Myth: "Islam was spread by the sword"
The common image of Islam being spread by an Arab on camelback in the desert, with a Qur'an in one hand and a curved sword in the other, offering a choice of either accepting Islam or losing one’ this is false, for a number of reasons as pointed by prominent scholars and historians.
First and foremost, Islam doesn't allow or accept forced conversions. The Qur'an itself commands "Let there be no compulsion in religion. Truth stands out clear from falsehood." (2:256) This is accepted by all scholars and something all Muslims must follow. As a corollary, another myth; "the terrorists all want us to be Muslim or die! That's why they attack us!" is, as they like to say on the TV show Mythbusters, busted.
In History, there were military confrontations between the Muslim empire and the existing world powers of Rome and Persia. However, the areas conquered were put under Muslim administration and the populations were free to maintain their own beliefs. Muslims ruled Egypt, Palestine and Lebanon from the 8th century and sizeable Christian communities continued to exist over the past 13 centuries, and still exist today. Muslims ruled Spain for 700 years, and historians today call that period the "Golden Age of Judaism" because Jewish people flourished under the Muslim rule, compared to the ostracism and threats they faced in Christian Europe. Jewish philosopher Moses Maimonides lived under a Muslim government, and published some of the most famous Torah commentary while living under that religious freedom. India was ruled by the Muslims for 1000 years without the vast majority of the population converting to Islam. In fact, India is 85% Hindu today.
If anyone is in doubt whether Islam was spread through violence, look at Indonesia, the world's largest Muslim country with over 200 Million citizens. Those islands never saw a Muslim soldier. Islam spread there and in Malaysia and Philippines by trade. This was also the case of Islam’s spread in West African countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Chad and Niger. Also, Islam is the fastest growing religion in America and the world today, with a conversion rate over 400% more than conversion to all other religions combined. It's said that there are anywhere between 300 and 500 converts daily in North America. This is taking place without any soldiers or even missionaries.
When the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was in Medina, Non-Muslims were given equality with Muslims under the laws, and are left to their own beliefs. The Islamic state even used money from its own budget for the upkeep of churches and synagogues. Muslims can marry "people of the scripture" (i.e. Jews, Christians, some say Zoroastrians) and can do business with non-Muslims. Muhammad himself (pbuh) used to conduct business deals with the nearby Jewish tribes and always fulfilled them, and also would hire non-Muslims. If a Muslim man is allowed to marry a non-Muslim woman and required by the Charter of Privileges to allow her to freely practice her religion, then clearly there is nothing in the religion allowing Muslims to murder non-Muslims.
"God forbids you not, with regards to those who fight you not for [your] faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them; for God loveth those who are just." (Quran, 60:8) The meaning of this is that God has not forbidden anybody to be kind to or fair to non-Muslims who are good people, and Islam requires fairness to all humans and living creatures. There is no command to shun all non-Muslims, and certainly no command to kill anyone for simply being non-Muslim.
Legal Safeguards for non-Muslims under Islamic Law
The Quran and Sunnah (Traditions of the Prophet) explicitly dictate regulations and rights for the protection of non-Muslim minorities living under the rule of Islam. The Prophet even said that if a Muslim hurts a covenanted person (i.e. a non-Muslim living under the rule of Islam) or commits any injustice to him, then on the Day of Judgment the Prophet (pbuh) would be the advocate on behalf of the non-Muslim against the Muslim. What would be the sense and need for all of these prescriptions and advice, if Islam required that they be compelled to accept the religion?
(Some Muslims who claim themselves as Muslims need to get the above reality check before they oppress non Muslims and we as a society need to come in face with the truth and stop blaming Islam and stereotyping all Muslims)
reference : Myths about Islam - yusuf smith and Umm Yusuf
Full Version: Myths About Islam
JazakaAllah Khair!!
Awesome sharing SS!
Awesome sharing SS!
QUOTE(ZaiRa @ Sep 23 2007, 11:08 PM) 
JazakaAllah Khair!!
Awesome sharing SS!
Thanks Zaira ji for taking your time out and reading it . I am happy that there are still people like you around here who have interest in gaining knowledge.
Cheers
SS
Its a well written article.Thanks for this article.
Jazaka-Allah
Jazaka-Allah
Myths about Jeehad
Source: Reuters
One of the many short comings which has arisen in the West, is judging Islam by the conduct of a minority of its people. By doing this, segments of Western society have deliberately played off the desperate actions of many Muslims, and have given it the name of Islam. Such behaviour is clearly not objective and seeks to distort the reality of Islam
What Jihad is:
* The meaning of jihad, as a 'holy war', is something which is totally foreign and not from Islam.
• In a purely linguistic sense, the word Jihad means struggling or striving. There are two different, unrelated words which mean war.
"The best jihad is (by) the one who strives against his own self for Allah, The Mighty and Majestic" [3]
• In a religious sense, as described by the Koran and teachings of the Prophet Mohammed, Jihad means striving for the benefit of the community or the restraint of personal sins. It can refer to internal as well as external efforts to be a good Muslim, or believer. Scholars say it primarily refers to efforts to improve oneself.
• If Jihad is required to protect the faith against others, it can be performed using anything from legal, diplomatic and economic to political means. If there is no peaceful alternative, Islam also allows the use of force, but there are strict rules of engagement. Innocents -- such as women, children, or invalids -- must never be harmed, and any peaceful overtures from the enemy must be accepted.
• Military action is therefore only one means of Jihad, and is very rare. To highlight this point, the Prophet Mohammed told his followers returning from a military campaign: "This day we have returned from the minor Jihad to the major Jihad," which he said meant returning from armed battle to the peaceful battle for self-control and betterment.
• The concept of Jihad has been hijacked by many political and religious groups over the ages in a bid to justify various forms of violence. In most cases, Islamic splinter groups invoked Jihad to fight against the established Islamic order. Scholars says this misuse of Jihad contradicts Islam.
• Examples of sanctioned military Jihad include the Muslims' defensive battles against the Crusaders in medieval times, and before that some responses by Muslims against Byzantine and Persian attacks during the period of the early Islamic conquests.
What Jihad is not:
• Jihad is not a violent concept.
• Jihad is not a declaration of war against other religions. It is worth noting that the Koran specifically refers to Jews and Christians as "people of the book" who should be protected and respected. All three faiths worship the same God. Allah is just the Arabic word for God, and is used by Christian Arabs as well as Muslims.
• Military action in the name of Islam has not been common in the history of Islam. Scholars says most calls for violent Jihad are not sanctioned by Islam.
• Warfare in the name of God is not unique to Islam. Other faiths throughout the world have waged wars with religious justifications.
So what about suicide bombing, is this too a part of jihad in Allah's path? From what has already been stated above, it can be deduced that this is not from the religion. However, unfortunately many Muslims have taken suicide bombing as being a virtuous act by which one receives reward. This could not be further from the truth. The Prophet (saws) said:
"Those who go to extremes are destroyed" [6].
"...If anyone killed a person not in retaliation for murder or to spread mischief in the land, it would be as if he killed the whole of mankind. And (likewise) if anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the whole of mankind"
(Quran, Surah Al-Maaida 5:32)
"He who kills himself with anything, Allah will torment him with that in the fire of Hell" [8]
(The only way to examine Islam is to simply examine its belief system.
Look at its sources, the Qur'an and Sunna, and see what they have to say. This is the way to find the truth about what Islam says about terrorism and other issues. One who is sincerely searching for the truth, will do it no other way).
Source: REUTERS
Source: Reuters
One of the many short comings which has arisen in the West, is judging Islam by the conduct of a minority of its people. By doing this, segments of Western society have deliberately played off the desperate actions of many Muslims, and have given it the name of Islam. Such behaviour is clearly not objective and seeks to distort the reality of Islam
What Jihad is:
* The meaning of jihad, as a 'holy war', is something which is totally foreign and not from Islam.
• In a purely linguistic sense, the word Jihad means struggling or striving. There are two different, unrelated words which mean war.
"The best jihad is (by) the one who strives against his own self for Allah, The Mighty and Majestic" [3]
• In a religious sense, as described by the Koran and teachings of the Prophet Mohammed, Jihad means striving for the benefit of the community or the restraint of personal sins. It can refer to internal as well as external efforts to be a good Muslim, or believer. Scholars say it primarily refers to efforts to improve oneself.
