An Open Letter to Pope Francis by Dr. Hussein Rashid

An Open Letter to Pope Francis by Dr. Hussein Rashid.

As you speak about the travails of the world, I fear that too many write their own hope and aspirations on to you. Your words are heard as statements about issues, and not calls to action based on deep and broad moral wisdom.

As religious people, we remember that our time is finite and miniscule. The truths that we follow are eternal. The process of justice is ongoing. The performance of mercy does not end.

Ben Carson’s Islamophobia Isn’t Just Hateful. It Doesn’t Make Any Sense. | ThinkProgress

Ben Carson’s Islamophobia Isn’t Just Hateful. It Doesn’t Make Any Sense. | ThinkProgress.

Carson is seemingly unaware as to the actual purpose of taqiya. According to Hussein Rashid, a professor of religious studies at Hofstra University who sits on the editorial board of the Islamic Monthly, the practice does allow Muslims leeway to obscure their beliefs — but only when faced with the threat of persecution or death.

Muslim Teen’s Arrest In Texas Over Homemade Clock Sparks Outrage | Long Island News from the Long Island Press

Muslim Teen’s Arrest In Texas Over Homemade Clock Sparks Outrage | Long Island News from the Long Island Press.

Dr. Hussein Rashid, an adjunct assistant professor of religion at Hofstra University and founder of the consultancy group islamicate, L3C, which focuses on religious literacy and cultural competency, began laughing when he was asked about Ahmed’s arrest.
“I’m utterly flabbergasted,” said Rashid. “You got to think about the multiple failures that had to happen here, right? A student who wants to prove he’s good in science goes to his teacher and says, ‘I am a good student.’”