Unflinching analysis

Submitted by Rick Bright (United States), Nov 19, 2002 at 05:06

Mr. Pipes has provided an unflinching analysis of the term 'jihad.' I was most enlightened and even amused by the definitions of 'jihad' in the words of the professors, though my interpretation is probably not what the academics intended. I enjoyed a good chuckle over the words of Farid Eseck, of Auburn Seminary, who asserts that 'jihad' is about "resisting apartheid... and working for women's rights." If that's the case, 'jihad' must be a real hot button issue in Saudi Arabia, Egypt et al, where women are second class citizens at best and human chattel at worst, and in the Sudan where society is divided into two groups: Islamics and their slaves who happen to hold other religious beliefs.

Also, a side note to Mr. Bruce Lawrence of Duke University. I think enough people in the world are currently acting out their own interpretations of 'jihad.' Therefore, I politely decline your suggestion that Americans also leap aboard the jihad bandwagon. And, Mr. Lawrence, may I respectfully suggest some self introspection concerning your apparent loathing of the United States.

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