• If Jihad is required to protect the faith against others, it can be performed using anything from legal, diplomatic and economic to political means. If there is no peaceful alternative, Islam also allows the use of force, but there are strict rules of engagement. Innocents -- such as women, children, or invalids -- must never be harmed, and any peaceful overtures from the enemy must be accepted.
• Military action is therefore only one means of Jihad, and is very rare. To highlight this point, the Prophet Mohammed told his followers returning from a military campaign: "This day we have returned from the minor Jihad to the major Jihad," which he said meant returning from armed battle to the peaceful battle for self-control and betterment.
• The concept of Jihad has been hijacked by many political and religious groups over the ages in a bid to justify various forms of violence. In most cases, Islamic splinter groups invoked Jihad to fight against the established Islamic order. Scholars says this misuse of Jihad contradicts Islam.
• Examples of sanctioned military Jihad include the Muslims' defensive battles against the Crusaders in medieval times, and before that some responses by Muslims against Byzantine and Persian attacks during the period of the early Islamic conquests.
What Jihad is not:
• Jihad is not a violent concept.
• Jihad is not a declaration of war against other religions. It is worth noting that the Koran specifically refers to Jews and Christians as "people of the book" who should be protected and respected. All three faiths worship the same God. Allah is just the Arabic word for God, and is used by Christian Arabs as well as Muslims.
• Military action in the name of Islam has not been common in the history of Islam. Scholars says most calls for violent Jihad are not sanctioned by Islam.
• Warfare in the name of God is not unique to Islam. Other faiths throughout the world have waged wars with religious justifications.
So what about suicide bombing, is this too a part of jihad in Allah's path? From what has already been stated above, it can be deduced that this is not from the religion. However, unfortunately many Muslims have taken suicide bombing as being a virtuous act by which one receives reward. This could not be further from the truth. The Prophet (saws) said:
"Those who go to extremes are destroyed" [6].
"...If anyone killed a person not in retaliation for murder or to spread mischief in the land, it would be as if he killed the whole of mankind. And (likewise) if anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the whole of mankind"
(Quran, Surah Al-Maaida 5:32)
"He who kills himself with anything, Allah will torment him with that in the fire of Hell" [8]
(The only way to examine Islam is to simply examine its belief system.
Look at its sources, the Qur'an and Sunna, and see what they have to say. This is the way to find the truth about what Islam says about terrorism and other issues. One who is sincerely searching for the truth, will do it no other way).
Source: REUTERS
QUOTE(humble_rafi @ Sep 24 2007, 11:45 AM)
Its a well written article.Thanks for this article.
Jazaka-Allah
Pleasure HR.
Regards
SS
Click to view attachment
Myth: "Islam was spread by the sword"
The common image of Islam being spread by an Arab on camelback in the desert, with a Qur'an in one hand and a curved sword in the other, offering a choice of either accepting Islam or losing one' this is false, for a number of reasons as pointed by prominent scholars and historians.
First and foremost, Islam doesn't allow or accept forced conversions. The Qur'an itself commands "Let there be no compulsion in religion. Truth stands out clear from falsehood." (2:256) This is accepted by all scholars and something all Muslims must follow. As a corollary, another myth; "the terrorists all want us to be Muslim or die! That's why they attack us!" is, as they like to say on the TV show Mythbusters, busted.
In History, there were military confrontations between the Muslim empire and the existing world powers of Rome and Persia. However, the areas conquered were put under Muslim administration and the populations were free to maintain their own beliefs. Muslims ruled Egypt, Palestine and Lebanon from the 8th century and sizeable Christian communities continued to exist over the past 13 centuries, and still exist today. Muslims ruled Spain for 700 years, and historians today call that period the "Golden Age of Judaism" because Jewish people flourished under the Muslim rule, compared to the ostracism and threats they faced in Christian Europe. Jewish philosopher Moses Maimonides lived under a Muslim government, and published some of the most famous Torah commentary while living under that religious freedom. India was ruled by the Muslims for 1000 years without the vast majority of the population converting to Islam. In fact, India is 85% Hindu today.
If anyone is in doubt whether Islam was spread through violence, look at Indonesia, the world's largest Muslim country with over 200 Million citizens. Those islands never saw a Muslim soldier. Islam spread there and in Malaysia and Philippines by trade. This was also the case of Islam's spread in West African countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Chad and Niger. Also, Islam is the fastest growing religion in America and the world today, with a conversion rate over 400% more than conversion to all other religions combined. It's said that there are anywhere between 300 and 500 converts daily in North America. This is taking place without any soldiers or even missionaries.
When the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was in Medina, Non-Muslims were given equality with Muslims under the laws, and are left to their own beliefs. The Islamic state even used money from its own budget for the upkeep of churches and synagogues. Muslims can marry "people of the scripture" (i.e. Jews, Christians, some say Zoroastrians) and can do business with non-Muslims. Muhammad himself (pbuh) used to conduct business deals with the nearby Jewish tribes and always fulfilled them, and also would hire non-Muslims. If a Muslim man is allowed to marry a non-Muslim woman and required by the Charter of Privileges to allow her to freely practice her religion, then clearly there is nothing in the religion allowing Muslims to murder non-Muslims.
"God forbids you not, with regards to those who fight you not for [your] faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them; for God loveth those who are just." (Quran, 60:8) The meaning of this is that God has not forbidden anybody to be kind to or fair to non-Muslims who are good people, and Islam requires fairness to all humans and living creatures. There is no command to shun all non-Muslims, and certainly no command to kill anyone for simply being non-Muslim.
Legal Safeguards for non-Muslims under Islamic Law
The Quran and Sunnah (Traditions of the Prophet) explicitly dictate regulations and rights for the protection of non-Muslim minorities living under the rule of Islam. The Prophet even said that if a Muslim hurts a covenanted person (i.e. a non-Muslim living under the rule of Islam) or commits any injustice to him, then on the Day of Judgment the Prophet (pbuh) would be the advocate on behalf of the non-Muslim against the Muslim. What would be the sense and need for all of these prescriptions and advice, if Islam required that they be compelled to accept the religion?
(Some Muslims who claim themselves as Muslims need to get the above reality check before they oppress non Muslims and we as a society need to come in face with the truth and stop blaming Islam and stereotyping all Muslims)
reference : Myths about Islam - yusuf smith and Umm Yusuf
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QUOTE(suhana_safar @ Sep 23 2007, 05:53 PM)
Myth: "Islam was spread by the sword"
The common image of Islam being spread by an Arab on camelback in the desert, with a Qur'an in one hand and a curved sword in the other, offering a choice of either accepting Islam or losing one' this is false, for a number of reasons as pointed by prominent scholars and historians.
First and foremost, Islam doesn't allow or accept forced conversions. The Qur'an itself commands "Let there be no compulsion in religion. Truth stands out clear from falsehood." (2:256) This is accepted by all scholars and something all Muslims must follow. As a corollary, another myth; "the terrorists all want us to be Muslim or die! That's why they attack us!" is, as they like to say on the TV show Mythbusters, busted.
In History, there were military confrontations between the Muslim empire and the existing world powers of Rome and Persia. However, the areas conquered were put under Muslim administration and the populations were free to maintain their own beliefs. Muslims ruled Egypt, Palestine and Lebanon from the 8th century and sizeable Christian communities continued to exist over the past 13 centuries, and still exist today. Muslims ruled Spain for 700 years, and historians today call that period the "Golden Age of Judaism" because Jewish people flourished under the Muslim rule, compared to the ostracism and threats they faced in Christian Europe. Jewish philosopher Moses Maimonides lived under a Muslim government, and published some of the most famous Torah commentary while living under that religious freedom. India was ruled by the Muslims for 1000 years without the vast majority of the population converting to Islam. In fact, India is 85% Hindu today.
If anyone is in doubt whether Islam was spread through violence, look at Indonesia, the world's largest Muslim country with over 200 Million citizens. Those islands never saw a Muslim soldier. Islam spread there and in Malaysia and Philippines by trade. This was also the case of Islam's spread in West African countries like Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Chad and Niger. Also, Islam is the fastest growing religion in America and the world today, with a conversion rate over 400% more than conversion to all other religions combined. It's said that there are anywhere between 300 and 500 converts daily in North America. This is taking place without any soldiers or even missionaries.
