Rafael Castro discusses good manners (adab), loyalty and honor; how and why they are central to the Arabic and Islamic traditions and cultures. Mr. Castro draws from his life experiences with anecdotal stories to contrast Jewish and Arabic approaches to solving conflicts.
Read more: Rafael Castro Isaac and Ismail a Tale of Two CousinsThe Classical Forum for Contemporary Issues continues its mission of fostering open and thought-provoking discussions on pressing global issues. Our latest event featured Raphael, whose deep insights and unique experiences illuminated the cultural, religious, and interpersonal dynamics shaping Jewish-Muslim relations.
His talk, “Isaac and Ishmael: A Tale of Two Cousins,” explored the nuances of Arab and Muslim honor culture, the role of interpersonal skills in diplomacy, and the complex realities of ideological conflicts. Drawing from personal encounters in Israel, the West Bank, and Berlin, he provided a balanced and often humorous take on the differences between Jewish and Muslim cultural norms.
The discussion sparked fascinating debates on the importance of dignity, loyalty, and reconciliation in shaping the future of Jewish-Arab relations. We’re grateful for Raphael’s thoughtful perspective and for the engaging participation of our audience.
Stay tuned for upcoming events as we continue to explore vital topics with leading voices.