The History Book Club discussion

The book that will be the August 2016 Book of the month is If the Oceans Were Ink: An Unlikely Friendship and a Journey to the Heart of the Quran by Carla Power.

by Carla Power

Synopsis:

PULITZER PRIZE FINALIST • NATIONAL BOOK AWARD FINALIST • Named A Best Book of the Year by The Washington Post and The Denver Post • Praised by Fareed Zakaria as “intelligent, compassionate, and revealing,” a powerful journey to help bridge one of the greatest divides shaping our world today.

"Carla Power's intimate portrait of the Quran captures the extraordinary, living debate over the Muslim holy book's very essence. A spirited, compelling read."-Azadeh Moaveni, author of Lipstick Jihad

If the Oceans Were Ink is Carla Power's eye-opening story of how she and her longtime friend Sheikh Mohammad Akram Nadwi found a way to confront ugly stereotypes and persistent misperceptions that were cleaving their communities. Their friendship-between a secular American and a madrasa-trained sheikh-had always seemed unlikely, but now they were frustrated and bewildered by the battles being fought in their names. Both knew that a close look at the Quran would reveal a faith that preached peace and not mass murder; respect for women and not oppression. And so they embarked on a yearlong journey through the controversial text.

A journalist who grew up in the Midwest and the Middle East, Power offers her unique vantage point on the Quran's most provocative verses as she debates with Akram at cafes, family gatherings, and packed lecture halls, conversations filled with both good humor and powerful insights. Their story takes them to madrasas in India and pilgrimage sites in Mecca, as they encounter politicians and jihadis, feminist activists and conservative scholars. Armed with a new understanding of each other's worldviews, Power and Akram offer eye-opening perspectives, destroy long-held myths, and reveal startling connections between worlds that have seemed hopelessly divided for far too long.

Praise and Reviews:

PULITZER PRIZE FINALIST

NATIONAL BOOK AWARD FINALIST

Named A Best Book of the Year by The Washington Post and The Denver Post

“A vibrant tale of a friendship.... If the Oceans Were Ink is a welcome and nuanced look at Islam [and] goes a long way toward combating the dehumanizing stereotypes of Muslims that are all too common.... If the Oceans Were Ink should be mandatory reading for the 52 percent of Americans who admit to not knowing enough about Muslims.” ―The Washington Post

“Journalist Power writes about her year studying the Quran with a Muslim scholar she befriended while working at a think tank in London. For some, this will be a strong introduction to Islam. To others, it's fodder for discussion on the Sheikh's views, how Westerners (such as Power) interpret those views and the interplay of culture and religion.” ―The Denver Post

“For all those who wonder what Islam says about war and peace, men and women, Jews and gentiles, this is the book to read. It is a conversation among well-meaning friends--intelligent, compassionate, and revealing--the kind that needs to be taking place around the world.” ―Fareed Zakaria, author of The Post-American World

“With a journalist’s mind for the story, a born traveler’s heart for the adventure of crossing borders, and a seeker’s yen for the poetry and mysticism of belief, Power creates an exceptional record of a timeless quest.”― Merritt Tierce, a National Book Foundation “5 Under 35” honoree and author of Love Me Back

“An inspiring story of two [people] from different worlds who refuse to let religious and cultural differences, prejudice, and ignorance get in the way of their friendship, If the Oceans Were Ink is as thought-provoking as it is elegantly written. It takes a difficult, highly charged topic and puts it into terms that are not only understandable and eye-opening, but beautiful.”―Bustle (11 Beautifully Written Memoirs by Women)

“[Carla Power and Sheikh Mohammad Akram Nadwi's] conversations break down stereotypes.... Power displays the diversity and intellectual richness of the practicing Muslim world, and shows how much we have to gain from mutual understanding.” ―Shelf Awareness

“Carla Power's intimate portrait of the Quran, told with nuance and great elegance, captures the extraordinary, living debate over the Muslim holy book's very essence. A spirited, compelling read.” ―Azadeh Moaveni, author of Lipstick Jihad

“Engaging … Together [Carla Power and the Sheikh] explore … the significance of veiling and unveiling, the struggle against unjust rulers and jihad, and contemporary wars. Power's narrative offers an accessible and enlightening route into a topic fraught with misunderstanding.” ―Publishers Weekly

“Unique, masterful, and deeply engaging. Carla Power takes the reader on an extraordinary journey in interfaith understanding as she debates and discovers the Quran's message, meaning, and values on peace and violence, gender and veiling, religious pluralism and tolerance.” ―John L. Esposito, University Professor and Professor of Islamic Studies, Georgetown University, and author of The Future of Islam

“Lively … Intelligent and exceptionally informative.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“A thoughtful, provocative, intelligent book.” ―Diana Abu-Jaber, author of Birds Of Paradise and The Language of Baklava

“Their yearlong debates on issues ranging from the veiling of women to calls for fatwas challenged their own understandings of religion, culture, politics, and friendship and offer powerful new insights into Islam.” ―Booklist

“If the Oceans Were Ink opens a door to the power of the Quran's lyrical and complex prose to inspire, comfort, and ignite hearts everywhere. A must read for anyone wishing to understand a global community's central spiritual source.” ―Dalia Mogahed, Director of Research, The Institute for Social Policy and Understanding, and co-author of Who Speaks for Islam?

