Selective Appeal to the Negus Narratives A Case Study in Interreligious Relations

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Paul Numrich

Abstract

The Negus narratives recount the interactions between the nascent Muslim community and the Christian king (Negus) of Abyssinia (modern Ethiopia). As one scholar observes, “Far from being a historical figure, the Negus began as a semi-legendary king and gradually turned out to be employable for a variety of religious and political purposes.” This article uses the pliability of the Negus narratives as a case study of how historical and literary narratives have been and should be invoked in interreligious relations. Following a summary of key elements of the Negus narratives, the article offers examples of how Muslims and Christians selectively appeal to aspects of the narratives to suit their political and religious purposes. The article then advocates a balanced selectivity that includes serious consideration of narrative applications contrary to one’s purpose, an approach more conducive to fostering deep understanding between Muslims and Christians as well as between adherents of different religions generally.

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