From Badr to Bondi: Is Islam Inherently Violent? Part 1

Once again there is terrible news of innocent people killed by terrorists associated with Islamic State (ISIS), this time 15 Jews celebrating Hanukkah on Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. Once again, the spectre of antisemitism and violence raised its ugly head. But is Islam to blame? Is Islam inherently violent? Part 1 of this blog looks at the causes which some Christians propose that may be said to be ‘internal’ to Islam. Part 2 will look at those which are ‘external’ and rooted in international affairs. The actual causes will always be complex but Christian writers and leaders tend to favour one or the other explanation.