Joshua Ralston

Dr. Joshua Ralston is a Reader in Christian-Muslim Relations at the University of Edinburgh's School of Divinity and Director of the Christian-Muslim Studies Network funded by the Henry Luce Foundation. His academic background includes a BA in Philosophy from Wake Forest University, an MTh (Distinction) in World Christianity from the University of Edinburgh, an MDiv from Candler School of Theology, and a PhD in Christian Theology and Islamic Thought from Emory University.

His research focuses on Reformed Theology, political theology, and interreligious dialogue, particularly between Christianity and Islam. Notable works include Law and the Rule of God: A Christian Engagement with Shari'a (Cambridge, 2020) and co-edited volumes on migration and religious diversity. He currently co-chairs the AAR Reformed Theology and History Steering Committee and serves on editorial boards for journals like Political Theology and Journal for the Study of Interreligious Relations.

His articles explore themes such as migration’s impact on religious identity, comparative theology between Schleiermacher and al-Ghazali, and the theological underpinnings of populism. He advocates for constructive dialogue across religious divides, emphasizing theological engagement with Islamic thought and contemporary global challenges.

Ralston’s work bridges academic rigor and practical engagement, with a focus on fostering interfaith understanding through comparative theology and political theology frameworks. He has held roles at Union Presbyterian Seminary and continues to contribute to initiatives like the Henry Luce Foundation-supported network.