Description:

Scripture’s abiding relevance can inspire great goodness, but its authority has also been wielded to defend slavery, marginalize LGBTQ individuals, ignore science, and justify violence. Grounded in close readings of scripture and tradition in Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, Dangerous Religious Ideas shows us how the interpretive methodologies of these religions have always been aware of its tremendous power both to harm and to heal. Many listeners presume an absolute understanding of scripture’s meaning, forgetting that these sacred texts have valued multiple perspectives and ongoing rhythms of change in their histories of interpretation. Rachel Mikva reminds us that it’s not a modern phenomenon to debate the nature of truth, hold space open for doubt, and question our capacity to know things—especially about God and God’s will—with certainty. In this timely book, she reframes the way we talk about faith to create a space where public discussion of religion is more constructive, nuanced, and socially engaged.