Roman Catholics and Shi'i Muslims

“This readable and pedagogically useful comparative survey . . . is an essential library acquisition. . . . A must for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses in Islam and comparative religion.” — CHOICE

“The comparison between the liberation theology of both traditions brings the discussion up to date, and is elegantly and usefully done. . . . Such a timely perspective could save the zealots on both sides, at least from themselves.” — Times Literary Supplement

“A book as well written as it is timely. . . . Readers seeking to better understand Islam will be particularly rewarded by the second chapter’s sensitive, succinct introduction to Shia. . . . A valuable resource for students and general readers alike.” — Booklist

“Any attempt at comparing religions as disparate as Catholicism and Islam is praiseworthy but difficult. . . . Fortunately, with careful work and a fluid writing style, [Bill and Williams] succeed. . . . By pointing out similar theologies, polity, sacred intercessors, martyrdoms, and mysticism of these two faiths, the authors help us understand a much-misunderstood religion.” — Library Journal

“Each chapter is loaded with stimulating gems, exploring, for example, the Prophet Muhammad’s daughter Fatima as the Islamic counterpart to the Virgin Mary, or the Iranian Revolution as a 'classic' class-warfare revolt on par with the French and Russian Revolutions.” — Publishers Weekly

“Remarkable. . . . A precise comparison of the striking similarities between Roman Catholicism and Shiite Islam is indeed groundbreaking work. . . . A book that should be widely read and discussed. . . . [A] fascinating study. May it be granted the reception in popular as well as international academic circles that it richly deserves.” — Middle East Policy

“At once probing, sympathetic, learned, and insightful. . . . Stands alone in its comprehensive, systematic, and nuanced treatment of each tradition. . . . A dependable set of parallel histories from an impressive range of examples. . . . With care and detail that will satisfy the specialist but not put off the general reader, [the authors] have identified key themes shared and contested between two powerful religious establishments. . . . A trustworthy and timely work that will reward frequent use by anyone interested in the shape and future of religion in the modern world.” — Middle East Insight

“This book could be used in both graduate and undergraduate courses that deal with Muslim-Christian relations, comparative religions, and Catholic Social Teaching.” — Journal for Peace and Justice Studies

“Balanced in tone and carefully researched, [this] book helps explain the essence of both traditions while enriching our understanding of each.” — American Catholic Studies Newsletter

“[The authors] bring considerable expertise to the study of mainline Twelver Shi'is.” — Theological Studies