Islam Balancing
Life and Beyond

by Suhail Kapoor

Read Online

I think the book is very clearly written and presented. Moreover, the organization of the book is likely to draw in readers with limited familiarity, as it presents basic doctrines and undermines certain prevalent stereotypes early on. I think the presentation of Islamic doctrine as quite different from the representation in the western media of “Islamic fundamentalists” is generally well done and useful. Certainly, some westerners are inclined to generalize falsely about Islam, and also to judge Islam based on the performance of some who claim to be Islamic, as opposed to its doctrinal ideals. This would not be so bad if many westerners did not at the same time judge their own western societies on the basis of their highest stated ideals, rather than their much more checkered actual performance. While such a short book does not attempt a detailed defense of many beliefs, it can serve as a useful introduction to Islamc doctrine, and a resource for many westerners interested in pursuing deeper dialogue.”

Dr. David Checkland
Assoc. Professor, Dept. of Philosphy, Ryerson Univ., Toronto, ON., Canada

Suhail Kapoor’s well organized and clearly worded book will be a valuable asset in helping people understand the history and many wonderful aspects of Islam. I feel great respect for his efforts toward understanding and peace.

I enjoyed reading your book. The pictures in the book are very attractive. I agree with your feeling that it is important for people of different religious backgrounds to attempt to fully understand each other’s traditions and treat each other with compassion and respect. I respect your efforts to assist people in doing this through helping them understand the history and many wonderful aspects of your religion, Islam. Since Soto Zen buddhist practice is experiential rather than belief based, there are many points where we would tend to disagree perhaps, however, in your belief that mutual respect is very important, there is only agreement. Best wishes to you in your efforts and in life in general.

Rev. Tesshin James Smith
Atlantic Soto Zen Center, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

At a time when misconceptions about and prejudices against Islam are increasing, Suhail Kapoor’s introductory booklet on Islam covers all the major issues that non-Muslims have regarding Islam. In particular, the booklet covers Muslim beliefs and practices and touches on important issues on violence and women. This is a welcome contribution to the field and the author is to be commended for his great efforts.

Professor Liyakat Takim
Sharjah Chair in Global Islam, McMaster Univ., Hamilton, ON., Canada

In these times when we are barraged with stereotypes by the media and by people whose lives have sadly led them towards bigotry and resentment of differences any effort to spread mutual understanding is very welcome indeed. I commend you for all the energy you are putting into this important endeavour: the world will be a better place for your admirable commitment.

I found your book informative, and a very good introduction to Islamic belief for the general reader. It is especially good at developing the grounds for interfaith dialogue based on overlapping understandings of God. The language is accessible and concepts are clearly explained.

Professor John Black, Co-Chair Liberal Studies Department
Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC., Canada

Nicely produced book and easy to read and understand. Many misconceptions of Islam by the West are handled deftly but some statements about Judaism and Christianity are debatable.

Rev Charles Brock
Fellow and Chaplain Emeritus, Mansfield College, Oxford, UK

In his book Islam: Balancing Life and Beyond, Suhail Kapoor presents the tenets of Islam in an understandable way that is simple but not simplistic. Mr. Kapoor bases his explanations of Islamic belief on the primary sources of actual quotations from the Qur’an and other writings. In so doing, oftentimes the clarification of the specific or even subtle meaning of certain Arabic words helps resolve misunderstandings caused by a lack of awareness on the part of non-Arabic speakers. Mr. Kapoor does not shy away from controversial topics but addresses them head-on with candor and clarity. While the book is obviously written from the faith perspective of a believer, its aim is informative, not proselytory and does not seek or pressure the reader to convert/revert to Islam. The book does not insist that readers accept Islam but invites readers to understand an Islamic perspective. Readers of this book will be left with greater insight and appreciation for the faith of their Muslim neighbours.

JW Windland, Founder,
Encounter World Religions Centre

If you would like to put your review of the book please email us at balancing.life@hotmail.com.

14 Comments

  1. Hello Madyson, Allah guies those who seek guidance. Its like being lost on the road and not asking anyone for…

  2. My name is Madyson and I’m 16 years old, residing in America. I would like to thank you for writing…

  3. Your book is superb! I haven’t read through it fully, but I found it to provide essential information about life,…

  4. My dear dearest Brother Sohail Kapoor, As-Salamu Alaykum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu, ALL PRAISE & GLORY IS FOR OUR ONE…

  6. I have read this wonderful book on Islam. You have amazingly captured all key areas so diligently. It is a…

  8. The status of Jesus Christ, to learn from Islamic perspective, was interesting.I see Muslims now with more understanding than I…

  9. Enjoyed reading the book, particularly the chapters re. women, their status in Islam etc. Very intrigued.

  10. The book tells a different story from what the media is telling us. I felt peace knowing the message of…

  11. I could not see where terrorism is related to Islam. Good effort. I was particularly impressed to learn the status…

  12. I think you are doing a great work by distributing this book on the streets of Toronto. It was very…

  14. Hi this is rob. Please send me info on islam and da final profit muhammad. Ive been reading ur book…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Copyright© 2021 Askusaboutislam.com. All Rights Reserved.