9 August 2014

Why I'm Glad I Am No Longer a Muslim

At first I was saddened by the hundreds of Palestinians daily been killed by their Israeli neighbours, most of them women and children. News reports were filled with images of desperate fathers running into hospitals holding their dead and injured children in their arms, blood stains everywhere and distraught women weeping for their lost relatives amidst the ruins of what was once their houses.

(I apologise in advance for the gruesome pictures you're about to see, but I deemed it necessary to illustrate my point.)

 Horrid pictures of the deaths and devastation of Palestinians at the hands of Israelis

I had arguments with family members who were in support of Israel. They said that as Christians we must support Israel no matter what, because they are God's chosen people and those who bless them are blessed, and those who curse them are cursed.

But I said that with all the military might Israel have, bought with the millions in funding from the US and Europe, their assault against the weakened Palestinians was akin to killing an ant with a sledgehammer. It was overkill and inhumane to use such brutal force against an enemy already on its knees and cause their weakest members to bear the brunt of the battle.

I said that the Palestinians had been forcefully evicted from their lands and forced to exist in the Gaza Strip of land where all their food and supplies were administered to them by Israel in a sort of imposed rationing, that their fighters were a fraction of Israel's army in number and in might, and that the rockets they repeatedly sent into Israel did little harm due to Israel's superior defenses: only one Israeli civilian had been killed since the recent fighting started, whereas Israel's rockets has killed almost 2, 000 Palestinian civilians.

I was quite proud of my compassion, and was very much on the side of most of the mainstream media in denouncing Israel's campaign, and particularly loved this brilliant 'breakdown of ignorance' by Russell Brand against America's Fox news and their myopic view of the Israel/Palestine situation.

Iraqi Christians Under Attack by Islamic State (IS)

But then the news about the plight of Iraqi Christians (and Iraqi minority group the Yazidis) broke. Both groups had long been persecuted in the majority-Muslim Iraq and around 100, 000 had now been forced to flee their homes after IS (Islamic State, formerly ISIS) took over their main town Qaraqosh. The IS soldiers gave them ultimatums: convert to Islam, leave or give up their money and gold, so most left, were killed or were kidnapped. Many were now stranded on the mountains, causing the US to resume attacks on Iraq and drop aid parcels to the fleeing families.

Then pictures of slaughtered Christians came forth; from beheaded children to Christian men rounded up, tied up and led to a space where they were told to kneel and were shot. Some of them were crucified in mock allusions to their faith, and hundreds of their young women were kidnapped to be used as slaves or married off to Muslim fighters.

Horrid pictures of Iraqi Christians executed, children beheaded and forced crucifixions by Islamic State (IS)

Boko Haram Did Not #BringBackOurGirls
This of course echoes the plight of the hundreds of girls (majority Christian) abducted by Muslim extremists Boko Haram from their schools in Borno State, Northern Nigeria. Many have reportedly become pregnant and some are rumoured to have been radicalised to the point of becoming suicide bombers.

The remains of a female suicide bomber in Northern Nigeria, compared with a picture of one of the girls kidnapped in Chibok by Boko Haram. Looks like the same girl doesn't it?

In Nigeria of course, Boko Haram have been terrorising Northern states including the capital Abuja, thousands (I'd say up to a million) have been killed in the years since their rise and I even saw a shocking video of BH militants beheading a man, actually cutting his neck with a not-too-sharp knife whilst they all shout 'Allahu Akbar,' snapping the neck back to break it off then holding the severed head aloft and declaring it a victory for Allah. I saw it with my own eyes and almost threw up.

British Muslims Becoming Fighters
Meanwhile the war in Syria continues in the background, but the worrying thing is that many British Muslims have traveled to not only Syria but also Iraq to join in the fighting. 

One story involves 16 year old twin girls from a Somalian background who were born and bred in the UK and had intentions of studying medicine. They snuck out of their homes one night a couple of months ago to travel to Syria to become 'Jihadi Brides.' Their brother went first and was filmed threatening the West in the familiar 'Terrorist Video' scene. And when the girls found out about their infamy back in England, one of them mocked the situation on Twitter by saying that they'd rather be doctors for ISIS than for the British.

 One of the twin girls who ran away from England to support the Muslims in Syria

Also in England recently was the furore caused by certain schools in Birmingham that has 99% Muslim students been taken over by their parents, who became school governors and eventually used strong arm tactics to remove head teachers or staff who didn't comply with the strict Islamic culture they'd instituted in the schools (separate classes for boys and girls, highly Islamicized lessons, no clapping, no music, trips to Saudi Arabia, quoting blacklisted Imams in school literature, no mention of Christmas in December and blatant slurs against Christians in assemblies).

The British authorities finally found out about this and hurriedly put measures in place to make sure no state schools in Britain could be surreptitiously turned into faith schools that could become havens for radicalisation.

Recently in the news, it was also revealed that some Muslims were openly handing out leaflets in London's Oxford Street encouraging Muslims to relocate to Iraq to fight for ISIS.

No More Sympathy for Palestine
So at first I was sympathetic to the plight of the Palestinians, but now I'm not. After reviewing the multiple situations around the world where Muslims are making the news, my sense of solidarity with Palestinian Muslims has almost disappeared.

From Nigeria to Iraq to Syria to England, then also in Egypt where Coptic Christians cry out against the mass kidnappings of their daughters by Muslim men, and countries like Saudi Arabia where to be openly Christian is to invite persecution and where churches are not welcome, and Iran whose former President spewed hate against Israel and the West, and the 1915 genocide of over a million Armenian Christians by the ruling Ottoman Muslims of Turkey, Islam has proven to be an inhospitable religion which cannot live at peace with neighbours of another faith.

Imagine if the most powerful country in the world, the US were an Islamic country. Just imagine who the funding and weapons would empower, and what that would mean for the safety and stability of non-Muslims the world over.

I believe that if not for international support, Israel as a country surrounded by muslims as it is would have been obliterated. Israel attack because they know that if the shoe was on the other foot, Palestine would have shown them absolutely no mercy. I agree. Even now, though their people are dying in the hundreds daily and a ceasefire is entirely in their best interests, Hamas refuses to give up shooting their missiles even though their attacks are but pin-pricks against Israel's defenses. Their refusal to give up shows that the hatred is not one-sided.

Religion of Peace?
Muslims often state that those that kill in the name of Allah are not real Muslims, and Islam is a religion of peace. But how many extremists out of the whole does it take for them to not be just a 'tiny minority' or 'sect' anymore? 10 percent? 30 percent? Members, sympathisers and supporters of Boko Haram, IS, Muslim Brotherhood, Al Qaeda and those that kill in Allah's name in Syria and around the world must number into the millions. In Iraq and Nigeria, previously friendly Muslims turned against the non-Muslims and helped IS and BH kill them; I've heard reports that countries like Saudi Arabia and Oman are directly funding IS, and it's an open secret that major political entities are funding BH in Nigeria for their own purposes.

Add to that number those that believe in and practice other gruesome extremities of Islam like honour killings (of converts out of Islam, 'Westernised' girls, adulterers etc), Sharia law-sanctioned stonings (where the guilty are buried in the ground up to their chests and stoned by the crowd until they die), and forced female circumcisions and we're getting close to half of all Muslims I'm sure.

And if the majority are peaceful, where is the evidence of the peace they are spreading? I see no groups representing peaceful Islam going into these places to stop their Muslim brothers and sisters from committing crimes against humanity. And as far as I know, the only protests by Muslims in Nigeria despite the Boko Haram menace was one in support of Palestine.

And if you ask IS or Al Qaeda or Boko Haram, they will tell you that they are practicing the truest form of Islam. It's either the scriptures they quote that sanction their actions is in the Quran; they twisted certain verses to fuel their hate; or it's not in the Quran and they made it up. I think it's a mixture of the first two.

Islam vs Christianity
Let's put Islam and Christianity side by side. The worst of Christianity happened centuries ago with The Crusades, when Christians evangelised vast swathes of the world by force using the sword. Muslims love to point to The Crusades as an example of militant Christianity. But, and this is a big BUT, since that relatively short-lived blip in the 2, 000 year history of Christianity, you have never heard of a large group of Christians killing people they don't know and committing other atrocious acts in the name of Jesus. No, not ever. Christians have been docile and law abiding for generations wherever they live.

You might have lone wackos that murder a few people randomly, but never a large and consistent group saying Jehovah God told them to kill non-believers and behead children, and shouting 'Jesus is Lord' when they do it. Even the US Christian preacher that threatened to burn the Quran was condemned by other Christians, including President Obama. Jesus never advocated violence against non-believers, yet Muhammad has been depicted in some unfavourable light in the Qur'an; as a man of war launching jihads and encouraging the killing of infidels.

Many Boko Haram members were said to have formerly being Christians, so why did they not commit such atrocities as Christians? Why was their conversion to Islam the catalyst to their murderous impulses?

What is it about Islam that causes its believers to want to kill?

Now, the best of Christianity includes countless world-wide charities founded on gospel principles that help millions in the world today, from World Vision to Christian Aid, Save the Children and many more. The West, a historically Christian entity, gives aid to poorer countries and founded the United Nations to ensure peace around the world. The US and the UK were historically (and largely remains) Christian, so its inventions, art and advances that continue to illuminate the world could be said to be thanks to Christianity.

American Dr Kent Brantly, who contracted Ebola whilst treating infected patients in Liberia, in a statement of faith more inspiring than any I have ever read, said:
“My wife Amber and I, along with our two children, did not move to Liberia for the specific purpose of fighting Ebola. We went to Liberia because we believe God called us to serve Him at ELWA Hospital. 
One thing I have learned is that following God often leads us to unexpected places. When Ebola spread into Liberia, my usual hospital work turned more and more toward treating the increasing number of Ebola patients. I held the hands of countless individuals as this terrible disease took their lives away from them. I witnessed the horror first-hand, and I can still remember every face and name.
“When I started feeling ill on that Wednesday morning, I immediately isolated myself until the test confirmed my diagnosis three days later. When the result was positive, I remember a deep sense of peace that was beyond all understanding. God was reminding me of what He had taught me years ago, that He will give me everything I need to be faithful to Him.
“Now it is two weeks later, and I am in a totally different setting. My focus, however, remains the same - to follow God. ”
 Dr Kent Brantly and his wife. He contracted Ebola in Liberia but is now back in the US and doing well after taking experimental drug ZMapp

That is Christianity in action: selfless believers traveling all over the world and facing huge dangers to help others through aid, schools or evangelism, never by force. Mostly they just travel to these places to help, like Dr Brantly- no preaching involved.

Now, the worst of Islam is what we see around the world daily, murders, forced conversions, kidnappings, 9/11, 7/7 and other atrocities too numerous to mention. And what is the best of Islam the world has seen? Apart from repeated assertions that Islam is a religion of peace by individual adherents, nothing major or world-renowned. No grand gestures of peace, no mass movements to spread the goodness and mercy or love found in Islam. People say countries like Saudi Arabia live in peace, yes, but only because they've suppressed other religions. Even in Dubai, the face of a modern Islamic country, are there churches there? Can a Christian go on the streets and preach the gospel and be listened to, ignored or mocked, but not arrested or tortured?

The marker of a truly accommodating country is one where all can practice their various religions freely, like in America and Europe (and England to the point where freedom of religion has resulted in Islamists taking over state schools).

I often think of the best places to live in that would be far from the dangers of Islamic-sponsored terrorism, which would be away from the West and countries where Muslims have power like Nigeria. Somewhere like Ghana - where Muslims are few and powerless - seems good to me.

So I'm Very Glad to be a Christian
I come from a Muslim background; my late father was a Muslim, and his side of the family are still Muslims. But I am now a Christian, and I thank God every blessed day for bringing me to faith in Him. I have seen the light, and it is good and pleasing in my sight. I am proud to be a Christian. I can hold my head up high knowing that anywhere I go, I can proclaim faith in Jesus without shame or pain knowing that people are killing in His name, and that I am negatively tainted by the sins of my brothers and sisters.

If I were a Muslim I would be distraught at what my fellow believers are doing. I would be grieved to share a God with a large chunk of people that have read in the same Holy Book I'm reading that God said to kill others to glorify him.

I am pleased that I know the truth and it has set me free. I am proud of the way Christians around the world conduct themselves: although often provoked by Muslims, as a group they never retaliate. Our faith says to turn the other cheek and lead people to Christ, but never compel them. No one can ever misquote Jesus and believe that killing non-Christians will make our God happy.

And no, I most strongly insist that the Christian God and Allah are not the same. How can they be, when one encourages half his followers to kill infidels in order to enter paradise, and the other says 'I have come that they might have life, and have it in abundance'?

I've had some Muslims email me asking me to return to Islam. I say to them all now: Never. Why would I? I have all I need in Christ, and His people, although quite imperfect, are not killing wantonly in His name. My God is good and gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in love. I worship Him not out of fear or compulsion or family tradition, but out of love, appreciation, gratitude and partial understanding of His ways. I have genuine examples of when I've seen Him in action, and God my Father has replaced and superseded my earthly father (whom I loved) in every way.

The fact I remain anonymous on this blog is testament to the intimidation and real fear of reprisals converts from Islam to Christianity face daily around the world, where many are killed by their own families for leaving the religion. But you will never hear of a former Christian that was killed by their families for converting to another religion. There is freedom in Christ, and this freedom I cherish dearly.

Islam before 9/11 held little attraction for me due to its subjugation of women, its distant, unknowable God, repetitive prayers that allow for little creativity in communication, and reading of holy texts in a foreign language, although I like the modest dress of its women and it's a fact that the majority of the people that helped me in Nigeria were Muslims.

But today more than ever, I am blessed and highly favored to be a Christian.

93 comments:

  1. I thank God in heaven for your testament. For we overcome by the testament of our words and the blood of the Lamb (revelations). Jehovah bless and keep you, and may he make his face shine upon you, now and forever more. In Jesus name, Amen

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  2. You have undoubtedly expressed what I think is your personal opinion and I do not begrudge you that. Allow me, a Nigerian Fulani Muslim (also living in Surrey) to do the same.Before I begin, let me clarify that I am not trying to urge you to Islam or to defend the actions of other Muslims around the world, I am simply trying to shed some light on Islam and respond to some points raised by this article. I would like to argue some of your "facts" and assumptions.
    You started off listing a few groups (ISIS, ALQaeda, Boko Haram etc) and claiming their actions and their beliefs represent Islam as a whole. That is wrong. Islam as a religion has never instructed its followers to oppress or persecute followers of other religions. After all, the first companions of the Prophet(SAW) and the Prophet(SAW) himself were persecuted simply for choosing to follow Islam. You cannot blame an entire faith for the actions of some followers of that faith. If a Muslim commits any crime or atrocity, blame the Muslim, don't blame Islam. Those groups you mentioned and the particular actions you cited are not endorsed nor encouraged by Islam. The Prophet(SAW) himself was reported to have instructed his followers saying "do not behave treacherously, nor misappropriate war-booty, nor mutilate those whom you kill, nor kill women nor kill children, nor people in cloisters". He also said "do not lay hands on the old verging on death, on women, children and babies". A verse of the Holy Quran stated "fight in the way of Allah those who fight against you and transgress not the limits. Verily Allah loves not the transgressors". These are proofs from our own scriptures that what these people perpetrate are wrong without a doubt. Judge Islam as a religion, not by the actions of the Muslims. Also, your assumption that those who support these groups "must number into the millions" is very far fetched and will be left as an ASSUMPTION. On the contrary, I assume that out of the 1.5 billion Muslims in the world, their supporters run into the hundreds of thousands at most. You asked for evidence of peace being spread by Islam, I ask you to consider the exponential growth in the followers of this religion which started off with barely 300 followers.
    I will not even begin to talk about the contents of the heading "Islam vs Christianity" because firstly, Islam and Christianity are two religions, there is no competition nor comparison to be made in matters of faith. Secondly, because I have already touched on the primary issue in the previous paragraph. I repeat, judge Islam as a religion, not by the actions of the Muslims. However, you said the only christian group that has perpetrated senseless acts of killings were the crusades, may I direct your attention to the Spanish Inquisition? You also said "The US and the UK were historically (and largely remains) Christian, so its inventions, art and advances that continue to illuminate the world could be said to be thanks to Christianity". This is a blatant falacy seeing as the basis of scientific and mathematical inventions were made mainly by the Muslim scientists hundreds of years ago such as the likes of Alkhawarizmi, Ibn Haytham, Al-razi, Al-Zahrawi, Al-biruni, Ibn Sina etc.
    The situations in Syria, Egypt, Libya and Palestine are politically driven. Leave religion out of it.
    Under the last heading, you pointed out that most of your life you've been helped mainly by Muslims. So why do you still ask for Muslim kindness when you are a direct recipient of it? Why do you also choose to focus on reports you heard of Islamic violence and ignore what you have seen firsthand?
    I leave the rest of your article as "personal opinion" and that I will never try to change. However, I implore upon you to consider Islam as a religion on its own, not as a shroud for whoever claims belief in this religion.

