NationStates Jolt Archive

There always seems to be anti-Islam threads, etc, on NSG. And many many posters who really, really, don't like Islam/Muslims, and have the wrong idea about things. The Qur'an is often misinterpreted, or people fake Surahs to make Islam look reaaallly bad.

Well, I'm a Muslim, living in the UK, and if there's anything you really want to ask about Islam, I'd love to answer it, in a non-biased way, and as fully as I can, to my ability.

Assalamu 'alaykum inshallah. :D

There always seems to be anti-Islam threads, etc, on NSG. And many many posters who really, really, don't like Islam/Muslims, and have the wrong idea about things. The Qur'an is often misinterpreted, or people fake Surahs to make Islam look reaaallly bad.

Well, I'm a Muslim, living in the UK, and if there's anything you really want to ask about Islam, I'd love to answer it, in a non-biased way, and as fully as I can, to my ability.

Assalamu 'alaykum inshallah. :D

first off:
salaamu alaykum ya akhi fi din al islami
and second i know right, its really annoying, what they pretend to know, also since i'm new to islam(converted and all!) heres a question: explain the sunni shia divide for me , i dont understand why the sunnis dissed the prophets sun from taking power after him

I feel that islam is a peaceful religion that does NOT support violence, that the "40 lashes" judge is a fajir ("sinner by action"), Osama & Ahmedinejad are fasiqs (open sinners, extreme violaters of islam, etc.), and so forth.

How accurate are my beliefs?

I love how every few months NSG throws up some Muslim thinking they can change the opinion of people here by answering their questions. Keru did it fairly well a while back, though, so good luck.

Meh, I actively dislike all religions and other such poppycock. Don't feel special, even if yours together with Christianity is extra distasteful.

salaamu alaykum ya akhi fi din al islami
and second i know right, its really annoying, what they pretend to know, also since i'm new to islam(converted and all!) heres a question: explain the sunni shia divide for me , i dont understand why the sunnis dissed the prophets sun from taking power after him

awwāmtī mumtilah biānqalaysūn :D

Well, Sunni's and Shia Muslims both agree on the core fundamentals of Islam - the 5 pillars. However, the main differences are mostly theological, and no-one is 100% sure why the split occured. My Imam believes that it is because Shias feel that Ali should have been the first caliph and that the caliphate should pass down only to direct descendants of Mohammed.

I feel that islam is a peaceful religion that does NOT support violence, that the "40 lashes" judge is a fajir ("sinner by action"), Osama & Ahmedinejad are fasiqs (open sinners, extreme violaters of islam, etc.), and so forth.

How accurate are my beliefs?

Islam is a peaceful religion, yes, which has been negatively portayed by extremists and the media. We must remember that every religion has extremists however. The 40 lashes is mainly political, and for this, I believe that the judge is a fajir. Osama and Abu Hamza are extremists, similar to extremist Christians, and are certainly fasiqs. For instance, what Osama thinks is a jihad is a full out war.

I love how every few months NSG throws up some Muslim thinking they can change the opinion of people here by answering their questions. Keru did it fairly well a while back, though, so good luck.

Thanks for the luck. I just want the more ill-educated of us, in culture, religion and world heritages (heritages? Heritageii?) to start quoting real Surahs which can be just as devastating as the ones they make up :p

At least if they use real evidence, we can debate back. With made up facts, that is impossible.

Meh, I actively dislike all religions and other such poppycock. Don't feel special, even if yours together with Christianity is extra distasteful.

An atheist? Good. I like atheists. They are logical, and sound. My religion is just a way for me to cope with the pressures of life, it gives me something extra to aim for. Happy atheists are strong mentally, because they can do this anyway.

I do not feel special. Why should I?

<snip> I do not feel special. Why should I?

What Fass meant is that you shouldn't feel that your religion is being attacked (by him) at least not any more so than any other religion.

There always seems to be anti-Islam threads, etc, on NSG. And many many posters who really, really, don't like Islam/Muslims, and have the wrong idea about things. The Qur'an is often misinterpreted, or people fake Surahs to make Islam look reaaallly bad.

Well, I'm a Muslim, living in the UK, and if there's anything you really want to ask about Islam, I'd love to answer it, in a non-biased way, and as fully as I can, to my ability.

Assalamu 'alaykum inshallah. :D

Sometimes I confuse muslim with muslin. Do you do that?

It's pretty embarrassing when you order new bed sheets from a catalog and get something startlingly different. *nod*

What is the position of Islam on sexual equality and chopping off the hands of thieves?

What Fass meant is that you shouldn't feel that your religion is being attacked (by him) at least not any more so than any other religion.

Oh, right, Islam is attacked a bit in the media, but that's because of the extremists, really.

Sometimes I confuse muslim with muslin. Do you do that?

It's pretty embarrassing when you order new bed sheets from a catalog and get something startlingly different. *nod*

I think we've all done that at least once :)

We all love LG

Sometimes I confuse muslim with muslin. Do you do that?

It's pretty embarrassing when you order new bed sheets from a catalog and get something startlingly different. *nod*

The worst part is trying to exchange them at that point :(

Lunatic Goofballs is just sore on the subject of religion, because from 1955 to 1973, he was worshipped as a God by a small farming community in Kansas.

When the big day came, he spiked the Kool-Aid with PCP instead of cyanide, and instead of ascending to the spaceship, his followers became a bunch of unwashed hippies who to this day loiter around Topeka telling people that "It's like, man, we're all like, gods and a piece of God and a God of peace and I need some pizza, man, oh man, I got the munchies...."

He left the experience disillusioned (aside from the hallucinations, which are illusions, technically), and has promised not to manifest to humans again outside the relatively safe veil of the interwebs.

Lunatic Goofballs is just sore on the subject of religion, because from 1955 to 1973, he was worshipped as a God by a small farming community in Kansas.

When the big day came, he spiked the Kool-Aid with PCP instead of cyanide, and instead of ascending to the spaceship, his followers became a bunch of unwashed hippies who to this day loiter around Topeka telling people that "It's like, man, we're all like, gods and a piece of God and a God of peace and I need some pizza, man, oh man, I got the munchies...."

He left the experience disillusioned (aside from the hallucinations, which are illusions, technically), and has promised not to manifest to humans again outside the relatively safe veil of the interwebs.

At least we don't have that problem with the Prophet Mohammed (Pbuh) :p

Lunatic Goofballs is just sore on the subject of religion, because from 1955 to 1973, he was worshipped as a God by a small farming community in Kansas.

When the big day came, he spiked the Kool-Aid with PCP instead of cyanide, and instead of ascending to the spaceship, his followers became a bunch of unwashed hippies who to this day loiter around Topeka telling people that "It's like, man, we're all like, gods and a piece of God and a God of peace and I need some pizza, man, oh man, I got the munchies...."

He left the experience disillusioned (aside from the hallucinations, which are illusions, technically), and has promised not to manifest to humans again outside the relatively safe veil of the interwebs.

They ate all my peanut butter cups. >.<

Lunatic Goofballs is just sore on the subject of religion, because from 1955 to 1973, he was worshipped as a God by a small farming community in Kansas. ...

But, but he is a god...



