Sept. 29 marked the day of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year. It begins the 10-day period of prayer and retrospection that all Jews observe, culminating in Yom Kippur: The most important holiday in the Jewish faith.

With this blessed event in mind, it’s a perfect time to condemn the perceived hatred between Muslims and Jews. We share many similarities in belief as the Jews — specifically our similar roots, fundamental beliefs and our belief in the Prophet Abraham. The Holy Quran says: “Abraham was neither a Jew nor a 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). Abraham followed all the fundamental beliefs of Islam, thus we have respect for him and recognize him as a prophet.

Another example of the good faith between the religions is when the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) happened to be near a Jewish funeral procession and stood up out of respect. His companions told him that it was not a Muslim funeral, but he reasoned with them saying, “Is it not a human soul?” (Sahih Bukhari 1250).

Though many believe Muslims and Jews have an innate distaste for one another, it is imperative that we come together to denounce these falsities. The violence between the two in the Middle East is mindless and it is only through unity and love that can we end this tragic conflict.

Qasim Ali, Muslim Writers Guild of America

Redmond