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    1. Thanks for your measured and mature response Mohammed, I appreciate it. I'll take your points on by one:

      1. If a Muslim commits any crime or atrocity, blame the Muslim, don't blame Islam.

      But what if the Muslim is committing the crime in the name of Islam, and shouting 'Allahu Akbar,' (Allah is great) whilst doing it? What if the name of their group is Islamic State, and what if they're committing these crimes after they told the victims to convert to Islam or die? What if they say they're trying to bring in Sharia law and boldly declare that they want to Islamicise the whole world? Would Islam have a role to play then? The truth is BH, IS, Al Queda, WANT the world to know that all they do is because of and is inspired by their religion. Even their names speaks of the Islamic impetus of their purpose. Their actions CANNOT be divorced from Islam because they have so intertwined the two. I can't call my group 'Jesus Saves' and shout 'Halleluyah , Jesus is Lord' when I do something and onlookers will not talk about my faith influencing my actions.

      2. Judge Islam as a religion, not by the actions of the Muslims

      But a religion IS judged solely by the behaviour of its adherents. We are ambassadors and witnesses to the unbelieving world of the faith we have. They can't SEE God or Mohammed, so they judge and learn about the religion through its followers. Jesus said 'the world will know you are mine by how much you love each other.' If I can't judge a religion by its followers, what can I judge it on? I'm sorry no, a religion MUST be judged by its followers, that's why Ghandi unfortunately said 'I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.' Some Christians fall short, but yet they will continue to be the marker of what it means to be a Christian, so too Muslims everywhere will continue to be judged, otherwise don't call yourself a Muslim.

      3. You asked for evidence of peace being spread by Islam, I ask you to consider the exponential growth in the followers of this religion which started off with barely 300 followers.

      That the growth of Islam over centuries was largely brought about by conquests and jihads and reproduction is not in doubt. Being born into it and being forced into it shouldn't be counted as 'exponential growth' because it's not organic in the evangelical sense of the word. And Islamic countries have higher numbers of births on average too. The numbers of adult converts into Islam, minus compulsion, I would imagine is lower. Christians evangelise and spread the gospel message, I would say Christianity has grown more by word of mouth and adult conversions following honest conviction than Islam.

      4. May I direct your attention to the Spanish Inquisition

      Again a historic and short-lived blip in Christian history. Focus on the last two hundred years and you will find zero large-scale murders committed by a group boasting that Jesus made them do it and forcing victims to convert to Christianity or die.

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    2. 5. The basis of scientific and mathematical inventions were made mainly by the Muslim scientists hundreds of years ago such as the likes of Alkhawarizmi, Ibn Haytham, Al-razi, Al-Zahrawi, Al-biruni, Ibn Sina etc.

      The names you mentioned are unknown to non-Muslims. Maybe in the Muslim world these names mean something, but in the history of western invention and innovation that continue to illuminate the whole world, from the internet to aspirin to the telephone, a Christian/Western basis for these advances cannot be denied. Literature and art until the last few centuries were almost always hugely Biblical in their inspiration. If it was invented in Europe or America, I claim it for Christianity.

      6. The situations in Syria, Egypt, Libya and Palestine are politically driven. Leave religion out of it.

      No, religion is a HUGE aspect of it all, in fact Islam forms the basis and inspiration for what many of the splinter political groups in these countries do. What of Egypt's Muslim Brotherhood? Don't the names point to something? You can't tell me that Palestine and the issues there have no relation to religion?? The whole thing is based on what the Jews say is their God-given lands, and Palestinians don't recognise the Jewish State because they believe Jews are infidels. Islam is the foundation of much of the political power systems in the Middle East and North Africa, whether expressly or covertly.

      7. So why do you still ask for Muslim kindness when you are a direct recipient of it?

      I don't mean individual acts of kindness, I mean large movements of Muslims coming together with the aim of spreading the peace they always profess but the world never sees. I'm talking about on a world stage, protests by peaceful Muslims, Muslims going into Iraq to quell the actions of their brothers, Muslims united en mass in speaking against IS or BH. Big numbers. Not just silence by Muslim countries. When ONE pastor in American threatened to burn the Quran, Christians everywhere told him not to do it and spoke out. What are peaceful Muslims doing to stop the killings by non-peaceful Muslims around the world?

      I know there are Muslims outraged by what is happening. But I cannot divorce the actions of to me, a HUGE group of Muslims, who expressly proclaim their faith in Allah when they behead children, from Islam. Islam as a religion cannot stand apart from the behaviour of its people. It cannot. Islam on its own is an abstract thing, it is what its believers do that brings it to life.

      If a murderer says he is a Muslim, he is. His actions might grieve you, but he is still a Muslim in his mind and in mine. Islam is a shroud for you doing what you do, and for him doing what he does.

      Islam and The Quran must take responsibility for what people are doing under its shroud and its name. There are too many and it's too serious for it to be explained away with 'Well, they're not really Muslims,' especially when they themselves shout and declare many times that they are.

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    3. PS
      Sorry I spelt your name wrong, Muhammad.

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  3. This post speaks a lot to me and captures a lot of the thoughts I have had in the past few weeks. Like Fulani-Nigerian, I spoke out against Israel. I called them bullies. I knew that Hamas fires rockets hoping that it would hit someone, perhaps even a school. Yet, I felt that Israel had to be the bigger person (after all their weapons are better) and the Palestinians had been unfairly treated especially with regards to the creation of Israel and their forceful evictions. Like you, I refused to align myself with those that said as a Christian, you have to be pro-Israel. I still do not think so by the way. The peace of Jerusalem to me does not mean that it has to be inhabited by Jews only. To me, there is a more spiritual meaning to Jerusalem, its peace and how it fits in with God’s end-time plans. But I digress. Lots of my Muslims friends daily posted on Facebook and other social media about the so called atrocities committed by Israel in the Gaza strip. Some even said thank God Hitler killed lots of the Jews and wished that there would be another Hitler. Forgetting that Hitler was anti-black, anti-religion, anti anything but Aryan supremacy.

    Fast forward to the Islamic State murdering Christians in Iraq ------ and silence from Muslims. I realized that for most of my friends, protesting against Israel’s actions in Gaza was simply about solidarity with the Muslim ummah rather than compassion and humanity. What makes the lives of Muslims more valuable than the lives of Christians? Thousands are being murdered by Boko Haram in Nigeria, no Muslim body or individual speaks out against them. Yet, Shia adherents in Zaria thought it fit to ignore the burning bush in their own backyard and protest against Israel’s actions in Gaza. Maybe a Muslim reading this can explain to me why you only get passionate about atrocities committed against the Muslim brethren?

    That being said, I am aware that not all Muslims think this way and that not all Muslims will kill me in defense of their religion but majority rules….. The pictures of the beheadings in Iraq were very disturbing. I can maybe understand a group of idiots twisting some religious verbs to advance their political agenda but I do not understand the many civilian spectators watching and cheering at the beheadings and taking pictures/videos with their phones.

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    1. Thanks for your comment Anonymous. I totally agree about what you said here: "Maybe a Muslim reading this can explain to me why you only get passionate about atrocities committed against the Muslim brethren?" And here: "I do not understand the many civilian spectators watching and cheering at the beheadings and taking pictures/videos with their phones."

      I honestly would like answers from Muslims about these too.

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  4. Islam is submission to the will of Allah. Muslims will never be in peace with you unless you have submitted to the religion of Allah. It is like saying to someone, I am a peaceful person, I love peace, I preach peace, my name is peace but I can only be in peace with you if you be my slave.

    Historically, Northern Nigerian was conquered by Islam with the aid of the sword and voilence, you either accept to live or reject to be killed. Only the outcome of either option can Islamic peace be ushered in.

    "And fight them until there is no more fitnah (disbelief and polytheism, i.e. worshiping others besides Allah) and the religion (worship) will all be for Allah alone (in the whole world). But if they cease (worshiping others besides Allah) then certainly, Allah is All-Seer of what they do." (Sura 8.39).

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    1. Hi Shedrach, you know at first I couldn't decide whether you were being ironic or if you really believe your comment, until you quoted the Surah. But let's say you really believe it, it means that there will be no peace on earth until everyone is a Muslim, and you envision a world where no other religion may exist except Islam, and former non-believers are your slaves? Oh horror of horrors.

      By the way, you cannot be a peaceful person, love peace, preach peace and be called peace unless you PRACTICE peace in every circumstance, whether you have your way or not. To embody peace is to work to introduce it in every situation. You cannot constantly create war and say you love peace, what oxymoronic nonsense. And sooner or later, the violence you expend on infidels will spill out unto your own family and loved ones like molten lava that can't be contained, and will eventually destroy you too.

      I'm starting to think that Islamic peace is really no peace at all, but a form of imposed hell for non-Muslims. I shudder at the existence of people who believe as you do, and part of me still hopes that you are been ironic.

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    2. Well, you have wondered why there are so many Jihadists (It is only in the West it is called Terrorists) in Islam, I have provided you an answer most Muslims in the West are ignorant or too ashamed of.

      ‘Fighting is prescribed for you, and ye dislike it. But it is possible that ye dislike a thing which is good for you, and that ye love a thing which is bad for you. But Allah knoweth, and ye know not’ [Quran 2:216].

      So you did not slay them, but it was Allah Who slew them, and you did not smite when you smote (the enemy), but it was Allah Who smote, and that He might confer upon the believers a good gift from Himself; surely Allah is Hearing, Knowing’ [Quran 8:17]

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    3. Fulani-Nigerian, I don't think shedrach is a Muslim. He or she is just telling you how some Muslims think and suras that back the reasoning. From shedrach's blogger profile, she is a Christian.

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    4. I see what you mean Anonymous, that makes more sense. Although I looked at the blogger profile and couldn't tell the gender or religion, plus Shedrach is a male Hebrew name.

      "I have provided you an answer most Muslims in the West are ignorant or too ashamed of" - I agree. There are many uncomfortable suras like the ones Shedrach quoted that peaceful Muslims ignore and non-peaceful Muslims use to fuel their campaigns.

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  5. Fight those who do not believe in Allah or in the Last Day and who do not consider unlawful what Allah and His Messenger have made unlawful and who do not adopt the religion of truth from those who were given the Scripture - [fight] until they give the jizyah willingly while they are humbled
    Surat At-Tawbah 9:29

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  6. O you who have believed, do not take the Jews and the Christians as allies. They are [in fact] allies of one another. And whoever is an ally to them among you - then indeed, he is [one] of them. Indeed, Allah guides not the wrongdoing people.
    Surat Al-Mā'idah 5:51

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  7. Dear Fulani-Nigerian,
    I would like to start by saying by no means am I trying to convert you to Islam since I am irreligious anyway.

    Firstly, I find it particularly disturbing how you seem to almost justify the killings of Palestinian civilians because Muslims oppress religious minorities in other countries. But since when can that be a logic for anything? For eg the fact that Christians in Angola oppress Muslims does not reduce the sympathy I have for the Christians in Saudi Arabia. Oppression is oppression plain and simple and must be detested in all forms.
    Your argument about the shoe being on the other foot I also find unfair, because even if the roles were reversed I fail to see how innocent Palestinian children many of whom are being slaughtered right now would lead the bombing campaign against Israel, it makes no sense. What Israel has done especially in bombing Schools and Hospitals is MURDER end of story and I cannot possibly fathom any rational justification for it.

    Secondly, I find it troubling how you list all the problems committed by certain Muslims and label it Islam yet don't want to do the same with Christianity. Anyone can commit an atrocious act and do it in the name of the religion, does that mean that therefore is the religion?
    Let's take a look at history:-The transatlantic slave trade was often justified by Christians and constantly heralded as a merciful act of bringing the Negro to a so called Christian land. Does that mean Christianity is a religion of slavery? (I am also well aware of the Oriental slave trade by Muslims)
    - Or was it Christianity when Christians were wiping out the indigenous populations of the Americas without a second thought, and those that had the narrow chance of survival were enslaved.
    -Or was it Christianity when Sephardi Jews were expelled from the Iberian Peninsula simply for being Jewish?
    - Or was that Christianity when the catholic pope placed his blessings on the bombs used to destroy villages in Abyssinia in the name of spreading the religion.
    My point is I don't point to these instances and use it to badmouth the whole religion.

    Another point worth making is that these terrorist groups including IS,Al Qaeda,AQIM and the Taliban overwhelmingly target,oppress and kill MUSLIMS, therefore it is bizarre for me to think they represent Islam if the majority of those they harm are adherents to the same faith.

    Lastly, I think you largely proved my point within your first paragraph. I find it INCREDIBLY worrying that in this day and age there are still opinions within Christianity that the state of Israel must be supported NO MATTER WHAT, no evidence, no morals, no debate whatsoever, that surely can never lead to peace.

    PS:This may sound bad but this is the only article you've written I disagree with, I only wrote this for the purpose of intellectual debate around a hot topic from one Fulani to another.

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    1. Hi Fulasaiyan, thanks for your comment. Let me address some of your points:

      1. By no means am I trying to convert you to Islam since I am irreligious anyway.

      Why would you defend Islam so strongly if you're irreligious? Surely none of what I wrote would prick your conscience enough to write such a lengthy rebuttal if you were really irreligious?

      2. I find it particularly disturbing how you seem to almost justify the killings of Palestinian civilians

      I did no such thing. I stated that I defended Palestinians at first, but now my solidarity with them has almost disappeared. I still think it's atrocious what they're going through, but I shall no longer stand up for them.

      3. The fact that Christians in Angola oppress Muslims does not reduce the sympathy I have for the Christians in Saudi Arabia

      You'll be the first Muslim (or irreligious Islam-sympathizer) that I have heard speak publicly against violence against Christians. Mostly it's just silence or a defense of Islam.

      4. Your argument about the shoe being on the other foot I also find unfair, because even if the roles were reversed I fail to see how innocent Palestinian children many of whom are being slaughtered right now would lead the bombing campaign against Israel, it makes no sense.

      The above sentence makes no sense. What I said was that if the roles were reversed and Hamas had the military might, they would destroy Israel mercilessly. I never implied that children would lead the slaughter...why on earth would I say that?

      5. I find it troubling how you list all the problems committed by certain Muslims and label it Islam yet don't want to do the same with Christianity.

      I mentioned the Crusades, and slavery and much of the others you mentioned were done in the past by Christians, granted, but with IS, BH etc, these things are being done TODAY, in the age of enlightenment and modernity, and blatantly in the name of Allah complete with Allahu Akbar accompanying each atrocity. Slavery and annihilation of various indigenous peoples was done in the name of capitalism and empire, the Bible was an addendum.

      The truth is that no matter the examples you look for of Christian violence, it can in no way compare to the widespread mayhem unleashed on the world by Islam today and in history (much of it undocumented of course). You and I know that Christianity is more 'turn the other cheek' than 'kill the infidel' any day.

      6. I find it INCREDIBLY worrying that in this day and age there are still opinions within Christianity that the state of Israel must be supported NO MATTER WHAT.

      Yes, I agreed with you in my post and now. I believe that Israel is defending itself because of fear and paranoia, after all it is surrounded on all sides by Islamic countries most of whom have vowed to obliterate them any chance they get. But this doesn't mean they are always right on every decision they make.

      7. This is the only article you've written I disagree with

      That's OK. I write purely on matters that move me, and though I've refrained from delving into religious debate in the past, I felt compelled to speak at this time. I appreciate your engagement.

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  8. I read these comments and I wonder what happened to objectivity. If you start an analysis looking for red, then you will only see red.

    Two things I would say to the person who honestly wants an explanation to behavior of Muslims around the world that they see is to not be caught up in the verbiage, and all the jihad talk. No jihad analysis helps in understanding what's happening around the world. What's happening is all political struggles, using religious language.

    However, there are concepts that are helpful in understanding what's going on. One is "an eye for an eye." The other is an arab proverb, "against my cousin, I stand with my brother, against, a stranger, I stand with my cousin."

    When Hamas launches a strike against Israel, and they happen to kill some Israelis, many are happy, because any deaths is an eye. In Iraq, many were indifferent (I don't know if it was a small percentage or a large percentage) to the killing of non-Sunnis (including Shia) because these people are strangers. These people ruled Iraq for over 30-years and now the Shia and Kurds, are ruling the country. Many Sunnis died fighting the Americans and the Shia Iraqi government. Many of these Sunnis want an eye for an eye. They probably consider the Christians and the Yazidis in bed with the Enemy....the Shia (also Muslims)

    Most of the major struggles throughout the Muslim world are political struggles, Israel stole land from Palestinians and Palestinians want their land back. Sunnis lost Iraq and they want it back. Rail and lost control in Afghanistan and they want it back. Boko Haram wants to rule the north of Nigeria. Somalia Islamists want to take control of Somalia back.