Isn't he?

An atheist? Good. I like atheists. They are logical, and sound. My religion is just a way for me to cope with the pressures of life, it gives me something extra to aim for. Happy atheists are strong mentally, because they can do this anyway.See? Now why can't all religious people be like that?

The worst part is trying to exchange them at that point :(Always keep the receipt. *nod*

At least we don't have that problem with the Prophet Mohammed (Pbuh) :p

I'm reading the Koran, as an exploratory excercise, I'm not a convert or anything.

But LG refuses to write a Holy Book, because Wal-Mart is still banning his last epic literary masterpiece "Reeses in Cleavage: My Way to Happiness".

The cover art didn't really help.

But, but he is a god...



Isn't he?

A god. Not THE God.

But my resume is on file. *nod*

I'm reading the Koran, as an exploratory excercise, I'm not a convert or anything.

But LG refuses to write a Holy Book, because Wal-Mart is still banning his last epic literary masterpiece "Reeses in Cleavage: My Way to Happiness".

The cover art didn't really help.

He should've just passed on having any cover art


How did this become a discussion of the divinity of Lunatic Goofballs?

But, but he is a god...

Isn't he?

See, this is a theologically primal question. Monotheism, in having one God, says that a God must be worshipped.

But if there are many Gods, including some that last invoked their omnipotence to smite a parking enforcement officer for towing a 1978 Torino from in front of Nguyen's Half-Price Near-New Donuts in Anaheim, well...not all God's demand worship.

If you're Muslim, it is forbidden to make partners with Allah, to have or aknowledge any other Gods, so a Muslim can look on LG as no more than an extremely wise guy who is occasionally holding.

The Dude abides.

A god. Not THE God.

But my resume is on file. *nod*

Well, OK as long as your still my god ;)

See, this is a theologically primal question. Monotheism, in having one God, says that a God must be worshipped.

But if there are many Gods, including some that last invoked their omnipotence to smite a parking enforcement officer for towing a 1978 Torino from in front of Nguyen's Half-Price Near-New Donuts in Anaheim, well...not all God's demand worship.

If you're Muslim, it is forbidden to make partners with Allah, to have or aknowledge any other Gods, so a Muslim can look on LG as no more than an extremely wise guy who is occasionally holding.

The Dude abides.

:D:D

See? Now why can't all religious people be like that?

Always keep the receipt. *nod*

Because most religous people are like 'OMGZ, T3H EBIL, EBIL EBIL, AN71-CHR157ORZZZ!'

It's probably because I have a grain of common sense. After all, we are free to believe what we wish. The Qur'an even says that, freedom of speech and the such like.

I'm reading the Koran, as an exploratory excercise, I'm not a convert or anything.

But LG refuses to write a Holy Book, because Wal-Mart is still banning his last epic literary masterpiece "Reeses in Cleavage: My Way to Happiness".

The cover art didn't really help.

Is your Qur'an translated from Arabic to English? It will give you the general idea, but it is much better to read it in Arabic. The poetic sounds are worth the years of study. I suggest you to read 'The Cow' (It's named after my mother :p)

The Bible by LG is also called The LOLCat Bible.

A god. Not THE God.

But my resume is on file. *nod*

A god that can reconcile humility with divinity would be bitchin'.

You're bitchin'.

I'm reading the Koran, as an exploratory excercise, I'm not a convert or anything.

But LG refuses to write a Holy Book, because Wal-Mart is still banning his last epic literary masterpiece "Reeses in Cleavage: My Way to Happiness".

The cover art didn't really help.

It had pop-ups. :)

It had pop-ups. :)

I must have one!
:D;)

He should've just passed on having any cover art


How did this become a discussion of the divinity of Lunatic Goofballs?

True story on the cover art...especially since its just the cover art from the 1982 Harlequin classic "The Pirate Came Heaving" with a Reese's peanut butter cup digitally inserted...at least I hope it was done digitally.

As to veering from the topic, I have a local Imam who is schooling me on the Islam deal, so I'm loitering in this thread waiting for anything theologically compelling to pop up.

... As to veering from the topic, I have a local Imam who is schooling me on the Islam deal, so I'm loitering in this thread waiting for anything theologically compelling to pop up.

Such as the divinity of LG :p

Is your Qur'an translated from Arabic to English? It will give you the general idea, but it is much better to read it in Arabic. The poetic sounds are worth the years of study. I suggest you to read 'The Cow' (It's named after my mother :p)

The Bible by LG is also called The LOLCat Bible.

Yes, the local Mosque provided me with a Quran translated to English with commentary. Depending on how deep I want to take this study, I might take Arabic in January, although naturally contemporary Arabic will be distinct from the scriptural language, it would still help.

Lunatic Goofballs had a chapter in his scripture named after a farm animal, but then it turned out it was just a chapter from Orwell's "Animal Farm" with all the nouns changed to pro-nouns.

Judge tried to slap him with an infringement finding, but LG spaketh unto him "Dude, free use in satire" and yea, verily, the claimant withdrew upon seeing LG's bank statement.

True story on the cover art...especially since its just the cover art from the 1982 Harlequin classic "The Pirate Came Heaving" with a Reese's peanut butter cup digitally inserted...at least I hope it was done digitally.

As to veering from the topic, I have a local Imam who is schooling me on the Islam deal, so I'm loitering in this thread waiting for anything theologically compelling to pop up.

If his name is Abu Hamza, or Osama Bin Laden, don't listen to him. He will feed you lies ;)

Seriosuly, though, first check out your local Imam is not feeding you extremist crap. Everything he tells you, tell another Imam, and see if their ideas conflict. If they do not, they are either:

1) Both extremist
2) Both normal

However, the probabilty of 1 occuring is quite unlikely.

Yes, the local Mosque provided me with a Quran translated to English with commentary. Depending on how deep I want to take this study, I might take Arabic in January, although naturally contemporary Arabic will be distinct from the scriptural language, it would still help.

Lunatic Goofballs had a chapter in his scripture named after a farm animal, but then it turned out it was just a chapter from Orwell's "Animal Farm" with all the nouns changed to pro-nouns.

Judge tried to slap him with an infringement finding, but LG spaketh unto him "Dude, free use in satire" and yea, verily, the claimant withdrew upon seeing LG's bank statement.

It's probably a trustworthy Qur'an then, say this phrase to the Imam next time you see him:

hawwāmtī mumtilah biānqalaysūn - meaning 'My hovercraft is full of eels'

Such as the divinity of LG :p

I'll be honest with you. LG has caused the massive neurological failure of countless people's front cortex with some of his teachings, but he still makes more sense then some of the religious people on this board.

Not all, mind you, there are some very sound, thoughtful, sharply intelligent religious people on this board, but some of the others...oy.

Nasreddin knows how I feel about faith and humor. *nod*

I'll be honest with you. LG has caused the massive neurological failure of countless people's front cortex with some of his teachings, but he still makes more sense then some of the religious people on this board.
Yeah, some of them are really scary

Not all, mind you, there are some very sound, thoughtful, sharply intelligent religious people on this board...

Kat for example

If you're British - what do you think of Ed Husain - I read The Islamist and I feel that the extreme aspects of your religion are merely nationalism in another form, empowered by religion.

