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Many people, reacting to daily media reports of savage political conflicts convulsing the Middle East, Africa and Asia, often in the name of God, blame it all on religious believers; without actually knowing much about the beliefs and connections of Sunnis and Shi'a, or Judaism and Islam. Allen Maller's collection of articles written by a Reform Rabbi and published in Islamic magazines and web sites, enables open minded readers to see that Islam and Judaism share much in common including; a rejection of original sin, Hajj and Sukkot pilgrimage, Ramadan and Yom Kippur fasting, and several of the 99 names of God. Judaism and Islam often compliment each other even when they do differ about: were there 9 or 10 plagues, perspectives of religious pluralism, views of Prophet Jesus, and Prophet Muhammad as a prophet of Reform Judaism. There are many shared aspects between the two religions in their fundamental religious outlook, structure and practice.
About the author
Rabbi Allen Maller has written a book on Kabbalah, and a book on Judaism and Islam; and over 200 articles for numerous journals, magazines and websites. He edited the Tikun series of High Holy Days Prayer Books. In 2006 he retired, after 39 years as Rabbi of Temple Akiba. He thanks God for more than 51 years of heavenly marriage.