    Muslims live in the less developed world, not only from a material standpoint, but also from a pluralistic standpoint. The sharing of ideas without bloodshed is still not as developed. In fact, how can it be developed when for the past 50 years many of these nations were run by tyrants who brutalized populations looking for any freedoms. Many of these tyrants were promoted or supported by the West. So, it is not a fair comparison to judge the Muslims of these countries to the standards of the most modern western societies with established democratic institutions. A better comparison would be Eastern Europe. Now, if we look at Eastern Europe, they have as many problems as the Muslim countries. In fact, the brutality committed by Christians in areas such Croatia, Bosnia, and the Balkans is worse than any atrocities of any Muslims.

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    1. Hi Talib. I must say that this post is not objective at all, it's my thoughts on the issue from a Christian point of view so it's highly subjective and highly personalized, as is my whole blog.

      I take your point about Eastern Europe and the atrocities that happened there. Although they didn't ride in with flags depicting the cross and shouting 'Jesus is Lord' as they killed, making it obvious that it's a Christ-inspired violence. That's part of my issue when you say IS et al is political, because it's overwhelmingly religious in my eyes: their intent is Islamicise the world. Religion is their politics.

      There's also one thing I still ask: where is the compound outrage from Muslims in the West against what is happening? Why haven't 'normal' Muslims risen up to denounce these things? Otherwise this evil will prevail because the good men do nothing.

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  9. Dear Fulani-Nigerian,
    Thanks for your response and you've definitely cleared up most of the points I had a problem with.
    The one thing I would like to clear up is BY NO MEANS am I a Muslim like you I too was a Muslim and I am sure you are already aware of the ghastly punishment for apostasy in Islam.
    There are many things I disagree with in Islam and contributed to me leaving some of which you mentioned such as the absolute nature of the religion (Us vs Them the disbelievers), the proposed tax on non-Muslims by the Shariah, subjugation of women for just being female and of course the homophobia which exists which I also despise.
    BUT, terrorism is something I could never associate with Islam ever, it is simply irreconcilable with the teachings of the Qur'an. I think, leaving Islam using terrorism as an excuse would be the easiest thing to do, but I just cannot do it.
    Trust me I dislike Islam as a religion, but terrorism is not one of the reasons I dislike it.
    PS: Yes I am very much against the oppression of non-Muslims in Muslim countries especially Saudi Arabia (a state in which I hate how it runs).
    Thanks for a great response
    Peace!

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    1. Thanks for your honesty Fulasaiyan. I had a feeling you were an ex-Muslim. You're very brave for standing up for what you believe and for speaking about it here.

      It's funny though that the one thing - terrorism- that speaks loudly to me against Islam is the least of your issues with the religion.

      Thanks for your great insights!

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  10. Attached is an interesting article that demonstrates demonstrates what many of us have been saying, that many of these jihadis don't do what they do because of the religions, many of them don't know the basics. The reasons for their leaving London to fight etc. has to do with alienation, some sense of purpose, doing something....Religion is just used by recruiters to capture their imagination.

    http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/mehdi-hasan/jihadist-radicalisation-islam-for-dummies_b_5697160.html


    In 2008, a classified briefing note on radicalisation, prepared by MI5's behavioural science unit, was leaked to the Guardian. It revealed that, "far from being religious zealots, a large number of those involved in terrorism do not practise their faith regularly. Many lack religious literacy and could . . . be regarded as religious novices." The analysts concluded that "a well-established religious identity actually protects against violent radicalisation", the newspaper said.

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    1. Interesting article, but I don't buy it because:

      1) There are disaffected youths every where, but why do only the Muslims become radicalised? Why don't huge groups of marginalised Hindus, atheists, Christians or Rastafarians reach for violence in the name of their religion?

      2) Groups like IS et al depend on these 'disaffected' young men to swell their ranks, is that coincidence or by design? What came first, the disaffected youth or the Jihads around the world that gives them murderous expression?

      3) Being ignorant of your faith doesn't excuse you if you kill others because of that faith. If a church-going Christian murdered a child tomorrow and said Jesus made them do it, no one would care whether his understanding of Christianity was minimal, they would say 'there goes the Christian murderer.'

      4) This article implies that just a little understanding of Islam can lead people to kill, and that on its own is problematic. Why should a cursory look at Islam lead people to crime? I wonder at the power of the words, though few or misunderstood, that would incite someone to do such things in the name of Allah.

      5) Many of these young men grew up in Muslim homes, so Islam isn't totally a new thing to them unless they were adult converts.

      6) If they really were 'religious novices,' then when they present themselves for Jihad, why don't the older Muslims stop them? Or are all IS and Al Queda members similarly disaffected young men? There are no older, wiser men amongst their ranks or that could have stopped them before they got violent and say 'wait guys, the Qu'ran doesn't approve of this'? Why aren't the wiser Mullahs in mosques around the world preaching against this kind of Jihadist Islam and warning young men that it's not right? The truth about Islam should have been preached LOUDLY since 9/11 at least, so that no one can even *think* about killing for Allah without having heard that it's unacceptable.

      7) If this article was meant to absolve some British Muslims that travel to Iraq and Syria for Jihad, fine, but what of the other Middle-Eastern and African Muslims all around the world that are committing atrocities? Are they all religious novices too?

      This is the old 'they weren't really Muslims' excuse. I prefer the 'they misunderstood the Koran' explanation myself. Because as I said earlier, if the Jihadist says he's a muslim, then I believe him, and the depth of his knowledge of Islam is frankly irrelevant.

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  11. Fulani-Nigerian, it's auchomage.
    I wasn't aware of the religious issues between Islam and Christianity until I had visited Nigeria, and following political events there. Both religions in that country are characterised by having violent, strident and intolerant followers.

    I personally had to take a step back, and rationalise it like this "there are good and bad people everywhere". There have been cases of mosques being burnt down and Muslims attacked by "Christians" in Central and Southern Nigeria. It is true Northern Nigeria has perfected the art of "religious/ethnic riots", they have been encouraged to do so by some of political/religious elite of Northern Nigeria (who are encouraged and backed by the Saudis and others from the Middle East) people who want to see Nigeria fail completely.

    It is true, from the examples you cited that you could tar the entire Muslim branch of humanity as supporting violence and destruction of "non-believers" in the name of religion, I personally believe that would be a mistake, as the majority of Muslims are peaceful, and that would be unjust.

    Secularism allows space for people who follow various faiths, and for those who have no faith. They can all co-exist without anyone one faith dominating the other, unlike what we are seeing in Iraq, Syria and now Nigeria.

    Frankly, to live in a society where religion is constantly being rammed down your throat through the media and peer pressure for me is totally unbearable. That is what Nigeria has become in my eyes today. Religious people should back off, and keep their faith as a personal matter.

    Secular societies allow freedom of thought, expression and individuality which for me are crucial for satisfactory existence.

    For me secularism is the best way. I don't believe it is by coincidence that secular societies attract people from around the world and are amongst the most advanced societies in the world today.

    Maybe you disagree, but that is fine as the UK has a strong democratic tradition and secularism is alive and well.

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    1. Hello auchomage, I totally agree with you, there should be a separation of church and state and religion should not dictate politics. From a Christian perspective, Jesus never came to govern and didn't concern himself with gaining power. Religion is easily corrupted by power.

      The UK though historically Christian, is today a secular society where all religions are free to 'roam,' and that's wonderful.

      I wrote about the strong influence of religion in Nigeria here: http://hausanigerian.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/religion-in-nigeria-god-vs-money.html

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    2. Fulani-Nigerian
      Thank you for the link, I will be sure to read it, shortly.
      We all have to learn to get along, otherwise we are all finished.

      Will you be writing a piece on the reactions of African governments and peoples to the rapid spread of Ebola in Africa?

      Thank you.

      auchomage

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    3. Well, so far I haven't felt the familiar urge to write here about Ebola, although I've steadfastly followed all the updates on the virus and been moved and saddened by many aspects of reports.

      But perhaps. Thanks for asking though! :)

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  12. You are almost 100% correct in your analysis except you missed one glaring fact: all these terror groups you mentioned are directly or indirectly created and nurtured by the Western powers for geopolitical purposes. I kid you not. Do your own research I know you are a bright young woman.

    They realise that Islam contains some fatal flaws in that a whole bunch of people can be easily misled and turn into zombie like killing machine. And thats what they are exploiting. It used to be called divide and rule. This is the modern take

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    1. Hi Anonymous, yes western powers have weaponised many of these groups, but I don't think the terrible results we see today are what they envisioned. They helped to create a monster that might soon attack them.

      The way weapons are been pumped into Kurdish hands now is very worrying, because who knows who the Kurds would call an enemy tomorrow? And if they are defeated, their weapons are there for the taking. History will repeat itself.

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  13. "you have never heard of a large group of Christians killing people they don't know and committing other atrocious acts in the name of Jesus."

    Err....Trans-atlantic slave trade (ring any bells?), and the many atrocities committed by colonialists who claimed to be bringing Christianity to heathens e.g. Belgian atrocities in Congo

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    1. Slavery was done in the name of capitalism and to expand the empire. It was for the love of money and power. The slavers didn't attack West Africa carrying flags emblazoned with the cross and shouting 'Jesus is Lord' as they stole people away. And they didn't kill huge swathes of people either, they would rather the Africans have survived the ordeal and not die on the slave ships as they did.

      As I said elsewhere, Christianity was an addendum, a way to justify slavery after the fact, but I don't believe faith in Jesus and doing God's will was the express reason behind it. And please don't get it twisted, there was a difference between slavers and missionaries; the latter was often opposed to what the former was doing. And as an African, I thank God that the missionaries brought Christianity (and education and the abolition of many unfair customs like twin killings) to Africa.

      Show me a direct evidence of how *overt* Christianity inspired slavery or colonialism similarly to how Islam inspires and fuels ISIS's activities. Can you not see how riding into towns waving flags with arabic scripture on, calling yourself ISLAMIC STATE, launching a holy war to take over towns for Allah and telling people to convert to Islam or die is not the same as stealing Africans to get them to work for free to make you more money?

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  14. When a slave owner strikes a male or female slave with a rod and the slave dies immediately, the owner shall be punished. But if the slave survives a day or two, there is no punishment; for the slave is the owner's property. (Exod. 21:20-21)
    A disciple is not above the teacher, nor a slave above the master (Matt. 10:24)

    Who then is the faithful and wise slave, whom his master has put in charge of his household, to give the other slaves their allowance of food at the proper time? Blessed is that slave whom his master will find at work when he arrives. (Matt. 24:45-46)

    Let all who are under the yoke of slavery regard their masters as worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and the teaching may not be blasphemed. Those who have believing masters must not be disrespectful to them on the ground that they are members of the church; rather they must serve them all the more, since those who benefit by their service are believers and beloved. Teach and urge these duties. Whoever teaches otherwise and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that is in accordance with godliness, is conceited, understanding nothing, and has a morbid craving for controversy and for disputes about words. From these come envy, dissension, slander, base suspicions, and wrangling among those who are depraved in mind and bereft of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain. (1Tim. 6:1-5)

    Slaves, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, in singleness of heart, as you obey Christ; not only while being watched, and in order to please them, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart. (Eph. 6:5-6)

    Tell slaves to be submissive to their masters and to give satisfaction in every respect; they are not to talk back, not to pilfer, but to show complete and perfect fidelity, so that in everything they may be an ornament to the doctrine of God our Savior. (Titus 2:9-10)

    Slaves, accept the authority of your masters with all deference, not only those who are kind and gentle but also those who are harsh. For it is a credit to you if, being aware of God, you endure pain while suffering unjustly. If you endure when you are beaten for doing wrong, what credit is that? But if you endure when you do right and suffer for it, you have God's approval. (1Pet. 2:18-29)


    ..... And I can go on forever.

    The truth is if you ever want to bash a Religion, any Religion then you'll probably have no shortage of facts. Youre a Christian, you feel comfortable as a Christian. Good. I'm happy for you, but don't you think that you're momentary rendezvous with Islam has left you little (even just a little) bit biased?

    Good students of history see the flair and the comfort and know that we mostly being beguiled by the times. tomorrow another pack of human beings will sweep the Mantle (you probably wont realize it when it happens) and then perhaps some of them might, just might choose to demonize the West and all it has contributed to humanity. do you really think that in a thousand years we'll still call that Law "Newton's Law". such has been the way of humanity and such it will probably remain ( Until we Evolve into Homo Superior.... Sepians..... or something ......)

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    1. You do know that there were slaves in Biblical times don't you? And that Africans enslaved other Africans, God's own people had slaves amongst them and slavery continues today? That slavery is mentioned in the Bible and slaves are told to be good should not surprise you, nor does it prove the Bible spearheaded the Transatlantic slavery.

      Lol @ momentary rendezvous with Islam. I never claimed to be objective about this; I'm looking at it all through the eyes of a Christian who was once a Muslim, so of course I'm biased. (I call it informed critique.)

      This isn't a news article, it's a polemic.

      Also, I'm not a Christian because it's in vogue or because it's safe. I would just as easily have espoused the greatness of Islam and defended it here, especially at a time like this, if I'd felt illuminated by it or convinced that it was truth, but I never did, so here we are.

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    2. Dear Fula Nigerian,
      Thank you for your honesty. I suppose we all need to have some one on the other side to keep us on our toes. Perhaps if and when Religious sociology has been democratised enough our posterity might be able to judge for themselves (away from the rhetoric, that is).

      I wish you all the best

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    3. Thanks for your engagement Anonymous, it's always welcome here anytime :)

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  15. The Quran tells men to beat women, that women are not equal of men. That all non-believers should be killed or taxed.

    That is permissible to lie to an infidel. That it is permissable to have three wives and to have many sex-slaves. That inbreeding is allowed (first cousins).

    Torture is permitted, amputation is permitted, stoning is just, beheading is considered holy.

    I don't understand why anyone would subscribe to this totalitarian faith willingly. I suspect if apostasy was removed, Islam would not stand by itself, Allah demands threats and violence to exist.

    Islam requires a New Testament, otherwise in a post-modern age this religion will become extinct.

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    1. Strong words Anonymous, and I agree, especially with this: "I don't understand why anyone would subscribe to this totalitarian faith willingly. I suspect if apostasy was removed, Islam would not stand by itself, Allah demands threats and violence to exist."

      If you're not born into it it's hard to see Islam's attraction in this day and age.

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  16. Remember u never even being a muslim . having a muslim dad doesn t make any one muslim .

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  17. Dear Fulani-Nigerian,

    I am an African American from the southern part of the United States where the Christian Knights of the Ku Klux Klan, popularly referred to as the KKK, unleashes its reign of terror on black people. You stated that a religion should be judged by the conduct of its followers because they reflect its teachings. The KKK say they are acting in the name of their religion in hanging and terrorizing black people; so, based on your comment Christianity is a violent religion, which teaches hatred, racism and murder.

    You also said that there had not been violence associated with Christianity in recent times. Well, one of the most heinous KKK attack against a black person near me, which remains fresh in my memory, happened in late 1990’s. James Byrd, a black man, was tied alive by his legs to the back of a pickup truck by members of the KKK. They drove around at high speed bumping him on concrete and gravel until his head was completely severed from his body.

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    1. Hi Anonymous, I get your point but I think you're reaching by comparing KKK with ISIS as global purveyors of their respective religions. KKK began as a small social group, nothing to do with religion, and are spurred on by white supremacist ideology and hatred for black people. If you check their history and current manifestations, there's very little Christian rhetoric in their literature or activities, and even the Christianese they do spout is cloaked in 'love not war' language, because we all know Christianity is about love right?

      But ISIS are spurred on by belief that Islam is the one true religion and everyone else must convert or die. KKK place no religious obligations on their enemies, your skin colour is what they hate not your religion, as shown by the fact that almost all the black people they reject are Christians too. One is an army bent on Islamicising the world by force, the other is an unconnected group of angry white Southern men bent on punishing Black people in America.

      When most people think 'Ku Klux Klan', they don't think 'Christians,' but when people think 'Islamic State,' they think Islam. To say Christianity is a violent religion based on KKK activities would be disingenuous to the extreme, because random attacks on African Americans cannot be compared to thousands of Muslims killing and taking over large territories (Boko Haram have, to all intents and purposes, taken over three states in Northern Nigeria and driven out or killed all the Christians) in the name of Allah in Asia, Africa, the Middle East and the terrorist attacks in Europe and America.

      KKK is of course deplorable, and the burning crosses they leave behind as their calling card is abhorrent, but don't split hairs here and tell me they're on the same level, or even have similar goals or religious desires as ISIS for goodness sake. There isn't even any scripture they can stand on to support their activities.

      NOTHING can compare to what radical Islamic terrorists of today are doing in religious terms.

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    2. I think that many African Americans would be very much offended by how you consider the KKK. You are not American, and evidently not well versed on this issue. And, Yes, the KKK call themselves Christians and doing what they do in the name of Christianity. They quote the Bible to support their ideologies. As a Christian it is highly surprising to me that you would belittle the damage and violence that they have perpetrated. It also saddens me to see a black person make the commentary you have given.
      You certainly live in some bubble out there in England with little regard for reality.

      I do not think that anyone can have a productive discussion with you. You mentioned that Christianity is about love, where is yours? You are so full of hate for Muslims, that you cannot see straight. What makes you different from the Muslims you persecute in your blog. By the way, I know Muslims and have many Muslim friends, and I been given the Koran, and I honestly have not seen the negative things you profess. Are there some who have distorted Islam and resort to violence, yes, is it reflective of Islam NO.

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    3. I want to thank you for your invitation to address your erroneous contentions against Islam. I intend to address each issue in detail, and because of my schedule, it will take me at least a couple of days to complete my response. However, I will again reiterate that I do not argue on matters of religion, what I do is provide the truth about Islam.

      Before then, I would like to address some comments you made to my post.
      It is a fact that Islam does not consider Jesus as the son of God, but rather a highly revered prophet who was endowed with the holy spirit which accorded him the ability to raise the dead and heal the sick. Islam also teaches about his miraculous conception, his ascension to heaven, second coming and the one who will defeat satan in the final battle. Judaism also does not consider Jesus the son of God, so by your estimation they also are unbelievers... But Jesus himself never said he was the son of God, he referred to himself as the son of man. Luke 22:69 and Mark 14:62.

      Another point is regarding my knowledge of Christianity. You said that you would not take comments on your religion by a nonbeliever; I assure you I know the Bible in depth. I have studied under the tutelage and leadership of clergy during a tenure in the religion for several years. But if that is questionable to you, my husband was born into Christianity but he converted to Islam after decades as a Christian. My husband and I do work together on all matters of religion, even if it is for a blog such as yours.

      Muslims also do know about the holy spirit; when you talk about matters that a nonbeliever will not understand, it may be that you are referring to speaking in tongues – I can tell you that not all Christians buy into that. Maybe where you are that is the case, but here in the US there are Christians who condemn those who do and clergy that would not accept or allow speaking in tongues in their Churches.

      I still stand on my statement that you draw your claims based upon what someone or something imparted to you. It does not come from an informed position on Islam or the Qur’an; and, yes, most of it comes from CNN,your dad and the culture from which he originates. Nigeria and many such cultures, even Saudi Arabia, do not teach or profess pure and true Islam. Muslim communities have allowed their own cultures to penetrate into Islam and, communities such as in Nigeria, have not only done the same, but also have been suppressing verses that accord equal rights to women and misinterpreting messages in the Qur’an for their benefit. The argument you make about Jesus referring to the holy spirit and not to Prophet Muhammad when he talked about the helper, is a contention germane to Nigeria and not the global Muslim community. Prophet Mohammed can be found in the Bible but not in that verse.

      Finally, I want you to know that ISIS, Al Qaeda, the Taliban, Boko Haram and any such militant pseudo Islamic group are a bunch of crazy people who do not represent the teachings of Islam; the basis of all of these ideologies are rooted in geo-political motives.
      Islam does not condone violence against any person whether they are Muslim, Christian, Jew or Atheist. It may shock you to know that, if anything, Muslims are called upon to live in peace with their brothers and sisters of the Book (Al-Kitab) – who are the people of the book, they are Christians and Jews. We are to stand up for you and protect you even if it is from the threat of violence by another Muslim. And never has Islam ever taught that Muslims are to force nonMuslims to convert - I can assure you that you will never find a verse that says that, in fact, the Qur'an decrees that “there is no compulsion in religion.” Qur’an 2:256. On that basis, Muslims are forbidden from proselytizing, we are only to inform – and the final decision is left to the individual.

      As soon as I am done, I will send on my full response.

      H. Kavalec

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    4. So that I don't consider KKK to be a global terrorist group on the level of ISIS is offensive to African-Americans? And that I note that their atrocities are localised to Southern American states means I'm belittling their damage? I don't think so. Everyone knows the KKK is deplorable, it goes without saying. That they are Christians and use their religion to justify their hatred is also noted and proven, all I'm saying is that their faith is not the impetus for their crimes, their hatred of Black people is.

      And as a Black British Christian, I have more reason to fear ISIS and not the KKK. KKK is your reality, not mine (thank God), so don't be sad that I cannot fully agree with you on this.

      And I don't hate Muslims. Like I said before, the kindest people I met and worked with in Nigeria where Muslims, but I detest the ideology that permits some of them to murder in the name of Allah. I also know of Muslims that speak of peace in public but hold much more extreme views in private. So I will not apologise for my dislike of the abhorrent beliefs that inspired Boko Haram to destroy Adamawa, the state of my parents' birth so that I may never visit in the foreseeable future.

      "What makes you different from the Muslims you persecute in your blog?" Umm...I'm not part of an army that beheads infidels? C'mon. My Christian love leaves room for righteous anger too; speaking out against injustice is not anti-Christian.

      I have no desire to turn you against Islam, be converted if you so wish, that's your prerogative.

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  18. I am an American Muslim woman that was born into Islam, and my husband is Caucasian/White American that converted to Islam more than 10 years before we met. He had been born into Christianity, and he made the decision to convert to Islam after freely studying the Qur’an on his own. I was a student of Christianity for many years, so, both my husband and I are very well versed in Christianity. I decided to introduce my background before continuing.
    You present as a well-educated woman, yet you make so many contentions about Islam that shows you had not conducted any research. You have been repeating what someone or something has imparted to you. It also tells me that you have never taken the time to read or study the Qur’an. Likewise, you make declarations about Christianity, as it is today, as being perfect – that is not correct.
    I have noticed that comments to your blog are only published after being approved by you. I would like to educate you regarding true Islam and the fallacies inherent in the Christianity of today. But, I do not want to spend time doing that if you will not publish what I have to say. So, if you want to hear the truth about both religions, let me know, and I will be happy to take time and provide you with the information. I am not seeking to argue with you about religion, as that is forbidden in Islam. Islam recognizes the person of Jesus Christ, and his Gospel, and Judaism, as sent through Moses. You will find that in the Qur’an, as well as a whole chapter dedicated to Mary, his mother. I am not looking to convert you, but simply to provide you with correct information. Right now, you are not arguing intelligently, and as a woman, I would like to see you having a discussion based on facts. The problem with religion today is not the making of God, but the hand of man that has corrupted what God had sent down. This applies to both Islam and Christianity. We both share the same foundational Father of all nations, Abraham: Islam came through the line of Ishmael while Christianity came through the line of Isaac. Did you know Abraham and his son built the Ka’aba in Mecca that we face when we pray? So, let me know if you will publish my commentary by posting a message asking for it.
    H. Kavalec

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    1. Hi H. Kavalec, thanks for your comment. But my first stumbling block was when you said "you have been repeating what someone or something has imparted to you." I disagree, and to me this is condescending, as if I cannot make up my own mind about such a huge subject and have to resort to parroting what someone (who? My parents? The media?) has told me. Like I said earlier, my post is based on what I've seen, read, heard, experienced, considered and decided. Not everyone gets their view of Islam from CNN you know. I also have friends and family that are Muslim, remember? So don't belittle my assessment of the situation with your stock response of 'you don't know what you're saying.' We may disagree but I know what I'm saying.

      I never stated that Christianity was perfect, it isn't and Christians know that more than others, but in light of how some Muslims are behaving today, it is positively angelic.

      And I'm sorry, but I cannot hear the truth of my religion from a non-believer. There are truths about my faith that are deeply subjective, and manifestations of the Holy Spirit a non-believer can never understand. Your information on Christianity is most probably academic, which is insufficient for a true understanding of how my God works, so I'll pass.

      You can no doubt enlighten me and my blog readers on aspects of Islam though, particularly in light of ISIS, so do go ahead. But just because the Quran mentions Jesus, Mary and Abraham doesn't mean it has the truth on these figures as we believe it, eg, Jesus is the son of God in the Bible, whereas in the Quran he is just a prophet (and we don't believe he spoke as a baby either). And when Jesus says 'the Comforter will come after me,' we take that to mean the Holy Spirit, but you say Mohammed. (See, I'm not so ignorant about the Quran after all)

      "The problem with religion today is not the making of God, but the hand of man that has corrupted what God had sent down" I agree wholeheartedly with you.

      And of course I approve comments before posting, Blogger encourages this so unwarranted insults and spam do not appear. I'm always happy to receive and always post measured critique of my writing as I love a good debate :)

      Delete
  19. Hi Habiba, for some reason your comment was placed out of sequence, I'll reply here and hope it makes sense which comment I'm replying to.

    1) "But Jesus himself never said he was the son of God"
    Oh but He did, several times in fact. In Matt 16:15-17: "“Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven."

    Also, Jesus said this in John 10:25: "The works I do in my Father’s name testify about me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep...My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all...I and the Father are one.”
    Further on in the same chapter, Jesus says: "Why then do you accuse me of blasphemy because I said, ‘I am God’s Son’? Do not believe me unless I do the works of my Father. But if I do them, even though you do not believe me, believe the works, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me, and I in the Father.” People conveniently ignore the Book of John when stating Jesus never claimed to be the son of God, but He says that very thing in several places there. And yes, Jews are not Christians.

    2) "I have studied under the tutelage and leadership of clergy during a tenure in the religion for several years"
    There's a difference between knowing the Bible academically and believing it as the truth. Your knowledge about the Bible may be advanced, but there's a whole nother level of Christianity that can't be understood from the outside; an illumination that occurs on the inside where the Holy Spirit takes over tutelage and the book becomes a living word, sharper than any double-edged sword and penetrating even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; judging the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. That's depth a non-believer with only head knowledge can never attain so that you remain "ever seeing but never perceiving," unless Jesus reveals Himself to you.

    And there's so much more to the Holy Spirit than speaking in tongues (which I believe in); He is the third person of the trinity and works in concert with the Father and Son.

    3) "Prophet Mohammed can be found in the Bible." No, I don't believe Mohammed appears in the old or new testament. Please provide scripture to back your claim for I am intrigued.

    4) "I still stand on my statement that you draw your claims based upon what someone or something imparted to you" Yes, several someones and several somethings from several countries over several years.

    5) "Nigeria and many such cultures, even Saudi Arabia, do not teach or profess pure and true Islam" But they say their brand of Islam is the purest, and your 'peace loving' Islam is down to your environment because Western-based Muslims are bound to be more genteel. To me Saudi Arabia seems the most undiluted of Muslim countries.

    To your claims that the Quran does not condone violence and seeks to protect the people of the book, I give you these verses: "I will cast terror into the hearts of those who disbelieve. Therefore strike off their heads and strike off every fingertip of them" Quran (8:12)
    "Fight those who believe not in Allah nor the Last Day, nor hold that forbidden which hath been forbidden by Allah and His Messenger, nor acknowledge the religion of Truth, (even if they are) of the People of the Book, until they pay the Jizya with willing submission, and feel themselves subdued." Quran (9:29)
    "And the Jews say: Ezra is the son of Allah; and the Christians say: The Messiah is the son of Allah; these are the words of their mouths; they imitate the saying of those who disbelieved before; may Allah destroy them; how they are turned away!" Quran (9:30)
    "O you who believe! fight those of the unbelievers who are near to you and let them find in you hardness." Quran (9:123)

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  20. Dear Fulani-Nigerian;

    Due to a hectic schedule, I am only now getting back to you with my comprehensive responses to your blog. As I already indicated, my intention is not to convert you to Islam; it simply is to correct errors that you are disseminating about Islam.
    However, before I do so, I would like to address your comments above. You are wrong about my Christian education being of an academic nature. I journeyed into Christianity in search of God and the truth as a result of the culturally contaminated Islam that I was exposed to – very much like you. I belonged to three prominent congregations and was even featured on Christian TV in Texas. That is why, believe it or not, I understand your zeal for something else. But true Islam is far from what you label it to be.

    Regarding Prophet Muhammad in the Bible - This has been corroborated by a Christian Baptist Preacher in the United States.

    Abraham is widely regarded as the Patriarch of monotheism and the common father of the Jews, Christians and Muslims. Through his second son, Isaac, came all Israelite prophets including such towering figures as Jacob, Joseph, Moses, David, Solomon, and Jesus. May peace and blessings be upon them all. The advent of these great prophets was in partial fulfillment promise to bless the nations of earth through descendants of Abraham (Genesis 12:2-3). Such fulfillment is wholeheartedly accepted by Muslims whose faith considers the belief in and respect of all prophets an article of faith.

    Blessings of Ishmael and Isaac

    Was the first born son of Abraham (Ishmael) and his descendants included in God's covenant and promise? A few verses from the Bible may help light on this question:

    1. Genesis 12:2-3 speaks of God's promise to Abraham and his descendants before any child was born to him.
    2. Genesis 17:4 reiterates God's promise after the birth of Ishmael and before the birth of Isaac.
    3. In Genesis, Ch. 21, Isaac is specifically blessed but Ishmael was also specifically blessed and promised by God to become a "great nation" in Genesis 21:13,18.
    4. According to Deuteronomy 21:15-17 the traditional rights and privileges of the first born son are not to be affected by the social status of the mother (being a "free" woman such as Sarah, Isaac's mother, or a "Bondwoman" such as Hagar, Ishmael's mother). This is only consistent with the moral and humanitarian principles of all revealed faiths.
    5. The full legitimacy of Ishmael as Abraham's son and "seed" and the full legitimacy of his mother, Hagar, as Abraham's wife are clearly stated in Genesis 21:13 and 16:3. After Jesus, the last Israelite prophet, it was time that God's promise to bless Ishmael and his descendants be fulfilled. Less than 600 years after Jesus, came the last messenger of God, Muhammad, from the progeny of Abraham through Ishmael. God's blessing of both of the main branches of family tree was now fulfilled.

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  21. Muhammad: The Prophet Like Unto Moses

    Long after Abraham, God's promise to send the long awaited Messenger was repeated this time in Moses' words. In Deuteronomy 18:18, Moses spoke of the prophet to be sent by God who is:

    1. From among the Israelite's "brethren", a reference to their Ishmaelite cousins as Ishmael was the other son of Abraham who was explicitly promised to become a "great nation".
    2. A prophet like unto Moses. There were hardly any two prophets who were so much alike as Moses and Muhammad. Both were given comprehensive law code of life, both encountered their enemies and were victors in miraculous ways, both were accepted as prophets/statesmen and both migrated following conspiracies to assassinate them. Analogies between Moses and Jesus overlooks not only the above similarities but other crucial ones as well (e.g. the natural birth, family life and death of Moses and Muhammad but not of Jesus, who was regarded by his followers as the Son of God and not exclusively a messenger of God, as Moses and Muhammad were and as the Muslims belief Jesus was).

    The Awaited Prophet was to Come from Arabia

    Deuteronomy 33:1-2 combines references to Moses, Jesus and Muhammad. It speaks of God (i.e. God's revelation) coming from Sinai, rising from Seir (probably the village of Sa'ir near Jerusalem) and shining forth from Paran. According to Genesis 21:21, the wilderness of Paran was the place where Ishmael settled (i.e. Arabia, specifically Makkah). Indeed the King James Version of the Bible mentions the pilgrims passing through the valley of Ba'ca (another name for Makkah) in Psalms 84:4-6. Isaiah 42:1-13 speaks of the beloved of God. His elect and messenger who will bring down a law to be awaited in the isles and who "shall not fail nor be discouraged till he have set judgement on the earth." Verse 11 connects that awaited one with the descendants of Ke'dar. Who is Ke'dar? According to Genesis 25:13, Ke'dar was the second son of Ishmael, the ancestor of Prophet Muhammad.

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  22. Regarding your comment:
    "But Jesus himself never said he was the son of God" Oh but He did, several times in fact. In Matt 16:15-17: "“Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven."

    From the Bible:

    Luke 22:70 - Pharasees speaking to Jesus who gives an ambiguous answer

    They all asked, "Are you then the Son of God?" He replied, "You say that I am."

    Matthew 6:9 - Does this mean God fathered you too? So, you are Jesus' sister?

    "This, then, is how you should pray: "'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,

    and also in John 20:17

    Jesus said, "Do not hold on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. Go instead to my brothers and tell them, 'I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.'"

    Your comment that:
    "Nigeria and many such cultures, even Saudi Arabia, do not teach or profess pure and true Islam" But they say their brand of Islam is the purest, and your 'peace loving' Islam is down to your environment because Western-based Muslims are bound to be more genteel. To me Saudi Arabia seems the most undiluted of Muslim countries.
    Regardless of what anyone says, Islam is a religion of peace. And there is nothing genteel about how we practice Islam in the west – what we practice is precisely what the Qur’an teaches. And, yes, Nigeria has so many untoward traditions that it purports to be Islamic traditions. I may be American but I am well-versed on the subject – This has been my personal platform for a number of years. That is why I know that the Islam your father and, may be his relatives, have passed on to you that makes you attack something that you think and to made to believe is Islam. Saudi Arabia, may be the seat of Islam, but it does not practice Islam as is required in the Qur’an. In the Qur’an it even says that Islam was purposely revealed to Arabia because of their wicked ways as well as the fact that
    “The desert Arabs are more stubborn in their denial of truth and hypocrisy..” Qur’an 9:97

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  23. Regarding the verses you quoted. Those who seek to destroy Islam have been in the habit of quoting verses out of context. Verses in the Qur’an where revealed over a period of 23 years; and often times, they are sent down to address a specific event. In the case of the following verse, this was revealed during warfare, when pagans were attacking the early Muslims, here Muslims were being told by God to fight back.