You can take any religion any way you like but do you think a pure Islam nation, in the sense that Israel is a Jewish nation, is a good thing or bad?

I'll be honest with you. LG has caused the massive neurological failure of countless people's front cortex with some of his teachings, but he still makes more sense then some of the religious people on this board.

Not all, mind you, there are some very sound, thoughtful, sharply intelligent religious people on this board, but some of the others...oy.

I like to think I'm in that catergory :p

If his name is Abu Hamza, or Osama Bin Laden, don't listen to him. He will feed you lies ;)

Seriosuly, though, first check out your local Imam is not feeding you extremist crap. Everything he tells you, tell another Imam, and see if their ideas conflict. If they do not, they are either:

1) Both extremist
2) Both normal

However, the probabilty of 1 occuring is quite unlikely.

I checked him out when I made the appointment. He is widely regarded as a moderate, is well published and regarded, and actively refutes violence.

I'm probably not going to convert, though, because I'm resolved to not join a religion until an actual God tells me to.

LG doesn't count, because the last time he told me to do something, I wound up explaining to a pair of Tijuana cops that a Batman outfit is not paramilitary.

<snip>
You can take any religion any way you like but do you think a pure Islam nation, in the sense that Israel is a Jewish nation, is a good thing or bad?

A bad thing, but then I feel that any Theocracy is bad

I checked him out when I made the appointment. He is widely regarded as a moderate, is well published and regarded, and actively refutes violence.

I'm probably not going to convert, though, because I'm resolved to not join a religion until an actual God tells me to.

LG doesn't count, because the last time he told me to do something, I wound up explaining to a pair of Tijuana cops that a Batman outfit is not paramilitary.

But what if LG told to convert to Islam while wearing a batman suit in Tijuana?

LG doesn't count, because the last time he told me to do something, I wound up explaining to a pair of Tijuana cops that a Batman outfit is not paramilitary.

Did the tequila help?

Kat for example

Katganistan? Yeah, exactly. Jocabia is impressive, some others as well. Makes me feel better about being around religious people at the Mosque.

I don't know the OP enough to say, but seems nice enough so far.

If you're British - what do you think of Ed Husain - I read The Islamist and I feel that the extreme aspects of your religion are merely nationalism in another form, empowered by religion.

You can take any religion any way you like but do you think a pure Islam nation, in the sense that Israel is a Jewish nation, is a good thing or bad?

I think the extreme aspects of my religion are mostly outdated, and only followed to the letter by ill-educated ilk, who are mostly scorned in educated Islamic society.

I think a pure Islam nation would be bad. Society needs to mix cultures up a little to create variety, and educate about other cultures and races.

I checked him out when I made the appointment. He is widely regarded as a moderate, is well published and regarded, and actively refutes violence.

I'm probably not going to convert, though, because I'm resolved to not join a religion until an actual God tells me to.

LG doesn't count, because the last time he told me to do something, I wound up explaining to a pair of Tijuana cops that a Batman outfit is not paramilitary.

All 3 of those are excellent ideas and points. Very well done on checking out your Imam. (We call our Imam, mam :p)

A bad thing, but then I feel that any Theocracy is bad

Agreed.

But what if LG told to convert to Islam while wearing a batman suit in Tijuana?

Am I wearing the suit, or LG?

There always seems to be anti-Islam threads, etc, on NSG. And many many posters who really, really, don't like Islam/Muslims, and have the wrong idea about things. The Qur'an is often misinterpreted, or people fake Surahs to make Islam look reaaallly bad.

Well, I'm a Muslim, living in the UK, and if there's anything you really want to ask about Islam, I'd love to answer it, in a non-biased way, and as fully as I can, to my ability.

Assalamu 'alaykum inshallah. :D

Well, generally there are two camps with negative thoughts towards Islam, the first, and vocal, who are the ones who author the anti-Islam threads are conservative camp, combined religious and non-religious conservatives.... The second is atheists, though they do not author anti-Islam threads, so much as anti-religion threads...

While, I personally do not agree with Islam, and think of it as a false religion, I do not consider that a reason by anyone to bash a particular religious faith... It's sad really that people seem to need to reinforce their own faith by negative language upon others... Ones faith should rest positively upon their own convictions and not negatively upon others... This is a positive aspects I've seen in Islamic members of NSG, in that they author Q&A threads of their own faith, as opposed to authoring anti-Christian threads (In example)... In this they are better than most religious conservatives.

Katganistan? Yeah, exactly. Jocabia is impressive, some others as well. Makes me feel better about being around religious people at the Mosque.

I don't know the OP enough to say, but seems nice enough so far.
Of course, on the flip side of that there are some equally scary non-religious people, or in the case of the one I'm thinking of anti-religious

Well, generally there are two camps with negative thoughts towards Islam, the first, and vocal, who are the ones who author the anti-Islam threads are conservative camp, combined religious and non-religious conservatives.... The second is atheists, though they do not author anti-Islam threads, so much as anti-religion threads...

While, I personally do not agree with Islam, and think of it as a false religion, I do not consider that a reason by anyone to bash a particular religious faith... It's sad really that people seem to need to reinforce their own faith by negative language upon others... Ones faith should rest positively upon their own convictions and not negatively upon others.

I like atheists.

If you are Christian, or Jewish, we share the same God. Allah is just Arabic for God.

Am I wearing the suit, or LG?

If he's wearing it, you'd have to wear the robin suit ;)

If he's wearing it, you'd have to wear the robin suit ;)

Batman is accepted in many circles to be gay with Robin.

Which is worrying, because Robin is a child.

Batman is accepted in many circles to be gay with Robin.

Which is worrying, because Robin is a child.

I'm sure he was a quick study though. :p

Of course, on the flip side of that there are some equally scary non-religious people, or in the case of the one I'm thinking of anti-religious

Anti-theists?

I'm sure he was a quick study though. :p

If you're wearing the suit, surely you'd adopt his mentality? And thus, know the answer.

I think the extreme aspects of my religion are mostly outdated, and only followed to the letter by ill-educated ilk, who are mostly scorned in educated Islamic society.

...but how much are they purely political movements, using fundamental belief as a weapon for power rather than actual belief?

Is da'wah a true calling to religion or simply a political tool?

It's just that it's easy to talk about peacefulness in theory but when you ask serious questions about belief, among many Muslims, the desire for a pure state is fairly strong - with all that it implies.

I can see where Israel becomes a sticking point - it's a state theoretically built on a particular religion - would you say that Israel is a good concept or not.

In some sense, I'd prefer the answer to be 'No', not that it means anything against being Jewish, simply that a state built on religion is no longer acceptable.

Of course, on the flip side of that there are some equally scary non-religious people, or in the case of the one I'm thinking of anti-religious

Yeah, but the non-religious raisincakes usually don't form into as large a group...still scary and dangerous, though, yeah.

I always thought Robin was a marketing ploy, a comic marketed to that age range, introduces a character like that, mostly a proxy for imagination, I would guess.

Or Batman could be well and truly fucked up, as a character.

I'm sure he was a quick study though. :p

Aw, dude, no you di'int!

