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This is a most important translation, for it widens the available corpus of Muhammad ʿAbduh’s writings for English-speaking readers. ʿAbduh presents a view of Christianity from an Islamic perspective that is timely and challenging. This is a significant book for Muslims and for Christians.

—Professor Gavin D’Costa, University of Bristol

‘Translations are essential in helping different communities to understand one anothers’ thinking. This work by Muhammad ‘Abduh explicitly addresses the issue of Muslim-Christian mutual perceptions, yet ironically has never before been translated into any European language. So this new and clear translation is to be welcomed –not least by those who find themselves described, and may want to engage with the ideas presented. After all, the exchanges of over one hundred years ago can sound strangely contemporary’.

— Dr Martin Whittingham, Academic Dean, The Centre for Muslim-Christian Studies, Oxford

 

Muhammad ʿAbduh has long been a polarising figure in modern Islamic thought, often criticised as a ‘reformer’ accused of undermining tradition in his engagement with modernity. This first translation of Science and Civilisation: Between Islam and Christianity presents a corrective, offering a clear and accessible presentation of ʿAbduh’s nuanced and forward-looking ideas. It showcases his ability to address the challenges of modernity without compromising the richness of the Islamic tradition, underscoring his enduring relevance in contemporary discourse. Love or hate ʿAbduh, this vital contribution to Islamic studies more broadly and Islam and Science in particular, will be invaluable for academics and readers seeking to engage with the complexities of his intellectual legacy.

—Dr. Shoaib Ahmed Malik, Lecturer in Science and Religion

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