Understanding Islam – did you miss it?
Understanding Islam
Rev’d Greg Webb writes: ‘It is important that we, as Christians, have a greater understanding of the beliefs of others. Only then can we have any meaningful dialogue and opinions. So, the talk by Revd. Colin Chapman was timely as well as being very important. He is an excellent teacher and gave a very clear introduction to Islam, its basics, its complexities, and its political side. He dealt clearly with the many questions that were raised. So worthwhile. I learned a great deal, and I am sure all who attended did as well’.
NOW you can hear (and even see – click on this link:- CTiS YouTube) the whole event – order a CD (audio) or DVD (video) from Jill Pullan (rojill@aol.com) or 01787 372482. Cost £3, + £1.50 if sent by post.
ALSO you can post all those questions you wanted to ask, using the comment box at the end of this article!
Colin will aim to answer them within a week.
We were very impressed by the presentation of quite a complicated subject. Even though many facts were not new to us, their presentation was quite striking. I quote in particular the contrast of one ‘empire’ being replaced by another with their link to colonialism.
The question which I was tempted to put from the floor was about the status of women in Islam. I had put this question to a Moroccan lady attending a meeting organised by the British Foreign Office on the Mediterranean. She was dressed like a Parisian model, with full but discreet makeup, and with an excellent academic background. Her answer was that Mohammed had raised the status of women, but no sooner was he dead that Muslim men took steps to put women back into their subservient state.
Yes, I believe that another talk on the same subject by an Imam, chaired by Rev.Colin would be a good idea.
Having said that, I would add that the “clash (not war) of civilizations” is inevitable as long as accomodation, and tolerance, is expected from one side only.
Thank you for the opportunity to hear Rev. Colin.
Julia and Evarist Saliba
The question of women in Islam is a very tricky one – and I find it very difficult to get the balance right. In a number of Islamic contexts (like Afghanistan) the position of women is certainly pretty depressing. But your friend has also drawn attention to the fact that in some contexts Muslim women are as liberated as others are. I’m sending as an attachment the chapter on Women in Islam from my book ‘Cross and Crescent: responding to the challenges of Islam.’ I’ve tried hard to get the balance right – and fear I haven’t succeeded. But hope it gives some more background on the subject and the variety of positions and views within the Muslim world.
With best wishes, Colin.
(Note: For the chapter on ‘Women in Islam’ see the following link.
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