“A former foreign correspondent for Newsweek raised partly in the Middle East and boasting a graduate degree in Middle Eastern studies from Oxford, Power spent a year reading the Quran with a longtime friend, Sheikh Mohammad Akram Nadwi. Their experience led them beyond stereotypes to a constructive understanding for the text's call for peace and equality. Great for book clubs.” ―Library Journal

“There are many intriguing books that trace the encounter of Westerners with Muslims from traditional backgrounds. Some of these books are love stories, others are clashes. Carla Power's If the Oceans Were Ink is something more radical, magical, and much more relevant: a religious encounter mediated through a gentle friendship, one that is committed to a dialogue and a search for truth. In a world characterized by so much tension and polemic, Power offers what might be our best hope for a better tomorrow: an intelligent friendship. Most enthusiastically recommended.” ―Omid Safi, Director, Duke Islamic Studies Center

KIRKUS REVIEW

Remember the following:

Everyone is welcome but make sure to use the 카지노싸이트 spoiler function.

If you come to the discussion after folks have finished reading it, please feel free to post your comments as we will always come back to the thread to discuss the book.

The rules

You must follow the rules of the History Book Club and also:

First rule of Book of the Month:
Respect other people's opinions, no matter how controversial you think they may be.

Second rule of Book of the Month:
Always, always Chapter/page mark and spoiler alert your posts if you are discussing parts of the book.

To do these spoilers, follows these easy steps:

Step 1. enclose the word spoiler in forward and back arrows; < >

Step 2. write your spoiler comments in

Step 3. enclose the word /spoiler in arrows as above, BUT NOTE the forward slash in front of the word. You must put that forward slash in.

Your spoiler should appear like this:
(view spoiler)

And please mark your spoiler clearly like this:

State a Chapter and page if you can.
EG: Chapter 24, page 154

Or say Up to Chapter *___ (*insert chapter number) if your comment is more broad and not from a single chapter.

Chapter 1, p. 23
(view spoiler)[I know everything now about chapter one and I am going to post it here - oops I better place this in a spoiler alert so I do not ruin the book for others (hide spoiler)]

If you are raising a question/issue for the group about the book, you don't need to put that in a spoiler, but if you are citing something specific, it might be good to use a spoiler.

By using spoilers, you don't ruin the experience of someone who is reading slower or started later.

Thanks.

You can copy and paste below to get your spoiler right:

<spoiler>Put Text Here</spoiler>

CONTENTS

Introduction: A map for the Journey 1

PART ONE: THE ORIGINS
1. The Quran in Twenty-Five Words 25
2. An American in the East 36
3. A Muslim in the West 47
4. Road Trip to the Indian Madrasa 73
5. Migrant's Prayer Mat 97

PART TWO: THE HOME
6. Pioneer Life in Oxford 113
7. Nine Thousand Hidden Women 128
8. "The Little Rosy One" 138
9. Veiling and Unveiling 156
10. Reading "The Women" 175

PART THREE: THE WORLD
11. A Pilgrim's Progress 197
12. Jesus, Mary, and the Quran 214
13. Beyond Politics 229
14. The Pharaoh and His Wife 240
15. War Stories 259
16. The Last Lesson 272

Conclusion: Everlasting Return 290

Author's Note 301
Glossary 303
Notes 307
Bibliography 319
Acknowledgements 323
Index 325

FOR THOSE WHO WOULD LIKE A SUGGESTED WEEKLY SYLLABUS

AUGUST 1ST THROUGH AUGUST 7TH
Introduction: A map for the Journey 1

PART ONE: THE ORIGINS
1. The Quran in Twenty-Five Words 25
2. An American in the East 36
3. A Muslim in the West 47

AUGUST 8TH THROUGH AUGUST 14TH
4. Road Trip to the Indian Madrasa 73
5. Migrant's Prayer Mat 97

PART TWO: THE HOME
6. Pioneer Life in Oxford 113
7. Nine Thousand Hidden Women 128

AUGUST 15TH THROUGH AUGUST 21ST
8. "The Little Rosy One" 138
9. Veiling and Unveiling 156
10. Reading "The Women" 175

PART THREE: THE WORLD
11. A Pilgrim's Progress 197

AUGUST 22ND THROUGH AUGUST 28TH
12. Jesus, Mary, and the Quran 214
13. Beyond Politics 229
14. The Pharaoh and His Wife 240
15. War Stories 259
16. The Last Lesson 272

AUGUST 29TH THROUGH AUGUST 31ST
Conclusion: Everlasting Return 290

Author's Note 301
Glossary 303
Notes 307
Bibliography 319
Acknowledgements 323
Index 325

Those of you who are going to read If the Oceans Were Ink: An Unlikely Friendship and a Journey to the Heart of the Quran use the spoiler html because this is a single thread discussion.


