Includes bibliographical references (pages 133-136).
Contents:
Part 1. Said Nursi: Said Nursi's Life and Context -- The Story of the Risale-i Nur -- Part 2. An Islamic Jihad of Nonviolence: Jihad in Islamic Thought -- Foundation of Jihad of Nonviolence: Positive Action -- Elements of Inward Jihad -- Enemies Redefined: Reinterpretation of Outward Jihad -- Guidelines for the Community of Believers -- Nursi in Conversation with Gandhi, King, and Mandela -- Conclusion -- Appendix: A portion from Nursi's Last Teaching to the Students of the Risale-i Nur before His Death.
Summary:
Today Islam is often associated with violence, more so than other world religions. In the center of this reception of Islam is the concept of jihad, which has been distorted by many. On the one hand, there are some Muslims who take jihad as a reference point for their violent crimes against innocent people. On the other hand, the concept is intentionally used to promote fear against Islam and its adherents. This study challenges these presentations of jihad by exploring the late Muslim theologian Said Nursi's jihad of nonviolence. The book shows how Nursi's teaching concerning nonviolent struggle, reconciliation, and religious tolerance has much in common with Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, as well as Martin Luther King Jr. -- Provided by publisher.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.