...but how much are they purely political movements, using fundamental belief as a weapon for power rather than actual belief?

Is da'wah a true calling to religion or simply a political tool?

It's just that it's easy to talk about peacefulness in theory but when you ask serious questions about belief, among many Muslims, the desire for a pure state is fairly strong - with all that it implies.

I can see where Israel becomes a sticking point - it's a state theoretically built on a particular religion - would you say that Israel is a good concept or not.

In some sense, I'd prefer the answer to be 'No', not that it means anything against being Jewish, simply that a state built on religion is no longer acceptable.

Of course it goes political. Every religion goes political. Christianity, the Pope, the Archbishop of Canterbury, that's political.

Do not ask me about da'wah and politics. Find an unbiased Imam.

I personally, consider the Muslims you speak of as poorly versed in Arabic litreature, and having a poor understanding of the doctrines and teachings in the Qur'an.

Israel is a bad concept. Bad. You cannot base something like that on religion. Laws must be made by the people, to keep updating, not by a book out of date by 2,000 years.

I like atheists.

If you are Christian, or Jewish, we share the same God. Allah is just Arabic for God.

I'm not hitting on Atheists in this, they do not author anti-Islam threads, it's religious conservatives who generally do...

The word "Allah" is Arabic for God.... But our conceptions of God differ.... Theologically speaking, my conception of "Allah"/"God"/"Theos"/"Dios" etc. is different from your conception of "Allah"/"God"/"Theos"/"Dios" etc., which is what I was talking about. Differing faiths believe in different "God"(s) in this case.... It can get even more detailed that that, as umbrella terms such as "Christian" or "Jewish" or "Muslim" may incorporate subsets which do also differ on their conception and therefore their "God"... It could also easily be said that an Arminian Christian and Calvinist Christian worship different Gods in the same sense... Osama's "Allah" is not your "Allah", Ahmedinejad's "Allah" is also not yours... in this same sense... Which is all I was saying.

Honourable Angels...

Look. Kudos on making this thread, really, but I'm afraid it won't work.

The anti-Islam ones here will keep on posting their tripe. Why? Because they could care less about the facts.

The people that know Islam isn't violent already know Islam isn't violent.

And then there are pseudo-Islamic trolls, that try to fuel anger against Islam by making it seem über-conservative.

I, myself, am an agnostic interested in occultism.

I thought 'Ask a.....' threads were verboten.

I'm not hitting on Atheists in this, they do not author anti-Islam threads, it's religious conservatives who generally do...

The word "Allah" is Arabic for God.... But our conceptions of God differ.... Theologically speaking, my conception of "Allah"/"God"/"Theos"/"Dios" etc. is different from your conception of "Allah"/"God"/"Theos"/"Dios" etc., which is what I was talking about. Differing faiths believe in different "God"(s) in this case.... It can get even more detailed that that, as umbrella terms such as "Christian" or "Jewish" or "Muslim" may incorporate subsets which do also differ on their conception and therefore their "God"... It could also easily be said that an Arminian Christian and Calvinist Christian worship different Gods in the same sense... Osama's "Allah" is not your "Allah", Ahmedinejad's "Allah" is also not yours... in this same sense... Which is all I was saying.

Of course, opinion on our perception of God differs. However, I believe that the three Western religions, which share the same Old Testament (pretty much) share the same God. Muslims see Jesus as a Prophet before Mohammed (Pbuh) in the same way some Christians see Mohammed (Pbuh) as a Prophet after Jesus.

Honourable Angels...

Look. Kudos on making this thread, really, but I'm afraid it won't work.

The anti-Islam ones here will keep on posting their tripe. Why? Because they could care less about the facts.

The people that know Islam isn't violent already know Islam isn't violent.

And then there are pseudo-Islamic trolls, that try to fuel anger against Islam by making it seem über-conservative.

I, myself, am an agnostic interested in occultism.

Such rubbish.

Neither Judaism nor Islam are peaceful if you read the texts - sure, you can interpret them any way you like but the reality is that both call for fairly violent retribution for unbelievers.

It's really time we called a stop to pretending that religious texts are anything other than nationalistic calls for unity among a particular, geographical group.

Right now we try to compare those texts but all are either 'believe or be punished'.

I'm not against a personal belief in a higher spiritual being, but to say that people misinterpret the ancient texts is naive.

I thought 'Ask a.....' threads were verboten.

Nope, only if they spawn too many stupid copy cat threads.

I'm glad for this thread, I really was worried but now I know I was correct.

Such rubbish.

Neither Judaism nor Islam are peaceful if you read the texts - sure, you can interpret them any way you like but the reality is that both call for fairly violent retribution for unbelievers.

It's really time we called a stop to pretending that religious texts are anything other than nationalistic calls for unity among a particular, geographical group.

Right now we try to compare those texts but all are either 'believe or be punished'.

I'm not against a personal belief in a higher spiritual being, but to say that people misinterpret the ancient texts is naive.

In that case, Christianity applies under the same rules.

Perhaps, but people need to believe in something - you all can believe in LG, but I personally believe in Islam. It's my choice, and if you take it away, then you're just as bad as the Islamic extremists, that are so rightfully detested.

Not all are, read the Qur'an, the Surah 'The Cow' spreads messages of peace, love and unity to everyone - no matter who they are. All the Muslims I know take this to heart. Indeed, a sheik I knew allows the homeless to live in his palace in Saudi Arabia, for free, and makes sure they are treated like he would be treated. This shows how religion can be positive. - It may not neccessarily be true, but it allows people to do acts of extreme kindess (and of course, extreme evil)

Ancient texts apply to the ancients who followed them. We no longer follow such rules, we have moved on. We must, because it's a bit harsh to give someone 40 lashes to call a teddy bear Mohammed.

There always seems to be anti-Islam threads, etc, on NSG. And many many posters who really, really, don't like Islam/Muslims, and have the wrong idea about things. The Qur'an is often misinterpreted, or people fake Surahs to make Islam look reaaallly bad.

Well, I'm a Muslim, living in the UK, and if there's anything you really want to ask about Islam, I'd love to answer it, in a non-biased way, and as fully as I can, to my ability.

Assalamu 'alaykum inshallah. :D

This will take some time for ya to answer, and probably the help of a shayk, so I will be patient

Oh, and Walaikum Asalaam back to ya ;)

Okay, let me run this past you. Several times in Al quraan it states that Allah(swt) hates those that transgress, or sin. So, that means he loves those who do righteousness, and love him back, right? So, does Allah(swt) love only those that love him? I have been repeatedly told that he does.

Which brings me to my next point. In the injeel, which I know you believe is corrupted, yadda yadda, Prophet Esa(as) says that there is no reward in loving only those who love you, and even sinners do that. So, if we are to take prophet Esa's(as) message, it seems as if Allah(swt)acts like a sinner, by loving only those who love him. What type of God acts like a sinner and loves only those who love him?

Next, Mohammad(saw) was the last rasul right? Meaning, he was the last one to receive revelations from Allah(swt), correct? Who was the last prophet before him? You might say it is prophet Esa(as), no? However, with what I want to show you next, it might show that one of the prophet's companions was a prophet as well, or perhaps something sneaky is going on.

