The World's Muslims: Unity and Diversity

The world’s 1.6 billion Muslims are united in their belief in God and the Prophet Muhammad and are bound together by such religious practices as fasting during the holy month of Ramadan and almsgiving to assist people in need. But they have widely differing views about many other aspects of their faith, including how important religion is to their lives, who counts as a Muslim and what practices are acceptable in Islam, according to a worldwide survey by the Pew Research Center’s Forum on Religion & Public Life. 

The survey, which involved more than 38,000 face-to-face interviews in over 80 languages, finds that in addition to the widespread conviction that there is only one God and that Muhammad is His Prophet, large percentages of Muslims around the world share other articles of faith, including belief in angels, heaven, hell and fate (or predestination). While there is broad agreement on the core tenets of Islam, however, Muslims across the 39 countries and territories surveyed differ significantly in their levels of religious commitment, openness to multiple interpretations of their faith and acceptance of various sects and movements.

Continue Reading >>  

Executive Summary

• Sectarian Differences  
• Differing Views on Orthodoxy  
• Core Beliefs  
• Unifying Rituals  
• One Faith, Different Levels of Commitment  
• Generational Differences in Religious Commitment  
• Women and Men Similar, Except in Mosque Attendance  
• Sectarian Differences Vary inImportance  
• Views of Other Groups  
• About the Report  

Visit: http://freebookpark.blogspot.com

Attack on Islam-An Objective Rebuttal

In the post 9/11 scenario there has been mushroom growth of pseudo intellectuals and so called scholars to blame and criticize Islam, Qur’an the Holy Scripture and Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) for all the troubles on this planet especially the menace of terrorism. Amazingly they appear to be lacking in the basic knowledge of their own faith [Christianity] and scripture [Bible]. Their crude little knowledge about Islam is based upon anti Islamic biased sources which add fuel to the fire. Intellectually they are at the same level as extremists or elsewhere. They try to make their writings authentic by quoting isolated verses from Qur’an mostly out of context to extract meanings satisfying their preconceived notions. These Islamophobes engage in “mental reservation” when they mention half-truths about Islam.  The methodology is to mix half-truths with references and outright lies, either without references or irrelevant references.  One such site claims: “A non-racist, unbigoted inquiry into the core teachings of Islam and what it all means (if anything) for non-Muslims”. Sounds good! But the dichotomy is self evident form word ‘(if anything)”. The claims of non religiousness  is self contradictory, as such sources are full of hate material against Islam, Muslims, their beliefs, practices and Holy Scripture. One is made to believe as if no good can be found in Islam, even a Muslims marrying a widow as a social welfare service is projected as a scheme to produce more warriors.

Such people claim to educate the non Muslims about real face of Islam through novel idea to read book on Qur’an written by some biased non Muslim. Fearful of rapid growth and popularity of Islam all over the world especially among the pragmatic Europeans and American, these critics of Islam try to censure it by bringing up key components of the package of ideas (or bundle of beliefs) known as Islam as per his perceptions. For example the practice of Taqiyah is one of the fundament doctrines of Shi’a, [the minority sect of Islam,15-20%], criticizing Taqiyah by projecting it be the doctrine practiced by All the Muslims, is nothing but deceit, indicating malicious designs, false propaganda. Most of Muslims may not be aware of terms like Taqiyah, once I discussed it with one of my friends, a devout practicing Muslim, he showed his total ignorance, in fact he heard this term very first time from me! Hence critics embroiled the Muslims to respond to some thing which they don’t follow. Similarly why should we be discussing the doctrines of extremists, while majority rejects them. How if some one criticize the institution of Pope, and expect a Protestant Christian to defend it. Apart form deceiving the simple reader, such subjective criticism divert the time and energies of Muslims form real issues. Such is the nature of general objections raised against Islam, which can be found all over the cyber space and media. The twenty eight points of subjective criticism have been taken from one such ant Islamic sources as a base for objective analysis and rebuttal. Since Islam is the faith followed by all the prophets, a legacy of Prophet Abraham [pbuh], references form Bible are also quoted where ever required, this is especially for the satisfaction of followers of earlier scriptures. Aim is not criticize Christianity or Judaism but put the facts with references in correct perspective.

