Takfir in Islamic Thought
By (Author) Hussam S. Timani
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Lexington Books
8th November 2017
United States
Professional and Scholarly
Non Fiction
Theology
297.2
Hardback
124
Width 160mm, Height 237mm, Spine 15mm
327g
This book provides an overview of the theological views on takfr in classical and medieval Islamic thought, explores the Islamic context of the concept, and considers the following questions: In what context does the term appear in the Qurn and adths (the sayings of the Prophet Muammad) In what circumstances did Muslim theologians engage in takfr, and what were the social, religious, theological, and political implications on the society How did the meaning of takfr evolve in classical and later Islamic theology, and what justifications did prominent medieval Muslim theologians and jurists provide for declaring other Muslims kuffr This book attempts to demonstrate how takfr has evolved throughout the centuries from being a term used to condemn (and warn against) unacceptable actions to a term used on individuals and communities to strip them of their belief, dignity, and linkage to the Divine (i.e., declaring them unbelievers). This book also attempts to shed the light on how the theological discourse on takfr in classical and medieval Islam has made its impact on twentieth- and twenty-first century groups.
This study provides a clear and useful overview of early and medieval Islamic positions on takfr (declaring someone an infidel). Against this background, the recent ideological deployment of takfr by some extremists may be criticized and ultimately rejected as an illegitimate misuse of Islamic tradition. -- Marcia K. Hermansen, Loyola University Chicago
Hussam Timanis Takfr in Islamic Thought is a systematic and in-depth study of a practice that has, unfortunately, become increasingly prevalent in contemporary Islam: namely, branding a fellow Muslim as a non-Muslim. Drawing extensively on the Qurn, adths (the reported sayings of Prophet Muhammad), and classical Arabic texts, Timani demonstrates that there has always been a vigorous debate among Muslim scholars about the understanding of iman (belief) and kufr (disbelief) and, by extension, the definition and legitimate usage of takfr. I was particularly impressed by Timanis attention to questions of nuance and complexity. He not only contrasts a variety of theological schoolsthe Kharijites, Murjiites, Karramites, Mutazilites, Asharites, and Maturiditesbut even analyzes differing perspectives within these schools. This book will become essential reading for anyone interested in religious pluralism in Muslim contexts, especially in terms of intra-faith dialogue. -- Shadaab Rahemtulla, University of Wales Trinity Saint David
Hussam S. Timani is associate professor of philosophy and religion and codirector of the Middle East and North Africa Studies Program at Christopher Newport University.