In an age of terrorism and other forms of violence committed in the name of religion, how can religion become
a vehicle for peace, justice, and reconciliation? And in a world of bitter conflicts -- many rooted in religious
difference -- how can communities of faith better understand one another? The essays in this important book take
bold steps toward answering these questions. The fruit of a historic conference of Jewish, Christian, and Muslim
scholars and community leaders sponsored by the Institute for Advanced Catholic Studies, the essays address a fundamental
question: how the three monotheistic traditions can provide the resources needed in the work of justice and reconciliation.
Two distinguished scholars represent each tradition. Rabbis Irving Greenberg and Reuven Firestone each examine
the relationship of Judaism to violence, exploring key sources and the history of power, repentance, and reconciliation.
From Christianity, philosopher Charles Taylor explores the religious dimensions of "categorical" violence
against other faiths and other groups, while theologian R. Scott Appleby traces the emergence since Vatican II
of nonviolence as a foundation of Catholic theology and practice. Mustafa Ceric, Grand Mufti of Bosnia, discusses
Muslim support of pluralism and human rights, and Mohamed Fathi Osman examines the relationship between political
violence and sacred sources in contemporary Islam. By focusing on transformative powers of Judaism, Christianity,
and Islam, the essays in this book provide new beginnings for people of faith committed to restoring peace among
nations through peace among religions.