Faith

There is a great deal said and written about the Muslim faith at the moment. During last year, amidst increasingly hysterical reports about everything from veils to foiled airport terror attacks, we decided to talk to people about what life is like for those away from, but increasingly affected by, this media spotlight.

Misunderstanding Islam is a two part mini series, created by Seen Two Productions for BBC Radio Oxford, which features the voices of those who are often left unheard in the face of much Muslim orientated media coverage.

It looks at aspects of local life as well as how international events can impact at a community level. It also reveals some of the wider truths about Islam... from scientific discoveries to deeply held doctrines.

The political arena is also examined, taking in views from people such as Tariq Ramadan and Terry Waite and also writers and scientists such as Ziauddin Sardar and George Saliba.

The programmes aired during Phil Mercer’s Sunday Breakfast show, the first on April the 15th and the second on April the 22nd.

Further material is also available below, including exclusive extras from the interviews with Terry Waite and Tariq Ramadan. Some of the views you will hear are controversial but thought provoking.

A most enlightening and thought provoking programme with integrity. Am looking forward to Part 2. Congratulations. Vivienne Licudi.

What an insightful and thought provoking programme. It is refreshing to hear a more positive take on Islam in Britain and, I believe, a more accurate picture of the largely tolerant and multi cultural country we live in. Thank you Radio Oxford! Rob Curtis.

We must discuss, and stop the fuss. M Haley.

Too often Islam is presented in a debate setting or panel discussions with one representative. This programme is absolutely brilliant because you present the voice from the street, the community, the mosque, university and from the hearts that are infused with their faith. Everything is done in an extremely original way - real, raw & refreshing.  You have shown how Islam has one faith with many voices and also its contribution to science, literature, medicine, music and art - in short human culture. Can hardly wait for second part!!! Bismillah ir-Rahman ir-Rahim!!! SachaMassaGonna.

Excellent!!! A long overdue presentation that has answered many of my questions. Geoff Wass.

This has been a very informative and fantastic programme which has helped with understanding a difficult area. Please congratulate the production group. Noel Lawler.

What a well put-together and informative documentary. I feel that it this a long overdue representation of the average Muslim, when the Media are keener on images of suicide bombers and angry mobs, and I hope to hear of similar programming nationally. Jan T.

I thoroughly enjoyed the programme. It's been great to listen not just to the public opinion but to hear some of the thoughts of people like Tariq Ramadan and Terry Waite. Well done, I wish there would be more like this. Carry on! B Belmonte.

Things like this help counter some of the fear in our community. Ana.

Should be made compulsory listening in every home and school. Makes a change to hear a discussion on the subject without the normal ranting. G Hartfield.

I'm in a mixed race marriage and we're both humans and that's all that matters at the end. We can all believe what we like as long as we are good to one another. Katy B.

Really enjoyed an intelligent discussion of a situation where often the voice of reason is drowned by emotive reactions. Ed.

Fantastic thought provoking and insightful, a real refreshing change not swayed by emotions but facts and respect. Dharam Barrett.