"Introduction to Islam" Wednesdays, November 5 & 12, 6:00-8:00 pm
The class is intended to give a basic understanding of the genesis of a world religion and to set the stage for an understanding of the Shia/Sunni schism. This is not a class on the theology of Islam or the Qur'an, although we will touch upon the teachings of the Qur'an.
We will cover: the geographical, social and cultural background to the origins of Islam, the early days of the Prophet Muhammad, the Messenger of Islam, His followers and His enemies, the cause and events of the Hijrah from Mecca to Medina. Lina will clarify the role of the Prophet Muhammad - first in Mecca, then in Medina, the battles before and after His death and the relationship between Muhammad and the Jewish tribes.
She will explain the schism between the Suni and Shi'a - with which we are still living today and is at the heart of many of the difficulties affecting a large part of the globe. Using information from the New Testament and the Baha'i writings to give new information and perspective on the perpetrators of the schism and on the future of Islam.