    Therefore strike off their heads and strike off every fingertip of them" Quran (8:12)
    Muslims are only allowed to fight defensive wars – I have addressed in detail in my comprehensive response under the true meaning of Jihad.

    The verse below refers to the payment of income taxes, the Jiyzah, in a Muslim land. I have addressed this in detail in my comprehensive response under the heading of nonMuslims Taxed in Islamic states. Muslims in Islamic states pay Zakat, but nonMuslims are not required to pay Zakat, but rather the equivalent in tax. There were those in the society who did not want to pay and prefer to be rebellious – what will happen if you (even as a Christian) do not pay your tax in England (a Christian Kingdom)? I am sure the law will catch up to you and you may even go to jail after they confiscate your assets.

    "Fight those who believe not in Allah nor the Last Day, nor hold that forbidden which hath been forbidden by Allah and His Messenger, nor acknowledge the religion of Truth, (even if they are) of the People of the Book, until they pay the Jizya with willing submission, and feel themselves subdued." Quran (9:29)

    To really see what the Qur'an says about Christians, see my comprehensive response.

    In the verse below God says he does not have a child. And those Christians and Jews who do so are imitating pagan practices. We are also told not t argue about religious matters. To you yours to me mine. It is God who judges in the end.

    "And the Jews say: Ezra is the son of Allah; and the Christians say: The Messiah is the son of Allah; these are the words of their mouths; they imitate the saying of those who disbelieved before; may Allah destroy them; how they are turned away!" Quran (9:30)

    The following verse refers to the pagans those who do not believe in the One God: neither Christians nor Jews are unbelievers. As I noted above, the pagan Arabs consistently waged war against Muslims and rejected the One God. Here again Muslims were given permission to defend themselves with all they have.

    "O you who believe! fight those of the unbelievers who are near to you and let them find in you hardness." Quran (9:123)

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  24. Dear Fulani-Nigerian;

    As I mentioned in my earlier post, due to a hectic schedule, I am only now getting back to you with my comprehensive responses to your blog. Again, I am not trying to convert you, but simply to correct errors that you are disseminating about Islam. The response is quite long so I will break it into several posts. They are presented by subject matter.

    The Qur’an, which literally means “the recitation”, is the verbatim word of God revealed to the Prophet Muhammad *[SAW] through the Angel Gabriel over a period of 23 years. God states that the Qur’an has been sent down to reiterate and uphold the truths He had sent through earlier messengers (prophets), beginning with Abraham (Ibrahim [AS]).

    “To you (Muhammad) We sent the Scripture in truth, reflecting the truth of the Scripture that came before it…” Qur’an 5:48

    The Qur’an has remained in the original Arabic; translations of the Qur’an into other languages are not referred to as the Qur’an, but rather a rendition of the Qur’an. These translations reflect the interpretation and /or understanding of the individual translator. It is because of this that non Arab speaking Muslims are encouraged to learn some Arabic so as to read the Qur’an in its original state for themselves.

    The Qur’an is the primary source of Islamic guidance, and Hadith is the second. Hadith is the reported action, instruction or saying of the Prophet Muhammad [SAW], as well as his approval, disapproval, or tacit approval regarding some matter or action. There is a rigorous process of the chain of narration to determine its authenticity, which is to ascertain if indeed it is attributable to the Prophet Muhammad [SAW]. So, it is important to note that not all Hadith are authentic; there are many that have been fabricated. Thus, a Hadith can be regarded as a source of religious guidance only if its basis exists in the Quran.

    Out of reverence for God and respect for His messengers/prophets, Muslims are taught to use certain words of praise. The acronyms I use in this document are as follows:
    SWT (Subḥanahu Wa Ta'Ala – means Glorified and Exalted be He) after the name of God, Allah in Arabic. (Allah is the word for God in Arabic. He is the same God that is in the Bible and the Torah. Christian Arabs use the same word for God)
    SAW (sallallahu alayhi wasallam – peace be upon him) after the name of Prophet Muhammad
    AS (alayhi as-salam – means upon him be peace) after the name of any other messenger/prophet

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  25. On the Misconception that Islam advocates Terrorism

    Terrorism is above all murder. Murder is strictly forbidden in the Qur’an. Muslims are instructed not to take a life except as punishment for murder, which is death penalty imposed by the state for a crime, and for spreading destruction and havoc in the land. In Islam, life is sacrosanct. The killing of innocents is forbidden in Islam. God is the author of life and it is only He who could take life or tell human beings under what conditions a life should be taken. As human beings we don't own our lives, God does, as such we don't have the authority to take it. By the same token, Suicide also is a sin and strictly forbidden in Islam. Suicide demonstrates disrespect for God and ingratitude for the life He has given.

    “..whoever killed a human being except as a punishment for murder or for spreading corruption in the land shall be regarded as having killed all mankind, and that whoever saved a human life shall be regarded as having saved all mankind.." Qur’an 5:32

    “…Come I will recite what your Lord has forbidden to you…… do not kill the life which Allah has made sacred, except in the course of justice; this He has enjoined on you that you may understand.” Qur’an 6:151


    According to Prophet Muhammad [SAW]:

    "He who commits suicide by throttling shall keep on throttling himself in the Hell Fire (forever) and he who commits suicide by stabbing himself shall keep on stabbing himself in the Hell-Fire." [Sahih Bukhari]

    Terrorism or hirabah is forbidden in Islam. The agent of hiraba is described as anyone who disturbs free passage in the streets and renders them unsafe to travel, striving to spread corruption in the land by taking money, killing people or violating what God has made it unlawful to violate is guilty of hirabah.

    The Qur’an demands of believers to exercise justice toward people even where they have reason to be angry with them, and to resort to good even when evil is done to them.

    “And do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.” Qur’an 5:8

    “Good and evil deeds are not equal. Repel evil with what is better; then you will see that one who was once your enemy has become your dearest friend.” Qur’an 41:34
    The Prophet Muhammad instructed Muslims to be good to those who harm them:
    “Do not be people without minds of your own, saying that if others treat you well you will treat them well, and that if they do wrong you will do wrong to them. Instead, accustom yourselves to do good if people do good and not to do wrong (even) if they do evil.” (Al-Tirmidhi)
    Furthermore, there is no verse in the Qur’an that says anyone who murders nonMuslims in the name of Islam will be rewarded with paradise and 40 virgins.

    “…Do not kill one another, for God is most merciful to you. If anyone does these things through transgression and injustice, We shall cast him into the Fire; and that is easy for God.” Qur’an 29-30

    So, despite many contentions to the contrary, ISIL, Al Qaeda, Taliban, Boko Haram, and any other pseudo Muslim militants and aggressive Jihadists are not Islamically radicalized, but rather they are completely corrupted. In no way do they represent Islamic teachings or ideology. Their agenda is geopolitical and economic; the link to Islam is purely to justify their self-serving activities.

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  26. Since you are Nigerian, let’s take a look at Boko Haram.

    The origin of Boko Haram is linked to the poverty and lack of development in Northern states of Nigeria. Boko Haram, which perceives the West as a corrupting influence on the governance of Northern States, emerged as an armed revolt against a widening regional economic disparity.

    Mohammed Yusuf founded Boko Haram because he saw an opportunity to exploit public outrage at government corruption by linking it to Western influence in governance. Yusuf’s goal was to gather young impressionable minds that had never gotten a fair deal from the government; he was fascinated with the idea of destroying the social, political and religious order where the meek would inherit the earth. Adherents of the sect truly believed that Sharia law would bring social justice, economic prosperity, equality and fairness.

    Chris Kwaja, a Nigerian researcher on religion, stated that "religious dimensions of the conflict have been misconstrued as the primary driver of violence when, in fact, disenfranchisement and inequality are the root causes." So, as it is with extremist groups, Founder of Boko Haram, Mohammed Yusuf, sold his ideology by contending that it was in the cause of Allah [SAW] and required by Islam, hence an obligation on Muslims. Being a preacher gave him credibility and the opportunity to manipulate verses and Hadiths to suit his propaganda.

    Yusuf’s ultimate agenda was to expel the political community of northern Nigeria, which they believe has been seized by corrupt and false Muslims. The group’s school of thought considers anything western as an aberration or completely unislamic. It viewed the western influence on Islamic society as the basis of the religion’s weakness and the values that have caused the abhorrent poverty and degradation of Nigeria. Hence their declaration that western education and indeed all western institution is infidel and as such must be avoided by Muslims. If successful, a new order would emerge, eliminating Muslim leadership and Yusuf’s personal desire for power and control would be realized. After the government murdered Yusuf, Abubakar Shekau assumed leadership. Boko Haram has morphed into a monster with support from within the Nigerian government and officials of neighboring countries. And to a degree, the group had since become a political tool for these individuals.

    Boko Haram gets its weapons from many different sources; one of these is Henry Okah, a southern Christian who is the assumed Nigerian guerrilla leader of the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta. Another salient point concerns the attacks carried out against Churches. It has been confirmed by both Nigerian and International media that some of these bombings were not carried out by Boko Haram, but by young Christian men paid by the government. The motive is the Nigerian administration’s to attract Western attention, particularly the United States, to send their military to decimate Northern Nigeria as it did Iraq. The reason is political, and hinges on the ethnic prejudice that has divided the North and the South since independence. So, Northern Christians are the sacrificial lambs in the government’

    You asked why people continue to join Boko Haram. The answer is quite simply that it is primarily for economic reasons. An example is that of a young man who was captured by local authorities. When asked why he joined, he told them that Boko Haram provided him with 800,000 Nigerian Naira ($5,000) to pay for his wedding. Now this is man who was in abject poverty, and here is an opportunity to get a lot of money. There also is the erroneous belief that they are pleasing Allah [SAW], and carrying out their terroristic activities assures them paradise in the hereafter. This last point makes them more dangerous and ruthless because they approach every attack boldly with no fear of dying. It is important to note that the Qur’an promises no such thing for murdering innocents.

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  27. Osama bin Laden’s case began during the cold war with the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. After the Saur Revolution, which is the name given to the communist People's Democratic Party of Afghanistan (PDPA) takeover of political power from the government of Afghanistan on 27–28 April 1978, the government introduced Soviet-style reforms, which were not received well by a population deeply immersed in tradition and Islam. By 1979, fighting between the Afghan government and various other factions within the country, some of which were supported by the United States and other countries, led to a virtual civil war. The Afghan government requested increasing Soviet military support and eventually direct military involvement. Then Soviet General Secretary Leonid Brezhnev sent the 40th Army into Afghanistan on December 24, 1979. This event led to the boycott of the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow by the United States and other countries, and kick-started U.S. funding for Islamic Mujahideen groups who opposed the Afghan government and the Soviet military presence. The local Mujahideen, along with fighters from several different Arab nations and Pathan tribes from Pakistan, eventually succeeded in forcing the Soviet Union out. This was a factor in the dissolution of Soviet communism, because it led to protests in the Soviet Union. The United States called on Osama bin Laden to help them in the campaign against the Soviet military because he knew the lay of the land and he had strong strategic ties with the Afghans. With the help of intelligence operatives and cooperation of bin Laden, Islamic propaganda literature identifying the Soviets as enemies of Islam and warranted aggressive warfare to be waged against them in the name of Islam. The United States trained Osama bin Laden and provided him with weapons. After Osama bin Laden helped the allies in forcing the Soviet Union out of Afghanistan, the United States turned its back on Osama bin Laden and abandoned him. He was, subsequently, labeled a radical. He vowed to exact revenge. He used the literature developed by the United States against it and succeeded in rallying support against it as an enemy of Islam. And, on September 9, 2011, he made good on his threat. And that is the reason behind the 9/11 attacks in the United States.

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  28. On Claim that Muslims Never Speak Publicly Against Terrorism

    You claim that Muslim leaders never speak up against the terroristic activities of these groups. That is incorrect. The fact is that, over the years, Muslim leaders and organization across the globe have been speaking out in the secular and Islamic media against extremist groups. The problem is that, sometimes, people either don’t know or choose not to know this fact. An example is the Muslim Council of Britain , which is right there in England where you live.

    Below are excerpts from the media, which notably include statements issued by the Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul-Aziz Al al-Sheikh, Saudi Arabia's highest religious authority.

    8/20/2014 - Reuters
    Saudi Arabia's Grand Mufti Sheik Abdulaziz Al al-Sheik, the highest religious authority in the country, said on Tuesday the militant groups Islamic State and al Qaeda were "enemy number one of Islam" and not in any way part of the faith.

    "Extremist and militant ideas and terrorism which spread decay on Earth, destroying human civilisation, are not in any way part of Islam, but are enemy number one of Islam, and Muslims are their first victims," he said in a statement carried by the official Saudi Press Agency.

    8/20/2014 – Lebanon’s Daily Star
    The highest religious authority in Saudi Arabia condemned the Islamic State and al-Qaida Tuesday. The state labeled IS and al-Qaida as terrorists in March, and threatened prison for anyone offering the groups moral or material support.

    8/19/2014 – Al Jazeera
    Saudi Arabia’s Highest Religious Authority: Terrorists Like The Islamic State Is The “Number One Enemy Of Islam.” Al Jazeera reported that Saudi Arabia’s grand mufti, Abdulaziz al-Sheikh, the country’s top religious authority, said that terrorism is anti-Islamic and said that groups like the Islamic State which practice violence are the “number one enemy of Islam.”

    Reuters 5/9/2014 – Al-Hayat
    Saudi Arabia’s grand mufti, the top religious authority in the birthplace of Islam, has condemned Nigeria's Boko Haram as a group “set up to smear the image of Islam” and condemned its kidnapping of over 200 schoolgirls.
    Sheikh Abdulaziz al-Sheikh said the radical movement, which says it wants to establish a “pure” Islamic state in Nigeria, was “misguided” and should be “shown their wrong path and be made to reject it.”
    His remarks came as religious leaders in the Muslim world, who often do not comment on militant violence, joined in denouncing Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau for saying Allah had told him to sell off the kidnapped girls as forced brides.
    “This is a group that has been set up to smear the image of Islam and must be offered advice, shown their wrong path and be made to reject it,” he told the Arabic-language newspaper al-Hayat in an interview published on Friday.
    “These groups are not on the right path because Islam is against kidnapping, killing and aggression,” he said. “Marrying kidnapped girls is not permitted.”




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  29. 12/12/2013 – Al-Hayat
    From the Grand Mufti Sheikh Abdul-Aziz Al al-Sheikh, Saudi Arabia's Grand Mufti, the highest religious authority in the country, has condemned suicide bombings as grave crimes, reiterating his stance in unusually strong language.
    “The Saudi cleric, whose views influence those Muslims who adhere to the kingdom's hardline version of Islam, denounced suicide attacks after al-Qaeda's 2001 assault on US cities, but his latest comments, published on Thursday, recast the message in sharp terms.

    "Killing oneself is a grave crime and a grave sin," Sheikh Abdulaziz al-Sheikh was quoted as saying by the Saudi-owned Al-Hayat newspaper.
    "Those who kill themselves with explosives are criminals who are hastening their way to hell."

    8/31/2014 – The Independent
    British Muslims have expressed fury and anguish in the wake of the brutal killing of Alan Henning by Islamic State (Isis) militants,
    Muslim leaders have issued a fatwa condemning Islamic extremist group Isis, and have said that British jihadis are “betraying their own societies” by getting involved in the conflicts in Iraq and Syria.
    The fatwa represents the British Muslim community’s strongest denunciation of Isis yet, calling the extremist group “heretical” and “an oppressive and tyrannical group.”
    According to The Sunday Times, the fatwa, authored by Sheik Usama Hasan, a former imam from east London, and supported by six senior Islamic scholars across the country, says it is “religiously prohibited (haram) to support or join” Isis.

    4/19/2013 – USA Today
    Within hours of news that the two brothers behind the Boston Marathon bombings were Muslim, the head of the Council on American-Islamic Relations issued a statement condemning all terrorism "in all its forms."

    CAIR National Executive Director Nihad Awad, said "We must remain united as a nation as we face those who would carry out such heinous and inexcusable crimes."

    His statement, issued shortly before a noon Friday press conference in Washington D.C., concluded with gratitude for "local, state and national law enforcement authorities for their diligence in bringing the perpetrators to justice and offer condolences to the loved ones of the officers killed and injured in efforts to detain the suspect."

    5/24/2013 – Huffington Post
    Leaders of Britain’s 2.8 million Muslims reacted with horror and anger following Wednesday’s (May 22) slaughter with knives and machetes of an off-duty British soldier in the streets outside the Royal Artillery Barracks in south London.
    A statement from the Muslim Council of Britain condemned the slaughter of the soldier by two men – both believed to be Christian converts to Islam – as “a barbaric act that has no basis in Islam and which we condemn unreservedly.”