Narrated 'aisha: The wives of the Prophet used to go to Al-Manasi, a vast open place (near Baqia at Medina) to answer the call of nature at night. 'Umar used to say to the Prophet "Let your wives be veiled," but Allah's Apostle did not do so. One night Sauda bint Zam'a the wife of the Prophet went out at 'Isha' time and she was a tall lady. 'Umar addressed her and said, "I have recognized you, O Sauda." He said so, as he desired eagerly that the verses of Al-Hijab may be revealed. So Allah revealed the verses of "Al-Hijab" (Book #4, Hadith #148

Read that..Now re-read that. It was Umar who came up with the idea of covering women, perhaps he had a divine revelation from Allah(swt), which would make a prophet, no? And if he was a prophet, and he outlived Mohammad(saw), then that means that he was the final prophet, right?

On the other hand, if you read as the other way, Umar wanted Mohammad to cover up women, and so he continuously put pressure on him, until Allah(swt) "revealed" to Mohammad(saw) that there should be hijaabs for the muslimah.

Next point I want you to address:
Why does it seem like Mohammad's companions didn't believe in his god? Shocking statement for me to make, I know, but lets consider these hadeeth.

Sahih Muslim
Book 001, Number 0050:
It is reported on the authority of Abu Huraira: We were sitting around the Messenger of Allah (may peace and blessings be upon him). Abu Bakr and Umar were also there among the audience. In the meanwhile the Messenger of Allah got up and left us, He delayed in coming back to us, which caused anxiety that he might be attacked by some enemy when we were not with him; so being alarmed we got up. I was the first to be alarmed. I, therefore, went out to look for the Messenger of Allah (may peace and blessings be upon him) and came to a garden belonging to the Banu an-Najjar, a section of the Ansar went round it looking for a gate but failed to find one. Seeing a rabi' (i. e. streamlet) flowing into the garden from a well outside, drew myself together, like a fox, and slinked into (the place) where God's Messenger was. He (the Holy Prophet) said: Is it Abu Huraira? I (Abu Huraira) replied: Yes, Messenger of Allah. He (the Holy Prophet) said: What is the matter with you? replied: You were amongst us but got up and went away and delayed for a time, so fearing that you might be attacked by some enemy when we were not with you, we became alarmed. I was the first to be alarmed. So when I came to this garden, I drew myself together as a fox does, and these people are following me. He addressed me as Abu Huraira and gave me his sandals and said: Take away these sandals of mine, and when you meet anyone outside this garden who testifies that there is no god but Allah, being assured of it in his heart, gladden him by announcing that he shall go to Paradise. Now the first one I met was Umar. He asked: What are these sandals, Abu Huraira? I replied: These are the sandals of the Messenger of Allah with which he has sent me to gladden anyone I meet who testifies that there is no god but Allah, being assured of it in his heart, with the announcement that he would go to Paradise. Thereupon 'Umar struck me on the breast and I fell on my back. He then said: Go back, Abu Huraira, So I returned to the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him), and was about to break into tears. 'Umar followed me closely and there he was behind me. The Messenger of Allah (may peace and blessings be on him) said: What is the matter with you, Abu Huraira? I said: I happened to meet 'Umar and conveyed to him the message with which you sent me. He struck me on my breast which made me fall down upon my back and ordered me to go back. Upon this the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: What prompted you to do this, 'Umar? He said: Messenger of Allah, my mother and father be sacrificed to thee, did you send Abu Huraira with your sandals to gladden anyone he met and who testified that there is no god but Allah, and being assured of it in his heart, with the tidings that he would go to Paradise? He said: Yes. Umar said: Please do it not, for I am afraid that people will trust in it alone; let them go on doing (good) deeds. The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: Well, let them.

The story behind this is that Mohammed gave Abu Huraira his [Mohammed's] sandals to wave around. Anyone Abu Huraira meets who testifies there is no god but Allah, and who is assured of that in his heart ,is to be told that he will go to paradise.

Abu Huraira meets Umar who, instead of being impressed, thumps him in the chest and sends a close-to-tears Abu Huraira scurrying back to Mohammed.

Umar confronts Mohammed, asks him whether he indeed told Abu Huraira to do / say what Abu H. claims and, on being told that Mo. did indeed issue those instructions, Umar asks Mohammed to stop. Umar says that he fears people will believe that belief alone will secure a place in paradise and will therefore stop doing good deeds.

Mohammed's response? "Well, let them."

Umar acts like a man who knows there's no Allah, but that there is only Mohammed. Seems also that Umar is far more conscious of the implications of Mohammed's little games than Mohammed is himself -- or perhaps he simply cared more about the outcomes and implications of Mohammed's games than did Mohammed.

Aisha remarked, "It seems to me that YOUR Lord hastens to satisfy YOUR desire." Sahih Muslim vol.2 book 8 no.3453-3454 p.748-749
Why would she say YOUR lord, if she was a muslimah? Wouldn't it be more correct to say OUR lord or THE lord hastens to satisfy your desire?


Next question: Why are there no female prophets acknowledged by Al Quraan, but by earlier scripture? Why do women only count as half a witness? Why did Aisha say that Muslimah are treated the worst among all the women? Why did the arabian women celebrate Mohammad's (saw) death? Why will most of people in hellfire be ungrateful women? (all from hadith)

I know that you guys say that Islam is fair to women, but those are some things to really consider about the status of women.

Next, here is some questionable stuff about Mohammad(Saw) and his prophethood. Now, this stuff will probably tick you off, BUT its from your religion.

Allah had a female, kufr poet killed(not the only poet he killed, IIRC)
Then (occurred) the sariyyah of Umayr ibn adi Ibn Kharashah al-Khatmi against Asma Bint Marwan, of Banu Umayyah Ibn Zayd, when five nights had remained from the month of Ramadan, in the beginning of the nineteenth month from the hijrah of the apostle of Allah. Asma was the wife of Yazid Ibn Zayd Ibn Hisn al-Khatmi. She used to revile Islam, offend the prophet and instigate the (people) against him. She composed verses. Umayr Ibn Adi came to her in the night and entered her house. Her children were sleeping around her. There was one whom she was suckling. He searched her with his hand because he was blind, and separated the child from her. He thrust his sword in her chest till it pierced up to her back. Then he offered the morning prayers with the prophet at al-Medina. The apostle of Allah said to him: "Have you slain the daughter of Marwan?" He said: "Yes. Is there something more for me to do?" He [Muhammad] said: "No. Two goats will butt together about her. This was the word that was first heard from the apostle of Allah. The apostle of Allah called him Umayr "Basir" (the seeing).

Here is an account of bribery:

Sahih Bukhari Volume 4, Book 52, Number 175 wrote:


Narrated Khalid bin Madan:

That 'Umair bin Al-Aswad Al-Anasi told him that he went to 'Ubada bin As-Samit while he was staying in his house at the sea-shore of Hims with (his wife) Um Haram. 'Umair said. Um Haram informed us that she heard the Prophet saying, "Paradise is granted to the first batch of my followers who will undertake a naval expedition." Um Haram added, I said, 'O Allah's Apostle! Will I be amongst them?' He replied, 'You are amongst them.' The Prophet then said, 'The first army amongst' my followers who will invade Caesar's City will be forgiven their sins.' I asked, 'Will I be one of them, O Allah's Apostle?' He replied in the negative."

