaps no other religious tradition suffers as much from the dualistic fallacy of good and evil than does Islam. What does it mean to be Muslim today? Orthodoxy’s interpretation is idyllic and omniscient, simplistic to a fault. Islamophobes at the opposite end of the spectrum, cultivating damaging stereotypes that present a religion that most Muslims cannot relate to. In Being Muslim Reclaiming the Faith from Orthodoxy and Islamophobia, bestselling author Dr. Saqib Qureshi silences the noise that obscures the message of Islam. He provides a compelling and accurate presentation of the faith’s beginnings, its evolution throughout the last 1,400 years, and its relevance for today. Being Muslim Today simplifies complicated academic debates and reveals the heart and soul of a growing faith tradition that claims more than two billion adherents. Chapters include lucid discussions of the origins of Islam, the Prophet Muhammed, and the rise of Islam through the ages. Qureshi also describes the twin perils of Orthodoxy and Islamophobia, both of which, he contends, badly misinterpret the true message of the faith. In a final chapter, Qureshi confronts the stereotype of Islam as an inherently violent religion, asking the West to hold a mirror to its own voracious appetite for conflict and colonization. Throughout, Qureshi encourages Muslims to reject pious certitude—the faithful must acknowledge contradictions in the Qur’an and the Islamic tradition, he writes, and adopt an attitude of theological humility. Some things are simply unknowable.

Genres: Religion, Nonfiction, Faith

332 pages, Paperback

Published May 7, 2024

Reviews

[David Mivasair · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned a lot from the first half of this book about the likely origins of Islam. There are many parallels to the origins of Judaism. (I am a retired rabbi.) By that, I mean that much of the real, factual history of the origins and development of the religion is obscured by claims made by subsequent religious authorities. Honest, objective inquiry and scholarship enables us to think and to believe beyond the claims made by religious authorities who, through the centuries, have narrowed and rigidified what we are often told the religion stands for. Saqib's book does an excellent job at illuminating that dynamic in the history of the development of Islam.

Throughout the sacred journey of our lives, many of us seek to understand and express our relationship with the transcendent, all-present aspect of our being, and of all being, which we call God. We often look to religions to guide us in that search. Far too often, rather than foster and nurture that search, our traditional religions as we have received them, shut it down.

Although I am not a "capital-M Muslim", having read Saqib's book cover-to-cover, my sense is that the knowledge of Islam that he offers can encourage people born and raised in Muslim families as well as other people seeking to be guided by Islam to open their minds to better follow the promptings of their souls which led them onto the path of seeking in the first place.

[robwob · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author provides extensive detail and supports his narrative with well-researched claims.

He demonstrates a clear passion for the subject and expresses a strong opinion on the freedom to interpret Islam.

The book is at its strongest in the first chapter, which outlines the historical development of Islam and how it has evolved over time. The second chapter, however, has its ups and downs; at times, it feels repetitive, relying on too many examples to make the same point, which can cause the reader to lose track of the argument. That said, the book concludes on a powerful and inspiring note.

Additionally, the author’s extensive references and citations offer readers numerous opportunities for further exploration, ranging from Rumi’s Masnavi to Albert Memmi’s The Colonizer and the Colonized.

[Zahid Arain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Being Muslim Today felt like Saqib Qureshi was addressing questions I have carried for a very long time. He takes the time to research them carefully and answers with depth, humility, and clarity. The book is both thorough and balanced, yet written in a way that is practical and easy to connect with.

What I appreciated most is his optimistic but pragmatic outlook—he doesn’t shy away from the difficult issues or the “elephant in the room,” yet he does so without alienating or hurting anyone. It is an excellent exposé on what it means to live as a Muslim today, and one that speaks to both young and old.

Highly recommended for anyone seeking a thoughtful, honest, and hopeful perspective.

[Manar Talab · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really great historical context of how Islam became what it is today in addition to exploring some unknown to me philosophical schools and influences. The part about Islamophobia was the weakest part of the book for me because it felt very reactionary whereas the rest of the book felt very balanced. I would’ve wanted the book to explore more of the root of Islamophobia rather than trying to drive home how the other religions are more violent.

[Rolf · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very thoughtful book, mainly aimed at folks who have a Muslim background, but also a very important read for non-Muslims like me.

[The Idea Shop · Rating 4 out of 5]

This well-researched book provides a compelling introduction for the lay person of the faith’s beginnings making this an accessible access point for anyone curious about the religion’s journey throughout the last 1,400 years.

Well researched and easily read, Qureshi excels at simplifying complicated academic debates and revealing facets of Islam which he contends are extensively ignored in modern times by so many of its two billion adherents.

From discussions about the origins of Islam, and the changing face of Islam through the ages. Qureshi describes the twin perils of Orthodoxy and Islamophobia, both of which badly ignore historical records. In a final chapter, Qureshi confronts the stereotype of Islam as an inherently violent religion.

This is a badly needed book in these divisive times and does a fine job pushing the propaganda and distractions out of the way to offer a well researched conversation about Islam. Clearly designed to be both a starting point and jumping off point for understanding Islam, this book’s well considered perspective offers a breathing space around the contradictions that are part and parcel of the post 9/11 world that has so many on both sides of the religion living life on the defensive.