Godspeed - 03/14/10

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In this fascinating hour Carole Hallundbaek speaks with Dr. Asma Afsaruddin, Islamic scholar and author of the book The First Muslims: History and Memory. Among topics discussed: Afsaruddin's journey as an Islamic scholar and woman; her research and discovery of the true nature of the early Muslim community---how it was pluralistic, inclusive of Jews and Christians and possessing gender equality; how these aspects changed over time, and why; the similarities between the early Christian and Islamic communities; the original meaning of the word 'jihad' and how it has been 'hijacked'; the recent apology of the Danish newspaper Politiken to the descendants of Mohammed for reprinting a derogatory cartoon; the way forward together; and more.