Category Archives: Islam

The Jews of Bahrain

Religious tolerance in Bahrain? Perhaps. For the 36 Jews living there, at least in 2009. In the tense landscape of the Middle East, there is little room left for Jewish Arabs, a tiny minority in this country as well as … Continue reading

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Covert courting

I had high hopes that President Obama would do more outreach among US Muslims. There are only 24 hours in a day. I get that. But I was hoping that we’d see a more overt form of engagement. Perhaps the … Continue reading

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South Park censorship

I have to thank my baby Gators for introducing me to South Park some time ago. I have to confess that I only look at it when it’s involved in some newsworthy event. And, boy, this one sure counts. I … Continue reading

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Could Francis make a Middle East comeback?

So many links! So little time! This is from December, 2009, but still relevant. Where are the King’s? The Gandhi’s? The St. Francis’? St. Francis? Yes. I haven’t read the book yet, but it’s on my list, Paul Moses’ book, … Continue reading

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What’s in a name?

I want to say this is “stunning” news, but given the state of things in the world, sadly, it was to be expected. There were protests in Malaysia yesterday and four arson attacks on Christian churches, apparently provoked by a … Continue reading

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Minarets of Marseille

This in contrast to the recent Swiss ban on building any new minarets: The minaret of the new Grand Mosque of Marseille, whose cornerstone will be laid here in April, will be silent — no muezzin, live or recorded, will … Continue reading

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Religion and violence

It’s sad that so much of contemporary discussion about religion centers on violence: the violence that is generated and sanctioned in the name of religion. Some critics of religion have argued that religion is inherent problematic. One such problem is … Continue reading

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Islam and creationism

The discovery of “Ardi” supports a creationist perspective? This isn’t what I’d have thought but apparently there is a rise of creationism in some Muslim communities. But there is another creationist movement whose influence is growing, and which is fueling … Continue reading

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First black man to lead prayers in Mecca

In the New York Times, this article on a black man leading prayers in Mecca. Sheik Adil is black, and the son of a poor immigrant from the Persian Gulf. Leading prayers at the Grand Mosque is an extraordinary honor, … Continue reading

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The House of Wisdom: How the Arabs Transformed Western Civilization

Timesonline article on Arab intellectual and religious influences on western civilization. When Baghdad opened its gates as the new capital of the Abbasid Caliphate, the prime site in the city was occupied by the royal library. Both the city and … Continue reading

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