Dehumanization Quote by David Livingstone Smith
““Unlike these verses from the Koran, references to dehumanization in the hadith compiled two or three centuries later have a distinctly anti-Jewish flavor. They describe how a group of Israelites were transformed into rats, how unbelievers are turned into monkeys and pigs, and how Abraham’s father was transformed into an animal and hurled into the raging fires of hell.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Myth of the Rational Self, David Livingstone Smith, 2011
Some hadiths portray dehumanizing imagery of Jews, reflecting anti‑Jewish bias added centuries after the Qur’an.
In simple terms: Hadiths contain anti‑Jewish dehumanization.
Key Takeaway
Recognize historical bias in religious texts.
Themes
religion
bias
anti‑Jewish
historical context
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
historical
analytical
When to use this quote
- academic study
- interfaith dialogue
- human rights advocacy
Key Concepts
theology
propaganda
stereotyping
Questions to Reflect On
- How do these portrayals affect modern interfaith relations?
- What steps can counter such bias?
A Different Perspective
These narratives can fuel prejudice if taken uncritically.
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