Islam in Germany
All topics-
Cannabis and Islam?
There is no one single answer
The German government is planning to legalise cannabis before the end of this legislative period. So what does Islam have to say about its consumption? Will changing the law alter the way Muslims in Germany feel about the issue? Said Rezek talked to Muslim theologian Ali Ghandour from the University of Munster
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Anti-racism, anti-discrimination
Rafia Zakaria – feminism is not only white
Pakistani-American author and lawyer Rafia Zakaria advocates for a broad-based feminism that doesn't just address the concerns of white women. By Christine Lehnen
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Navid Kermani‘s "Questions about God"
How do we believe?
In his latest book, Navid Kermani poses questions about God. It feels like no one could have done it better. His writing elicits smiles, doubt and wonder. By Melanie Christina Mohr
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Muslimas on Instagram
The many ways to tie a headscarf
Some German women who’ve converted to Islam are choosing to maintain a public presence on social media such as Instagram, under names such as "Hijabi on Tinder“. In doing so, they’re fending off the cliches and the hate – no matter where it comes from. Julia Ley reports
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Muslims in the West
Can democracy tolerate Muslims at all?
"Muslimaniac" is what political scientist Ozan Zakariya Keskinkilic calls Western society's invention of Muslims as a problem: a shimmering term that mixes social construction and obsession with the passionate, ironic spirit of breaking free from stereotypes. Brilliantly and bitingly, he writes about consistent alienation and paves the way towards rapprochement. Interview by Schayan Riaz
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Islamic mysticism
A flute like the breath of God
Music and rhythm have always played a substantial role in Islamic mysticism. Sufis clap, drum, breathe or rock in time with the music. It is their way of trying to overcome their egos and thereby bring themselves closer to God. By Julia Ley
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First ever antidiscrimination chatbot
Meta: standing up to racism
Former lawyer Said Haider has invented a chatbot for those seeking advice on anti-discrimination issues – Meta is the first chatbot of its kind in the world. In conversation with Qantara.de, Haider talks about the development of Meta, his experience of discrimination and Meta's future prospects
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Islam in Germany
Imam Idriz – "We need to allow controversial discussion"
Benjamin Idriz, imam of the mosque in Penzberg near Munich, is one of the most prominent representatives of Islam in Germany. He sees his role as building bridges to mainstream society without surrendering his own Muslim identity. In interview with Claudia Mende for Qantara.de, he argues that the mosque should be a place of open discussion where controversial opinions are possible
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Islamic scholar Mathias Rohe on the muezzin call
"Traditional religious practice is not political Islam"
Since the German city of Cologne launched a two-year model project to allow Muslim communities to perform the call to prayer, there has been much heated public debate on the issue. Islamic scholar and law professor Mathias Rohe examines the arguments
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General election in Germany
How will Germany's immigrants vote?
Germany’s electorate includes some 7.4 million citizens with international roots, while many more millions of residents from abroad aren’t allowed to vote. Both groups are often overlooked by political parties. Kay-Alexander Scholz reports
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Islamophobia in Germany and Europe
European Muslims face increased online and physical attacks
Muslims in Europe regularly experience threats, witness attacks and are the target of hate across national borders. Now the Council of Europe, the continent's leading human rights organisation, is to examine the problem and make recommendations to policymakers on how they can better tackle Islamophobia. By Christoph Strack
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Life coaching for Muslims
Enhanced success in this life and the next
Reuf Jasarevic is the founder of "Erfolgreich & Muslim" (Successful & Muslim), the first life coaching platform for German-speaking Muslims. The 37-year-old trainer supports followers of Islam in their efforts to harmonise the spiritual and practical aspects of their everyday lives. By Said Rezek