SHARED WISDOM

to violence.”(Sahih Muslim, Hadith No. 2593) This means that peaceful methods are far more effective than violent methods. In light of the above teachings, we can safely say that the so-called Jewish-Muslim ‘enmity’ is not advisable. It is an artificial state of affairs. We can and should work to establish peaceful relations between Jews and Muslims. CHRISTIANITY AND ISLAM Awareness of the initial mutual goodwill and understanding between adherents of Islam and Christianity can help build Christian-Muslim relations today on positive lines. Unfortunately, the initial mutual goodwill and understanding between adherents of Islam and Christianity have been considerably eroded over the centuries. Perhaps a perusal of the accounts given below of early encounters between adherents of the two faiths will encourage a return to that enviable state. Muhammad, the Prophet of Islam (570-632 AD), was twelve years old when he accompanied his paternal uncle, Abu Talib, on a caravan journey to Syria. When they camped at Busra, he met a Christian monk known as Bahira, who was well-versed in Christian scriptures. One day, as the latter emerged from his cell, he saw Muhammad, in whom he recognized the signs of prophethood. After some conversation, he advised Abu Talib to hasten back to