1. Read message 4 and that message shows you the rules for the buddy read discussion and how to do the spoiler html.

2. Message 5 actually shows you the spoiler html code. Use it on this thread.

3. Where is the Table of Contents and the reading syllabus? - Message 6 and 7.

All, we do not have to do citations regarding the book or the author being discussed during the book discussion on these discussion threads - nor do we have to cite any personage in the book being discussed while on the discussion threads related to this book.

However if we discuss folks outside the scope of the book or another book is cited which is not the book and author discussed then we do have to do that citation according to our citation rules. That makes it easier to not disrupt the discussion.

Chapter Overviews and Summaries
Week One

(view spoiler)[Introduction: A map for the Journey

The author describes the beginning and the development of her interest in the Islamic world. She continues with the development of the influence of Quran through centuries and its impact on the world of today. The terrible events of 9/11 are mentioned and we get a glimpse of its consequences seen through the eyes of an Islamic scholar. The author starts shadowing a renown Islamic scholar in order to learn more about Quran.


The Quran

Chapter 1: The Quran in Twenty-Five Words

The author meets with prejudice against Islam and Quran in her social circles and is forced to defend her interest in it, which shakes her deeply. She and Sheikh Akram, the scholar she is shadowing, start their joint study of Quran with reading "Al-Fatiha" or "The Opening", the Quran's first sura, called the Mother of Quran.


Men reading the Quran

Chapter 2: An American in the East

The author describes her childhood; her father, from whom she inherited her interest in all things Islamic; the role of religion in her upbringing; her life in different countries of the world and how it affected her.


Traveling is the best education

Chapter 3: A Muslim in the West

This chapter is entirely dedicated to the life and works of Sheikh Akram and the Prophet Muhammad. The author describes Sheikh Akram's teachings, slightly compares him to the Prophet, and gives us accounts of his actual students. Salman Rushdie's "The Satanic Verses" are mentioned and the controversy that surrounds them.


Mohammad Akram Nadwi

by Salman Rushdie (hide spoiler)]

Introduction and Kick off for our August discussion on If the Oceans Were Ink

Welcome to our August discussion on If the Oceans Were Ink: An Unlikely Friendship and a Journey to the Heart of the Quran. This should be a very informative read that will lead us to a great discussion. Please be mindful and respectful of everyone's opinions.

Samanta will be joining us this month as our backup moderator. She has started us off with the week one chapter overviews and summaries in message 10 above.

Please introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your interest in this book.

I am looking forward to exploring this topic with you all.

Had this book already on my TBR for quite some time and was happy to see that the HBC chose it as their Book of the Month for August.
I hope this book will help to perhaps get a more differentiated picture of Islam religion and their core beliefs.

This is a good choice for right now. There is so much Islamaphobia in the country. I hope to learn more about the Muslim religion and a more in depth view.

Welcome Eva and Helga. I am excited about this book and I agree Helga, this is a very timely read. I think it will not only give non-Muslims a deeper understanding of Islam, but also give everyone a new insight in to religion and your own personal faith.

Hello Eva and Helga!

Glad you decided to join us for this discussion. I am also very excited to read this book with you because the subject is one I'm very interested in and the book sounds very promising.

Week One Discussion Questions – Introduction – pages 1 – 25

(view spoiler)[1. Have you, as a child, developed an interest, not knowing it would, one day, turn into a life-long obsession? Tell us about it.

2. Have you ever read Quran? If yes, what do you think of it? If not, would you like to? And if you don't want to, tell us the reason why. Have you read the Bible? The Torah?

3. What is your opinion on the events and feelings developed following 9/11 and the relationship between Islamic world and the Non- Islamic world? Do you think religions and personal faiths are presented fairly to those who believe differently? (hide spoiler)]

Muslims Go to Catholic Mass Across France, Italy to Show Solidarity
by The Associated Press


Members of the congregation of Santa Maria Trastevere in Rome during a multifaith service Sunday organized by Italy's Islamic Religious Community.

ROUEN, France — In a gesture of solidarity following the gruesome killing of a French priest, Muslims on Sunday attended Catholic Mass in churches and cathedrals across France and Italy.