Please click link and download the e-Book

Attack on Islam-Rebuttle.pdf

Muslim Non Muslim Relationship,: Qur'an & Bible

The common misconception that; “The Muslims are commanded by Qur’an to be hostile with the non Muslims”, is far from truth. On the contrary Qur’an urges the Muslims to keep normal relationship with non Muslims based upon, “Equity, Kindness and Love” [Qur’an;60:7-9]. The Christians and Jews being ‘people of scripture’ are accorded special status, to the extent that Muslims are allowed to eat their food [kosher] and marry their chaste women, what else could be the level of intimacy! Muslims are urged to resist oppression and fight in self defense with those who expel or aid in expelling them from their homes due to their faith and belief. Those non Muslims who do not indulge in such an activity against them are to be treated with kindness and equity [Qur’an:22:39-40]. The actual cause of antagonism with non Muslims is not their disbelief but their hostility to Islam and their tyrannical treatment of the followers of Islam. The Muslims, therefore, should distinguish between the hostile disbeliever and the non-hostile disbeliever, and should treat those disbelievers well who have never treated them evilly.  Unfortunately extremists on both sides, misquote the Qur’anic verses out of context to support their own ideas and concepts and use it for malicious propagandas. Equitable treatment of non Muslims in Muslim Spain, Palestine, Ottoman Caliphate, Muslim rule in India and elsewhere is living testimony to the fact. Muslim history does not have any example comparable to Spanish inquisition and ethnic cleansing, but some isolated distortion of history. Though use of power is permissible for self defense or for freedom of oppressed people under tyrant rulers, however it was also used for imperial aspirations, a part of historic process. The events like Crusades took place upon instigation of over ambitious clergy, which if allowed to be repeated would result in bloodshed as in past. Non Muslims have been playing important role in development of Muslim empires. If they could mutually coexist in peace in the past, why not now?

Even Jesus Christ accords highest priority to good relations and fair treatment to others while summing up the teachings of entire Bible [as known now] in one verse: “Love thy neighbor as thyself”. The modern communications have made this world as a ‘Global Village’, nations all across world are closer like neighbors. All the three major scriptures are unanimous on the good treatment of neighbors [Qur’an;4:36, Al-Tirmidhi Hadith,11, 1334, Talmud, Shabbat 31:a, Matthew 22:39-40,7:12, Luke;6:31, similarly Leviticus 19:18].

Hence why practice violence and extremis on the name of religion while the Holy Scriptures do not sanction it. Let’s remove the mist of selfishness and strive for world peace.  Still there is much needs to be explained and many questions to be answered below….

Also Read More >>>>

• Dealing Non-Muslims-1
• Payment of Tax-Jazyah
• Equitable Muslim Rule of Spain
• Human Rights of Non Muslims
• Non Muslims Not considered as Friends?
• Deceit-Takyah
• Dealing Non Muslims-2Eliminate Infidels
• Double Standards in Preaching
• Kill Non-Muslims
• Threat of End of World

Jihad and Terrorism

Terrorism has become an uncontrollable threat, weakening the foundations of Muslim world. In the suicide attacks many innocent lives are lost. Although all the leaders and media condemn the acts of terrorism, specially the suicide bombing, but there is need to do something more than mere condemnation. The main motivational factor to prepare the suicide bomber is the brainwashing of simple people through the religious indoctrination. The ordinary ignorant Muslims are prepared to be martyrs in Jihad, claimed to be conducted for the cause of Allah. There are many questions which need to be emphasized by the scholars through media, specially the print and electronic media, in the language of potential suicide bombers like;

What is Jihad?

What is the cause of Allah?

Who is competent to organize and declare Jihad?

How it is to be conducted?

What are the rules, laid down by Qur’an and Hadith for conduct of Jihad?

What is the role of government of Islamic Republic in this regards?

What is the role and responsibility of seminaries (Madaris) and religious scholars?

Some of these questions have been addressed in my article; “JIHAD:, THE MYTH AND REALITY”, available at Jihad, Myth & Reality . Unfortunately there is a small section of society which explicitly, while the others are tacitly sympathetic with the fanatics and their methodology of conduct of militancy under the influence of negative propaganda, considering it to be legitimate religious obligation in the service of Islam. Though we find many scholars giving balanced views in TV talk shows, but I have yet to listen from the mouth of a Khateeb (Cleric), ‘in a mosque’, highlighting the real aspects of Jihad, related with the existing scenario in the light of Qur’an and Sunnah. Generally they talk of hatred not love, finding solution to all the evils of society using brute force and coercion to enforce their version of Islam, they do not talk of preaching, motivation to win the hearts. [There may be exceptions but I have yet to see some Khateeb, talking of peace, love and tolerance in its true sense]. There is no quick fix solution; a lot is required to be done on long term basis. Some solutions are well debated in the media like; mass education, Madaris reformation, and economic development to reduce economic disparity, Justice, political stability through democratic traditions and so on. In short the national objectives for progress could be achieved through implementation of basis of ideology of Pakistan, the vision of founding fathers in progressive and balanced way, the Taliban model was neither envisioned nor is the remedy to present impasse. Very clear guideline and instructions of Qur’an and Hadith exist, some mentioned below, which are blatantly being violated by the so called extremists, but the society is either ignorant or silent under fear, in either case guilty of tacit approval:

Mutual Responsibility-True believers are protectors of one another:

Allah says:” The true believers, both men and women, are protectors of one another. They enjoin what is just and forbid what is evil; they establish prayer (Salah), practice regular charity (Zakah), and obey God  Allah and His Apostle. It is they on whom God will have His mercy; surely God is Mighty, Wise.”(At-Taubah;9:71).

Mischief on land condemned by Allah:

Allah says: “.. and do not seek mischief in the land, for Allah does not love the mischief makers.”(Al-Qasas;28:77)

Allah says: “When it is said to them: "Do not make mischief on earth," they say: "We make peace. Be aware! They are the ones who make mischief but they do not realize it.”(Al-Baqara;2:11-12 similarly also at 2:60, 206, 3:63, 7:56)

Killing of innocent human (Muslim or non Muslims) not permitted:

Allah says: “..whoever kills a person, except as a punishment for murder or mischief in the land, it will be written in his book of deeds as if he had killed all the human beings and whoever will save a life shall be regarded as if he gave life to all the human beings..”(Al Maidah,5:32)

Allah says: “You shall not kill anyone whom God has forbidden, except for just cause under the law. If anyone is killed unjustly, We have granted the right of retribution to his heir, but let him not carry his vengeance too far in killing the culprit through taking the law in his own hands, as he is supported by the law.”(Al-Israa;17:33)

Fighting permitted in self defence with in limits - No Transgression:

Allah says: “Fight in the cause of Allah with those who fight against you, but do not exceed the limits. Allah does not like transgressors.”(Qur’an, Al Baqarah;2:190).

Kindness to non combatants:

Allah says: “As for such of the unbelievers who do not fight against you on account of your faith, and neither drive you forth from your homelands, Allah does not forbid you to show them kindness and to behave toward them with full equity.”(Qur’an, Al Mumtahana;60:8).

Suicide is not Permissible in Islam:

Allah says: “.. do not cast yourselves into destruction by your own hands…” (Al-Baqarah,2:195)

Allah says:  “..do not kill yourselves by adopting unlawful means….”(An-Nisa,4:29).

Narrated Thabit bin Ad Dahhak: The Prophet said; “whoever commits suicide with something, will be punished with the same thing in the (Hell) fire”.(Sahih Al Bukhari Hadith Numbr:8.126). Narrated Jabir ibn Samurah: (The dead body) of a person who had killed himself with a broad-headed arrow was brought before the Apostle of Allah (peace be upon him), but he did not offer prayers for him.(Sahih Muslim Hadith. Number.486).

Killing by Burning Not Allowed: Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah's Apostle said: It is none but Allah Who punishes with fire, so, if you find them (enemies), kill them (in combat).(Sahih Al Bukhari, Hadith, Number.4.259). Narrated Ikrima : Ali burnt some people and this news reached Ibn Abbas, who said, "Had I been in his place I would not have burnt them, as the Prophet said, 'Don't punish (anybody) with Allah's Punishment.'...(Sahih Al Bukhari, Hadith, Number.4.260).

Mutilation of  the Dead Bodies is Prohibited : Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) prohibited to mutilate the dead bodies. (Sahih Muslim Hadith.804).

Prohibitions-of Killing Religious People, Women, Children, Aged, Sick People, Animals  and Cutting Trees  in Military Expeditions : Islam forbade killing of innocents. Narrated Abdullah: During some of the ghazawat of the Prophet a woman was found killed. Allah's Apostle disapproved and forbade the killing of women and children. (Sahih Al Bukhari, Hadith, Number.4.257,258). Abu Bakr advised Yazid, the commander of Muslim Military Expeditions to Sham (Syria): "You will find a people who claim to have totally given themselves to Allah. Leave them to what they claim to have given themselves. You will find a people who have shaved the middle of their heads, strike what they have shaved with the sword. "I advise you ten things: Do not kill women or children or an aged, infirm person. Do not cut down fruit-bearing trees. Do not destroy an inhabited place. Do not slaughter sheep or camels except for food. Do not burn bees and do not scatter them. Do not steal from the booty, and do not be cowardly." (Al Muwata Hadith, Number;21.10).

