sense of time is important for historians.

Submitted by bharat (Saudi Arabia), May 9, 2007 at 18:17

John Bastile comments lack insight, for he failed to take prevailing socio-cultural situation of that time into account.

War prisoners, slaves, maids and booty, all these concepts existed in contemporary culture. There is no doubt that had enemies of mohammed overpowered him, they would also have done similar or worse than what mohammed did. because it was norm at that time. Infact mohammad gave many relaxations to his subjugates quite unbelievable at that time. author can find the details of rules taught by mohammad to his followers. these rules prohibiting killing of non-combatants , women and children etc were reiterated by mohammad ahead of march, not like today - only in press conferences. this is in stark contrast what so called modern civilized powers are doing- killing civilians and shamelessly calling it 'collateral damage'.

We are judging aiysha, a minor from todays' standards, but until recently it was quite normal to marry 6 or 9 years( still in practice in some non muslim communities of Asia). who knows in future, our legal age of 18 years for consent may be considered selfish and lustful design of male dominated society

No surprise if future generation considers '18 years' too late, and as a denial of the right of a girl to marry at earlier age. after all she is biologically adult at much younger age.

Mr john also failed to understand that proper age for marriage depends on life expectency too. short expectency means u have to go through full life cycle faster.

Now regarding ayub guarding prophet at wedding night, Mr john also failed to understand here that it was only a precautionary measure by ayub. it is natural when an army is returning or going to war and accompanying a bride who was on enemies side till recently. It is bound to take some time before loyalty of safiya is proved. Thats what exactly what happened later, when anybody raised doubt on her because of her origin, giants like mohammad and umar defended her. It is also clear that mohammad did not instruct ayub to guard his tent. it was ayub's discretion ,hence not a proof that this consummation of marriege was definitely against consent.

Common sense will judge his remarks ...

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