Muslims and others in sacred space

By Margaret Cormack

Book Description

Sacred spaces have long served as bridges between different faith traditions, creating unexpected moments of shared reverence and understanding. This scholarly exploration examines how Muslims and followers of other religions have encountered one another at holy sites throughout history, revealing patterns of both conflict and cooperation that continue to shape interfaith relations today.

Through seven detailed case studies spanning from South Asia to Egypt, readers discover the complex dynamics that emerge when different religious communities claim the same sacred ground. The book illuminates fascinating examples of shared devotion, such as a Palestinian shrine revered by Christians as belonging to St. George and by Muslims as connected to al Khadr. These overlapping traditions demonstrate how spiritual boundaries can blur in meaningful ways.

The collection moves beyond simple coexistence to examine how religious communities have actively incorporated elements from other traditions into their own practices. From Sufi orders blending Christian and Islamic festivals to medieval authors reimagining monastic settings, these stories reveal the creative ways faith communities have navigated religious diversity.

Each essay provides historical context while exploring the deeper spiritual questions that arise when sacred spaces become meeting grounds for different beliefs. The research spans centuries and continents, offering readers a comprehensive view of how interfaith encounters at holy sites have shaped religious understanding and practice across cultures and time periods.