Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, will begin the evening of Sept. 29. This marks the beginning of the High Holy Days, a 10-day period of prayer and reflection that leads to Yom Kippur. Contrary to certain media portrayals, Muslims and Jews are not inherently at odds with each other. Rather, their respective religions share many deep roots and commonalities.

Like Judaism, Islam is a religion that traces it roots to the Prophet Abraham, who is venerated in the Holy Quran for his deeds and actions rather than the labels ascribed to him: “Abraham was neither a Jew or Christian, but he was ever inclined to God and obedient to Him, and he was not of those who associate gods with God” (3:68).

Additionally, when the Holy Prophet of Islam, Muhammad, saw a funeral procession of a Jew passing by, he stood up out of respect. When some companions out of confusion pointed out that the deceased was not Muslim, he rebuked them by saying, “Is it not a human soul?” (Sahih Bukhari 1250).

As the world continues toward the path of a great conflict in the Middle East, it is of utmost importance that Jews and Muslims come together as a voice against senseless violence and wars. If not, then, regrettably, this conflict’s potential destructive outcome may permeate for generations to come.

Samar Ahmad,

North Canton