Father: Perhaps Al-Faqir does not speak for all (or even most) Muslims, just as Jerry Falwell was never an accurate representation of mainstream Christian thought? (Remember how Falwell claimed that God does not hear the prayers of Jews? At one point, during the '80s, he also suggested that good Christians should pray that Supreme Court justices would die during Ronald Reagan's term, so that Reagan could appoint conservative replacements.)
Some people have used Falwell's words to slam Christianity: "Look at how mean and unloving and bloodthirsty those Christians are! Did you hear what Falwell said? And don't get me started on that Robertson guy! He called for a leader in South America to be assassinated!" Christianity is a complex religion, not something that can be reduced to the rantings of Falwell, et al. Based on what I know of Islam (as well as the personal contact I've had over the years with a few Muslims), I would like to suggest that we should respect the complexity of Islam and not reduce it to the worst sound bytes from individual -- and imperfect -- adherents.
Peace.
Steve
Steve, you just said everything that I wanted to say.
There is truth to what you say, Steve, and certainly respect must be given. But at the same time there is the historical reality of the initial spread of Islam.
Not to bloody a dead horse, Father, but the same can be said for Christianity!
Ah, religion.
That's not quite fair, Thom, as the founder of one religion did not advocate violence.
Oh that's understood, Father. But both religions have engaged in their fair share of bloodiness.
Violence committed in the name of religion usually has nothing to do with religion at all.
Well, unless you're a "suicide bomber".
Please don't think I'm trying to argue, Father- I'm not! (Sometimes I'm just a little stubborn, and I miss sparring.)
Those in power with other motives can easily have their wars fought if they can convince their people that it's about religion. Sometimes it can be difficult to stir people up with wars over power, but it's very easy with wars over religion.
Bush even tried it by saying at the beginning of our bloody mess that "God is on our side" and how it's a moral imperative and whatnot. And it worked.
I know, Thom, and I can't argue with your last point. It's fun to spar intellectually with others, and it's one of the things I miss about the seminary.
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