An imam and a rabbi from New Haven recently discussed their shared values and community efforts on a local radio show. Imam Saladin Hasan, leader of the Abdul-Majid Karim Hasan Islamic Center, and Rabbi Eric Woodward, spiritual leader of Congregation Beth-El Keser Israel, talked about the importance of building relationships between different faith communities.
Faith and Community
The two faith leaders emphasized the need for people of different backgrounds to come together and understand each other. They discussed the challenges of overcoming fears and tensions within their own communities, particularly in times of global conflict and domestic controversy. Imam Hasan and Rabbi Woodward also shared their congregations’ responses to attacks on Muslim and Jewish houses of worship.
Rabbi Woodward quoted an ancient Jewish text, Pirkei Avot, saying, “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am for myself alone, what am I? And if not now, when?” Imam Hasan cited the Quran, highlighting the responsibility to care for oneself and one’s community, as well as the broader community.
Retired police Sgt. Shafiq Abdussabur, who handles spiritual duties at Imam Hasan’s masjid and advises Connecticut mosques on security, joined the conversation. The group discussed the importance of building bridges between Muslim and Jewish neighbors, particularly in the wake of isolated hate crimes.
Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.
