Yasir Qadhi Slavery in Islam With Dr. Jonathan Brown
Apr 24, 2022
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Jonathan Brown, the Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Chair of Islamic Civilization at Georgetown University, dives deep into the complex relationship between slavery and Islamic teachings. He examines how historical practices, contextual ethics, and modern moral perspectives intersect. Topics include consent in marital practices, the role of Muslims in the American slave trade, and the evolution of cultural constructs around slavery. The conversation sheds light on the importance of nuanced understanding in addressing these sensitive issues today.
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Abolitionist Slavery Conundrum
- Modern abolitionist discourse treats all forms of slavery as an intrinsic and gross moral evil across all times and places.
- This universal condemnation creates a logical conundrum when faced with historical and Islamic contexts where slavery was permitted.
Defining Slavery Across History
- Defining slavery universally is nearly impossible due to cultural and legal differences across history.
- Definitions often become too abstract, leading to projecting modern views onto past realities.
Powerful Ottoman Slave Example
- Sokholu Mehmed Pasha was a slave who became the most powerful figure after the Ottoman sultan.
- He was married to the sultan's daughter, highlighting how slavery in Islam differed from harsh chattel slavery.