When the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was in Medina, Non-Muslims were given equality with Muslims under the laws, and are left to their own beliefs. The Islamic state even used money from its own budget for the upkeep of churches and synagogues. Muslims can marry "people of the scripture" (i.e. Jews, Christians, some say Zoroastrians) and can do business with non-Muslims. Muhammad himself (pbuh) used to conduct business deals with the nearby Jewish tribes and always fulfilled them, and also would hire non-Muslims. If a Muslim man is allowed to marry a non-Muslim woman and required by the Charter of Privileges to allow her to freely practice her religion, then clearly there is nothing in the religion allowing Muslims to murder non-Muslims.
"God forbids you not, with regards to those who fight you not for [your] faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them; for God loveth those who are just." (Quran, 60:8) The meaning of this is that God has not forbidden anybody to be kind to or fair to non-Muslims who are good people, and Islam requires fairness to all humans and living creatures. There is no command to shun all non-Muslims, and certainly no command to kill anyone for simply being non-Muslim.
Legal Safeguards for non-Muslims under Islamic Law
The Quran and Sunnah (Traditions of the Prophet) explicitly dictate regulations and rights for the protection of non-Muslim minorities living under the rule of Islam. The Prophet even said that if a Muslim hurts a covenanted person (i.e. a non-Muslim living under the rule of Islam) or commits any injustice to him, then on the Day of Judgment the Prophet (pbuh) would be the advocate on behalf of the non-Muslim against the Muslim. What would be the sense and need for all of these prescriptions and advice, if Islam required that they be compelled to accept the religion?
(Some Muslims who claim themselves as Muslims need to get the above reality check before they oppress non Muslims and we as a society need to come in face with the truth and stop blaming Islam and stereotyping all Muslims)
reference : Myths about Islam - yusuf smith and Umm Yusuf
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QUOTE
There is no command to shun all non-Muslims
Then could you explain whether this is a myth.It is from your holy book. It does not command explicitly, but it does convey with full force what it really means.
22- 19 to 22
QUOTE
19. These twain (the believers and the disbelievers) are two opponents who contend concerning their Lord. But as for those who disbelieve, garments of fire will be cut out for them; boiling fluid will be poured down on their heads.
20. Whereby that which is in their bellies, and their skins too, will be melted;
21. And for them are hooked rods of iron.
22. Whenever, in their anguish, they would go forth from thence they are driven back therein and (it is said unto them):
Taste the doom of burning.
20. Whereby that which is in their bellies, and their skins too, will be melted;
21. And for them are hooked rods of iron.
22. Whenever, in their anguish, they would go forth from thence they are driven back therein and (it is said unto them):
Taste the doom of burning.
37- 22 & 23
QUOTE
22. (And it is said unto the angels): Assemble those who did wrong, together with their wives and what they used to worship
23. Instead of Allah, and lead them to the path to hell;
23. Instead of Allah, and lead them to the path to hell;
48- 13
QUOTE
13. And as for him who believeth not in Allah and His messenger Lo! We have prepared a flame for disbelievers.
69 - 30 to 33
QUOTE
30. (It will be said): Take him and fetter him
31. And then expose him to hell fire
32. And then insert him in a chain whereof the length is seventy cubits.
33. Lo! he used not to believe in Allah the Tremendous,
31. And then expose him to hell fire
32. And then insert him in a chain whereof the length is seventy cubits.
33. Lo! he used not to believe in Allah the Tremendous,
25-52.
QUOTE
So obey not the disbelievers, but strive against them herewith with a great endeavour.
9- 29 & 123.
QUOTE
29. Fight against such of those who have been given the Scripture as believe not in Allah nor the Last Day, and forbid not that which Allah hath forbidden by His messenger, and follow not the religion of truth, until they pay the tribute readily, being brought low.
123.O ye who believe! Fight those of the disbelievers who are near to you, and let them find harshness in you, and know that Allah is with those who keep their duty (unto Him).
123.O ye who believe! Fight those of the disbelievers who are near to you, and let them find harshness in you, and know that Allah is with those who keep their duty (unto Him).
In reply to post 8 by our respected member, Nidhii.
First and foremost one has to see things from the perspective that it is the word of God. To appreciate this one needs to understand the concept of God and his unlimited greatness and perfection that is beyond the human understanding. We see things only from our very limited intelligence and perspective, compare this to the greatness and intelligence of the Almighty.
The Koran was not delivered in a day but about 22 years, many of these revealtions have a context and were delivered by the angel to Mohammed (pbuh) in response to an existing situation at that time although its relevance is eternal. Hence one also has to understand the historical perspective to appreciate and understand the Quran. One has to understand the clear distinction between good and evil and how Islam rejects evils of all kinds.
It is impossible for any one to appreciate and understand the Quran by cherry picking such statements that are already being explained by learned scholars and understood by those who have cared to read the whole Koran and those who appreciate and understand the concept of God and the historical context of the Quran.
Firstly to make a statement like "it is your holy book" itself suggests that one has faltered at the very first step. Quran is not a book for one person or any community, it is a divine message for all.
I am not a scholar and nor do I have the time to explain you all of the above but i will try to explain with my ultra limited knolwdge about some of the verses quoted by you to make you understand that it is not as explicit as it appears to you and others and hopefully you can take the effort to read the Quran in its totality to understand its meaning and message.
22- 19 to 22
37- 22 & 23
48- 13
69 - 30 to 33
All the above must be seen from the context of God in Islam. The One true God is a reflection of the unique concept that Islam associates with God. To a Muslim, Allah is the Almighty Creator and Sustainer of the universe, Who is similar to nothing, and nothing is comparable to Him. The Prophet Muhammad was asked by his contemporaries about Allah; the answer came directly from God Himself in the form of a short chapter of the Qur'an, which is considered to be the essence of the unity or the motto of monotheism. This is chapter 112, which reads:“ In the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate. Say (O Muhammad), He is God, the One God, the Everlasting Refuge, who has not begotten, nor has been begotten, and equal to Him is not anyone”.
Some non-Muslims allege that God in Islam is a stern and cruel God who demands to be obeyed fully and is not loving and kind. Nothing could be farther from the truth than this allegation. It is enough to know that, with the exception of one, each of the 114 chapters of the Qur'an begins with the verse " In the name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate". In one of the sayings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), we are told that “ God is more loving and kind than a mother to her dear child”.
On the other hand, God is also Just. Hence, evildoers and sinners must have their share of punishment, and the virtuous must have God's bounties and favors. Actually, God's attribute of Mercy has full manifestation in His attribute of Justice. People suffering throughout their lives for His sake should not receive similar treatment from their Lord as people who oppress and exploit others their whole lives. Expecting similar treatment for them would amount to negating the very belief in the accountability of man in the Hereafter and thereby negate all the incentives for a moral and virtuous life in this world. In order to be a Muslim, that is, to surrender oneself to God, it is necessary to believe in the oneness of God, in the sense of His being the only Creator, Preserver, Nourisher. (ref: wamy)
The Prophet said that if a Muslim hurts a covenanted person (i.e. a non-Muslim living under the rule of Islam) or commits any injustice to him, then on the Day of Judgment the Prophet (pbuh) would be the advocate on behalf of the non-Muslim against the Muslim. What would be the sense and need for all of these prescriptions and advice, if Islam required that they be compelled to accept the religion
________________________________________________
25-52.
This has a context to the pagan Arabs who persecuted innocent people and spread anarchy and mischief. The word strive is not a negative but a positive word and indicates striving through prayers, spiritiality and just means and by doing the right things and shunning away evil. Koran says many times that God dislikes those who transgress their limits.
Persecution is worst than slaugther in Islam. Hence Islam in reality rejects persection. It is a dynamic concept and requires knowledge and iwsdom to appreciate it. It promotes justice, equlity and peace all which seem alien in todays world.
The Koran says very clearly on various occassions that Allah dislikes those who transgress limits and to live with peace with non muslims as long as they are not transgressing their limits. Striving against injustice and persecution which the pagan arabs were renowned at is the context here. Is it a sin to strive against injustice and persecution? Islam gives freedom to mankind from injustice, it is a system built on true justice, peace and equality.
Look as I said, one has to understand it from a context and reading the full Quran.