An Associated Press reporter at the scene said that a few dozen Muslims gathered at the towering Gothic cathedral in Rouen, near Saint-Etienne-du-Rouvray where the 85-year-old Rev. Jacques Hamel had his throat slit by two teenage Muslim fanatics on Tuesday.

"We are very moved by the presence of our Muslim friends, and I believe it is a courageous act that they did by coming to us," Dominique Lebrun, the archbishop of Rouen, said after the service.

Read te whole article here:

Hi Michele! Glad to have you join us. Don't forget to use spoiler tags for responses on questions relating to the book.

Michele - Chapter 1 Questions - Extremism in Religion

(view spoiler)[I think this will be a good book to help us separate the differences between what is the true teaching of Islam and, I think other religions, and the misinformation some followers and non-believers hear and follow. I'm learning a lot already. (hide spoiler)]

Hi everyone! I hope you all are starting to dig into the first few chapters. Samanta has posted some great questions in message 16 to get us started.

I think this book will be enlightening on the overall topic of Religion, as well as the specific topic of Islam and the Quran.

Question - On reading faith based texts

(view spoiler)[The author talks about how many Muslims have not read the whole Quran but quote parts in order to justify their actions. Much can be said for Christians and the Bible. Perhaps so for any religion/faith and their texts and tenets. What are your thoughts? Do you think it’s important to fully read and understand faith based texts to be a true follower or is it okay to rely on the leaders and scholars to guide their congregation / followers? (hide spoiler)]

All ~ We do have a spoiler thread open that we'll be placing information in to enhance our discussion. You can locate it here:

/topic/show/...

Week One Discussion Questions – Chapter 1 – pages 26 – 37

(view spoiler)[1. How much do you know about the teachings of Quran? Do you think it differs greatly from Holy Books of other organized religions?

2. Did you know there were more than 8000 women scholars in the history of Islam? Have you ever heard about any of them?

3. Are you familiar with Sheikh Mohammad Akram Nadwi and his work? What do you think of him, based on what you've read so far? (hide spoiler)]

Responses to Chapter 1 Questions

Great questions, Samanta!

(view spoiler)[1. Yes, I can say that as a child I was always interested in our family tree. I had a Great Aunt who was always working on that side of our family and both of my parents told me stories of relatives pasts as I was growing up. We often visited graveyards to decorate family plots. As an adult, I'm obsessed with genealogy and carry on what my Aunt had started.

2. I have not read the Quran but have read the Bible. I grew up in a fairly religious, conservative home in the Christian faith. We attended church regularly, sometimes several times a week for youth activities and such. As I got older, we slacked more and more and as an adult, I do not attend anywhere regularly but will go with family on special occasions. I consider myself less religious and more spiritual and actually ride the line of agnosticism. I'm curious about all faiths and religions. My question is usually, why do you believe the way you do? I'm often curious if people believe the way they do because "that's what you grew up knowing?" or because you know, understand, and believe in your faith. I have read many parts of the Bible as I grew up, know many verses by heart, but I did read the Bible completely through over the course of a year some years back, so that I could gain a better understanding of what I professed to believe in. I have thought about reading the Quran. This book may inspire me to do so.

3. I think in a Post-9/11 world we are seeing a lot of hate, and that is sad. The events that day were politically based and I think often that the lines of politics and religion are blurred. There are countries where religion and politics go hand in hand, and I think that is hard for Americans to understand, and I'm afraid that is starting to become our issue as well.

4. I know very little about the teachings of the Quran, but I believe that the Quran, the Torah and the Bible all share the teachings of Moses. I'm hoping this book will clarify that information.

5. I did not know about the 8000 women scholars and I'm intrigued!

6. I had not heard of Sheikh Mohammad Akram Nadwi before this book. I'm looking forward to reading about him! (hide spoiler)]

Response to Teri

Thank you! This book is so intriguing, the questions just pop out in my head and cannot be stopped :D

(view spoiler)[1. My obsession is Ancient Egypt. I thought it happened when I first watched "The Mummy" :D, but later on I remembered that, when I was much younger, there was a prize contest at a local radio my grandma used to listen to, and the only thing I can remember that there was some mention of the Nile in the question. I was too young to know much about it, but I remember that I called the radio, answered "Egypt" and won the prize. It was the start of an everlasting love. :D I am also obsessed with everything Spanish and Latin American because of....genealogy. I can understand your obsession completely.

2. I have to admit that I've never read any of the Holy Books. I was brought up a Catholic, went to church regularly until high school, received all the sacraments, but left to decide on my own if that is the right thing for me (bonus parenting points for my mom, in my opinion). I've had some negative experiences with the members of the church, and I just stopped attending. Today, I go to church when I need to show it to my tourist groups, but I still believe (even though I'm struggling to understand everything). I tried to read the New Testament once, but was repulsed by all the violence in the first few pages. I might get back to it someday, because I'm a bit fascinated with that famous book, everyone is using to justify their beliefs and actions.

