Articles

Book and journal reviews, articles about Judaism, Islam, interfaith dialogue, shared experiences, commentaries and opinion pieces

Prophet Muhammad (صَلَّى اللّٰهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ) said that one of the best things that a man can leave behind is knowledge, which is acted upon after his death.

Reference : Sunan Ibn Majah 241

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Spiritual Renewal: Rosh Hashanah in Judaism and its Parallels in Islamic Tradition

Rosh Hashanah carries profound significance and is characterised by its focus on spiritual rejuvenation, introspection, and the rekindling of ties to faith and community. What's intriguing is the discovery of parallels within Islamic tradition, echoing the very themes that underscore Rosh Hashanah. This article will delve into the preparations and customs that mark the Jewish New Year while drawing connections to analogous philosophies and traditions in Islam.

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The Sarajevo Haggadah: A Testament to Jewish-Muslim Relations

The Sarajevo Haggadah, a medieval Jewish manuscript, is a testament to Jewish-Muslim relations. Crafted in 14th-century Spain, its journey to Sarajevo highlights mutual respect across faiths. Preserved in a predominantly Muslim city, the manuscript's illuminations symbolize harmony between cultures. It conveys a message of unity and cultural cooperation, offering hope for a harmonious world.

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Review: “Reading the Bible in Islamic Context: Qur’anic Conversations”

"Reading the Bible in Islamic Context: Qur'anic Conversations," edited by Daniel J. Crowther, Shirin Shafaie, Ida Glasser, and Shabbir Akhtar, is an insightful book that explores connections between the Bible and the Qur'an. The book brings together various viewpoints to discuss how the Qur'an talks about stories and themes from the Bible.

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Shared Reflections and Distinct Devotions in Judaism and Islam

This article delves into the prayer practices of Judaism and Islam, highlighting both the common threads and distinctive features that define these two Abrahamic faiths. It explores their shared monotheistic foundation, directional prayer, structured rituals, communal worship, language significance, and unique theological themes. The article also underscores the different physical gestures employed in prayer by each faith. Through this exploration, it becomes evident how these practices serve as conduits for believers to establish a connection with the divine while showcasing the diverse ways in which spirituality finds expression across cultures and traditions.

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Review: Representing Israel in Modern Egypt

"Representing Israel in Modern Egypt" by Ewan Stein explores the portrayal of Israel in Egyptian media and culture. The book analyzes the historical, political, and cultural factors shaping these representations, highlighting both negative and positive depictions. While insightful, the analysis occasionally lacks depth and a balanced perspective.

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Fasting in Judaism and Islam

Fasting is a significant practice in Judaism and Islam, but with distinct variations. In Judaism, fasting is observed on occasions like Yom Kippur and Tisha B'Av, focusing on repentance and commemoration. In Islam, fasting during Ramadan involves refraining from food, drink, and more from dawn to sunset, fostering self-discipline and devotion. These practices reflect spiritual connection and self-control, while differing in purpose, timing, and regulations between the two religions.

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