Freedom of Faith: Islam lays down the rule guarantee freedom of belief:

Allah says: “There shall be no coercion in matters of faith. Distinct has now become the right way from the (way of ) error: hence, he who rejects the powers of evil and believes in God has indeed taken hold of support most unfailing, which shall never give way: for God is all-hearing, all-knowing.”(Qur’an;2:256).

Sectarianisms Rejected:

“Surely those who divide the religion into sects and identify themselves as a sect, O Muhammad, you have nothing to do with them. Their case will be called to account by Allah Himself, He will inform them as to what they did.”(Al-An’am;6:159);

“Be not like those who became divided into sects and who started to argue against each other after clear revelations had come to them. Those responsible for division and arguments will be sternly punished” (Al-i Imran;3:105)

“In fact, your religion is one religion, and I am your only Lord: so fear Me Alone. Yet people have divided themselves into factions and each faction rejoices in its own doctrines - well! Leave them in their heedlessness for an appointed time. Do they think that, in giving them wealth and children, We are eager for their welfare? By no means! They do not understand the reality of the matter.”(Al-Muminun;23:52-56)

“those who divide their religion into sects and become separate groups, each group rejoicing in its own circle. When an affliction befalls the people, they turn in prayer to their Lord  in repentance. But when He let them taste a blessing from Him, lo! Some of them begin to ascribe other powers a share in their Sustainers divinity, showing no gratitude for What We have given them. Enjoy yourselves; soon you will find out your folly.”(Ar-Rum;30:32-34).

Reconciliation among Muslims brothers with fairness and Justice:

“If two parties among the believers fall into mutual fighting, make peace between them. Then if one of them transgresses against the other, fight the one who has transgressed until he returns to the commands of Allah. Then, if he returns, make peace between them with justice and be fair; for Allah loves those who are fair and just. The believers are brothers to one another, therefore, make reconciliation between your brothers and fear Allah, so that you may be shown mercy.”(Al-Hujurat;49:9-10)

Qur’an for Equitable Treatment to Non Believers:

It is wrongly propagated that Qur’an encourages violence against non believers, rather contrary is true:

“It may be that God will ordain love between you and those of them with whom you are at enmity. God is Mighty, and God is Forgiving, Merciful. God does not forbid you to be kind and equitable to those who had neither fought against your faith nor driven you out of your homes. In fact Allah loves the equitable. God only forbids you to make friendship with those who fought you on account of your faith and drove you out of your homes and backed up others in your expulsion. Those who will take them for friends are indeed the wrongdoers.”(Qur’an;60:7-9). Islam only forbids Muslims to take unbelievers as ‘protecting friends’ (those making mockery of faith, Qur’an;5:51,87). Only Allah, his messenger and true believers are their ‘protecting friends’ (Qur’an;5:55, 56).

Hell fire for those, disobeying Allah and His Messenger: Some of the commands of Allah and His Messenger Muhammad (peace be upon him) have been mentioned above, whose ever, whosever disobeys, stands humiliating punishment of hell fire:

Allah says: “But those who disobey Allah and His Messenger and transgress His limits will be admitted to a fire, to abide therein: and They shall have a humiliating punishment.”( An-Nisa; 4:14.)

Conclusion:

It is important that, mere condemnation of terrorist acts and suicide bombing carried out in the name of Islam in total violation of commands of Allah and His Messenger Muhammad (peace be upon him) is not enough. The whole society has to do more to discharge their obligations in creating awareness of Truth among the masses as well as simple minded potential suicide bombers and terrorists. While the long term measures are undertaken by the government, clergy and the civil society, on the short term basis need to create public awareness, through  publicizing the self explanatory verses of Qur’an and Hadith on basic issues, (some mentioned above) to general public. It will help to reduce the public sympathy for terrorist, maligning the name of Islam for their heinous crimes against humanity and to enable the common people to get involved to contribute in the efforts against the menace of terrorism in some way. Hence it is suggested that, all news papers, magazines, radio and TV channels, political rallies should voluntarily display/mention the relevant Qur’anic verses (Arabic and translation) and Hadith frequently, specially the media, while reporting the news of any suicide bombing or terrorist act. The government and others should widely publicize verses through bill boards, hoarding, banners and other means. The words late Pakistani intellectual Eqbal Ahmad are still relevant: ‘We are chasing an Islamic order ‘stripped of its humanism, aesthetics, intellectual quests and spiritual devotions…. concerned with power not with the soul, with the mobilization of people for political purposes rather than with sharing and alleviating their sufferings and aspirations.’

jihad & Tolerance: