When Muhammad Hijab sat down with Professor Jordan Peterson — a clinical psychologist, bestselling author, and one of the most influential intellectuals in the world — what followed was one of the most important interfaith conversations in recent memory. Peterson admitted that Islam had “remained relatively opaque” to him despite extensive historical reading, and he was courageous enough to do what many failed to do: talk to Muslims, not about Muslims.
Jordan Peterson’s Honest Admission
What makes this conversation so remarkable is Peterson’s intellectual honesty. Despite his academic credentials and extensive reading, he openly acknowledged that he does not have a tangible understanding of Islam and that he is “blind to his own ignorance” on the subject. This humility from one of the world’s most prominent academics demonstrates that genuine knowledge of Islam can only come from engaging directly with Muslims and their sources.
“Jordan Peterson said: ‘I wouldn’t say that I have a tangible understanding of Islam. Islam has remained relatively opaque to me despite the fact that I’ve done a reasonable amount of historical reading.’ Look how intelligent this man is — a professor in academia — and he’s coming out sincerely admitting he doesn’t know.”
Muslims Love Jesus — A Fact That Surprises Everyone
One of the most impactful moments was when Muhammad Hijab explained that a Muslim cannot be a Muslim unless they believe in, revere, love, and respect all of the prophets — including Jesus (peace be upon him). Peterson was invited to visit a mosque, and the response was not just willing but eager. As Muhammad Hijab stated: “One of our hopes is that people embrace Islam and become Muslims — that’s why this conversation was so important.”
“Did you know that Muslims love Jesus? A Muslim cannot be a Muslim unless they believe in, revere, love, and respect all of the prophets including Jesus. Just name the mosque and I’ll get you an invitation — we’re not only willing, we’re eager.”
A Challenge to Jordan Peterson and Every Intellectual
- If one of the world’s most prominent intellectuals admits Islam has been opaque to him, imagine how much the average person does not know — the responsibility to educate falls on Muslims
- Jordan Peterson’s willingness to learn sets an example that other academics, media personalities, and public figures should follow
- Muhammad Hijab’s recitation of the Quran during the conversation demonstrated the spiritual dimension of Islam that no academic reading can convey
- The invitation stands: come to a mosque, sit with Muslims, ask your questions honestly, and discover for yourself what Islam truly teaches
