WEEK 6: Comment on “jihad”, due 2/21/09

Comment on the video on “jihad” below. Draw your arguments from lectures and discussions in class concerning Islam as a religion of peace:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HG9dMKiDzC4&eurl=http://azlyrahman-illuminations.blogspot.com/2009/01/what-is-jihad.html&feature=player_embedded

 

WEEK 6: Reflections and questions on Islam, due 2/19/09

1. Write several paragraphs of reflection on what Islam and the study of the Quran means to you.  At this point, what questions do you have concerning the religion? What does it mean to read the Quran and to understand Islam based on a “hermeneutic” and/or “philosophical” reading?

Reflect upon your commentaries on the shorter surahs. Was it easy to “interpret” them based on your own experience? Do you think you need more external sources to help you understand? Give reasons.

Who has the authority to interpret the Quran? Where does you own “experience” and “rationality” come into play?

2.  Wriet about the topic of your Final Essay. Provide a rational why you have chosen it.