Hospitality and Islam: Welcoming in God's Name

by Mona Siddiqui

Considering its prominent role in many faith traditions, surprisingly little has been written about hospitality within the context of religion, particularly Islam. In her new book, Mona Siddiqui, a well-known media commentator, makes the first major contribution to the understanding of hospitality both within Islam and beyond. She explores and compares teachings within the various Muslim traditions over the centuries, while also drawing on materials as diverse as Islamic belles lettres, Christian reflections on almsgiving and charity, and Islamic and Western feminist writings on gender issues. Applying a more theological approach to the idea of mercy as a fundamental basis for human relationships, this book will appeal to a wide audience, particularly readers interested in Islam, ethics, and religious studies.

Genres: Islam, Theology, Religion

288 pages, Hardcover

First published November 24, 2015

About the author

Mona Siddiqui is professor of Islamic and interreligious studies at the University of Edinburgh. She lives in Edinburgh.

Reviews

[Muhannad Sheikh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Professor Mona Siddiqui explores the concept of hospitality at a spiritual and practical level, contrasting Islamic and Christian traditions (emphasis on Islam). The author argues, citing several different Islamic and Christian scholars and texts (Quran and Bible), that hospitality goes much deeper than simply inviting guests; it is an attitude towards life altogether. I enjoyed how Prof. Siddiqui conveyed and eloquated most of the ideas in the book.

I recommend this book to anyone interested in hospitality and giving to others. However, the book is more scholarly than I initially anticipated, so keep that in mind.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A scholarly read to spark discussion and reflection and, hopefully, actual practice.

['Izzat Radzi · Rating 3 out of 5]

If only the discussion stopped at chapter 2, as the others were sort of wandering around but 'framed' in the same bracket.

[Mills College Library]

297.22 S5684 2015