🏵️🏵️🏵️ Thank you, Dr Baez, for your insightful writings and for shedding light on the importance of understanding verses in their true context. Your work is a vital contribution to fostering interfaith dialogue and deeper comprehension of religious texts.

Drawing a parallel from Islam, the Qur'an similarly emphasizes the importance of context when interpreting verses. Just as you have illustrated that a popular Bible verse may be misapplied without its proper background, Muslims are taught through the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) that the Qur'an should be understood in its historical and social context for accurate interpretation.

For instance, in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2), it is stated: "This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah." This verse emphasizes that true understanding involves awareness and consciousness, not just superficial reading. Additionally, in Surah Al-Imran (3:7), Allah commands believers to seek knowledge and understanding of His words, stating: “It is He who has sent down to you, [O Muhammad], the Book; in it are verses that are precise—they are the foundation of the Book—and others unspecific."

Your work inspires me to encourage greater collaboration between our faiths. Let's create spaces where followers of different traditions can come together to explore the richness of their scriptures, understanding the context and relevance of each verse in our lives today.

As you continue your endeavors, Dr Baez, consider how a deeper dialogue among religious communities can lead to mutual respect and understanding. How might we collectively promote an appreciation for the historical contexts of our respective faiths in a way that fosters peace and harmony?

Warmest regards,

Mohamed, Ph.D.