Hussam S. Timani, assistant professor of religious and Islamic studies at Christopher Newport University, will speak on the subject of Islam on three consecutive Fridays, Feb. 4, 11 and 18, from 1-3 p.m. at the Gloucester Main Library.

The lectures are sponsored by the Rappa-
hannock Community College Educational Foundation’s Rappahannock Institute for Lifelong Learning.

"This three-session class offers a thoughtful exploration of the rise of Islam, the life and tradition of Muhammad, and the Qur’an," said an RCC spokesman. "Special emphasis will be placed on the classical doctrine of Jihad and its modern interpretations, the politics of the veil, Muslim approaches to religious pluralism, and Islam in America."

Timani received his Ph.D. in Islamic studies from the University of California, Los Angeles, and has published widely on the topic of Islam. Since joining CNU in 2005, Timani has frequently spoken and lectured in places of worship, social...