Common Ground Between Islam and Buddhism

Overview

Forging a interfaith dialog between traditions that typically stand at odds, this groundbreaking book explores the scriptural and spiritual tenets of Islam and Buddhism in relation to one another, creating a basis for comparison and analysis of the two traditions. Written by eminent scholars, this discussion juxtaposes foundational principles and practices by linking underlining principles and fostering a mutual appreciation between followers of both religions. This interfaith volume discusses metaphysical traditions and philosophical studies born of Islam and Buddhism, places them in context with each other, thus encouraging understanding, and providing a point of reference for continued learning and cooperation.

Reviews

"This is an important and pioneering book, which seeks to find common ground between the teachings of Islam and of Buddhism . . . . This may not have occurred very often before, because there has been so little opportunity for real understanding between these two great traditions. This book attempts to set that right."  —His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama, from the introduction

"The author's well-informed and insightful analysis reveals, deeper down, a genuine common ground of transcendental wisdom and merciful compassion. A splendid accomplishment, a transformative read, and a kindling of hope for real peace in days to come!"  —Robert Tenzin Thurman, Jey Tsong Khapa professor of Buddhist studies, Columbia University

"Common Ground is both informative and inspiring. I am grateful for this initiative and believe that Muslims and Buddhists who live together, from America to Malaysia, will benefit from this scholarship and guidance."  —Ingrid Mattson, president, Islamic Society of North America

Author Biography

Reza Shah Kazemi is the author of a number of works on comparative religion and Islamic spirituality, including Paths to Transcendence: According to Shankara, Ibn Arabi & Meister Eckhart. Hamza Yusuf Hanson is a lecturer and the founder of the Zaytuna Institute. He lives in Berkeley, California. H. H. the Fourteenth Dalai Lama is the spiritual leader of Tibet and the head of the Tibetan government-in-exile. He is the recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize for his nonviolent struggle for Tibet's liberation. H. R. H. Prince Ghazi bin Muhammad is a personal envoy and special adviser to H. M. King Abdullah II of Jordan. Professor Dr. Hashim Kamali is a law professor at the International University of Malaysia and the author of Islamic Commercial Law: An Analysis of Futures and Options.