Malaika and the Seven Heavens
A Memoir of My Encounters with Islam

By (author) Toyin Omoyeni Falola

ISBN13: 9780472077670

Imprint: The University of Michigan Press

Publisher: The University of Michigan Press

Format: Hardback

Published: 02/10/2025

Availability: Not yet available

Description
Malaika and the Seven Heavens explores Toyin Falola’s personal journey with Islam, beginning with his early years in Ibadan, Nigeria. Growing up in environments where Islam coexisted with traditional African religions and later living in a predominantly Christian country, he witnessed the complexities of cultural and religious diversity. In this memoir, Falola shares stories of deep understanding, personal development, and the beauty of a faith that transcends language, nationality, and culture. Although faith is a lifelong journey, Falola identifies key moments in his upbringing that shaped his perception of faith, such as observing Islamic prayers, witnessing the significance of pilgrimage, engaging with spiritual leaders, and interacting with both Muslims and non-Muslims. By blending personal observations and reflections with the broader historical and cultural contexts of Islam, the book provides a unique perspective on the lived experiences of Muslims. In addition, Falola’s comparative perspective on the interaction of Christianity, Islam, and African Traditional Religion illustrates how these faiths influence and coexist with one another. Chapters explore firsthand experiences at madrasahs, Islamic education, the influence of Islamic music on Yoruba culture, the historical importance of places like Oja Oba in Ibadan, the role of women in Islam, the intersection of traditional medicine with Islamic healing practices, and the broader social and political implications of Islam in Nigerian cities such as Ilorin and Lagos. Ultimately, Malaika and the Seven Heavens aims to foster a deeper appreciation for our shared humanity, inspire meaningful conversations that bridge cultural divides, and enrich our collective knowledge.
List of Figures Acknowledgments Preface Chapter 1. The Masquerade, the Imam, and the Pastor Chapter 2. One Wudu and Ninety-Nine Tesbih Chapter 3. A Cane of Memory, the Joy of Pain Chapter 4. Lips of Angel Chapter 5. Our Mecca and Medina Chapter 6. Sir Sabo and Conc Juju Chapter 7. Alhaji Many, Alhaja Money Chapter 8. In the City of Double Conscience Chapter 9. Baba Agege is Dead! Chapter 10. Slaughtering the Living Elephant Chapter 11. The Last Sermon
  • Islam
  • Other non-Christian religions
  • General (US: Trade)
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List Price: £80.95