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Question
Hi, what is jihad? Is it a holy war? If so, what are some examples of jihad that still occur today? For instance, is 9/11 considered jihad? thanks so much.
Greetings Jordan, and thanks for your question. 'Jihad' means to struggle, but its original intent means to struggle with one's own spirituality, or to build spiritual discipline. It does not mean to wage war on other persons. Most Muslims would reject the idea of 9/11 or any other attack against civilians to be jihad. However a few Muslim extremists--and unfortunately, Western media outlets which rely on religious and racial stereotypes--co-opt the term and use it to promote further division among races and cultures.
I hope this helps!
peace,
Le Anne
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Answers by Expert:
Le Anne Clausen
Expertise
I can answer questions about life as an expatriate in the Middle East; women's experiences, international human rights efforts and issues, interfaith relations in areas of conflict, with a particular emphasis on Iraq, Israel/Palestine, and Afghanistan.
Experience
I was a human rights worker for four years in Palestine/Israel, Iraq, and Afghanistan. I have additionally traveled in Jordan, Lebanon, and Syria. I speak intermediate Arabic and some Hebrew, and I have an MA in Christian-Muslim relations. I am currently working to create an interfaith peace-teams based human rights organization
Publications
"Be the Healers" (a response to Abu Ghraib), July 2004 issue of the Lutheran magazine. Also: www.christian-muslim.net; www.young-activist.blogspot.com; additional articles and interviews about me can be found via Google search.
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