World AIDS Day 2008

Officially, the taking of hostages is forbidden in Islam. A stance reiterated today by the Ithna’ashari scholars in Iraq. So that means the kidnappers are either Sunni or are acting out of an interest other than Islam. I don’t believe they are Sunni at this point – are at least are not acting under that identity – as it would disenfranchise the community. These are pseudo-nationalists, and the behavior is not intrinsic to Muslims. Just a clarification for those who were wondering if hostage taking was tenet of faith.

Did you know Muslim men can trade in their wives like used cars? Neither did I, but apparently it’s in the “Koran.” I’m not sure if mentions used cars specifically, or more like used camels. I’ve never seen this version of the “Koran” before, but anti-Muslim pastor in Australia says it’s in there, so it must be true. I don’t know if I like this idea of legislating tolerance to be honest, I struggle with hate crimes legislation in the US as well. This trial though is bringing me a great deal of comic relief as I realize what people…

“Muslims need to recognize that we live in the modern world whether we like it or not. But the modern age in which we find ourselves is not a homogeneous one. The four pillars of modernity are modern concepts, conceptions, means and ends. These in turn shape the pluralistic and heterodox worldview of modern life. The plurality of modernities means that there exist many different ways through which people understand themselves in the world today. The modern age has given us modern conceptions, such as the conception of God, of Prophethood, etc. The modern age also furnishes us with modern…