3. I was only a kid when 9/11 happened and living my carefree life on a different continent, but I do agree with you that it was pure politics, which, unfortunately generated a lot of hate towards a religious group. On the other hand, organized religion and politics have been going hand in hand for centuries now, and I'm not sure if they can do without one another anymore. That is why I'm running screaming from both of them.

4. I openly admit I do not understand Islam, and I hope this book will help me understand it, and (at least partly) quiet down the learned prejudice (because I am prejudiced).

5. It's almost surreal to hear there were more than 8000 of them when you constantly hear that women are not respected or considered equal in Muslim communities. I want to know more about them.

6. Me either. There is so much new information this book offers. I think this one might be a gem. (hide spoiler)]

A Conversation with Carla Power and Sheikh Mohammad Akram Nadwi

A short conversation between Carla Power and Sheikh Mohammad Akram Nadwi can be found on her website at:

Response to Chap. 1 Questions

(view spoiler)[1. How much do you know about the teachings of Quran? not much. I only know some from conversation with female muslims. Do you think it differs greatly from Holy Books of other organized religions? Hard for me to say, at this point in time. I have read the Torah and the Bible, but not the Quran. I thought it was interesting to learn that a lot of Muslims have not read the Quran either.

2. Did you know there were more than 8000 women scholars in the history of Islam? I didn't know! That was interesting to learn. Have you ever heard about any of them? Not until now.

3. Are you familiar with Sheikh Mohammad Akram Nadwi and his work? What do you think of him, based on what you've read so far? I have not heard of him until now. In this book, he looks very interesting as he is willing to use his brain and go though the Quran with someone who is not Muslim. (hide spoiler)]

Response to Michele on Chapter 1 Questions

Thank you for the insight, Michele.

(view spoiler)[Do you know if your Muslim friends read the Quran, or if they know the teachings by reading on their own? I've, personally, never read the Bible, or any of the Holy Books for that matter, and in my church attending days, learned everything from my religious teachers.

Yes, the Sheikh does seem an interesting person, and one willing to use his brain. Later on, you'll get an even better glimpse into his beliefs and teachings. I would like to hear your opinion on him then. I am enclosing here his book on women scholars, in case you are inerested.

by Muhammad Akram Nadwi (no photo) (hide spoiler)]

Response to Chapter 1 Questions
(view spoiler)[1. How much do you know about the teachings of Quran?
I don’t know very much about the Quran or the teachings and know that I have heard many misunderstood passages that people have tried to pass as facts to make people think they have good reason to be anti-Muslim.
Do you think it differs greatly from Holy Books of other organized religions?
I think there are some parts that differ from other holy books which is what makes these religions different and the religions they are. But The Quran has similarities to the Christian Bible and the Hebrew Bible known as the TaNaKH (Tanakh). In reality the TORAH is only part of the Hebrew Bible, the first 5 books of Moses. The 2nd part of it is Nevi’m-Book of Prophets, and the 3rd part is Ketuvim or the writings. Most of the Hebrew Bible is similar to the Christian Bible Old Testament. The Christian Bible rearranges these books and the Catholic Bible adds the Book 1& 2 of Maccabees. The Torah that we read in our services is known as a Sefer Torah as it is the scroll in Hebrew and is written on parchment. The Quran does have many of the same figures and events. But I know little about the Quran and it’s teachings as I have not read it. I am very familiar with The Catholic Bible as I was brought up a catholic and received all the sacraments, went regularly to church and studied the religion but I converted to Judaism when I got married and have been actively Jewish and raised my children Jewish.

2. Did you know there were more than 8000 women scholars in the history of Islam?
I did not know this. This was interesting to learn but I do know that Islam was quite advanced and tolerant to everyone in the past. I am interested in learning more about these women scholars.

3. Are you familiar with Sheikh Mohammad Akram Nadwi and his work? What do you think of him, based on what you've read so far?
I have not heard of him. I find him to be intriguing. He is a true teacher and willing to teach non-Muslims and to teach the Quran properly and also from the Arabic. Learning a book like the Quran should be learned in the language it was written in for proper translations. Much of the Bible has been misinterpreted as it was not read or translated in the original Hebrew or Coptic or other language it was written in. (hide spoiler)]

Michele wrote: "Jumping in to join the read on this one.

Reason? I know there is another Islam, one that is not extreme and not on tv all the time. I used to work with a modern muslim woman and learned something..."
To me, prejudices and stereotypes exist when you know of no one of that group, i.e. Jews are all xxx, Muslims are all xx, gays are all xxx. When you actually get to know people of different groups, I think you get that everyone is so much alike but that we are all individuals as well.

