Similarities Between Judaism And Islam

Everyone is different, and what makes the world unique is when everyone embraces these differences. Although most of us here today are jewish, one of the things that makes the world unique are the different religions we believe in. During this year in Confirmation, we had a series of speakers from varying religious denominations, such as a Presbyterian Pastor, a Rabbi from Chabad, and a Muslim Youth Leader, to learn more about other religions, and more about Judaism. The one speaker that has stuck with me was Waleed Naseem, a Muslim Youth Leader. In just thirty minutes, he taught us morals that I will hold dear forever. We challenged Waleed to talk about being Muslim in a world where muslims are misunderstood and misrepresented. When we asked him how he deals with people treating him unjust, believing he was an extremist, he simply replied to show people compassion. If someone believes you are violent, there is no sense in fighting back, as their mind will not change. The only way to

Both religions descend from Abraham, the Jews from his son Isaac and the Muslims from his son Ishmael. In this way, we are from the same lineage. Besides being genetically connected, both religions emphasize the importance of charity and putting other people first. Islam strives to serve mankind through compassion, justice, trustworthiness, and love for all of God's creation while Judaism strives to do mitzvot, good deeds, help repair the world, and exhibit a strong social justice ethic. As Reform Jews, we are taught to be accepting to everyone and Muslims are no exception. We have to make sure we follow tikkun olam, making the world a better place, and that starts with human equality. We need to ensure no one is discriminated against, just as we have been time and time again. We need to make sure we are supporters for them, as they are misrepresented and