As a project, i would like you to find the context of other statements by reading the Koran and understanding it from a broader spiritual and historical perpective and the way the Koran was revealed and what is the concept of God in Islam and the unmatched attributes of the Allmighty.
Or speak to a scholar rather than confuse yourself by arriving at wrong conculsions. All these ststements and many more that are quoted by those who fail to understand or look for negativity in the Koran have all being explained after all Islam has not popped out of thin air, it is a 1400 year old religion and the one which has over 2 billiion followers (as reported) and the one that is the fastest growing religion in the world (as reported).
I am one of those who read it and approaachd Islamic scholars to find the true essence of this divine revelation.
May God give you and all of us wisdom and knowledge.
I belive it is incumbent on all specially the learned ones to go and find the truth by going in the middle of the arena rather than stand at the fence and make conclusions about whats happenning at the centre which may be far from the reality.
Good Luck.
Islam and Non Muslims:
Please regard this as as my humble contribution, here is what a learned scholar has to say about what Islam says about non muslims and I hope this will fully clear doubts if any, it cleared mine.
Islam urges all Muslims to deal kindly and justly with all people. Muslims should have good relations with all people. At school, at work, in your neighborhood, etc., you should be kind and courteous to everyone. Muslims are allowed to have non-Muslims as friends as long as they keep their own faith and commitment to Islam pure and strong. Allah has clearly forbidden Muslims from fighting those who fight not their faith or drive them out from their homes. Referring to this, [Allah forbids you not with regard to those who fight you not for your faith, nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them. For Allah loves those who are just. Allah only forbids you with regard to those who fight you for your faith, and drive you out of your homes and support others in driving you out, from turning to them for protection (or taking them as wali). Those who seek their protection they are indeed wrong- doers.] (Al-Mumtahinah 60: 8-9)
In his response to the question, Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, President of the Fiqh Council ofNorth America, states:
The Qur'an does not say that non-Muslims cannot be Muslims' friends, nor does it forbid Muslims to be friendly to non-Muslims. There are many non-Muslims who are good friends of Muslim individuals and the Muslim community. There are also many good Muslims who truly and sincerely observe their faith and are very friendly to many non-Muslims at the same time.
Islam teaches us that we should be friendly to all people. Islam teaches us that we should deal even with our enemies with justice and fairness. Allah says in the Qur'an in the beginning of the same Surat Al-Ma’dah: [O you who believe! Stand out firmly for Allah as witnesses to fair dealings and let not the hatred of others to you make you swerve to wrong and depart from justice. Be just, that is next to piety. Fear Allah, indeed Allah is well-acquainted with all that you do.] (Al-Ma’dah 5 :8)
In another place in the Qur'an, Allah Almighty says:
[Allah forbids you not with regard to those who fight you not for your faith, nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them. For Allah loves those who are just. Allah only forbids you with regard to those who fight you for your faith, and drive you out of your homes and support others in driving you out, from turning to them for protection (or taking them as wali). Those who seek their protection they are indeed wrong- doers.] (Al-Mumtahinah 60: 8-9)
Moreover, Allah Almighty has described Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) as "a mercy" to the worlds. He was a sign of Allah's Mercy to all, Muslims as well as non-Muslims. In his kindness and fair treatment he did not make any difference between the believers and non-believers. He was kind to the pagans of Makkah and fought them only when they fought him. He made treaties with the Jews of Madinah and honored the treaties until they broke them.
He (peace and blessings be upon him) is reported to have received the Christians of Najran with kindness in his Masjid in Madinah. They argued with him about Islam, but he returned them with honor and respect. There are many examples from his life that show that he was the friendliest person to all people.
In the verse you quoted, the word "Awliya" is used. It is a plural and its singular is "wali". The correct translation of the word ""wali"" is not "friend" but it is someone who is very close and intimate. It is also used to mean "guardian, protector, patron, lord and master".
In the Qur'an this word is used for God, such as [Allah is the Protector (or Lord and Master) of those who believe. He takes them out from the depths of darkness to light…] (Al- Baqarah 2: 257)
There are many other references in the Qur'an that give this meaning. The same word is also sometimes used in the Qur'an for human beings, such as [And whosoever is killed unjustly, We have granted his next kin "wali" the authority (to seek judgement or punishment in this case)…] (Al-‘Isra' 17 :33)
The correct translation of the verse in Surat Al-Ma’idah is: [O you who believe! Do not take Jews and Christians as your patrons. They are patrons of their own people. He among you who will turn to them for patronage is one of them. Verily Allah guides not a people unjust.] (Al-Ma'dah 5: 51)
It is obvious that Jews patronize the Jews and Christians patronize the Christians, so why not Muslims patronize Muslims and support their own people. This verse is not telling us to be against Jews or Christians, but it is telling us that we should take care of our own people and we must support each other.
In his Tafsir, (Qur’an exegesis) Imam Ibn Kathir has mentioned that some scholars say that this verse (i.e. the one you referred to) was revealed after the Battle of Uhud when Muslims had a set back. At that time, a Muslim from Madinah said, "I am going to live with Jews so I shall be safe in case another attack comes on Madinah." And another person said, "I am going to live with Christians so I shall be safe in case another attack comes on Madinah." So Allah revealed this verse reminding the believers that they should not seek the protection from others, but should protect each other. (See Ibn Kathir, Al-Tafsir, vol. 2, p. 68)
Muslims are allowed to have non-Muslims as friends as long as they keep their own faith and commitment to Islam pure and strong. You are correct in pointing out that a Muslim man is also allowed to marry a Jewish or Christian woman. It is obvious that one marries someone for love and friendship. If friendship between Muslims and Jews or Christians was forbidden, then why would Islam allow a Muslim man to marry a Jew or Christian woman? It is the duty of Muslims to patronize Muslims. They should not patronize any one who is against their faith or who fights their faith, even if they were their fathers and brothers. Allah says: [O you who believe! Take not for protectors (awliya') your fathers and your brothers if they love unbelief above faith. If any of you do so, they are indeed wrong-doers.] (Al-Tawbah 9: 23)
In a similar way, the Qur'an also tells Muslims that they should never patronize the non-Muslims against other Muslims. However, if some Muslims do wrong to some non-Muslims, it is Muslims' duty to help the non-Muslims and save them from oppression. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said that he himself will defend a Dhimmi living among Muslims to whom injustice is done by Muslims. But Islam also teaches that Muslims should not seek the patronage of non-Muslims against other Muslims. They should try to solve their problems among themselves.
First and foremost one has to see things from the perspective that it is the word of God. To appreciate this one needs to understand the concept of God and his unlimited greatness and perfection that is beyond the human understanding. We see things only from our very limited intelligence and perspective, compare this to the greatness and intelligence of the Almighty.
The Koran was not delivered in a day but about 22 years, many of these revealtions have a context and were delivered by the angel to Mohammed (pbuh) in response to an existing situation at that time although its relevance is eternal. Hence one also has to understand the historical perspective to appreciate and understand the Quran. One has to understand the clear distinction between good and evil and how Islam rejects evils of all kinds.
It is impossible for any one to appreciate and understand the Quran by cherry picking such statements that are already being explained by learned scholars and understood by those who have cared to read the whole Koran and those who appreciate and understand the concept of God and the historical context of the Quran.
Firstly to make a statement like "it is your holy book" itself suggests that one has faltered at the very first step. Quran is not a book for one person or any community, it is a divine message for all.
I am not a scholar and nor do I have the time to explain you all of the above but i will try to explain with my ultra limited knolwdge about some of the verses quoted by you to make you understand that it is not as explicit as it appears to you and others and hopefully you can take the effort to read the Quran in its totality to understand its meaning and message.
22- 19 to 22
QUOTE
19. These twain (the believers and the disbelievers) are two opponents who contend concerning their Lord. But as for those who disbelieve, garments of fire will be cut out for them; boiling fluid will be poured down on their heads.
20. Whereby that which is in their bellies, and their skins too, will be melted;
21. And for them are hooked rods of iron.
22. Whenever, in their anguish, they would go forth from thence they are driven back therein and (it is said unto them):
Taste the doom of burning.
20. Whereby that which is in their bellies, and their skins too, will be melted;
21. And for them are hooked rods of iron.
22. Whenever, in their anguish, they would go forth from thence they are driven back therein and (it is said unto them):
Taste the doom of burning.