Helga wrote: "Response to Chapter 1 Questions
1. How much do you know about the teachings of Quran?
I don’t know very much about the Quran or the teachings and know that I have heard many misunderstood passages ..."

Response to Helga

(view spoiler)[Thank you for the thorough explanation of the Hebrew Bible. I did not know any of that. (hide spoiler)]

Week One Discussion Questions – Chapter 2 – pages 27 – 36

(view spoiler)[1. Did religion play a prominent role in your upbringing? Do you think it affected or still affects your life and in what way? Do you consider a religious upbringing to be positive or negative for a person?

2. Have you traveled extensively (or still traveling)? Do you think traveling has any effect on the development of a person? What kind? Have you ever lived in a completely different cultural environment for an extended period of time and how did you feel? (hide spoiler)]

Response to Helga - Hebrew Bible

(view spoiler)[I'll echo what Samanta said, I appreciate your explanation of the Hebrew Bible and I look forward to your contribution to the discussion of this book. I hope this book will give us a great discussion with people of all backgrounds and the unique perspective it will bring.

I agree that the Bible has been mistranslated and misunderstood. I have tried to read it in its historical context with the understanding that the translation I had was likely not exact. (hide spoiler)]

Serene wrote: "Michele wrote: "Jumping in to join the read on this one.

Reason? I know there is another Islam, one that is not extreme and not on tv all the time. I used to work with a modern Muslim woman and l..."

I agree, Serene. We're all people, all human and yet everyone is unique. We all have feelings, and we all experience and deal with them in many different ways. Hopefully this book will help us break or see through the stereotypes.

Response to Chapter 2 Questions

(view spoiler)[1. Yes it certainly did. I feel that going to church regularly as a child, I had certain values instilled in me. Whereas I don't attend regularly now, I still hold those values close. Now, I try to understand that each person's faith is just that, personal. I believe that religion can be a positive influence in one's life; however, I also believe that people we encounter through religion can be a negative influence, just as the can be positive. I think learning about all religions help us determine our own faith.

2. I have traveled a bit, but not a lot internationally. I think Brazil is the farthest I have gone internationally. I've not yet made it to Europe or destinations east, but many places are on my bucket list, namely Germany, Italy, and Scotland. I do think that travel can be a positive influence on a person. We learn so much from people of other cultures and it can only enhance our worldview.

Where I've not spent an extended amount of time in a foreign land (more than about 10 days), I live in south Texas and am surrounded by Mexican and German people and their culture. I love it! It has given me an appreciation for their culture. (hide spoiler)]

Response to Samanta on Chapter 1

(view spoiler)[The first women I knew who was muslim was a coworker that was a refugee from Iran. Her family escaped before the Ayatollah and the revolution took over. Our conversation revolved around that and Islam in general. The other two were in my Comparative Religion class (in college) and were studying the Quran, but I lost contact with them when the class ended.

I'll have to see if I can find that book!
(hide spoiler)]

I am happy to join this discussion. I had Muslim students while I was teaching English as a second language. I am very interested in learning more about their religion, I know that it was a very important part of their lives.

I am confused about all of the spoiler threads. I thought that as long as the questions and responses did not get ahead of the suggested schedule dates, there was no need to use spoilers. Yet, I see that even questions for the first 3 chapters are listed as spoilers, even though the discussion of these is supposed to be from August 1-7.

Please clarify the rules.

Thanks.

Ann wrote: "I am happy to join this discussion. I had Muslim students while I was teaching English as a second language. I am very interested in learning more about their religion, I know that it was a very im..."

We use spoilers for even the past and current weeks. Some folks have not started or get behind and in order to not spoil it for anyone - we just put anything that discusses specific topics from the book in spoilers.

And we're happy to have you join us, Ann!

Response to Chap. 2 Questions

(view spoiler)[ 1. Did religion play a prominent role in your upbringing? I grew up going to both Episcopal and Presbyterian churches. Some things were done differently in each and I learned to adapt. Do you think it affected or still affects your life and in what way? It probably does, to the point where I have walked away from formal religion, but there still something comforting in the old rituals. Do you consider a religious upbringing to be positive or negative for a person? It really depends on the version of religion you get to grow up in. Since I grew up as mainstream Protestant, I never understood when the "Bible as the direct word of God" came from (found in the Religious Right) as that was never a teaching from either Episcopal or Presbyterian churches. Anything taken to the extreme can be come very negative.