Several accounts of Mohammad being in debt(how could he afford to support many wives? Isn't that against his own word?)

Volume 3, Book 34, Number 283:
Narrated Qatada:

Anas went to the Prophet with barley bread having some dissolved fat on it. The Prophet had mortgaged his armor to a Jew in Medina and took from him some barley for his family. Anas heard him saying, "The household of Muhammad did not possess even a single Sa of wheat or food grains for the evening meal, although he has nine wives to look after." (See Hadith No. 685)

Volume 3, Book 34, Number 282:
Narrated 'Aisha:

The Prophet purchased food grains from a Jew on credit and mortgaged his iron armor to him.

Volume 3, Book 41, Number 582:
Narrated 'Aisha:

Allah's Apostle used to invoke Allah in the prayer saying, "O Allah, I seek refuge with you from all sins, and from being in debt." Someone said, O Allah's Apostle! (I see you) very often you seek refuge with Allah from being in debt. He replied, "If a person is in debt, he tells lies when he speaks, and breaks his promises when he promises."


Volume 3, Book 41, Number 574:
Narrated Abu Huraira:

Allah's Apostle said, "If I had gold equal to the mountain of Uhud, it would not please me that it should remain with me for more than three days, except an amount which I would keep for repaying debts."

Volume 3, Book 41, Number 575:
Narrated Abu Huraira:

A man demanded his debts from Allah's Apostle in such a rude manner that the companions of the Prophet intended to harm him, but the Prophet said, "Leave him, no doubt, for he (the creditor) has the right to demand it (harshly). Buy a camel and give it to him." They said, "The camel that is available is older than the camel he demands. "The Prophet said, "Buy it and give it to him, for the best among you are those who repay their debts handsomely. "


Mohammad ordered to murder his critics:


Bukhari, Volume 4, Book 52, Number 270: Narrated Jabir bin 'Abdullah:
The Prophet said, "Who is ready to kill Ka'b bin Al-Ashraf who has really hurt Allah and His Apostle?" Muhammad bin Maslama said, "O Allah's Apostle! Do you like me to kill him?" He replied in the affirmative. So, Muhammad bin Maslama went to him (i.e. Ka'b) and said, "This person (i.e. the Prophet) has put us to task and asked us for charity." Ka'b replied, "By Allah, you will get tired of him." Muhammad said to him, "We have followed him, so we dislike to leave him till we see the end of his affair." Muhammad bin Maslama went on talking to him in this way till he got the chance to kill him.

http://www.usc.edu/dept/MSA/fundamentals/hadithsunnah/bukhari/052.sbt.html#004.052.270


Ishaq:368 “We carried his head back to Muhammad during the night, saluted the Prophet as he stood praying, and cast Ashraf’s head before his feet. The Prophet praised Allah that the poet had been slain, and complimented us on the good work we had done in Allah’s Cause. Our attack upon Allah’s enemy cast terror among the Jews, and there was no Jew in Medina who did not fear for his life.’”


Other people that Mohammad ordered to be murdered:
http://www.muslimhope.com/Assassinations.htm
Abu Rafi’ (“hurt” Mohammad and helped his enemies)
al-Aswad (claimed to be a prophet)
Khalid b. Sufyan (Mohammad claimed that Sufyan planed to attack him)
Abu Afak (120 years old, poet, “hurt” Mohammad)
Asma bint Marwan (poetress)


That's all I have for right now, when I have more, please believe that I will bring it up. :)

Jazak Khair for taking the time to make to make this thread and clear up any...misunderstandings. :) Insh'Allah you can be guided to finding the right answers to these questions. :)

Honourable Angels...

Look. Kudos on making this thread, really, but I'm afraid it won't work.

The anti-Islam ones here will keep on posting their tripe. Why? Because they could care less about the facts.

The people that know Islam isn't violent already know Islam isn't violent.

And then there are pseudo-Islamic trolls, that try to fuel anger against Islam by making it seem über-conservative.

I, myself, am an agnostic interested in occultism.

Thanks for Kudos. At least it will help solidify the belief of those who already believe that Islam is a non violent religion.

I'm glad for this thread, I really was worried but now I know I was correct.

What do you mean by this?

Of course, opinion on our perception of God differs. However, I believe that the three Western religions, which share the same Old Testament (pretty much) share the same God. Muslims see Jesus as a Prophet before Mohammed (Pbuh) in the same way some Christians see Mohammed (Pbuh) as a Prophet after Jesus.

True in that, there are overlapping perceptive elements of the various conceptions between differing faiths or convictions in the being of God/Allah. All of the Abrahamic faiths share a general redemptive element in God's operation upon mankind, for example... Though then, there are also perceptive elements of this redemptive operation which differ between the various, even within subsets of them.

Thanks for Kudos. At least it will help solidify the belief of those who already believe that Islam is a non violent religion.

Take care of Zilam and it sure will. Zilam is Myrmidonisia on steroids.

Take care of Zilam and it sure will. Zilam is Myrmidonisia on steroids.

Yep, I hate dem Mozlems!:rolleyes:

I just call it as it is. Nothing against diving deep into a religion, past its nice fun outer core, and seeing what is really at stake, right?

Zalim, as we know, all religions will have messages like that in them - after all, we must remember, the Prophets have been human, after all, and succumb to human pleasures and desires.

We must also remember, that these texts were made for the ancients, and should be taken letter to letter by the ancients.

In a modern society, these laws are no longer applicable - religion should not govern our lives, but give us directions on how to be a better person, it's like an extra set of morals for adults.

Perhaps Umur was a Prophet? I have no idea. I will ask an Imam, but in the mean time, if Mohammed (Pbuh) has been accepted as the Big Cheese for the last 1400 years, Im willing to accept that. There are far more people more devout then I.

As for Mohammed (Pbuh) killing people, critics, and the such like, all Prophets have done such things - Moses, Tom Clancy style, snapped an Egyptian mans neck, for example.

Despite this, however, not all Jewish people go around, Tom Clancy style, snapping peoples necks. It is merely unacceptable. Society governs the laws. It is not lawful to kill people. Thus, do not do it. It is against Societies Moral code to kill people, thus, don't do it. The only excuse is if youre a soldier.

I like the abbreviation to 'Mo' :D Much quicker.

In that case, Christianity applies under the same rules.

I don't disagree, if only in the sense that a Christian nation is as bad a concept as any other.

Perhaps, but people need to believe in something

Really? Religion?

- you all can believe in LG, but I personally believe in Islam. It's my choice, and if you take it away, then you're just as bad as the Islamic extremists, that are so rightfully detested.

I'm not forcing it away, I'm asking that it's not enforced on me, nor anyone else - nor used an excuse to oppress any particular group.

Not all are, read the Qur'an, the Surah 'The Cow' spreads messages of peace, love and unity to everyone - no matter who they are. All the Muslims I know take this to heart.