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  30. On Misconception that Islam advocate forcing People to Convert to Islam or be killed

    It is not permitted, in Islam, to impose Islam on other people. The Qur’an says:
    “There is no compulsion in religion; truly the right way has become clearly distinct from error; therefore, whoever disbelieves in false deities and believes in Allah he indeed has laid hold on the firmest handle, which shall not break off, and God is all hearing and all knowing.” Qur’an 2:256

    This verse was revealed in Medina in around 622 AD and was never abrogated by any other verse of the Quran. Islam’s holy book forbids coercing people into adopting any religion. They have to willingly choose it.

    Muslims are not instructed to kill anyone who refuses to accept the religion. Firstly, Islam considers the life of every individual as sacrosanct, regardless of their race or religion, and secondly, any such action is murder, and that is a sin.

    “..whoever killed a human being except as a punishment for murder or for spreading corruption in the land shall be regarded as having killed all mankind, and that whoever saved a human life shall be regarded as having saved all mankind.." Qur’an 5:32

    “…Come I will recite what your Lord has forbidden to you…… do not kill the life which Allah has made sacred, except in the course of justice (i.e. murder is forbidden but the death penalty imposed by the state for a crime is permitted); this He has enjoined on you that you may understand.” Qur’an 6:151

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  31. On the Misconception that the Qur’an Preaches Violence and Hate Against Christians

    The Qur’an does not tell Muslims to commit violence against Christians, it calls them “nearest in love” to the Muslims. When addressing the 7th-century situation in the Muslim city-state of Medina, which was at war with pagan Mecca, the Quran notes that the polytheists and some Arabian Jewish tribes were opposed to Islam, but then goes on to say:

    “. . . and you will find the nearest in love to the believers [Muslims] those who say: ‘We are Christians.’ That is because amongst them are priests and monks, and they are not proud.” Qur’an 5:82

    Furthermore, the Qur’an assures Christians and Jews of paradise if they believe and do good works, and commends Christians as the best friends of Muslims. I wrote elsewhere, “Dangerous falsehoods are being promulgated to the American public. The Quran does not preach violence against Christians.

    “Indeed those who believe and those who became Jews and the Sabians and the Christians whoever believes in God and the last day and does good-- they shall have no fear nor shall they grieve.” Quran 5:69

    This verse also addresses another common misconception about Islam, which is that it says Christians will all go to hell. This verse promises Christians and Jews along with Muslims that if they have faith and works, they need have no fear in the afterlife. So, the Qur’an does not say that nonMuslims will go to hell. The Qur’an also says:

    “Worship God: and do not associate partners with Him. Be good to your parents, to relatives, to orphans, to the needy, and the neighbor who is a kinsman, and the neighbour who is not related to you and your companions and the wayfarers and those whom you rightfully possess.” Qur’an 4:36

    In addition to relatives, Islam requires Muslims to be kind to orphans, neighbors, companions and wayfarers in general; it does not exclude Christians nor any other nonMuslims.

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  32. And during his time, Prophet Muhammad [SAW] neither persecuted Christians nor advocated any violence against them. In fact, he protected Christians as well as their places of worship. The best known example is the Achtiname of Prophet Muhammad, a writ where he granted protection and other privileges to the monks of St. Catherine’s Monastery on Mount Sinai. Today the document is located in a Museum in Turkey. In it, he not only provided for the protection of the monks, but he also extended the same for Christians. The following are some of what he ordered in the writ:

    “Whosoever of my nation shall presume to break my promise and oath, which is contained in this present agreement, destroys the promise of God, acts contrary to the oath, and will be a resister of the faith, (which God forbid) for he becomes worthy of the curse,

    That whenever any of the monks in his travels shall happen to settle upon any mountain, hill, village, or other habitable place, on the sea, or in deserts, or in any convent, church, or house of prayer, I shall be in the midst of them, as the preserver and protector of them, their goods and effects, with my soul, aid, and protection, jointly with all my national people; because they are a part of my own people, and an honor to me.

    No one shall molest them when they are travelling on the road.

    Whatever churches they are possessed of, no one is to deprive them of them.”

    And regarding Christians in general, Prophet Muhammad [SAW] wrote:

    “No one shall bear arms against them (Christians), but, on the contrary, the Muslims shall wage war for them.

    If a Christian woman shall happen to marry a Muslim man, the Muslim shall not cross the inclination of his wife, to keep her from her church and prayers, and the practice of her religion.

    That no person hinder them from repairing their churches.

    Whosoever acts contrary to my grant, or gives credit to anything contrary to it, becomes truly an apostate to God, and to his divine apostle, because this protection I have granted to them according to this promise.”

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  33. On Comment that nonMuslims should be Taxed in Islamic States

    This is correct. Muslims are required to pay Zakat, which is an Islamic requirement and it goes to the government. However, nonMuslims are not under that same obligation, so, instead, they pay the equivalent in tax

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  34. On the Misconception that Islam advocates Forced Marriage

    More often than not, honor killing is a consequence of forced marriage; and despite many contentions to the contrary, Islam does not advocate forced marriage. Despite numerous contentions to the contrary, forced marriage is not an Islamic tradition; it is a jahiliyya custom (pre-Islamic era), rooted in indigenous cultures, that has persisted in some Muslim communities. Islam does not sanction or advocate any form of forced marriage. In Islam, marriage is a sacred contract between two people, which must be entered into freely and with mutual consent. It also mandates that the woman’s consent is a prerequisite to the validity of the marital contract. So, as with honor killing, forced marriage is not the result of adherence to Islam, but rather that of a complete departure from the religion. So, those Muslims involved in the practice of forced marriage are distinctly acting against the precepts of Islam. The Qur’an says:

    “O you who believe, it is not lawful for you to inherit women against their will, nor should you detain them wrongfully…” Qur;an 4:19

    And according to Prophet Muhammad [SAW]:

    “No female whether a widow or divorcee will be forced to marry any one unless her express and categorical consent has been freely taken and in the same way a woman not previously married can never be forced to marry anyone unless her free consent and permission is taken.” [Sahih Al-Bukhari]

    Another related misconception concerns the issue of dowry and property ownership in a marriage. The dowry or bride price Both the custom of giving dowry (jahaz) and bride price are not an Islamic traditions. They are strictly cultural practices that are erroneously attributed to Islam. What Islam requires is the mahr, which is a compulsory part of an Islamic marriage contract. Without it, there is no marriage.

    “And give unto women their marriage portions in the spirit of a gift…” Qur'an 4:4

    The mahr is a mandatory payment, in the form of money or possessions paid by the groom, or by groom's father, to the bride at the time of marriage, which legally becomes her exclusive property.

    The terms "dowry" and "bride price" are sometimes incorrectly used to translate mahr, but mahr differs from dowries. A dowry refers to money or possessions a woman brings forth to the marriage, usually provided by her parents or family; and bride price is money or property paid by the groom or his family to the parents of a woman (but not to the woman herself) upon the marriage. Both these customs are not sanctioned by Islam.

    While the mahr is often money, it can also be anything agreed upon by the bride such as jewelry, home goods, furniture, a dwelling, some land. It is an admission of her independence, so, even if she may have owned nothing prior to the marriage. It has nothing to do with the parents of the husband and wife. It also is intended as a token of the husband's willing acceptance of the responsibility of bearing all the necessary expenses of his wife.

    During the marriage ceremony, the husband is expected to hand over the mahr to the wife in the presence of witnesses. If the husband is not able to provide the entirety of the agreed upon mahr, then he is required to sign a promissory note in the presence of witness outlining how he intends to make up for the balance. It is forbidden for the husband to take the mahr from his wife unless she offers it to him. If he needs to, the husband may take it as a loan, but it must be repaid.

    Furthermore, a wife’s property (money, land, real estate, jewelry etc) are her sole possessions. The husband has no claim over his wife’s property, however, the husband’s property is to shared with his wife; Islam expects it is to be used to take care her.

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  35. On Misconception that Islam is Prejudiced towards and Oppresses Women

    Islam was responsible for elevating the status of women and freeing them from pre-Islamic traditions. It not only acknowledged women as significant members of society, it also gave them equal rights as men. One of the best statements that summarizes Islam’s teachings on women comes from convert to Islam, since September 11, US Navy petty officer, Heather Ramaha, who stated that "Islam gives us (women) Elevation; not Degradation." The Qur’an says:

    "I shall not lose sight of the work of any of you, male or female, each of you is from the other (equal to)…” Qur'an 3:195

    "O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other. Indeed the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you. Indeed Allah is Knowing, Aware." Qur'an 49:13

    Before any other religion or system in the world, Islam gave a woman the right to inherit; to vote and voice her opinion; to trade invest and improve herself financially; to own - buy and sell property; to seek knowledge and have a good education; to work; to hold leadership positions in society; to choose her spouse; and to divorce her husband. Islam further stipulates that it is the duty of the men in every stage of her life, whether a father, brother or husband, to take care of her and guard her with their life.

    Any oppressive or prejudicial traditions against women have nothing to do with Islam. They are the manifestation of quintessential misogyny that lies at the core of our patriarchal societies that has plagued, and continues to affect, all women in communities around the world. Despite the Western present day policies on equal rights, at many levels women in the United States are still not paid same salary as men for the same job.

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  36. Both Christianity and Judaism advocate a degree of oppressive and prejudicial teachings against women. The following are two verses from the New Testament in The Bible as well as a passage from the *Talmud, which Jewish men recite at the beginning of the daily morning prayers.

    The Bible says:

    1 Timothy 2:11-14
    “A woman (Or wife) should learn in quietness and full submission. I do not permit a woman to teach or to assume authority over a man (over her husband); she must be quiet. For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived and became a sinner.”

    NB: In Islam, both Adam and Eve are held responsible for disobeying God, not just Eve.

    1 Corinthians 14:34-35
    “Women should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says. If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church.”

    The *Talmud daily prayer for men required to accompany activities that are performed in the course of waking up in the morning, such as opening one's eyes, stepping on the ground, getting dressed, etc:

    “Blessed are you, Lord, our God, ruler of the universe who has not created me a woman."

    *(The Talmud (Hebrew for “study”) is one of the central works of the Jewish people. It is the record of rabbinic teachings that explain in great detail how the commandments of the Torah are to be carried out).

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  37. On Misconception that Islam advocates Female Genitalia Mutilation (FGM)

    Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is not advocated by Islam. The practice of FGM predates Islam; it is the manifestation of customs that date back to jahiliyya (pre-Islamic era). There is absolutely no reference to FGM in the Qur'an. So, it is neither a requirement nor a Sunnah (teachings or practices of the Prophet Muhammad) in Islam. All so-called FGM related Hadith that are allegedly attributed to Prophet Muhammad [SAW] have been proved to be inauthentic.

    It is a fact that Muslim communities in Central-North Africa, Middle East and in the West African countries of Mali and Guinea practice FGM. Unfortunately, many do so in the mistaken belief that it is a religious requirement. The justifications given for the practice are multiple and reflect the ideological and historical situation of the societies in which it has developed. Reasons cited generally relate to tradition; power inequalities; enhancing fertility; increasing sexual pleasure for the male; and the ensuing compliance of women to the dictates of their communities.

    Regarding FGM, Dr.Muhammad Lutfi al-Sabbagh, Professor of Islamic studies at King Saud University in Riyadh said:

    “Since all these risks are involved in female circumcision, it cannot be legitimate under Islamic law, particularly since nothing that recommends it is definitely established as said by the Prophet [SAW]. It is, however, established that he has said: "Do not harm yourself or others". This Hadith is one of the basic principles of this True Religion.
    The conclusion to be reached is that female circumcision is neither required nor is it an obligation nor a Sunnah. This is the view taken by a great number of scholars in the absence of any Hadith that may be authentically attributed to the Prophet [SAW].”
    It is important to also note that nonMuslims also practice FGM, they include Animists, Egyptian Christians in Egypt, Jews in Ethiopia and ethnic groups in Central and South America.

    Among the many global initiatives to eradicate FGM, is a program in Egypt, which is spearheaded by the Women’s Islamic Initiative in Spirituality and Equality (WISE) in partnership with the Egyptian Association for Society Development. WISE is a global program, social network and grassroots social justice movement led by Muslim women.

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  38. On the Misconception that the Qur’an tells men to beat their wives

    One of my most favorite topics to discuss is the contention that Islam teaches men to hit women; but this is by no means accurate. Wife beating is not allowed in Islam, and the Qur’an does not advocate the same. For those who make that claim, they hold to only one verse, Qur’an 4:34, which has been misinterpreted and, linguistically, misrepresented. In one English translation it reads:

    “Men are the protectors and maintainers of women, because Allah has given the one more (strength) than the other, and because they support them from their means. Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient, and guard in (the husband’s) absence what Allah would have them guard. As to those women on whose part ye fear disloyalty and ill-conduct, admonish them (first), (Next), refuse to share their beds, (And last) beat them (lightly); but if they return to obedience, seek not against them means (of annoyance): For Allah is Most High, great (above you all).”
    Most of translations say: “beat them (lightly)” This is a misinterpretation of Arabic.

    Here it is with the Arabic words in brackets:

    “...as for those women on whose part ye fear rebellion (nushuz), admonish them and banish them to beds apart, (and last) beat (adriboo) them. Then, if they obey you, seek not a way against them.”

    Both words have many possible meanings, the appropriate one is determined based on the grammatical structure of the sentence as well as its context.

    Such a step would blatantly contravene the Qur’anic guidance shown in verse 4:35 below. Therefore, a more accurate and consistent translation of the above verse would be:

    (4:34) “…as for those women whose animosity or ill-will you have reason to fear, then leave them alone in bed, and then separate; and if thereupon they pay you heed, do not seek a way against them.”

    The separation could be temporary or permanent depending on the reconciliation procedure. Such as construction is legitimate within the terms of the language and fits in very well with the divorce procedure outlined in the Qur’an.

    The verse following the above verse gives further weight to the above translation.

    (4:35) “ And if you fear a breach between the two, then appoint judge from his people and a judge from her people; if they both desire agreement, Allah will effect harmony between them, surely Allah is Knowing, Aware.”

    Dr. Laleh Bakhtiar, first American woman to translate the Qur’an into English, provided a comprehensive white paper on the issue of 4:34 that supports the translation of the word as being “to separate” and walk away. Her translation has been supported by Muslim scholars across the globe.

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  39. The misinterpretation of 4:34 is again is an example of self serving misinterpretations of the Qur’anic verses to justify unIslamic misogyny inherent in cultural systems. Domestic violence is a very serious issue; and one that is frowned upon per Islam’s position on appropriate behavior in marriage. Today, there are many Islamic shelters that have been established for victims of domestic violence.

    The relationship between the husband and wife should be based on mutual love and kindness
    "And among His Signs is this, that He created for you mates from among yourselves, that ye may dwell in tranquility with them, and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts): verily in that are Signs for those who reflect.” Qur’an 30:21

    In addition, Prophet Muhammad always was against violence over women. He never hit any female, and he used to say that the best of men are those who do not hit their wives. He did express his extreme repulsion of men who hit women and admonished them.

    “How does anyone of you beat his wife as he beats the stallion camel and then embrace (sleep with) her?” [Al-Bukhari]

    “Some (women) visited my family complaining about their husbands (beating them). These (husbands) are not the best of you.”

    “Do not beat the female servants of Allah.”

    Also, he always stressed the fact that men should treat their women in a fair way and never to use violence in dealing with them. He said:

    “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should not harm his neighbors. And I command you to take good care of the women.” [Bukhari]

    Even when women misbehave, tolerance and not violence is recommended, as a way to solve the problem. The Prophet Muhammad [SAW] said:

    “No believing man should hate a believing woman, if he hates one of her manners, he should be satisfied with another.”

    “‘The believers who have the best manners are those who have the most perfect faith. The best amongst you are the best towards their wives.” [Tirmidhi]

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  40. On the Misconception that Islam advocates Honor Killing

    Islam does not advocate honor killing. The term “Honor Killing” does not even exist in the Qur’an.

    While it is true that honor-based violence occurs in Muslim communities, it is a violation of Islamic principles. The Qur’an forbids killing innocents. It is an appalling cultural phenomenon rooted in misogynic patriarchal systems as a means of controlling, directing and regulating women’s sexuality and freedom of movement. Under such structures, honor is seen as residing in the body of a woman, and every aspect of her life is tied to her honor, which in turn serves as the marker of her social worth and the reputation of her male relatives. Therefore, any behavior that transgresses patriarchal system guidelines, as in a woman rejecting a marriage arranged by male authority, is punished and controlled with physical violence that often includes murder.

    On Claim that Muslims should lie to an Infidel

    This is completely false. There is absolutely nowhere in the Qur’an that this statement is made. Islam does not advocate lying to anyone. The Qur’an says:
    “…and avoid saying the untruth.” Qur’an 22:30

    On Claim that the Qur’an Encourages Marriage Between First Cousins

    ONLY Prophet Muhammad [SAW] was lawfully permitted to marry the daughters of his paternal and maternal uncles and aunts. All other Muslims were not permitted to do so.