37- 22 & 23
QUOTE
22. (And it is said unto the angels): Assemble those who did wrong, together with their wives and what they used to worship
23. Instead of Allah, and lead them to the path to hell;
23. Instead of Allah, and lead them to the path to hell;
48- 13
QUOTE
13. And as for him who believeth not in Allah and His messenger Lo! We have prepared a flame for disbelievers.
69 - 30 to 33
QUOTE
30. (It will be said): Take him and fetter him
31. And then expose him to hell fire
32. And then insert him in a chain whereof the length is seventy cubits.
33. Lo! he used not to believe in Allah the Tremendous,
31. And then expose him to hell fire
32. And then insert him in a chain whereof the length is seventy cubits.
33. Lo! he used not to believe in Allah the Tremendous,
All the above must be seen from the context of God in Islam. The One true God is a reflection of the unique concept that Islam associates with God. To a Muslim, Allah is the Almighty Creator and Sustainer of the universe, Who is similar to nothing, and nothing is comparable to Him. The Prophet Muhammad was asked by his contemporaries about Allah; the answer came directly from God Himself in the form of a short chapter of the Qur'an, which is considered to be the essence of the unity or the motto of monotheism. This is chapter 112, which reads:“ In the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate. Say (O Muhammad), He is God, the One God, the Everlasting Refuge, who has not begotten, nor has been begotten, and equal to Him is not anyone”.
Some non-Muslims allege that God in Islam is a stern and cruel God who demands to be obeyed fully and is not loving and kind. Nothing could be farther from the truth than this allegation. It is enough to know that, with the exception of one, each of the 114 chapters of the Qur'an begins with the verse " In the name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate". In one of the sayings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), we are told that “ God is more loving and kind than a mother to her dear child”.
On the other hand, God is also Just. Hence, evildoers and sinners must have their share of punishment, and the virtuous must have God's bounties and favors. Actually, God's attribute of Mercy has full manifestation in His attribute of Justice. People suffering throughout their lives for His sake should not receive similar treatment from their Lord as people who oppress and exploit others their whole lives. Expecting similar treatment for them would amount to negating the very belief in the accountability of man in the Hereafter and thereby negate all the incentives for a moral and virtuous life in this world. In order to be a Muslim, that is, to surrender oneself to God, it is necessary to believe in the oneness of God, in the sense of His being the only Creator, Preserver, Nourisher. (ref: wamy)
The Prophet said that if a Muslim hurts a covenanted person (i.e. a non-Muslim living under the rule of Islam) or commits any injustice to him, then on the Day of Judgment the Prophet (pbuh) would be the advocate on behalf of the non-Muslim against the Muslim. What would be the sense and need for all of these prescriptions and advice, if Islam required that they be compelled to accept the religion
________________________________________________
25-52.
QUOTE
So obey not the disbelievers, but strive against them herewith with a great endeavour.
This has a context to the pagan Arabs who persecuted innocent people and spread anarchy and mischief. The word strive is not a negative but a positive word and indicates striving through prayers, spiritiality and just means and by doing the right things and shunning away evil. Koran says many times that God dislikes those who transgress their limits.
Persecution is worst than slaugther in Islam. Hence Islam in reality rejects persection. It is a dynamic concept and requires knowledge and iwsdom to appreciate it. It promotes justice, equlity and peace all which seem alien in todays world.
The Koran says very clearly on various occassions that Allah dislikes those who transgress limits and to live with peace with non muslims as long as they are not transgressing their limits. Striving against injustice and persecution which the pagan arabs were renowned at is the context here. Is it a sin to strive against injustice and persecution? Islam gives freedom to mankind from injustice, it is a system built on true justice, peace and equality.
Look as I said, one has to understand it from a context and reading the full Quran.
As a project, i would like you to find the context of other statements by reading the Koran and understanding it from a broader spiritual and historical perpective and the way the Koran was revealed and what is the concept of God in Islam and the unmatched attributes of the Allmighty.
Or speak to a scholar rather than confuse yourself by arriving at wrong conculsions. All these ststements and many more that are quoted by those who fail to understand or look for negativity in the Koran have all being explained after all Islam has not popped out of thin air, it is a 1400 year old religion and the one which has over 2 billiion followers (as reported) and the one that is the fastest growing religion in the world (as reported).
I am one of those who read it and approaachd Islamic scholars to find the true essence of this divine revelation.
May God give you and all of us wisdom and knowledge.
I belive it is incumbent on all specially the learned ones to go and find the truth by going in the middle of the arena rather than stand at the fence and make conclusions about whats happenning at the centre which may be far from the reality.
Good Luck.
Islam and Non Muslims:
Please regard this as as my humble contribution, here is what a learned scholar has to say about what Islam says about non muslims and I hope this will fully clear doubts if any, it cleared mine.
Islam urges all Muslims to deal kindly and justly with all people. Muslims should have good relations with all people. At school, at work, in your neighborhood, etc., you should be kind and courteous to everyone. Muslims are allowed to have non-Muslims as friends as long as they keep their own faith and commitment to Islam pure and strong. Allah has clearly forbidden Muslims from fighting those who fight not their faith or drive them out from their homes. Referring to this, [Allah forbids you not with regard to those who fight you not for your faith, nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them. For Allah loves those who are just. Allah only forbids you with regard to those who fight you for your faith, and drive you out of your homes and support others in driving you out, from turning to them for protection (or taking them as wali). Those who seek their protection they are indeed wrong- doers.] (Al-Mumtahinah 60: 8-9)
In his response to the question, Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, President of the Fiqh Council ofNorth America, states:
The Qur'an does not say that non-Muslims cannot be Muslims' friends, nor does it forbid Muslims to be friendly to non-Muslims. There are many non-Muslims who are good friends of Muslim individuals and the Muslim community. There are also many good Muslims who truly and sincerely observe their faith and are very friendly to many non-Muslims at the same time.
Islam teaches us that we should be friendly to all people. Islam teaches us that we should deal even with our enemies with justice and fairness. Allah says in the Qur'an in the beginning of the same Surat Al-Ma’dah: [O you who believe! Stand out firmly for Allah as witnesses to fair dealings and let not the hatred of others to you make you swerve to wrong and depart from justice. Be just, that is next to piety. Fear Allah, indeed Allah is well-acquainted with all that you do.] (Al-Ma’dah 5 :8)
In another place in the Qur'an, Allah Almighty says:
[Allah forbids you not with regard to those who fight you not for your faith, nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them. For Allah loves those who are just. Allah only forbids you with regard to those who fight you for your faith, and drive you out of your homes and support others in driving you out, from turning to them for protection (or taking them as wali). Those who seek their protection they are indeed wrong- doers.] (Al-Mumtahinah 60: 8-9)
Moreover, Allah Almighty has described Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) as "a mercy" to the worlds. He was a sign of Allah's Mercy to all, Muslims as well as non-Muslims. In his kindness and fair treatment he did not make any difference between the believers and non-believers. He was kind to the pagans of Makkah and fought them only when they fought him. He made treaties with the Jews of Madinah and honored the treaties until they broke them.
He (peace and blessings be upon him) is reported to have received the Christians of Najran with kindness in his Masjid in Madinah. They argued with him about Islam, but he returned them with honor and respect. There are many examples from his life that show that he was the friendliest person to all people.
In the verse you quoted, the word "Awliya" is used. It is a plural and its singular is "wali". The correct translation of the word ""wali"" is not "friend" but it is someone who is very close and intimate. It is also used to mean "guardian, protector, patron, lord and master".
In the Qur'an this word is used for God, such as [Allah is the Protector (or Lord and Master) of those who believe. He takes them out from the depths of darkness to light…] (Al- Baqarah 2: 257)
There are many other references in the Qur'an that give this meaning. The same word is also sometimes used in the Qur'an for human beings, such as [And whosoever is killed unjustly, We have granted his next kin "wali" the authority (to seek judgement or punishment in this case)…] (Al-‘Isra' 17 :33)
The correct translation of the verse in Surat Al-Ma’idah is: [O you who believe! Do not take Jews and Christians as your patrons. They are patrons of their own people. He among you who will turn to them for patronage is one of them. Verily Allah guides not a people unjust.] (Al-Ma'dah 5: 51)
It is obvious that Jews patronize the Jews and Christians patronize the Christians, so why not Muslims patronize Muslims and support their own people. This verse is not telling us to be against Jews or Christians, but it is telling us that we should take care of our own people and we must support each other.