Then that's merely indicative of what you know, most Muslim states indicate otherwise. It's not isolated not Muslims, it's applicable to all religious-based rulings.

This shows how religion can be positive. - It may not neccessarily be true, but it allows people to do acts of extreme kindess (and of course, extreme evil)

No, it shows how humans can be positive, despite religion not because of it

Ancient texts apply to the ancients who followed them. We no longer follow such rules, we have moved on. We must, because it's a bit harsh to give someone 40 lashes to call a teddy bear Mohammed.

Ancient texts give credence to those who follow them not apply.

Religions stops us from moving on - I've yet to hear a position showing religion being a positive force for good outside of natural human inclinations.

True in that, there are overlapping perceptive elements of the various conceptions between differing faiths or convictions in the being of God/Allah. All of the Abrahamic faiths share a general redemptive element in God's operation upon mankind, for example... Though then, there are also perceptive elements of this redemptive operation which differ between the various, even within subsets of them.

The long words are not good for my mental state.

Of course, there are differences, but there is a majority of rules and moral conducts that remain similar.

I think thats what you meant (ish)

I don't disagree, if only in the sense that a Christian nation is as bad a concept as any other.

Perhaps, but people need to believe in something[/QUOTE]

Really? Religion?

[/QUOTE]- you all can believe in LG, but I personally believe in Islam. It's my choice, and if you take it away, then you're just as bad as the Islamic extremists, that are so rightfully detested.[/QUOTE]

I'm not forcing it away, I'm asking that it's not enforced on me, nor anyone else - nor used an excuse to oppress any particular group.



Then that's merely indicative of what you know, most Muslim states indicate otherwise. It's not isolated not Muslims, it's applicable to all religious-based rulings.



No, it shows how humans can be positive, despite religion not because of it

[/QUOTE]Ancient texts apply to the ancients who followed them. We no longer follow such rules, we have moved on. We must, because it's a bit harsh to give someone 40 lashes to call a teddy bear Mohammed.[/QUOTE]

Ancient texts give credence to those who follow them not apply.

Religions stops us from moving on - I've yet to hear a position showing religion being a positive force for good outside of natural human inclinations.[/QUOTE]

I do not wish religion to be enforced on me. Thus I do not enforce it on others. Imam's spread this message. Very few Muslims try to get people to convert.

I find belief in religion comforting. It takes away fear of death. Also, because I don't drink alchohol, I get to take the blackmail photos of my friends ;)

We already know human nature is good. For human nature to be good while religous is doubly good.

I stick by it, we must not follow Ancient teachings.

Religion may stop us from moving on quickly, but perhaps that's a good thing. If we moved on too quickly, what would happen to the already disintegrating societies? Religion also allows a large amount of culture to happen - beautiful Hindu murti's, exquisite sculptures in Buddhism, unspeakable paintings in Catholicism, and a beautiful language in Islam.

When was it corrupted?
Where?
By whom?


Let me get more specific here.

If it was corrupted before Mohammad, why would Allah, who is supposed to not be the author of confusion, but of clarity, allow his people to go 700 years believing such a horrible thing? Furthermore, if it was corrupted by the immediate followers of Prophet Isa(as), then what does that say about Isa's effectiveness as a prophet?

Where was it corrupted at? What verses? Where is the original injeel?

Who is BIG enough to over power Allah ta'ala will? Are humans really more powerful than Allah's word?

Now, on to Isa.

Al-Quraan says that Isa was the Word of God sent into Maryiam.(Surat an-Nisa: 171) What does it mean to be the word of God? If you were to read the injeel,it says that the Word was with God, and was God. So if you were to eventually take the injeel as correct(which I hope you will), then wouldn't that make Isa, part of God? Isn't that what Christianity states? That Jesus is just one part of this bigger picture of God(father, son, holy spirit)?

We already know human nature is good. For human nature to be good while religous is doubly good.

So wrong.

If anything, it's the other way around - we're doubly good despite religion not because of it.

Zalim, Zilam, not zalim. IIRC, in Urdu Zalim is like...terrible or something?

as we know, all religions will have messages like that in them - after all, we must remember, the Prophets have been human, after all, and succumb to human pleasures and desires.

We must also remember, that these texts were made for the ancients, and should be taken letter to letter by the ancients.

In a modern society, these laws are no longer applicable - religion should not govern our lives, but give us directions on how to be a better person, it's like an extra set of morals for adults. 1) In Islam, prophets are supposed to be sinless, and without fault, no? 2) Why would I follow text that just applies to ancients? Quraan is supposed to be the FINAL revelation of Allah(swt), meaning it is good for all generations, right? So, they should be held to certain standards today.

Perhaps Umur was a Prophet? I have no idea. I will ask an Imam, but in the mean time, if Mohammed (Pbuh) has been accepted as the Big Cheese for the last 1400 years, Im willing to accept that. There are far more people more devout then I.
Why did you start a thread about defending your deen, if you are no devout?


As for Mohammed (Pbuh) killing people, critics, and the such like, all Prophets have done such things - Moses, Tom Clancy style, snapped an Egyptian mans neck, for example. Yes, and he was wrong for that. And at the time, he wasn't called as a prophet. Mohammad did these things WHILE he was being called to be a prophet. It would be more understandable if he was a kufr doing it, but he was called to be a prophet. Prophets are to be pure, and holy, right? Perfect, and without sin, yes?


Despite this, however, not all Jewish people go around, Tom Clancy style, snapping peoples necks. It is merely unacceptable. Society governs the laws. It is not lawful to kill people. Thus, do not do it. It is against Societies Moral code to kill people, thus, don't do it. The only excuse is if youre a soldier.

Moses never said to kill people for insulting though. Mohammad did. Why would a holy prophet of the most high God, be blood thirsty over silly insults? When the people mocked Isa, he would bless and pray for them. Isn't THAT how a man of God should be?

When was it corrupted?
Where?
By whom?


Let me get more specific here.

If it was corrupted before Mohammad, why would Allah, who is supposed to not be the author of confusion, but of clarity, allow his people to go 700 years believing such a horrible thing? Furthermore, if it was corrupted by the immediate followers of Prophet Isa(as), then what does that say about Isa's effectiveness as a prophet?

Where was it corrupted at? What verses? Where is the original injeel?

Who is BIG enough to over power Allah ta'ala will? Are humans really more powerful than Allah's word?

Now, on to Isa.

Al-Quraan says that Isa was the Word of God sent into Maryiam.(Surat an-Nisa: 171) What does it mean to be the word of God? If you were to read the injeel,it says that the Word was with God, and was God. So if you were to eventually take the injeel as correct(which I hope you will), then wouldn't that make Isa, part of God? Isn't that what Christianity states? That Jesus is just one part of this bigger picture of God(father, son, holy spirit)?

Wow. Deep question. Ask an Imam this, out of my depth, here. I was more prepared for 'ALL MOSL3M3MS R T3H T3ROROITST' and the thing with the Woman and 40 lashes. Either way, it's out of my depth.

So wrong.

If anything, it's the other way around - we're doubly good despite religion not because of it.

Clash of opine, eh...But religion tells you to do some morally disgusting things, which 1000 years ago were fine. Not carrying these out, despite the possible tormet of Shaytans domain means you are going against fear.

