About Book

Toward an Islamic Theology of Nonviolence is a pioneering work that brings René Girard’s mimetic theory into sustained dialogue with Islam. Adnane Mokrani addresses the absence of Islamic perspectives in Girard’s writings by systematically analyzing the Qur’ān, classical exegesis, and Islamic history through a Girardian lens. Mokrani argues for a radical theological move beyond just war theory, one that disarms violent theological interpretations and deconstructs sacralized narratives of conquest or domination. By interrogating both scripture and history, he highlights how certain violent events and ideologies of power were human choices—not divinely mandated inevitabilities. This demystification opens the way for an authentically Islamic theology of peace, rooted in the spiritual dimensions of the Qur’ān and attentive to both historical responsibility and contemporary crises of violence. The book situates itself not only within Islamic studies but also within global peace discourse, offering an interreligious contribution to the development of a radical theology of nonviolence.Mokrani’s work is highly relevant in today’s global climate of religiously justified violence, Islamophobia, and the search for constructive interfaith dialogue. It provides an intellectual and theological resource for Muslim scholars, faith leaders, and peace activists seeking nonviolent frameworks rooted in their own tradition. Community engagement mechanisms include: • Study circles within Islamic seminaries or interfaith centers examining Qur’ānic narratives through Girardian insights. • Peacebuilding workshops drawing on the book’s radical theology of peace. • Use in university courses on Islamic theology, comparative religion, and conflict studies. • Dialogue platforms with Christian Girardian scholars, deepening interreligious cooperation on nonviolence. This book is groundbreaking in filling a critical gap: it not only interprets Islam through Girard’s mimetic theory but also produces a constructive Islamic theology of peace. Its scope makes it a unique contribution to religious studies, interfaith dialogue, and nonviolence scholarship. Strengths: • First systematic engagement between Islam and Girard’s mimetic theory. • Bridges theology, Qur’ānic studies, and peace studies. • Provides both critique (of sacralized violence) and constructive vision (theology of peace). • Accessible length while maintaining scholarly rigor. Weaknesses / Limitations: • Theoretical density may challenge readers unfamiliar with Girard. • Some historical critiques may be controversial in traditionalist Muslim circles. • Limited practical guidance for activist implementation (focus is more theological-philosophical). Compared with other works on Islamic peace theology, Mokrani’s book stands out for its interdisciplinary approach and interfaith resonance, though it is less a manual for activism and more a framework for intellectual transformation.