213 - Halim Rane

In this episode of Crossing Faiths, John Pinna speaks with Halim Rane, Professor of Islamic Studies at Griffith University, to explore the complexities surrounding Islamophobia, religious literacy, and Muslim identity in contemporary Western societies like Australia and the United States. Prompted by Rane’s recent article for ABC Religion & Ethics, the conversation examines how media narratives and political discourse often conflate mainstream Islam with extremist groups, leading to systemic disparities in government responses and funding when addressing hate speech against different religious groups. Rane highlights the rich, multi-generational history of Muslims in Australia—including historical connections with Indigenous populations—and emphasizes the theological foundations in the Quran and Sunnah that mandate peaceful coexistence, human security, and adherence to civic covenants.

Halim Rane is a Professor of Islamic Studies and a Sociologist of Religion. He leads the Islam-West Relations field of study at Griffith University where his teaching and research focus on contemporary Islamic thought, covenants in Islam, religious and ideological extremism, and interreligious relations. Professor Rane is a recipient of the prestigious ‘Australian University Teacher of the Year’ award and a founding member and president of the Australian Association of Islamic and Muslim Studies (AAIMS). He has authored over 80 publications on Islam and Muslim issues, including his latest book, Covenants with Allah: Keystone of Islam.