I have a family member who works in predominately Muslim areas of the world. I recently asked him how I could learn more about Muslims and the Islamic belief system, and he highly recommended Seeking Allah, Finding Jesus by Nabeel Quereshi. I am so glad he did!
This book is told in the narrative style of an autobiography, as Nabeel walks us through his devout Muslim upbringing, and the conversations and confrontations that got him thinking about his religion in contrast to Christianity. The book has a “documentary” feel to it, as Nabeel takes us inside his home, school and mosque to let us see his life portrayed almost in real-time. Many of the conversations include Arabic phrases, which Nabeel footnotes at the beginning of the book, and then continues to use without the footnoted translation later, allowing the reader to become more immersed in his world.
Nabeel states his three main purposes for his book:
- To tear down walls by giving non-Muslim readers an insider’s perspective into a Muslim’s heart and mind. The mystical beauty of Islam that enchants billions cannot be grasped by merely sharing facts. But it is my prayer that by entering my world, you will come to understand your Muslim neighbor, so you can love him as yourself.
- To equip you with facts and knowledge, showing the strength of the case for the gospel in contrast with the case for Islam.
- To portray the immense inner struggle of Muslims grappling with the gospel, including sacrifices and doubts.
In my mind, he accomplished all three of these purposes beautifully. In addition, I discovered a whole new way to pray for my Muslim friends, as well as feeling like I may now carry on a more intelligent conversation with them about their cherished beliefs.
I too highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn more about what Muslims believe.
Craig T. Owens 