A close friend of mine (referred to as “Mary” in a recent post by Qasim Rashid, Esq.) saw an Islamophobic post on social media that seemed fake and asked how she should respond. I thought it would be good to show support from a Christian perspective—one that does not see Muslims as our enemy—and also share some historical context. Note that even if they were our enemy, as Christians we are called to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44).
Rich History of Mutual Protection
Did you know that there is a long history of Muslims and Christians protecting each other?
In the 7th century, Muslims were being persecuted in Mecca. During their Migration to Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia), they were welcomed and protected by a Christian king and his court. This early example of interfaith solidarity provided safety for vulnerable believers fleeing religious persecution.
In 1219, during the Fifth Crusade, Saint Francis of Assisi was welcomed by the Sultan of Egypt, Al-Malik al-Kamil. Despite the ongoing military conflict, Francis stayed for several days, preaching and encouraging peace between the two religions. This remarkable encounter demonstrates that even during times of war, meaningful dialogue and mutual respect were possible.
Modern Examples of Interfaith Cooperation
This spirit of cooperation continues today. In Egypt, Coptic Christians regularly prepare evening meals during Ramadan for Muslims who have been fasting—a beautiful expression of neighborly love that transcends religious boundaries.
At the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem, all three Abrahamic religions work together, recognizing it as a holy site sacred to them all. This cooperation in maintaining one of Christianity’s most important sites shows how shared reverence can unite rather than divide.
Personal Connections Matter
For me personally, these principles became real through friendship. Years ago, I became close friends with a Muslim colleague. I enjoyed hearing about the differences in our related scriptures and was welcomed to eat with his family. When his father passed away during his pilgrimage to Mecca, I mourned alongside him. We still keep in touch, and he always asks my children to pray for him—a request that speaks to our shared belief in the power of prayer, regardless of the particular tradition.
A Call to Love, Not Division
There are extremists in all religions who distort and misinterpret scripture to serve their own agenda. Even Jesus warned that within his own church there would be “weeds planted amongst the harvest” (Matthew 13:24-28). These voices do not represent the true heart of our faiths.
For me, the path is clear: I am going to love my Muslim neighbors. That is what God wants me to do.
Assalamu Alaikum.
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