Problem
Rabbi Sharon Brous asks us to think about the value and possibility of religion to adjust and adapt to our current world. She argues:
We are going back into our sacred traditions and recognizing that all of our traditions contain the raw material to justify violence and extremism, and also contain the raw material to justify compassion, coexistence and kindness-that when others choose to read our texts as directives for hate and vengeance, we can choose to read those same texts as directives for love and for forgiveness.
i. Given what you've learned about Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, how would you respond to Rabbi Brous' argument? For this, please watch her TedTalk, and answer the following question: Do you agree with Rabbi Brous' assessment about the opportunity of religion to shape our world in a positive way? Please ensure you are detailed in your response, referring to the TedTalk
ii. Answer the following question, Comparing Christianity, and Islam: how does scripture function for these religious communities? That is, what role does it play in these monotheistic religions? (Use this as an opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of the different kinds of scripture we encounter in these religions.)
iii. Discuss the following statement: "Christians care about belief, while Jews and Muslims are more concerned with practice." Do you agree with this assessment? Why or why not?