Winter 2011
RESEARCH

Islam and Christianity: Can They Co-Exist?

The Answer Lies in the Horn of Africa

(Lynne Rienner Publishers, 2010)
What plays out in the Horn of Africa can provide some fascinating, often surprising insights into the future of Islam and Christianity in that region, and beyond. Will they move towards a head to head confrontation? Or, can they live in peace? Professor Haggai Erlich of the Open University answers these and many more questions.

Prof. Haggai Erlich has been immersed in the study of the African continent for forty years, almost a lifetime. Head of Middle Eastern Studies in the Open University's Department of History, Philosophy and Judaic Studies, and author of 13 Open University textbooks, Prof. Erlich analyzes some of the most important issues that are playing out on the international stage and addresses the most pertinent question: Can Christianity and Islam co-exist? in his newest book, Islam and Christianity in the Horn of Africa – Somalia, Ethiopia, Sudan.

Ethiopia: The Key

According to Prof. Erlich, a pioneer in the study of Ethiopia's Semitic-Oriental background, part of the answer lies with Ethiopia.

"What makes Ethiopia a model from which we can learn," Prof. Erlich explains "is that the country has always been an intersection of various cultures: African on the one hand, Semitic and Oriental on the other."

"Yes, Ethiopia is located on the African continent, but it also feels itself part of the Middle East."

Ethiopia epitomizes African pride; having successfully fended off foreign aggression and imperialism – from Islamic invaders in the 16th century to the European imperialists of modern times.

Its history can be traced back two millennia. The nation embodies a unique spirit and fierce determination to hold onto its roots.

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