[quote]PRCalDude wrote:
Only if you’re going to apply different interpretive standards to the Bible than you would to the Qur’an. Both have a context and a progressive nature of revelation contained in them. At that period of Biblical revelation (redemptive history), the Bible is developing the Christ vs. Anti-Christ theme, where the saints (here represented by Shem and Japtheth) and are spiritually held in contrast to the line of the antichrist (represented by Canaan). See Genesis 3:15.
So what is the context and understanding of Surah 9:29? At what period in MOhammed’s life was it revealed? What authority does it have over other verses? What is the context?
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My only purpose of my post was not to condemn or support either Christians or Muslims. My purpose was that Muslims, like Christians, may or may not interpret their various scriptures literally. I cannot, therefore, jump to the conclusion that all nominal Muslims are on a crusade to otherthrow Western Civilization. In the same manner, I cannot assume that just because there is a passage advocating slavery in the Old Testament that a modern Jew or Christian would see it as justification for condoning slavery (although a tiny minority might choose to read it that way).
For example, I have heard some Muslims speak of Jihad as an internal battle between good and evil within themselves.
I agree with you that it is unfortunate that religious text lend themselves (whether or not the original writers intended it) to such interpretations as advocating Holy War. Still, I dont think all Muslims interpret it that way or that Christians all condone slavery or think the universe was created 6000 years ago.
As I said, I am ill prepared to go tete-a-tete with you regarding nuances of the Bible or the Qu’ran. That, however, does not invalidate my above observations. No matter what the texts say we must see how they are interpreted. In the case of Muslims, some do believe in literal Holy War and as justification for some of the despicable acts.
Anyway, I feel that maybe we are going off on a tangent. Let me ask. Does the following accurately describe your position?
All Muslims believe in Holy War in order to impose Islam on the world. The Muslim girls are trying to impose their ways on a Western university. Therefore, we should conclude that this actions is a small step toward the achievement of Muslim overthrow and dominance of Western Civilization.
I honestly see it another way. Some Muslim girls are at Harvard studying their particular field. They would like to use the student gym but feel inhibited in so doing because of their beliefs about exposing their bodies and ask (and are granted) a few hours of gym time.
Now, people might be right that there is something wrong or discriminatory in such an action (that’s what we have been discussing), but I don’t see, based upon what we know, that we can jump to the conclusion that this is somehow an extension, albeit a mild one, of Islamic expansionism.