In his Tafsir, (Qur’an exegesis) Imam Ibn Kathir has mentioned that some scholars say that this verse (i.e. the one you referred to) was revealed after the Battle of Uhud when Muslims had a set back. At that time, a Muslim from Madinah said, "I am going to live with Jews so I shall be safe in case another attack comes on Madinah." And another person said, "I am going to live with Christians so I shall be safe in case another attack comes on Madinah." So Allah revealed this verse reminding the believers that they should not seek the protection from others, but should protect each other. (See Ibn Kathir, Al-Tafsir, vol. 2, p. 68)
Muslims are allowed to have non-Muslims as friends as long as they keep their own faith and commitment to Islam pure and strong. You are correct in pointing out that a Muslim man is also allowed to marry a Jewish or Christian woman. It is obvious that one marries someone for love and friendship. If friendship between Muslims and Jews or Christians was forbidden, then why would Islam allow a Muslim man to marry a Jew or Christian woman? It is the duty of Muslims to patronize Muslims. They should not patronize any one who is against their faith or who fights their faith, even if they were their fathers and brothers. Allah says: [O you who believe! Take not for protectors (awliya') your fathers and your brothers if they love unbelief above faith. If any of you do so, they are indeed wrong-doers.] (Al-Tawbah 9: 23)
In a similar way, the Qur'an also tells Muslims that they should never patronize the non-Muslims against other Muslims. However, if some Muslims do wrong to some non-Muslims, it is Muslims' duty to help the non-Muslims and save them from oppression. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said that he himself will defend a Dhimmi living among Muslims to whom injustice is done by Muslims. But Islam also teaches that Muslims should not seek the patronage of non-Muslims against other Muslims. They should try to solve their problems among themselves.
Iam really impress seeing ur knowledge about Islam
keep it up ..........
keep it up ..........
QUOTE
First and foremost one has to see things from the perspective that it is the word of God. To appreciate this one needs to understand the concept of God and his unlimited greatness and perfection that is beyond the human understanding. We see things only from our very limited intelligence and perspective, compare this to the greatness and intelligence of the Almighty.
A very typical answer. Justification by faith is an enormously powerful doctrine but not a rational one, since it rests on the claim that the ways of god are unknowable to man.
QUOTE
many of these revealtions have a context and were delivered by the angel to Mohammed (pbuh) in response to an existing situation at that time
Accepting this explanation of your's, would it be then correct to say that in this present day & age these are irrelevant & not applicable as Islamic doctrines . Are you trying to say that in the present context these scriptures should not be taken literally & should not be pursued to their logical end. They should rather be of only academic interest & no more. If so then it is a kind thought.
QUOTE
although its relevance is eternal.
But in the same breath you are stating that no, they are for good & should be pursued for ever. If so then it is very unfortunate.
QUOTE
Quran is not a book for one person or any community, it is a divine message for all.
How could it be? There are people of different hue & cry in this world, who follow their own scriptures & some of them have their own divine messages. Could you enlighten me that if the rest of the world's people don't follow this, what would be their fate? Would they be eternally barbecued? Of course as a true believer you are obligated to carry this message forward. That is what the scriptures insist upon repeatedly.
QUOTE
In his response to the question, Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi, President of the Fiqh Council ofNorth America, states:
The Qur'an does not say that non-Muslims cannot be Muslims' friends, nor does it forbid Muslims to be friendly to non-Muslims.
The Qur'an does not say that non-Muslims cannot be Muslims' friends, nor does it forbid Muslims to be friendly to non-Muslims.
Seems that both of you have not read it thoroughly. The following is what the scripture means:
QUOTE
3:28 Let not the believers take disbelievers for their friends in preference to believers. Whoso doeth that hath no connection with Allah unless (it be) that ye but guard yourselves against them, taking (as it were) security. Allah biddeth you beware (only) of Himself. Unto Allah is the journeying.
Is this the message you would like to carry forward. Could you also explain to me whether the repeated references to unbelievers, idolaters that are there in the book, are they still relevant. Do you still abide by them. You said they are eternal.
QUOTE
Some non-Muslims allege that God in Islam is a stern and cruel God who demands to be obeyed fully and is not loving and kind. Nothing could be farther from the truth than this allegation. It is enough to know that, with the exception of one, each of the 114 chapters of the Qur'an begins with the verse " In the name of God, the Merciful, the Compassionate". In one of the sayings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), we are told that “ God is more loving and kind than a mother to her dear child”.
Sure, to the believers there is kindness & benevolence. You are also given wine in paradise, though it is not permitted on the earth.
QUOTE
47:15. (Here is) a Parable of the Garden which the righteous are promised: in it are rivers of water incorruptible: rivers of milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine a joy to those who drink; and rivers of honey pure and clear. In it there are for them all kinds of fruits and Grace from their Lord. (Can those in such Bliss) be compared to such as shall dwell for ever in the Fire and be given to drink boiling water so that it cuts up their bowels (to pieces)?
For the rest it is hell fire. Like this.
3:56 “As for those disbelieving infidels, I will punish them with a terrible agony in this world and the next. They have no one to help or save them.”
8:55 Surely the vilest of animals in Allah’s sight are those who disbelieve.
If you say, that these are all out of context then you should explain to me the meaning of unbelievers. Are the unbelievers & idolaters any different now. Would the scriptures be still applicable to the present modern day unbeliever. Surely, it was that day & age.
This is from the Hadith. I do know that are different Hadith's.
QUOTE
Hadith - Sahih Bukhari 1:35, Narrated Abu Huraira
The Prophet said, "The person who participates in (Holy battles) in Allah's cause and nothing compels him to do so except belief in Allah and His Apostles, will be recompensed by Allah either with a reward, or booty (if he survives) or will be admitted to Paradise (if he is killed in the battle as a martyr). Had I not found it difficult for my followers, then I would not remain behind any sariya going for Jihad and I would have loved to be martyred in Allah's cause and then made alive, and then martyred and then made alive, and then again martyred in His cause."
The Prophet said, "The person who participates in (Holy battles) in Allah's cause and nothing compels him to do so except belief in Allah and His Apostles, will be recompensed by Allah either with a reward, or booty (if he survives) or will be admitted to Paradise (if he is killed in the battle as a martyr). Had I not found it difficult for my followers, then I would not remain behind any sariya going for Jihad and I would have loved to be martyred in Allah's cause and then made alive, and then martyred and then made alive, and then again martyred in His cause."
Imagine how the misguided elements will react after being indoctrinated into such thoughts.
Please keep in mind, i am not trying to belittle your religion. Since you were making tall claims i had to point out the relevant scriptures that are therein. On occasions you point out that it is the misguided people & not the Islamic doctrine which is responsible for the mishaps. When some of the anomalies in the law are pointed out, you state that it was in a different context & time period. But you are failing to realize that it is basically some of these doctrines which are being preached & practiced which is misguiding a section of the Islamic society.
What you state repeatedly may be manna for the religious minded Muslim, but unfortunately for the person on the outside it just looks like religious rhetoric. In the century that Islam came about most of the other religions were backward. At that time in history, Islam was a progressive religion & Mohammad did bring about essential reforms that were good & beneficial for the people of the day. But unfortunately, all laws & doctrines have been frozen in time. Since that time most Islamic Nations & their people have neither given a thought nor accepted reforms. The Christian West has progressed by leaps & bounds, by bringing about social & religious reforms that were essential & beneficial for people in the changing world order.
A little bit of introspection would definitely be in fine order.
QUOTE(Nidhi @ Oct 5 2007, 08:32 PM)
[ Since you were making tall claims i had to point out the relevant scriptures that are therein.
So we have here a scholar about Islam and Koran......although you claim not be be little Islam (and kindly refrain from using words like my/your religion) but as a matter of fact you are. I see no difference between those who are misguided whether they are Muslims (by name) or others who are not.
People who have knowledge and common sense can read who actually is making tall ( may be false is a better word) claims here and who is not and I am certainly not the one. They also realise who is the one who needs a thorough reading. Your views suggest you have not taken any time to read my posts let alone the Koran and the Islamic history.