2. Have you traveled extensively (or still traveling)? off and on. The only out of country traveling I did was to Canada and Mexico. Do you think traveling has any effect on the development of a person? What kind? Oh yes. It gets you out of your comfort zone and you do different things and meet new people. Have you ever lived in a completely different cultural environment for an extended period of time and how did you feel? Not really. I did move from upstate NY to S. Calif. and that was a cultural shock (in the 5th grade). But living in S. Calif gives me an the ability to sample different cultures without traveling too far. Japantown, Chinatown, Little Ethiopia. ext. all give me the ability to test foods from different cultures. (hide spoiler)]

Week One Discussion Questions – Chapter 2 – pages 37 – 48

(view spoiler)[3. How well do you think you are informed about the events happening outside of your country, especially in countries where Islam is a dominant religion? Do you think that the media is giving a truthful picture of what is happening today in the world?

4. "If someone runs over a dog belonging to an American, he will be prosecuted, but if an American cook runs over the Shah, the head of the state, no one will have the right to interfere with him."
How do you feel about this quote? (hide spoiler)]

Michele wrote: " Response to Chap. 2 Questions "

Response to Michele - Chapter 2

(view spoiler)[I agree that religion can be both positive and negative. It's different for each individual and I think it depends on who you are surrounded by and what you believe in. Knowing what you believe and why helps to keep you grounded.

I know what you mean about there being something comfortable in the old rituals. Do you think that is because that is what we grew up on and it brings back memories of safety and love? (hide spoiler)]

Response to Teri - Chap. 2

(view spoiler)[ I think so. Its part of family, so I do think it brings up the safety and love memories from childhood. (hide spoiler)]

Answers to week 1 discussion questions:
(view spoiler)[
1.Life long obsession?

My life long obsessions have been reading and travel. I have always been intensely curious about the rest of the world.

2. Reading Quran or Bible?

No, I have never read the Quran. I would like to know more about it and that is why I am here.

I come from a Catholic background, but am no longer practicing. Once, as an adult, I decided to read the Bible cover to cover. I had trouble getting very far in the Old Testament.

It very soon seemed apparent to me that many Christians pick and choose what they want from the Bible and ignore the rest. The Old Testament is really a very bloodthirsty world and the sexual mores which involve polygamy, incest, etc. belong to an entirely different kind of world.

3. Events and feelings developed following 9/11 ?

I think it is both sad and ignorant that so many people in the West have blamed Muslims as a whole for what a small radical segment has done.

4. How much do you know about the teachings of Quran? Do you think it differs greatly from Holy Books of other organized religions?

I know that it requires a lot of daily prayers, charity towards the poor, fasting during daylight hours during Ramadan, and the hajj for those who are able to afford the trip. I am familiar with these customs (which I assume are based on the Quran) from my Muslim students.

I think that Muslims consider the Quran a further development of the Bible. Jesus is recognized as a prophet, but not a messiah.


5. Did you know there were more than 8000 women scholars in the history of Islam?

I was amazed to read this. I have read that there were female deacons and very active women in the early Christian church. A lot of knowledge about women's role in religions has been repressed.

One of the major objections to Islam has been the subservient role it assigns to women. I am interested in reading more about this.

6. Are you familiar with Sheikh Mohammad Akram Nadwi and his work?

I have never head of him before. He appears to be a remarkable man and scholar.

At times he seems very open minded, as when he tells the parents of an unmarried girl who is pregnant, to treat her with compassion. (p. 61, paperback version)

I like the idea that he distinguishes the effects of different cultural customs and the demands of Islam itself; these are often not the same. Thus the abhorrent genital mutilation that exists in some Muslim societies and the niqab. the covering which envelopes all of a woman except her eyes, are not part of the faith.

At the same time, I was very surprised at how scrupulously he tries to follow the prophet's habits - entering the kitchen with the right foot first, eating with your right hand (mostly a problem for left-handers, I suppose :-), saying prayers before and after using the toilet, etc. (p. 60)

His weekend seminars are intended to encourage his followers to think for themselves (p. 71), but I wonder how much that is possible with any religious teaching that emphasizes a literal interpretation of a holy scripture.

I am a bit worried about all those people who will be consigned to literally burn in hell, although he is doing his best to save them.

The Sheikh is his own man and not typical of most Muslims in the way he downplays all the legal trappings of Islam that developed later. I loved this quote on page 66, "The problem, continued the Sheikh, when he had stopped chuckling, is that law had hardened into a career."

He's a fascinating person. I'm glad I started this book. (hide spoiler)]

Ann wrote: "Answers to week 1 discussion questions:."

Response to Ann - Chapter 1

(view spoiler)[I've always thought the Bible seemed brutal in the Old Testament. Understanding the context of the time it was written, it is the establishment of order and redemption for Israelites. Much like a parent wielding their hand of authority, this was written as God's judgement on sinners and establishing authority. I will be curious how the Quran compares to the Bible.

Do you think that other followers of religion pick and choose what they want from their texts to justify their actions? The Sheikh believes this as Muslim. We can pretty much agree that Christians do the same.