Athiest or the agnostic one? I forgot.

Wow. Deep question. Ask an Imam this, out of my depth, here. I was more prepared for 'ALL MOSL3M3MS R T3H T3ROROITST' and the thing with the Woman and 40 lashes. Either way, it's out of my depth.
.



Dang it. Now when I ask more devout muslims about this stuff, they ignore, or get pissed. I'm never going to find the answers I'm looking for.:(

Before I start, I'd like to thank you for taking your time to answer any questions.

First of all, I would like to know... what do you think of the Danish cartoons that caused such a stir a while back? Even many "moderate" Muslims seemed fairly angry about it.

I know that in the aftermath of the incident, when Sir Iqbal Sacranie--who is, from what I understand, widely regarded as a leading moderate Muslim in Britain-- was interviewed and was asked a question about a comment he'd made previously about Salaman Rushdie. He stood by his earlier comment that "death is perhaps too easy for him." All for the "crime" of writing a book!

Secondly, what does Islam teach about hell? I've never heard quite a clear answer on this. I know that Christians believe that I, for the "crime" of having false information, will suffer unimaginable torture for all eternity, with no hope of respite or escape. That doesn't seem like the act of a loving God to me at all! I try to live my life as best I can, and do right to others, and I hope that when I die the world will have been a better place for my having been here. Does Islam condemn me to eternal torment for that, like Christianity does?

And lastly, do Muslims tend to take the young earth creationism thing literally, like most Christians do, or do more of you believe that your creation story is allegorical?

The long words are not good for my mental state.

Of course, there are differences, but there is a majority of rules and moral conducts that remain similar.

I think thats what you meant (ish)

Sorry, too much theological study... What I was highlighting was a primary element of similarity between Abrahamic faiths (Christian, Islam, Judaism), in that their is a redemptive operation (an action by God, to redeem, or to put it simpler, to purchase back man from the debt of his sins, to restore mankind in good standing before God)... In all cases there, between the three, in their relation, it is based upon a sacrificial element to the religion; though the precise sacrificial element differs... All three view the world in conflict between the moral and the immoral, another similarity.

Zilam, not zalim. IIRC, in Urdu Zalim is like...terrible or something?

1) In Islam, prophets are supposed to be sinless, and without fault, no? 2) Why would I follow text that just applies to ancients? Quraan is supposed to be the FINAL revelation of Allah(swt), meaning it is good for all generations, right? So, they should be held to certain standards today.

Why did you start a thread about defending your deen, if you are no devout?
Yes, and he was wrong for that. And at the time, he wasn't called as a prophet. Mohammad did these things WHILE he was being called to be a prophet. It would be more understandable if he was a kufr doing it, but he was called to be a prophet. Prophets are to be pure, and holy, right? Perfect, and without sin, yes?


Moses never said to kill people for insulting though. Mohammad did. Why would a holy prophet of the most high God, be blood thirsty over silly insults? When the people mocked Isa, he would bless and pray for them. Isn't THAT how a man of God should be?

1) In all religions, yes, but the only person I know who has been a sinless Prophet was Jesus, but thats Christianity.

2) Did you read an Arabic version? We are told the final revelation shall be written 200 years before the day of revelation.

I am devout, but there are many people far more capable then I at answering questions like that in a satisfactory way. At the end of the day, Moses and Mo (:p) are both Prophets, though.

You do not think Mohammed (Pbuh) is not the true Prophet? Fair enough. Do you wish to worship Isa?

I think Mohammed (Pbuh) may have had some issues, and I think he gave the big picture of Islam, but for the finer details, we must look at Isa, and those who were more compassionate. Mohammed (Pbuh) is seen more as a *ahem* aggressive defender of the faith.

Moses liked to lynch people because they were different. Im pretty sure he killed someone for calling him 'big nose' or something.

Before I start, I'd like to thank you for taking your time to answer any questions.

First of all, I would like to know... what do you think of the Danish cartoons that caused such a stir a while back? Even many "moderate" Muslims seemed fairly angry about it.

I know that in the aftermath of the incident, when Sir Iqbal Sacranie--who is, from what I understand, widely regarded as a leading moderate Muslim in Britain-- was interviewed and was asked a question about a comment he'd made previously about Salaman Rushdie. He stood by his earlier comment that "death is perhaps too easy for him." All for the "crime" of writing a book!

Secondly, what does Islam teach about hell? I've never heard quite a clear answer on this. I know that Christians believe that I, for the "crime" of having false information, will suffer unimaginable torture for all eternity, with no hope of respite or escape. That doesn't seem like the act of a loving God to me at all! I try to live my life as best I can, and do right to others, and I hope that when I die the world will have been a better place for my having been here. Does Islam condemn me to eternal torment for that, like Christianity does?

And lastly, do Muslims tend to take the young earth creationism thing literally, like most Christians do, or do more of you believe that your creation story is allegorical?

Obviously, all of these vary with whether you're Shia, or Sunni, etc.

The Danish Cartoons were a bit of a joke, not to be taken literally. Our Imam laughed at them. I think the majority over reacted, in a shameful way. However, I see why it provoked that response. It was an extreme message, portayed in a tasteless way.

Mr Rushdie said things that were quite bad news for the Islamic community. Death is too far, much too far. Much like the cartoon, however much you disagree with it, we are all still entitled to freedom of speech. Sacranie went to far. He was seen quite negatively after that. Lord Ahmed is much nicer.

Muslims believe in a hell like place, ruled by Shaytan. However, we believe you do not need to be Muslim to go there, or not go there. Leading a bad life, such as killing Rushdie, will take you there, whereas doing nice things, such as praying for Rushdie's long life, will take you to heaven.

I personally believe that the Universe is 6.4 billion years old, and Allah pressed a button which made the Big Bang happen, and he currently guides evolution. Most Muslims (In the East), however, are ill educated, and are more likely to believe word for word the creation story.

Moses liked to lynch people because they were different. Im pretty sure he killed someone for calling him 'big nose' or something.

All of that stuff I said about Lunatic Goofballs, reeses in people's bosoms, a PCP drug cult in Kansas, and wearing a superhero costume in Mexico...all of that, seems less silly then what you just said.

Source?

I mean, if you had said that Abraham pulled a shank on a guy over a game of "gag the chicken" behind a barn in suburban Babylon, we'd know you were kidding. The way you've written it above makes it almost sound serious.

All of that stuff I said about Lunatic Goofballs, reeses in people's bosoms, a PCP drug cult in Kansas, and wearing a superhero costume in Mexico...all of that, seems less silly then what you just said.

Source?

I mean, if you had said that Abraham pulled a shank on a guy over a game of "gag the chicken" behind a barn in suburban Babylon, we'd know you were kidding. The way you've written it above makes it almost sound serious.

I'm using it as a joke, nothing else, but I'll see if I can find a quote to do with massacring people after the Jewish people as a race were insulted.

Caninites? Midanites? Two off the top of my head. Moses massacred people after they insulted his race, believed something different to him, didn't support his ideas, treated their women equally, etc.

I'm sorry it sounded serious. English is not my first language, so I cannot convey subtleties in a written format well.