This is typical ignorant/ anti Islamic rant that one has got so accustomed on propoganda and hate websites, discussion groups and many parts of the ignorant and corrupt media.
All this ignorant propoganda has done is drawn people to the book shops to buy a copy of Koarn and Islamic history and made Islam the fastest growing religion. Truth finds its way somehow. Sadly also it has done is create needless fear and hatred for Islam and Muslims and led to divisons and stereotyping. It has led to oppression and persecution of Muslim communities all over the world .
It is deplorable how these anti Islamic propogandists for their selfish ends have equated the actions of a few bad apples with Islam and the main stram Muslim community who want peace in the world.
You have not cared to read my posts or maybe you were looking for what you like to read, well if thats the case you are in a wrong territory. Cheery picking sentences and taking them out of context with negligible understanding of the subject in its totality is the recipe of a weak and loose argument. One has to have the courage to read through the total subject matter before making conclusions that are erroneous and embarassing.
Islam has a claim upon the attention of every thinker, not only because it is the most civilising and the greatest spiritual force of the world but also because it offers a solution of the most baffling problems which confront mankind today.
Materialism, which has become humanity's ideal in modern times, can never bring about peace and mutual trust among the nations of the world. Christianity and the West has failed to do away with race and colour prejudices.
Islam is the only force which has already succeeded in blotting out these distinctions and it is through Islam only that this great problem of the modern world can be solved. Islam is, first and foremost, an international religion, and it is only before its grand international ideal - the ideal of the equality of all races and of the unity of the human race - that the curse of nationalism, which has been and is responsible for the troubles of the ancient and the modern worlds, can be swept away.
But even within the boundaries of a nation or a country there can be no peace as long as a just solution of the two great problems of wealth and sex cannot be found. Europe has gone to two extremes on the wealth question - capitalism and Bolshevism. There is either the tendency to concentrate wealth among the great capitalists, or by community of wealth, to bring the indolent and the industrious to one level.
Islam offers the true solution by ensuring to the worker the reward of his work, great or small, in accordance with the merit of the work, and also by allotting to the poor a share in the wealth of the rich. Thus, while the rights of property are maintained in their true sense, an arrangement is made for equalising conditions by taking a part of the wealth of the rich and distributing it among the poor according to the principle of zakat (or poor-rate, an obligatory charity) and also by a more or less equal division of property among heirs on the death of an owner (ref: noted scholar, Mohamed Ali)
http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2586765117304741213
It is ironic that we see people speak about reforming Islam, the Koran by itself is the greatest reform that could ever happen for the mankind forever. What is required is reforms in parts of Muslim world those who have moved away from Islam and taken refuge in egoistic patriachal cultures. There is no doubt that parts of the Muslim world need a reality check and this is simply beacuse they do not adhere or follow the tenets of Koran, the most dynamic and eternal reform.
The West has no doubt made some significant contributions but the current political and economic disparities in the world depicts that although West has become more rich and affluent, there are still question marks on its performance on issues like justice and morality. Capitalism is at the heart of Western culture and economic rather than moral considerations seem to be the paramaters for its policies and actions. Rerfoms must be seen also from a point of view of morality, equality and justice that is at the heart of Islam.
If one has convinced onelsef not to be convinced then no argument however educational or rational it may be can convince such a person.
The best way your post can be answered is by what God says in the Koran " Your beliefs with you and my beliefs with mine". So leave in peace and may God bless you.
"Whom God guides no one can misguide and who Gods misguides no one can guide"
May God give wisdom and guidance to all and bring peace in the world.
Regards
SS
MYTH: ISLAM PROMOTES FORECD CONVESRIONS
Let there be no compulsion in the religion...
Holy Quran same chapter (2, verse 226)
It is not only forbidden to compel someone to accept Islam, it is impossible to do so. Please consider the meaning of the wordIslam before continuing to read:
['Islam'; Ar. from the root 'slm' (silm), to be in peaceful submission; to surrender; to obey; peace; Islam lit. 'The active willful surrender, submission, obedience, in purity to the will of another (Allah) in complete peace.']
The understanding from the meaning of the word Islam itself makes it clear that there is no way that you could possibly force someone to do something that requires them to do it of their own free will and accord. If someone were forced to enter Islam then it would not be Islam anyway, as a condition of Islam is that it is by free choice in peace. Forcing people into Islam is totally illogical and certainly not acceptable in concept nor practice (Sheikh Yestes -former Christian preacher).
Whether they be Jews, Christians, or pagans. Islam calls us to treat them kindly and try to win their hearts as long as they do not take up arms against us. Allah says: Allah forbids you not with regard to those who neither fight against you for your faith nor drive you out of your homes from dealing kindly and justly with them, for Allah loves those who are just. [Surah al-Mumtahanah: 9-10]
Allah commands Muslims to respect their non-Muslim parents and to accompany them in this world in a good manner.
The Quran commands us to argue with them in the best manner. Allah says: Argue with the People of the Scripture in the best manner except those among them who act oppressively. Say: We believe in the revelation that has come down to us and in that which came down to you. Our God and your God is one, and it is to Him we submit ourselves as Muslims. [Surah al-Ankabût: 46]
We are ordered to uphold our covenants with the non-Muslims and not betray them or transgress against them. The Prophet (peace be upon him) gave a stern warning to us against killing a non-Muslim with whom we are at peace. He said: Whoever kills one with whom we have a covenant will not smell the scent of Paradise. [Sahih Muslim]
Here is an example about how mischief makers and anti Islamic campaigners change the context to create Fitnah (mischief)
A text is the hadith where the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: I have been commanded to fight the people until they bear witness that there is no God but Allah and that I am Allah's Messenger. If they do so, then there blood and their wealth are inviolable except in the dispensation of justice, and their affair is with Allah. [Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslims]
There can be no qualms about this had this authenticity, since it is recorded in both Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim. However, this hadîth is also not to be taken generally, out of context, and in complete disregard to all the other textual evidence.
The term people here is not referring to all humanity. Ibn Taymiyah says: It refers to fighting those who are waging war, whom Allah has permitted us to fight. It does not refer to those who have a covenant with us with whom Allah commands us to fulfill our covenant. [Majmu al-Fatawa (19/20)]
Just about all religions teach the importance of doing the right things and resisting persecution, oppression and false hood. Take Hinduism as an example where Krishna tells Arjun about the concept of Dharma -proper conduct of human life, righteousness and duty". Hoever when Islam promotes eternal equality, justice, brothehood and peace, it irks anti Islamic progandists.
Let there be no compulsion in the religion...
Holy Quran same chapter (2, verse 226)
It is not only forbidden to compel someone to accept Islam, it is impossible to do so. Please consider the meaning of the wordIslam before continuing to read:
['Islam'; Ar. from the root 'slm' (silm), to be in peaceful submission; to surrender; to obey; peace; Islam lit. 'The active willful surrender, submission, obedience, in purity to the will of another (Allah) in complete peace.']
The understanding from the meaning of the word Islam itself makes it clear that there is no way that you could possibly force someone to do something that requires them to do it of their own free will and accord. If someone were forced to enter Islam then it would not be Islam anyway, as a condition of Islam is that it is by free choice in peace. Forcing people into Islam is totally illogical and certainly not acceptable in concept nor practice (Sheikh Yestes -former Christian preacher).
Whether they be Jews, Christians, or pagans. Islam calls us to treat them kindly and try to win their hearts as long as they do not take up arms against us. Allah says: Allah forbids you not with regard to those who neither fight against you for your faith nor drive you out of your homes from dealing kindly and justly with them, for Allah loves those who are just. [Surah al-Mumtahanah: 9-10]
Allah commands Muslims to respect their non-Muslim parents and to accompany them in this world in a good manner.
The Quran commands us to argue with them in the best manner. Allah says: Argue with the People of the Scripture in the best manner except those among them who act oppressively. Say: We believe in the revelation that has come down to us and in that which came down to you. Our God and your God is one, and it is to Him we submit ourselves as Muslims. [Surah al-Ankabût: 46]
We are ordered to uphold our covenants with the non-Muslims and not betray them or transgress against them. The Prophet (peace be upon him) gave a stern warning to us against killing a non-Muslim with whom we are at peace. He said: Whoever kills one with whom we have a covenant will not smell the scent of Paradise. [Sahih Muslim]
Here is an example about how mischief makers and anti Islamic campaigners change the context to create Fitnah (mischief)
A text is the hadith where the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: I have been commanded to fight the people until they bear witness that there is no God but Allah and that I am Allah's Messenger. If they do so, then there blood and their wealth are inviolable except in the dispensation of justice, and their affair is with Allah. [Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslims]
There can be no qualms about this had this authenticity, since it is recorded in both Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim. However, this hadîth is also not to be taken generally, out of context, and in complete disregard to all the other textual evidence.
