Being Human: Baha’i Perspectives on Islam, Modernity, and Peace

This book untangles a paradox. The Baha’i Faith claims a special and unique relationship to Islam. The Faith acknowledges its origins in nineteenth-century Shi’i Islam, celebrates the Qur’an as the authentic Word of God, and honors the Prophet Muhammad as Messenger of God and Seal of the Prophets. On the other hand, the Baha’i Faith insists that it is a new and independent religion that stands distinct and apart from Islam and Islamic practice. This book attempts to understand how such an apparent dissonance may be resolved. It is written to provide access to the original Arabic and Persian sources, signaling the deep connection between the two religious faiths.

The expanded edition contains some updated sources, and updated and expanded Notes, Glossary, and Bibliography sections!

Todd Lawson is Emeritus Professor of Islamic Thought at the University of Toronto.