Darren Cronshaw

Fathering in Western Christianity and Islam: Intercultural and Postmodern Perspectives on Ideal Fathers and the Place of Children, Gender Roles, Discipline and Education Darren Cronshaw

Patterns of family life have changed since the Bible and the Qur¿an were written, so what does Christianity and Islam have to teach about fathering in Western society? This book compares ideal fathering in Islam and Christianity and application to the postmodern place of children, gender roles, discipline, and religious and sex education. Fathering ideals in Christianity and Islam are often similar. Ideal fathers value the needs of children as well as adults, give children a balance of boundaries and love, and are involved in inculcating character and reverence for God. Christian fathers are inspired by God the Father and Muslims by Muhammad the father to fulfill their own role as fathers, recognising it as a God-given and eternally significant role. Christians and Muslims can learn from one another and collaborate to protect family values in postmodern society. This study will interest religious scholars, and be especially helpful to those interested in fostering good fathering in postmodern and intercultural perspective.