Islam and Blackness
Exploring the complexities of race within Islamic traditions
Format:Hardback
Publisher:Oneworld Publications
Published:3rd Nov '22
Should be back in stock very soon
In Islam and Blackness, Jonathan A.C. Brown investigates claims of inherent antiblackness in Islam, exploring historical and theological contexts.
In Islam and Blackness, bestselling scholar Jonathan A.C. Brown offers a thorough investigation into the claim that Islam is inherently antiblack. This assertion has been made by various critics, both Western and African, who argue that antiblack racism is embedded within the religion’s scriptures, laws, and traditions. Brown seeks to explore the roots of this accusation, asking critical questions about its validity and origins.
Through a detailed analysis of Islamic scripture, law, Sufism, and historical contexts, Brown delves into how and why the notion of antiblackness emerged within the Islamic world. He traces its connections to conservative political movements, modern Afrocentrism, and historical narratives surrounding Barbary enslavement. By examining themes such as the portrayal of ‘blackened faces’ in the Quran and the perceptions of Black women within Shariah law, the book reveals the complex interplay between Islam and race.
Islam and Blackness not only addresses the historical underpinnings of these claims but also highlights significant voices from Islamic history that challenge antiblack racism. Brown's work is vital for understanding the intricate relationship between Islam and Black identity, providing insights that are essential for contemporary discussions on race and religion. This comprehensive study aims to dismantle misconceptions and promote a more nuanced understanding of Islam's interactions with Blackness.
‘[A] meticulous apologetic… Brown’s nuanced analysis highlights more egalitarian strands of the faith as well, suggesting that the Quran promotes the equality of all humans before God… Brown’s extensive scholarship on Muslim theological and legal thinkers is remarkable… Deeply researched and carefully reasoned, this is sure to spark spirited debate.’
* Publishers Weekly *‘The question Brown seeks to answer is simple, “Is Islam antiblack?” His path to an answer, however, is a complex, meandering one through many historic, cultural, social, political and religious vistas. The result is a sensitive and nuanced distinguishing between lived reality and scriptural ideal… This engaging volume will prove to be a seminal work in this area of inquiry.’
-- Imam Zaid Shakir, Professor Emeritus, Zaytuna College‘A phenomenal book on race and antiblackness in the Islamic tradition. Dr. Brown builds on the long scholarly tradition of documenting the achievements of Black African Muslims in history and skillfully addresses accusations that Islam is an antiblack religion.’
-- Habeeb Akande, author of Illuminating the Darkness‘Written with awe-inspiring insight, erudition, and elegance, what I find most refreshing about this book is its unfailing honesty and bravery. Jonathan Brown’s treatment of this historically elusive topic is highly nuanced but eminently readable, and, at times, uncomfortably honest. Without a doubt, this is the most authoritative study written to date on the topic of Islam and Blackness.’
-- Khaled Abou El Fadl, Omar and Azmeralda Alfi Distinguished Professor of Law, UCLA School of Law‘As expansive in scope as it is accessible, this daring book invites readers to join a highly relevant and hotly contested conversation. Brown asks incisive questions and follows them with erudite, creative, and sometimes provocative answers. Bound to spark debate, Islam & Blackness is invaluable for anyone seeking to understand both premodern conceptions of race and current realities of antiblack racism in a global context.’
-- Elizabeth Urban, Associate Professor of Islamic History, West Chester UniverISBN: 9780861544844
Dimensions: 234mm x 153mm x 36mm
Weight: unknown
416 pages