    “Prophet, We have made lawful for you the wives to whom you have given their dowers, as well as those whom your right hand possesses from among the captives of war whom God has bestowed upon you. and [We have made lawful to you] the daughters of your paternal uncles and aunts, and the daughters of your maternal uncles and aunts, who have migrated with you; and any believing woman who gives herself to the Prophet, provided the Prophet wants to marry her. This applies only to you and not to the rest of the.” Qur’an 33:50

    The Bible also does not include cousins in the lists of prohibited relatives provided in the Bible, specifically in the books of Leviticus and Deuteronomy. The Old Testament also contains several examples of married cousins. Two of the most famous are prominent in Genesis. Isaac was married to Rebecca, his first cousin once removed (Genesis 24:12–15). Also, Rachel and Leah were both cousins of Isaac's son Jacob. Jacob loved Rachel and worked seven years for her father Laban in return for permission to marry (Genesis 28–29).

    Protestant churches generally allow cousin marriage, in keeping with criticism of the Catholic system of dispensations by Martin Luther and John Calvin during the Reformation. This includes most of the major US denominations, such as Baptist, Pentecostal, Lutheran, Presbyterian, and Methodist. The Anglican Communion has also allowed cousin marriage since its inception during the rule of King Henry VIII.
    In Roman Catholicism, all marriages more distant than first-cousin marriages are allowed, and first-cousin marriages can be contracted with a dispensation.

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  41. On Claim that there are No Churches in Dubai

    This is a list of Churches along with their physical location in Dubai and website.

    Dubai Evangelical Church Centre
    Jebel Ali Village - Dubai
    United Arab Emirates
    www.deccc.com

    St Marys Catholic Church
    Umm Hurair 2 - Dubai
    United Arab Emirates
    saintmarysdubai.com

    Christ Church Jebel Ali
    Jebel Ali Village - Dubai
    United Arab Emirates
    christchurchjebelali.com

    The Dubai City Church
    Community Hall, Holy Trinity compound - Oud Metha Rd - Dubai
    United Arab Emirates
    thedubaicitychurch.org

    Dubai Marthoma Church
    Jebel Ali Village - Dubai
    United Arab Emirates
    dubaimarthomaparish.org

    St Thomas Orthodox Church
    11th Street, Oud Metha Road - Dubai
    United Arab Emirates
    facebook.com/groups/st.thomas.dubai

    New Covenant Church
    Oud Metha Road, Holy Trinity Church Compound - Dubai
    United Arab Emirates
    nccuae.org

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  42. On Misconception that Islam forbids Music, Singing, Dancing and Clapping

    Music, singing, dancing and clapping are not forbidden in Islam. There is no verse in the Qur’an that says Muslims cannot engage in those activities. Those who claim the contrary do so based on a deliberate mistranslation of Qur’anic verses by adding words that are not present in the original Arabic and fabricated Hadith.

    In fact, the words “music” “dancing” and “singing” do not exist in the Qur’an.
    The word “clapping” only appears in one verse where Allah (SWT) spoke about a certain people during the time of the Prophet Muhammad [SAW] who did not believe in the revelation through Prophet Muhammad [SAW], rejected God and prevented from believing and worshipping God. The verse is highlighted and presented in context:

    “They also said, God, if this really is the truth from You, then rain down upon us stones from heaven, or send us some other painful punishment. But God would not punish them while you [Prophet] were in their midst, nor would He punish them so long as they sought forgiveness. Yet why should God not punish them when they debar people from the Sacred Mosque, although they are not its guardians? Its rightful guardians are those who fear God, though most of them do not realize it. Their prayers at the Sacred House are nothing but whistling and clapping of hands. So taste the punishment because of your denial. Those who are bent on denying the truth are spending their wealth in debarring others from the path of God. They will continue to spend it in this way till, in the end, this spending will become a source of intense regret for them, and then they will be overcome. And those who denied the truth will be gathered together in Hell.” Qur’an 8: 32-36


    (The Sacred House/Mosque is more commonly known as the Ka’aba in Mecca)

    Today, we have so many Muslim groups that produce a variety of music. Two of the most popular contemporary groups, of which I am a great fan, are Native Deen and Zain Bikha. This year, for the annual Eid Fest, we had a live outdoor concert in front of my city’s town hall where Native Deen was the headline performance. A mixture of Muslims and Christians gathered together and we danced and clapped like at any secular concert. I invite you to check out their videos on Youtube. Besides, you are Nigerian, I am sure you have been to many celebrations by your Muslim friends, do they not have music, singing and dancing? How about Arabs? Do they not incorporate music and clapping of hands and dancing to their festivities?

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  43. On the Misconceptionabout the Meaning of ‘Jihad’

    The concept of jihad is one of the most misconstrued aspects of Islamic doctrine in the world today. Not only by Western society and its media, but also by some pseudo-Muslim radical elements who have popularized it to mean holy war. As a result, Islam is erroneously and unjustly labeled as a religion that advocates violence and terrorism.
    But, even in the Arabic language, the word “jihad” means "struggle" or "effort,” not "holy war," which translated into Arabic is "harbun muqaddasatu." So, within the context of Islam, the correct definition of jihad is the struggle or effort to strive "in the path of God" against all obstacles. It is the effort to purify the soul by restraining from committing sins that corrupt the soul. One is to control material desires, overt selfishness, and remain uninfluenced by those internal or external forces that distract one from the remembrance of God. Jihad further constitutes the obligation for Muslims to strive against all forms of oppression, and to, peacefully and compassionately, convey the true message of Islam to all of mankind.
    There different categories of Jihad; they are:

    Jihad an-Nafs or Struggle against the Nafs or Soul:

    This is the jihad of self-reformation, and the struggle is against human vices, such as greed and lust, and all worldly enticements that are contrary to Islamic principles. Jihad an-Nafs calls for compelling oneself to observe obligatory and voluntary duties, and abandon all things that are haram (forbidden) or makrooh (disliked) as mandated in the Qur'an. It also includes compelling oneself to conduct all of one's affairs with excellent disposition and the highest level of ethics.

    “And by the soul and Him Who perfected it, then showed it what is right and what is wrong for it—indeed, he succeeds who purifies his soul, and, indeed, he fails who corrupts his soul.” Qur'an 91:7

    According to Prophet Muhammad [SAW]:

    “The most excellent type of jihad is to practice jihad against your own self and own desires for the sake of Allah.” [At-Tirmidhi]

    Jihad ash-Shaytaan or Struggle against Shaytaan (Satan):

    This is the struggle against Satan, and it involves defending oneself from his evil whisperings, temptations and lustfulness. One should understand that Satan's promptings will never cease, as a result, this is a struggle to last throughout one’s life. The Qur’an states:

    “Verily Satan is an enemy to you: so treat him as an enemy. He only invites his adherents,that they may become Companions of the Blazing Fire.” Qur’an 35:6

    Verbal Jihad

    This is the jihad that calls for the propagation of the true and unadulterated message of the Qur’an. Muslims are required to become involved in da'wah (spreading the message of Islam), and to do so with patience, wisdom, tolerance and respect of others and their own beliefs. Propagating the true message of Islam is not only to enlighten non-Muslims, but also to correct mistaken beliefs among Muslims.

    “Let there be no compulsion in religion: Truth stands out clear from Error: whoever rejects evil and believes in Allah hath grasped the most trustworthy hand-hold, that never breaks. And Allah heareth and knoweth all things.” Qur’an 2:256

    ReplyDelete
  44. Military or Combat Jihad

    Islam only permits defensive warfare. Muslim are forbidden from being aggressors.

    This is the jihad of defensive battle and represents the most misinterpreted category of jihad by Muslims and non-Muslims alike. It is used by some pseudo-Muslim radical elements and anti-Islamists to contend that Islam promotes and rewards offensive warfare. But the correct interpretation is that this jihad represents the legitimate struggle to defend human rights, families, personal and religious freedoms, land and property. Islam forbids Muslims to be initiators or aggressors, but it permits them to defend themselves when necessary. Hence, the battle can only be defensive, and not an offensive action. The Qur’an says:

    “Fight in the way of Allah against those who fight against you, but begin not hostilities. Lo! Allah loveth not aggressors.” [Qur’an 2:190]

    In Islam, the purpose of any battle is to restore peace and not to promote violence. When engaging in battle, Islam commands Muslims to be fair and just; not to harm or kill women, children, the elderly and unarmed civilians; not to terrify civilians; and not to employ unnecessary excessive force. The Qur’an has provided the circumstances under which defensive warfare is permissible; and Muslims are strictly forbidden from transgressing these parameters.

    Military or Combat Jihad is Only Permitted:

    To defend a peoples’ homeland and fellow citizens against any invaders.

    To provide help and support to those who are oppressed and unable to exercise their own will and freedom of choice.

    When Muslims are subjected to aggressive oppression, in the practice of their religion, and there are actual threats to their lives.

    When Muslims have been driven out of their homes. In such cases, the Qur'an recommends that they migrate to a more peaceful and tolerant society. However, if relocation is not possible, and there are actual threats to their lives, they can resort to defensive action. The Qur’an states:

    “Permission [to fight] is given to those against whom war is being wrongfully and offensively waged, and surely Allah is able to give them victory. Those who have been expelled from their homes unjustly, only because they said, 'Our Lord is Allah…” [Qur’an 22: 39-40]

    “Fight against aggressors until oppression is stopped.” [Qur'an 2:193]

    Islamic Rules for Defensive Battle:

    According to Islamic injunction, the following comprise what Muslims can or cannot carry out in the event of a battle.

    Civilians (unarmed or defenseless men and women) who are not fighting against Muslims are not to be attacked or killed.

    Crops, other sources of food, water and cattle or other animals are not to be destroyed.

    Hospitals, orphanages and other places of safety and refuge are not to be destroyed.
    Mosques, Churches, Synagogues or other places of worship are not to be destroyed.
    Women, children, the elderly and the disabled are not to be harmed.

    If the aggressor stops the aggression or offers a treaty it should be accepted and the fighting stopped immediately.

    Fleeing oppressors are not to be pursued to unnecessary extents and should be allowed to return to their home.

    Prisoners of war should be treated with respect and have their basic needs fulfilled, and they should be Freed or ransomed as soon as possible after the battle.

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  45. On Islam and Polygamy

    Polygamy refers to marriage to multiple spouses, either one husband and multiple wives or one wife and multiple husbands, and Polygyny refers to the marriage of one man to multiple women. The term polygyny is the appropriate term for what Islam permits, which is what you referenced in your comments. Islam did not introduce polygyny to the world; it is a social order that predates Islam.

    The Qur’an allows polygyny, but it placed restrictions on the practice.

    Firstly, it stipulates that a man is limited to having up to four wives at any one time; and secondly, the Qur’an says:

    “…marry women of your choice, two, or three, or four; but if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly (with them), then (marry) only one…” [Al-Qur’an 4:3]

    It is important to understand the verse in the context of both the Qur'an as well as the historical context when it was revealed. It was revealed after the Battle of Uhud, in which many Muslim men were killed, leaving widows and orphans. The revelation came down because of God’s concern for the welfare of women and orphans who were left without husbands and fathers. It is a verse about compassion towards women and their children; it is not about men or their sexuality.

    And it also warns that it is difficult to deal justly between multiple wives: the underlying message in this verse tells men to remain monogamous.

    “Ye are never able to be fair and just as between women, even if it is your ardent desire...” Qur’an 4:129

    So, while Islam permits polygyny, the Qur’an clearly states that if a man cannot treat his wives with equity, he should not marry more than one woman. Unfortunately, this is a clause usually taken lightly by many Muslim men and ignored by those seeking to condemn Islam. As in so many cases, there is a very fine balance between understanding what a law says and also understanding the intention for its enactment. It is not just having a right to do so; it’s how you use that right. Unfortunately, this is where many cultures fall short of Islam – Nigeria is one such example. Muslim men deem it a right to marry multiple wives, divorce at will to replace one with another and favor some over another. This is unacceptable in Islam; that is not what the religion advocates.

    It is also worth mentioning that the bride has the right before marriage to require that her fiancé agrees in advance to certain conditions of hers, in case he is interested in pursuing another marriage later on. Actually, this can be part of the marriage contract. As it is the duty of Muslims to fulfill all obligations, the Muslim husband has no choice but to honor such a condition.

    Even though it is not obligatory for a husband to obtain the consent of his wife to marrying another wife, it is incumbent upon him to discuss the matter with her and do whatever is necessary to gain her acceptance. Furthermore, prior to the marriage, a woman has the right to require her fiancé to agree in advance to conditions she sets relative to future intentions he may have to marry another wife. Actually, this can be part of the marriage contract, and, as it is the duty of Muslims to fulfill all obligations, the Muslim husband has no choice but to honor her conditions.

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  46. Polygamy is not only an Islamic issue. The Bible did not condemn polygamy. To the contrary, the Old Testament and Rabbinic writings frequently attest to the legality of polygamy. The Bible claims that King Solomon (Suleiman [AS]) had 700 wives and 300 concubines [1 Kings 11:3]. Also, David (Dawud [AS]) is said to have had many wives and concubines [2 Samuel 5:13]. The Old Testament does have some injunctions on how to distribute the property of a man among his sons from different wives [Deuteronomy 22:7]. The only restriction on polygamy is a ban on taking a wife’s sister as a rival wife [Leviticus 18:18]. The Talmud advises a maximum of four wives [Leonard J. Swidler, Women in Judaism: the Status of Women in Formative Judaism].

    In his book, “Polygamy Reconsidered,” Father Eugene Hillman stated that:

    “Nowhere in the New Testament is there any explicit commandment that marriage should be monogamous or any explicit commandment forbidding polygamy.”

    Moreover, Jesus (Isa [AS]) has not spoken against polygamy though it was practiced by the Jews of his society. Father Hillman stressed the fact that the Church in Rome banned polygamy in order to conform to the Greco-Roman culture (which prescribed only one legal wife while tolerating concubinage and prostitution). He cited St. Augustine who said,

    “Now indeed in our time, and in keeping with Roman custom, it is no longer allowed to take another wife.”

    African churches and African Christians often remind their European brothers that the Church’s ban on polygamy is a cultural tradition and not an authentic Christian injunction.

    Philip Kilbride, an American anthropologist of Roman Catholic heritage, in his provocative book, Plural Marriage For Our Times, proposes polygamy as a solution to some of the ills of the American society at large. He argues that plural marriage may serve as a potential alternative for divorce in many cases in order to obviate the damaging impact of divorce on many children. He maintains that many divorces are caused by the rampant extramarital affairs in the American society. According to Kilbride, ending an extramarital affair in a polygamous marriage, rather than in a divorce, is better for the children, "Children would be better served if family augmentation rather than only separation and dissolution were seen as options." Moreover, he suggests that other groups will also benefit from plural marriage such as: elderly women who face a chronic shortage of men and the African Americans who are involved in man-sharing.

    Of profound interest is the comment on polygamy in Islam by eminent American Christian evangelist Billy Graham. He said:

    "Christianity cannot compromise on the question of polygamy. If present-day Christianity cannot do so, it is to its own detriment. Islam has permitted polygamy as a solution to social ills and has allowed a certain degree of latitude to human nature but only within the strictly defined framework of the law. Christian countries make a great show of monogamy, but actually they practice polygamy. No one is unaware of the part mistresses play in Western society. In this respect Islam is a fundamentally honest religion, and permits a Muslim to marry a second wife if he must, but strictly forbids all clandestine amatory associations in order to safeguard the moral probity of the community."

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  47. Wow H. Kavalec, I'm impressed with your extensive reply. I thought you weren't coming back and I'm glad you did. Of course I disagree with many of the things you say, but I still learnt some things from your response, especially about the history and details about Bin Laden and Boko Haram. I think it's great that your view of Islam is on here to counter my post and give a fair hearing to moderate, law-abiding Muslims.

    But I'd like to also add that there's a difference between what the scriptures say and how the religion's adherents behave. I must admit that I roll my eyes and often glaze over whenever Muslims quote lovely scriptures about mutual love and care from the Quran, or when they say how the Qu'ran champions women's rights and cares deeply for Christians and Jews, because the reality on ground is the complete opposite, especially in muslim countries, akin to a father telling his son that sugar is bad for you whilst putting his fifth teaspoon of sugar into his tea, stirring it in and taking several gulps. The Quran may say good things, but boy oh boy are Muslims doing the opposite.

    You could say that the media sensationalizes the bad stuff, in the same way the media also focuses on terrorism when reporting on Africa, but I always counter that if Africa had no terrorism, there would be nothing to report, so too with Islam.

    Another question is: when is a cult or sect not a cult or sect and becomes a religion? When those who practice the doctrine number into several hundred thousand and traverse ethnicity, geography and language.

    To me this indicates that there is something fundamentally wrong with the Quran, for so many to interpret it in such a violent way. To my mind, the unique aspect of the Quran is its call to fight non-believers, whilst its scriptures on love and brotherhood is influenced by the Torah and other religious texts that came before it. That so many believe that murder will get you into paradise makes one wonder: is there something that the Quran does to many that makes them believe such things?

