The human social condition does nothing more than accent certain distinct characteristics of a particular religion, since religion as a way of life must necessarily adapt to the circumstances the adherents to that religion confront. Hence, you see a face of Islam during peace, and at times you see a face of Islam during war.

The biblical doctrine of “turning the other cheek” is the point of pride for Christians. This doctrine as is known originates from words attributable to the Biblical personality and venerable Prophet Jesus—God’s peace be upon him.  Although it is not known to many in light of the violent images of Islam in the media, Islam—believe it or not—also has a doctrine and history of passive resistance similar to that taught by Jesus Christ of the Holy Bible.

This fact should not be a surprise to any Muslim or non-Muslim, since Islam “proper” is nothing more than the final phase in a continuum of divine revelation. Consequently, the teachings of Muhammad and Jesus — God show them mercy and peace —are similar in many ways by necessity of both law codes coming from one single source.

Dr. Abdullah bin Hamid Ali

He holds a Ph.D. in Cultural and Historical Studies in Religion (2016) and an M.A. in Ethics and Social Theory (2012) from the Graduate Theological Union. He  obtained his B.A. (ijaza ‘ulya) in Islamic Law (Shariah) from the prestigious Al-Qarawiyin University of Fes, Morocco in 2001. He served as full time Islamic chaplain at the State Correctional Institute of Chester, PA from 2002-2007, and is the founding director of the Lamppost Education Initiative. He currently serves as an Associate Professor of Islamic law and Prophetic Tradition at Zaytuna College in Berkeley, California. His research interests include the interconnection between law and identity formation, comparative Islamic law, and Islam’s role in the modern world.
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