The Challenge of Modernizing Islam: Reformers Speak Out and the Obstacles They Face

As ISIS, al-Qaeda and other Islamic groups radicalize peaceful Muslims by appealing to the teachings of the Qur'an and the example of Muhammad, it is imperative for these moderates to articulate a vision of Islam, and an exegesis of Islamic scripture, that can withstand the challenge of the jihadis, refute their understanding of Islam, and establish on a firm foundation an Islam that is genuinely peaceful, tolerant, pluralistic and compatible with secular governance, the freedom of speech, and the equality of rights of all people before the law. The Challenge of Islamic Reform is the first major effort to provide that foundation. Veteran journalist Christine Douglass-Williams interviews the foremost moderate and reformist Muslims in the Western world and asks them tough questions about how they deal with problematic Qur'an passages, how they intend to get their message across to the Muslim world, and more.