Monday, October 29, 2007

Islamic "Wall of Separation"

Three groups noted here: No to Political Islam, Institution for the Secularization of Islamic Society, and the International Coalition Against Political Islam, seem to be working along lines that are compatible with Jefferson's "wall of separation" between politics and religion. What is more unusual is that they are attempting to de-politicize Islam, examine the faith critically, and object to having political Islam thrust on people. These seem like groups that could be helpful in opening up dialog between Muslims and non-Muslims. At the very least, it is an alternative to the world's best known Muslim, Osama bin Laden who seems to have his hands full right now pushing an agenda of political Islam.