[betty boop]

The true test of “moderates” of any religion would be in a culture that is predominantly of their faith. It is in such a culture that one would find how outsiders truly are viewed. Therefore, the best place to view “moderate” Islam would not be in the USA. It would be in Saudia Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, etc. How are non-Islamics treated in those cultures?

Agreed, dear brother in Christ! Excellent point. Which tends to substantiate Overwatcher's asssertion that there is no such thing as a "moderate" Muslim.

What we do know is that a Jew cannot enter Saudi Arabia. He'd never get a visa. Christians are allowed — but are absolutely prohibited from wearing a cross or any other insignia of the Christian faith; and would be in the most serious trouble with the authorities if they were "caught" carrying a Bible.... The implication being that if they are carrying a Bible, they must be proselytizing. And this is absolutely forbidden!

The Saudi regime — and Islam more generally — is illiberal — in the classical sense of that word, deriving from the word "liberty." There is no liberty in Saudi Arabia. Period. And especially not for women. This crucial Anglo-American value simply has no meaning in Islam.

Don't forget that Islam means submission, subjection — the very opposite of the Anglo-American idea of liberty as individual freedom "under God."

Great points in your last, xzins. Thank you so much for writing!

[Alamo-Girl]

The Saudi regime — and Islam more generally — is illiberal — in the classical sense of that word, deriving from the word "liberty." There is no liberty in Saudi Arabia. Period. And especially not for women. This crucial Anglo-American value simply has no meaning in Islam.

Don't forget that Islam means submission, subjection — the very opposite of the Anglo-American idea of liberty as individual freedom "under God."

Well and truly said, dearest sister in Christ! Thank you for sharing your insights!

[Quix]

Thanks for your great post and pings.