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Why Witness?
With this blog, I hope to provide new insights, break down misconceptions, and spur thoughtful discussion on topics of religion, culture, politics and social justice. I write particularly on issues of comparative religion (between Islam and Christianity) and Islamophobia in post-9/11 America. I also write about my Catholic faith, American politics, journalism, and the Middle East.
The goal of a writer, a Christian, and a Muslim, is to be a witness to a greater Truth. Hence, the blog's title.
“You are my witness…and my servant whom I have chosen, that you may know and believe me and understand that I am He.” Isaiah 43:10, the Bible
“And thus have We willed you to be a community of the middle way, so that [with your lives] you might bear witness to the truth before all mankind.” Surat al-Baqara, the Qur'an
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Category Archives: Israel-Palestine
What’s in a name?: Jordan goes to Jordan
Written January 23, 2012 Today is my first full day in Amman, Jordan. During my four months studying abroad here, my blog will continue to serve as a place where I post stories and reflections, which will no doubt be … Continue reading
The Oslo Opportunity, Part 3: ‘Counter-jihad’ crusaders
The terror attacks in Norway occurred on foreign soil, but they have a disturbing connection to our own country and those who perpetuate fear of Islam here. To understand the link, we need to look no further than Anders Behring … Continue reading
Muslims preserve Jewish shrine in Iraq
Here’s a great 3 minute video from the New York Times about a Jewish shrine in Iraq that is preserved and worshipped in by Muslims. They hope to restore it in order for Jewish pilgrims to visit the crumbling site, … Continue reading
Arab poet Taha Muhammad Ali
I just stumbled on this video on YouTube of a poetry reading given by Taha Muhammad Ali, a renowned Palestinian poet. His poem, “Revenge”, is beautiful in Arabic and English, and its message is one that we must often be reminded … Continue reading
Israel: Denying right to free speech
This report from Al Jazeera English discusses Israel’s increasing crackdown on organizations and individuals who dissent against the government or support Palestinian causes. If other recent incidents have not compelled the American government to reconsider its support of Israel, than … Continue reading
Noa and Mira: Israeli and Palestinian Lay Groundwork for Peace
Several weeks ago, I heard an interview with musical artists Noa and Mira on Tell Me More, an NPR radio program. The two featured singers, a Jew and an Arab-Israeli, teamed up to use their fame and talent to promote cooperation in … Continue reading
A request for your help: CNN interview with Free Gaza Mvmnt Chair
Hey friends. I’m asking for your help in locating a video clip from CNN. Last week, CNN anchor Kyra Phillips interviewed Huwaida Arraf, chairperson of the Free Gaza Movement–I believe it was the first interview CNN conducted with her. I would … Continue reading
Esposito article about US’s response to Gaza flotilla
John Esposito, one of my professors at Georgetown, wrote this piece criticizing the US’s response to the Israeli raid on the Gaza aid flotilla. I think he has the right point of view; what do you think? I plan to … Continue reading
