Muslim matter

Book Description

Stefan Maneval presents a thoughtful exploration of Muslim communities through the lens of everyday objects, photographs, and scholarly reflection. This interdisciplinary work emerges from research conducted at the Berlin Graduate School Muslim Cultures and Societies, weaving together visual documentation and material artifacts collected during fieldwork across diverse Muslim societies.

Rather than focusing on abstract theological concepts, this collection illuminates the tangible aspects of daily life that often remain invisible in mainstream discourse. Through carefully curated photographs and objects, readers encounter the rich complexity of Muslim experiences across different cultural contexts. The work reveals how spiritual practice intersects with ordinary pleasures, how communities navigate relationships with non-Muslim neighbors, and how individual humanity transcends religious categorization.

The book challenges simplified narratives by showcasing the remarkable diversity within Muslim societies. Readers discover communities where sacred rituals coexist with moments of joy and entertainment, where resilience flourishes even in challenging environments, and where cultural exchange shapes daily experience. Each photograph and artifact serves as a window into lived realities that defy stereotypical representations.

For those seeking deeper understanding of how faith manifests in material culture, this work offers valuable insights into the intersection of spirituality and everyday life. The accompanying essays provide scholarly context while maintaining accessibility, making complex cultural dynamics comprehensible to general readers interested in expanding their awareness of global Muslim experiences.