From September 2^nd through 4^th, Dialogue Across Borders cosponsored a third round of the “Journey of Learning” interfaith program with the Centre for Christian-Muslim Understanding and Partnership (Anglican/Episcopal) in Cairo. The conference offered Christians and Muslims an opportunity to listen and learn from one another about their respective faiths. Two lectures were devoted to the question of war and violence in the Bible and the Qurʾān. The following lecture was delivered by Rev. Mark Taqqī (M.A.) a lecturer in Old Testament and biblical theology at the Alexandria School of Theology in Cairo.

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As is widely known, the topic of war in the Old Testament is indeed a challenging one. Wars feature so prominently that some Christian theologians have even attempted to distinguish somehow between the God of the Old Testament and the God of the New Testament. Questions about war in the Old Testament are not merely the result of external criticism but are also discussed by theologians in churches and theological colleges. Before delving into the intricacies of these questions, the aim in this presentation is to understand this subject within both historical and contemporary contexts. It will be helpful to start with two key points.

First, the wars described in the Old Testament should be examined through the lens of premodern thought, a mindset that existed before the era of the Enlightenment. This historical context influences how we interpret the narratives of conflict and violence that permeate the Old Testament. It is crucial to recognize that evaluating these ancient texts with contemporary philosophical or political frameworks can lead to misunderstandings.

Second, it is essential to clarify what is meant by "war." Is it simply a conflict? Is it characterized by violence, injustice, or justice? For example, is it a preventive war, an offensive war, or a defensive war? Not all wars are the same and this must be kept in mind as well.