Do you think it’s important to fully read and understand faith based texts to be a true follower or is it okay to rely on the leaders and scholars to guide their congregation / followers? (hide spoiler)]

Samanta wrote: "Week One Discussion Questions – Chapter 2 – pages 37 – 48."

Chapter 2 Discussion Questions

(view spoiler)[1. I try to stay informed of world events, at least the "headlines". I try not to be suckered into what I see being posted on social media (Facebook / Twitter) and tend to see where the information is posted from (i.e. a partisan news rag vs. straight journalism) before reading. There is a point at which I don't care, at least don't care to know the details, especially if it's about sad events or civil disagreements in another country. I can only deal with so much bad news and concerns aboard and prefer to focus on positive and/or local issues.

But I do think it's important to know what is going on in the world around us. It makes us appreciate our own circumstances or learn how to make life better.

2. I need to go back and look at the context of that quote again, but it certainly seems as though Americans are perceived as above all things. Just like Americans may not know and understand others, like Muslims, they do not know and understand American people. (hide spoiler)]

Teri wrote: "Samanta wrote: "Week One Discussion Questions – Chapter 2 – pages 37 – 48."

Chapter 2 Discussion Questions

1. I try to stay informed of world events, at least the "headlines". I try not to be suc..."

Response to Teri - Chapter 2 questions

(view spoiler)[1. I also tend not to be suckered into what I see being posted on the social networks, but the problem I have is that I'm so little involved in politics, it impairs my judgement on where to seek information. I am aware of the fact that almost every media is taking a side, but it's hard for me to actually believe it (deep down) and I do not know which media to choose as the correct one (that is especially hard in my country, where the division is between the "right-wing" and the "left-wing"). How am I supposed to get the right information, when everyone is biased? It's very frustrating!

2. You got it right. People felt, and apparently the system encouraged that belief, that the Americans are untouchable in their country. The fact is, if I may be honest (and I mentioned it in another discussion prior to this one), the USA is, in many countries of the world (not just Islamic countries), perceived as the one at fault for everything that is happening in the world at the moment. And it never feels any consequences of the damage done. The US is a very influential country, and thus the quote. (hide spoiler)]

In response tp Terri's questions in message 44
(view spoiler)[
1. Do you think that other followers of religion pick and choose what they want from their texts to justify their actions?
Yes, I absolutely believe that. Probably the older the text, the more it is necessary to pick and choose.

Do you think it’s important to fully read and understand faith based texts to be a true follower or is it okay to rely on the leaders and scholars to guide their congregation / followers?

This is difficult for me to answer fairly.

When I was young I was a scrupulous Catholic and believed everything I was taught. That changed in my early twenties. I am very skeptical of the theological teachings of all organized religions, but I do respect, and sometimes envy, people who have a healthy participation in their individual churches. By "healthy" I mean they don't condemn good people who do not follow their particular path.

So, back to your question - from an historical perspective, it is necessary to study the founding documents. But since I don't believe that the Bible of the Quran are the word of God, I think it is okay for individuals to rely on latter day interpretations. (hide spoiler)]

message 46
Samanta

(view spoiler)[ I appreciate your honest response about how Americans are viewed in the rest of the world. So often we do not see ourselves as others see us. (hide spoiler)]

Ann wrote: "message 46
Samanta

[spoilers removed]"

Response to Ann

(view spoiler)[Thank you, Ann! I really do not want to offend anybody, but that's just how things are. We all suffer from learned prejudice, and I am no exception (I had/have mine about U.S. too), but in the past year, I'm glad to say, my job helped me overcome many of those, because I had a chance to meet wonderful people from your country. I believe that, if we just communicate more with different cultures (and I mean eye to eye communication) with an open mind, we can overcome any prejudice. (hide spoiler)]

Week One Discussion Questions – Introduction – pages 1 – 25

Hello all. I am new to the discussion having just started the book. I think it's an excellent choice for a group read given that, when it comes to diverse cultures and religions, it's my firm belief that knowledge and understanding build bridges.

(view spoiler)[ As a practicing Christian, I've read and studied much of the Bible but I certainly don't consider myself a Bible scholar or expert. I've never read the Quran but I'm curious about it and Muslim beliefs. Last year, I read a biography of Mohammad called The First Muslim, which I found to be a beautifully written and very readable account of the life of Muhammad and the rise of Islam. The author incorporated ideas about the importance of clan, lineage, home, retaliation, honor and faith in ancient Arabic culture, the remnants of which are influencing the Middle East today. The book had some faults but it gave me some foundational knowledge that I found valuable.

by Lesley Hazleton (hide spoiler)]

Donna wrote: "Week One Discussion Questions – Introduction – pages 1 – 25

Welcome, Donna! Glad you are joining us.

Response - Introduction

(view spoiler)[Thank you for that recommendation. It sounds like it will be worth reading. Looking forward to your input! (hide spoiler)]