As an addendum to my last post, since most Muslims do not read, speak, or truly understand Quranic Arabic and so simply interpret or memorize what they are taught the Quran says, it is worth keeping in mind that English renditions of the Quran are not all the same; many are influenced by ideology. San Diego State2.jpg (384x515, AR: 0.75) University’s Khaleel Mohammed surveys English translations of the Quran, here, and starkly illustrates how ideology permeates. If, as some news accounts suggest, the shooter handed out Qurans to his neighbors, it would be worth knowing which editions. Likewise, if the shooter studies a Quran, which version?
Michael Rubin specializes in Iran, Turkey and the Horn of Africa. His career includes time as a Pentagon official, with field experiences in Iran, Yemen, and Iraq, as well as engagements with the Taliban prior to 9/11. Mr. Rubin has also contributed to military education, teaching U.S. Navy and Marine units about regional conflicts and terrorism. His scholarly work includes several key publications, such as “Dancing with the Devil” and “Eternal Iran.” Rubin earned his Ph.D. and M.A. in history and a B.S. in biology from Yale University.
