Reasoning with God

In light of recent concern over Shariah, such as proposed laws to prohibit it in the United States and conflict over the role it should play in the new Egyptian constitution, many people are confused about the meaning of Shariah in Islam and its role in the world today. In Reasoning with God, renowned Islamic scholar Khaled Abou El Fadl explains not only what Shariah really means, but also the way it can revitalize and reengage contemporary Islam. After a prologue that provides an essential overview of Shariah, Abou El Fadl explores the moral trajectory of Islam in todays world. Weaving powerful personal stories with broader global examples, he shows the ways that some interpretations of Islam today have undermined its potential in peace and love. Rather than simply outlining challenges, however, the author provides constructive suggestions about how Muslims can reengage the ethical tradition of their faith through Shariah. As the worlds second largest religion, Islam remains an important force on the global stage. Reasoning with God takes readersboth Muslim and non-Muslimbeyond superficial understandings of Shariah to a deeper understanding of its meaning and potential.