Inclusion or Exclusion in the Sacred Texts and Human Contexts

This work delves into the fundamental issue of Otherness, from both sacred texts and communal experiences. While the title adopts the dyad of “inclusion” or “exclusion”, these analyses broadly reflect nuanced critical considerations. Filled with profound psychological, theological, sociological, anthropological, and ethical dimensions, experiencing the Other is richly expressed within religious traditions. This book is a must for scholars interested in a multi-disciplinary approach to inclusivity and religion. 

Muhammad Shafiq, professor of religious studies at Nazareth University, directs the Hickey Center for Interfaith Studies, holds the IIIT Chair for Islamic and Interfaith Studies. He teaches Islam, interfaith studies, comparative religion. He received his M.A./Ph.D./Fulbright Fellowship from Temple University. His research has culminated in 50+ articles, nine books and multiple national/international conferences.

Thomas Donlin-Smith, professor of religious studies at Nazareth University, teaches comparative and biomedical ethics, religion and politics. His research analyzes religious ethics, science, and politics. He is an advisory board of the Hickey Center and serves on institutional research ethics committees. He received his M.Div. from Wesley Theological Seminary, and Ph.D. from the University of Virginia.