The term people here is not referring to all humanity. Ibn Taymiyah says: It refers to fighting those who are waging war, whom Allah has permitted us to fight. It does not refer to those who have a covenant with us with whom Allah commands us to fulfill our covenant. [Majmu al-Fatawa (19/20)]
Just about all religions teach the importance of doing the right things and resisting persecution, oppression and false hood. Take Hinduism as an example where Krishna tells Arjun about the concept of Dharma -proper conduct of human life, righteousness and duty". Hoever when Islam promotes eternal equality, justice, brothehood and peace, it irks anti Islamic progandists.
QUOTE(tracker @ Oct 3 2007, 11:59 PM)
Iam really impress seeing ur knowledge about Islam
keep it up ..........
Thanks for the flattering comment but its all Gods grace that I have this spec of knowledge that I have gained through open mindedness and reading and asking scholars.
One need not be a Muslim to appreciate and understand Islam. As a matter of fact there are Muslims who dont understand Islam which is a great tragedy and on the other hands there are non Muslims that appreciate, respect and acknoweldge the profound knowledge of Islam.
Happy tracking!!!!!
Quoting blasphemous propoganda from a hate website that promotes anti Islam and anti Muslim lies and propoganda is naive. Kindly refrain from quoting materials from such sites.
For a humane and sensible debate first take the trouble to learn and read from good sources.
There are many such hate sites that degrade all religions and prophets and quoting from such sources is disgusting and disgraceful and is a sign of weakness and mischef.
The creator of this anti Islamic website has being exposed not once but many times for lies and is infamous for his dishonest and anti Islamic propoganda, he is regarded as an anti Islam hate monger who shys away from debate and has no credibility.
________________________________________________________________________________
Here are some of the examples of this persons lies.
http://www.examinethetruth.com/page_against_01.htm#sina
http://www.examinethetruth.com/page_agains..._Islam_debunked
http://www.answering-christianity.com/sami...es_it_again.htm
as an example:
Caught in another terrible LIE !
Ali Sina of FaithFreedom.org has been caught in another terrible lie against Prophet Muhammed (P). But, this is not the first time he has been apprehended. In the past, Ali Sina was found lying in the Ahmed-Sina Debate Debacle and immediately exposed here:
Thousands of on-lookers witnessed this terrible humiliation of Ali Sina. Recently, Ali Sina was caught fabricating lies about ExamineTheTruth.com here. But this did not stop his pathological lying. In a recent Frontpagemag.com symposium, Ali Sina made the following allegation against The Prophet Muhammed (P):
“Another cuter story is when Muhammad raises his hand to beat a woman who rejects his advances. Bukhari 7.63.182”
So, we looked up Bukhari 7.63.182, and we were shocked at what we actually found. The hadeeth in question is posted below:
Volume 7, Book 63, Number 182:
Narrated Abu Usaid:
We went out with the Prophet to a garden called Ash-Shaut till we reached two walls between which we sat down. The Prophet said, "Sit here," and went in (the garden). The Jauniyya (a lady from Bani Jaun) had been brought and lodged in a house in a date-palm garden in the home of Umaima bint An-Nu'man bin Sharahil, and her wet nurse was with her. When the Prophet entered upon her, he said to her, "Give me yourself (in marriage) as a gift." She said, "Can a princess give herself in marriage to an ordinary man?" The Prophet raised his hand to pat her so that she might become tranquil. She said, "I seek refuge with Allah from you." He said, "You have sought refuge with One Who gives refuge. Then the Prophet came out to us and said, "O Abu Usaid! Give her two white linen dresses to wear and let her go back to her family." Narrated Sahl and Abu Usaid: The Prophet married Umaima bint Sharahil, and when she was brought to him, he stretched his hand towards her. It seemed that she disliked that, whereupon the Prophet ordered Abu Usaid to prepare her and to provide her with two white linen dresses. (See Hadith No. 541).
Thus, the hadeeth quoted by Ali Sina actually states that the Prophet (P) stretched out his hand to CALM the woman down, NOT to beat her as Ali Sina falsely stated!!! In addition to that, when the woman snubbed the Prophet (P), Prophet Muhammed (P) returned the rude gesture with kindness, a fine gift of linen dresses.
In conclusion, the internet phantom, Ali Sina has been busted in an outrageous lie again. There is no excuse of this type of uninhibited distortion of the facts. I believe at this point, even the most venomous critic against Islam, who support Ali Sina, will be forced to “throw in the towel”, and declare their own Ali Sina, as a dishonest charlatan.
For a humane and sensible debate first take the trouble to learn and read from good sources.
There are many such hate sites that degrade all religions and prophets and quoting from such sources is disgusting and disgraceful and is a sign of weakness and mischef.
The creator of this anti Islamic website has being exposed not once but many times for lies and is infamous for his dishonest and anti Islamic propoganda, he is regarded as an anti Islam hate monger who shys away from debate and has no credibility.
________________________________________________________________________________
Here are some of the examples of this persons lies.
http://www.examinethetruth.com/page_against_01.htm#sina
http://www.examinethetruth.com/page_agains..._Islam_debunked
http://www.answering-christianity.com/sami...es_it_again.htm
as an example:
Caught in another terrible LIE !
Ali Sina of FaithFreedom.org has been caught in another terrible lie against Prophet Muhammed (P). But, this is not the first time he has been apprehended. In the past, Ali Sina was found lying in the Ahmed-Sina Debate Debacle and immediately exposed here:
Thousands of on-lookers witnessed this terrible humiliation of Ali Sina. Recently, Ali Sina was caught fabricating lies about ExamineTheTruth.com here. But this did not stop his pathological lying. In a recent Frontpagemag.com symposium, Ali Sina made the following allegation against The Prophet Muhammed (P):
“Another cuter story is when Muhammad raises his hand to beat a woman who rejects his advances. Bukhari 7.63.182”
So, we looked up Bukhari 7.63.182, and we were shocked at what we actually found. The hadeeth in question is posted below:
Volume 7, Book 63, Number 182:
Narrated Abu Usaid:
We went out with the Prophet to a garden called Ash-Shaut till we reached two walls between which we sat down. The Prophet said, "Sit here," and went in (the garden). The Jauniyya (a lady from Bani Jaun) had been brought and lodged in a house in a date-palm garden in the home of Umaima bint An-Nu'man bin Sharahil, and her wet nurse was with her. When the Prophet entered upon her, he said to her, "Give me yourself (in marriage) as a gift." She said, "Can a princess give herself in marriage to an ordinary man?" The Prophet raised his hand to pat her so that she might become tranquil. She said, "I seek refuge with Allah from you." He said, "You have sought refuge with One Who gives refuge. Then the Prophet came out to us and said, "O Abu Usaid! Give her two white linen dresses to wear and let her go back to her family." Narrated Sahl and Abu Usaid: The Prophet married Umaima bint Sharahil, and when she was brought to him, he stretched his hand towards her. It seemed that she disliked that, whereupon the Prophet ordered Abu Usaid to prepare her and to provide her with two white linen dresses. (See Hadith No. 541).
Thus, the hadeeth quoted by Ali Sina actually states that the Prophet (P) stretched out his hand to CALM the woman down, NOT to beat her as Ali Sina falsely stated!!! In addition to that, when the woman snubbed the Prophet (P), Prophet Muhammed (P) returned the rude gesture with kindness, a fine gift of linen dresses.
In conclusion, the internet phantom, Ali Sina has been busted in an outrageous lie again. There is no excuse of this type of uninhibited distortion of the facts. I believe at this point, even the most venomous critic against Islam, who support Ali Sina, will be forced to “throw in the towel”, and declare their own Ali Sina, as a dishonest charlatan.
Jazak Allah Khair...
Can you share or suggest any Islamic forums...?
Can you share or suggest any Islamic forums...?
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