Synopsis: This volume addresses the promise and peril of post-9/11 interfaith trialogue. In fifteen clearly written and insightful essays, distinguished scholars of different faiths and divergent world views guide readers toward an informed understanding of the role of religion and the basic teachings of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam in the aftermath of the September 11 terror attacks on the United States. Acknowledging commonalities, these essays also shed light on the essential differences among the teachings of the Abrahamic traditions and raise pivotal questions regarding humanity's future: What prompted the carnage? What has changed since then? What remains to be achieved? Dispelling ignorance about the religious other is a necessary but only a first step toward achieving a durable and effective trialogue. In an increasingly perilous and interconnected world where the effects of globalization are yet to be fully recognized, interfaith trialogue holds out the hope of genuine movement toward a more peaceful coexistence.
Endorsements: "Alan Berger's astute editorial direction brings together a seasoned group of scholars from the Abrahamic traditions--Judaism, Christianity, and Islam--to provide a stellar example of interreligious cooperation that is so needed in today's world. Timely, incisive, challenging--these words summarize and highlight the importance of Trialogue and Terror." --John K. Roth, Professor Emeritus of Philosophy, Claremont McKenna College "As a prominent scholar of interfaith relations, Alan Berger provides us with essential reflections on the connection between religion, violence, and terror. No topic on religion is more urgent for us today. The book has a stellar line-up of thinkers whose ...contributions give us a robust picture of how religions can better understand each other to foster coexistence and build a more hopeful future for the entire human family."
--Rabbi Eugene Korn, Codirector, Institute for Theological Inquiry "The essays collected here focus on very different kinds of issues, sometimes going deep into theological problems, such as Catholic understanding of Judaism's ongoing validity, and other times attending to chronic political challenges, such as how the State of Israel complicates Muslim-Jewish relations. The book is an important contribution to a vitally significant conversation in our time." --David P. Gushee, Distinguished Professor of Christian Ethics, Mercer University "Kudos to the contributors of Trialogue and Terror for an unflinchingly sober and honest analysis of the necessity and possibility of trilateral engagement among the Abrahamic faiths. Courageously self-critical, the authors mine the resources of their traditions to provide hope and constructive pathways for the extensive interreligious dialogues so sorely needed in the post-9/11 world." --Elena Procario-Foley, Professor of Jewish-Catholic Studies, Iona College Author Biography: Alan L. Berger is the Raddock Family Eminent Scholar Chair of Holocaust Studies at Florida Atlantic University.
Among the books he has written, coauthored, and edited are Children of Job, Second Generation Voices, and Jewish-Christian Dialogue.