    Another sticking point is the notion that God has a son been deplorable, but this is only because people think of it in human terms. ie God and a woman copulating to produce a son. But of course that is not the case and Jesus was conceived in Mary's womb spiritually.

    And as for my being Jesus' sister, the Bible says: "For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ...For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters."

    Also, I have seen firsthand that polygamy doesn't stop men cheating. Not at all. Men with multiple wives cheat as much as men with one wife, and I know this for a fact. It's all very well saying that the Quran is against some things, but many Muslim cultures are not listening.

    Your title that says 'Muslims are forbidden from being aggressors' made me laugh. Because Quranic and world history and current affairs.

    I also appreciate your list of churches in Dubai. Though I hope all is well with them on ground in reality too.

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  48. Wow..I was really tempted to write a very lengthy contribution concerning several points (especial points made by H. Kavalec because I feel most of the points made by previous contributors where somewhat answered.) I will start by addressing some point made before H. Kavalec's contribution then I will get to that.

    First of all: I briefly want to comment on the bible verses that an anonymous person quoted concerning slaves and master. Looking at it properly, it does not even back up your point. I think those verses were only pointing out the existence of "master and slave" situation. Connecting it to what I perceive to be the initial area of concern here (i.e killing and the likes) I still do not see where it highlights, promotes or says kill and the likes of it. As far as I am concerned, it is even encouraging peace between "master and slave" situation.

    Secondly:
    (Me being a Christian, I am going to use "A Christian group" in the following context.)
    I would really appreciate it if a reader can add a link(Preferably with pictures) of/about "A Christian group" that committed what ever kind of atrocity or encouraged war and the likes then went ahead to wave flags with anything pertaining to Christ written on it. Better still, a video of "A Christian group" boldly declaring they have committed atrocities and it was inspired by Christ will do.

    (In the following context, "----" could signify any group/religion/belief/creed/lifestyle etc)
    If "A ------ group" should do something in the name of ---- but the other majority of the ---- claim otherwise, then they(the majority) ought to do something in order to stop the name of the ----- from being dragged into the mud. The action of the majority has to be bold and obvious enough to starve the action carried out by the minor group.

    Lastly:
    Now back to H. Kavalec. A brief background of myself before I go on. I am a lady from Northern Nigeria (Adamawa to be precise) and a born-again Christian.
    I used to have some many question about "Religion" in general but eventually I realized being a Christian was more than just a "religion" but a way of life(A total renewal infact).
    I am a Christian today not because of what someone told me or by imposition but because of personal encounter. I added that just to point out that if I were to even pick based on all I have read here, I will still pick being a Christian.
    Also, despite your background and studies as stated(H. Kavalec), It still seemed like you were rather in a quandary. Don't get me wrong, I recognize and appreciate your academical background and intellect but that's the point! As rightly stated by Fulani-Nigeria there is a difference between academically/humanly understanding something and divinely understanding it.
    However, all you have written is your opinion and I'll simply respect your opinion but I'll give my own conclusion to just quickly sum up all I have said and previous contribution made here.
    let each person to his/her God and if they sincerely desire to know the truth, they should pray within their heart to their Creator to reveal it to them (Not to ask any human- After all, a creature does not know and can not know everything about it self (talk-less of another creature) except the Creator of that creature).

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    1. In the interest of fairness (and seeing as some people felt left out if I don't comment on their particular response lol) I wanted to acknowledge your comment Anonymous. I agree with you of course, so thanks for reiterating my opinions :)

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  49. As a Christian working for the church... I highly disagree with many of your statements. Only a minority of Muslims are in fact extremists, estimated 7 percent (pew research center). Also, the reason you may think ISIS is a majority, and there seems like a lot, is because is an area of concentration. It's believed that there are many more Christian extremists, but don't have the community to actual commit such attacks. Extremism became popular with the takeover of Palestine and the Shah. If you don't know what the shah is, I’m too lazy to explain, but he was practical a puppet placed by the US in Iran, who killed thousands of people.
    Also, many attacks have been committed by Christians in the name of Christianity, such as the bombing of Oklahoma City in the US and the mass shooting in Norway. Minor attacks are more common of Christian extremists, again, because of the geographic distribution.
    ISIS members aren't real Muslims because they lack many of the basic beliefs. Islam was founded on the ideals of trade, economic pursuit, and cultural diffusion. This is seen in the Mongol and Mali empires. Might be something worthwhile to look up.
    Also Christianity and Islam or more closely related then Judaism and Christianity, due to the fact that the Qur'an shares almost all the same stories as us, and believes in Jesus, Mary, the disciples, and all that fun stuff. Like us to Judaism, Islam has one more added chapter to their holy text.
    And there’s a large group of Christians who have killed many people for religion: KKK (Ku Klux Klan)
    You also should look more into Islamic texts and Christian texts, because in our own bible, God commits like 4 genocides... because they were non-believers.... and non-believers go to hell, condemned for their sins. let’s go into some fun passages:
    “When you approach a city to fight against it, you shall offer it terms of peace. If it agrees to make peace with you and opens to you, then all the people who are found in it shall become your forced labor and shall serve you. However, if it does not make peace with you, but makes war against you, then you shall besiege it. When the LORD your God gives it into your hand, you shall strike all the men in it with the edge of the sword. Only the women and the children and the animals and all that is in the city, all its spoil, you shall take as booty for yourself; and you shall use the spoil of your enemies which the LORD your God has given you. Only in the cities of these peoples that the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance, you shall not leave alive anything that breathes” (Deuteronomy 20:10-17)
    “ When they came into the house, as he lay on his bed in his bedchamber, they smote him, and slew him, and beheaded him. They took his head, and went by the way of the Arabah all night, and brought the head of Ishbosheth to David at Hebron. And they said to the king, “Here is the head of Ishbosheth, the son of Saul, your enemy, who sought your life; the LORD has avenged my lord the king this day on Saul and on his offspring.” (2 Samuel 4:7)
    Now if you say "but these are taken out of contexts," so are many writings in the Qur'an. As a Christian, I must serve my duty to god and make sure we ACCEPT ALL PEOPLE. If we listened to everything the bible says, we would wear certain clothing, only eat "clean" things, and actually, never shave! OH... not to mention commit genocides.......

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  50. (Continued...)
    I've read the bible many times for my occupation. I love my religion, but i dislike the hate we seem to deem on Muslims, and generalize facts about them.
    And don't thank Christianity for technology. Many historically refused to use technology throughout the ages at it came out because of its "godly power."
    Also, if you actually research Islam, you would know one of the five pillars of Islam is actually CHARITY. The five pillars of Islam is the basis of Islam, and if not followed, you are considered a non-Muslim, hence why jihadists aren't considered real Islamic followers.
    Also, you make many generalizations about Christianity which are broad leaps of faith that don't really match together. You can thank Islamic culture for Algebra, many modern medicine understanding, marching bands, openness of Christianity to business in order for the pope to gain more control in medieval Europe as Islam increased in popularity, coffee, and many other things you take advantage of everyday.
    Also, there have been multiple outcries by the Islamic community to curb extremism. Many organizations have popped up (run by Muslims) to inform Islamic youth of what the belief of Islam really is. Also, top leaders of the world have spoken out who are Islamic for years now and have been working on keeping extremism out of their country which have large Islamic populations.
    Also Many Islamic nations have woman as presidents, more than many Christian majority countries can say.
    God said he loves all people right? Islam believes we go to heaven, and historically have had much respect for the Christian religions for their close ties with their religion.
    Islam is a religion of peace. It was founded like that if you look at its history, and historically, have suffered many genocides and terrors. I highly suggest researching the Shah and some atrocities committed by him that caused the rise of extremism. Also looking at the pew research center and reading on the site mic.com, it might be interesting to you.
    Hopefully you found what i said factual and interesting, and hopefully, i can change your opinion on this faith.

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    1. Hi Anonymous, I answered all your points and queries in answer to previous comments, so please take a look. I also have a more mellowed view of things in my latest post regarding #JeSuisCharlie.

      I think it's great that as a Christian you have such a genial and charitable view of Islam, kudos to you. But remember, I have lived as a Muslim, lived with Muslims and worked with Muslims, and I can tell you that the public and private face of Islam is quite different.

      I've seen enough to make me very wary and also thankful about my life now.

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    2. Well I'm guessing you are from Nigeria, so where you are, it's a lot different from the rest of the world's Muslims. It's because you are in one of those areas where Islam extremism is becoming an issue. You haven't touched on all my points, but that's fine. I hope one day, you can come to where I live and see what peaceful, real muslims are like, and see how much they help the community, Our church has joined forces with our local mosque to try and combat the lack of literacy in my community because of the high adult population here that come from other countries. These people are a beautiful and rich people, who are looking for equality just like you and me, and hopefully, you'll see that beauty one day! :)

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    3. "I'm guessing you are from Nigeria" - what gave it away, maybe my blog being named 'Fulani-Nigerian in England'? Lol.

      Islamic extremism is a big issue not just in Nigeria but in Cameroon, Mali, Kenya, Libya, Egypt, Iraq, Syria, Israel, Pakistan, UK, France, Belgium, Canada, US, Australia and other countries not in the news. Don't get me wrong, I do see the beauty in many muslims, of course I get it that they're not all bad.

      Your church is doing a great thing joining forces with muslims in your community. The more collaborations across the religious divide that occurs the better.

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  51. Learn about the hermetic mystical teachings of the Quran @ sachalsmith777.blogspot.com

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  52. I think you need to gain more knowledge about Islam. You completely lack Islamic knowledge.

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    1. I don't claim to be an expert on Islam, but I know enough to have an opinion on it.

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  53. Fulani-Nigerian,

    I would advice you to be willing to accept that you don't know it all. As a Nigerian living in the United States, I have come to learn a lot about the West, racism and Christianity. If you were to live here for a while, you would not easily profess the things you do. I wish I have the energy and time to share it all but I will give you a few pointers.

    - America used the bible to justify slavery.
    - Look up the story on Ham and slavery.
    - KKK killed Blacks in the name of the Bible and serving God.
    - The West and all the technologies you mention are used as a way to express that blacks are inferior to whites. In this blog, you attribute the technology to Christianity.
    - We live in a western influence world. You know of Galileo because he is western but you may not have heard of Arabic scholars because they aren't. Those don't mean they haven't contributed amazing things to the world.
    - Many of these terrorists groups were sponsored by the West

    Your lack of empathy towards African Americans and Palestinians is disconcerting. And the fact that you are black makes it even more sad.

    I guess that's the power of divide and conquer.

    As a Christian as well, I have things to add:
    - I won't lie that Christianity has been used to deceive others. It was used as a justification for colonialism, slavery and to discourage blacks from resisting
    - I have come to accept the flaws of the passed
    - These actions were made as a result of greed. They are not a reflection of who God is.
    - However, I have to give other faiths the benefit of doubt as well.
    - As a result of history, I have learned I don't know it all.

    But what I do know is:
    Christians have made mistakes
    Muslims appears to stimulate violence but again that's not might call.
    I am a Christian
    But I shall not worship the West as though it is my savior.

    The West can smile at me when it wants to, then call me 3/5th of a human being when it doesn't.

    Be careful who you side. In the end, these religions are not even African. So why fight over it so adamantly.

    I am Christian however. But history tells a lot of story that really makes you careful before you take any sides.

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    1. Thanks for your measured comment Anonymous, and I agree with all your points against Christianity. I would be a blind fool not to acknowledge the ills of Christianity and I don't believe I did that in my post. And I'm sure anyone even mildly interested in Western culture is aware of your pointers. Yet apologists like yourself must also accept the obvious, which is that Islam is a danger worldwide right now, and must not continue the narrative of "well, Christians aren't perfect either." Cos it's disingenuous and simply deflecting the issue. In your desire to be 'fair,' don't be afraid to call a spade a spade.

      My lack of empathy towards Palestine I've explained, as for African Americans, I used to stand in solidarity with them, having familiarised myself with their history, current culture and living amongst them for a while in Washington. And I am Black in a white country so I get it. But I'm nothing if not fair in judgement, and I don't drink the Kool-aid in support of anyone or anything without being objective, and if a people's woes are largely self-inflicted and repeatedly so, I call time on that. So, white cops killing unarmed black guys = bad, black guys not obeying instructions from white cops = bad. Institutional Racism in Hollywood = bad. Blacks demanding recognition every single year despite numbers and talent being disproportionate leading to token nominations by a nervous Academy fearing backlash = bad.

      You're right, neither Christianity nor Islam is African, but much of traditional African beliefs are brutal, so I'll take my chances and side with Christianity. And I'm going to say something that might blow your mind: The West IS my saviour. I've lived in Nigeria, and I'd rather live in England thank you. I would suggest the same is true for you otherwise you won't still be in America. I don't worship the West blindly (read my posts), but I appreciate all I've gained from being here.

      And If you are a Christian, why sit on the fence?

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  54. Just in case you still believe American slavery was not "Christian":
    Sir John Hawkins the first slave-ship captain to bring African slaves to the Americas was a religious gentleman who insisted that his crew “serve God daily” and “love another”. His ship, ironically called “the good ship Jesus,” left the shores of his native England for Africa in October 1562. He arrived at Sierra Leone, and in a short time he had three hundred blacks in his possession. Hawkins claimed to have acquired them “partly by sword and partly by other means.” Don't you think Hawkins would have indicated had he legally purchased any of those 300 men rather than saying by "other means"?.

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    1. Hi Anonymous. Sure, Christians used the Bible to justify slavery. But from another perspective, I often wish my forefathers were not the victims, and were not so easily over-powered. I wish they were just as accomplished in engineering and architecture as the Europeans that came to their continent, then it wouldn't have been so easy to be stolen/captured/bought/conquered. Why didn't we have guns, ships and the temerity to send the white man away empty-handed?

      Sure Christians used the Bible to justify slavery back then, and Christians also helped to bring down the institution later on (Quakers, Wilberforce, Wedgwood)

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  55. u are an massively and incredibly intellectual woman. I'm glad you wrote this. I have read every response you've written to those that indirectly opposed your truths and you shut them the hell down with class, precision and immense intelligence. I tip my fedora in your direction from boundless respect for you. I would curtsey but I'm TOO much of a tomboy, LOL!

    I found your well thought out yet intricate article when I googled "why I'm no longer Muslim" which resulted in blogs that's in the hundreds. So many people have left Islam and/or can no longer defend it. My heart aches for kind Muslims who wish to explore their options and live happy as well as in peace but are suppressed - stifled even - by their terrorist dictators.

    I am a former Muslim myself (American) grew up in the religion. My stepdad is an Imam who's the ONLY Muslim man I'm very close to. I'll tell you my experience and why I gave up on Islam:

    It was extremely hard to keep saying PBUH in English and Arabic after Muhammad's name because I didn't believe him to be this great guy. I'm sorry but I feel Jesus was the better messenger and divine. I NEVER got comfortable with a grown ass man marrying a 6 year old child or any kid under 18 - child brides continue to be a VERY big thing internationally and it shatters my soul that so many Muslim girls have been forcibly sold to a man her father's age or older for debt reasons and other asinine things.

    The horror of girls younger than my own daughters have been repeatedly beaten, raped, killed, died in childbirth for their underdeveloped bodies couldn't handle the pregnancy saddens me greatly. These guys get away with it and don't give a damn which pisses me off to where I WISH someone would shoot those "men". It angers me that young Muslim men who defend women and girls are also killed.

    I did the Muhummad marriage to Aisha (Iesha) apologist bullshit ONCE in my mid teens ( I'm 33) and I literally vomited at my temporary stupidity - I should've known better being that I was molested by my mother's Muslim ex husband. I read numerous atrocities of what the so called prophet of Islam did to young Aisha; one was when she was worried and followed her husband (I use that term VERY loosely) to a cemetery and he slapped her in the chest numerous times. What the HELL.

    He also did a practice called thighing - the sexual act of non vaginal penetration by rubbing the penis on the thigh of a female. I know what it was like to be Aisha - a terrified 6 year old girl being grunted and sweated on by a guy 3 times her age until he reached an orgasm and having to live through child rape for years.

    My Abi (my stepdad in his late 50s) is a great man in his own right - it's super rare that we don't see eye to eye. He doesn't want me to date but I did as he said and married out of Islamic obligation. I was foolishly led to believe that marrying a Muslim man would fulfill my deen and I'd be happier than I already was.

    I was already blessed immensely prior to marrying my ex husband - I was working for a private and highly successful small computer company owned by an amazing boss and human resources supervisor, my coworkers were so awesome. I had my own apartment, surrounded by loving friends, family, already a single mom of one who was thriving greatly (I survived domestic violence from her father who wasn't Muslim).

    I was abused as a child from all sides and I inadvertently ended up procreating with 2 abusive men. Trust me if I knew what kind of dudes both my kids fathers were, me trying to cancel out one bad relationship for a terrible marriage - I wouldn't have given them the time of day.

    My ONLY regret is my choice of men at the time not my kids for they are my greatest blessing and accomplishment.

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  56. (continued) I realised how WRONG I was doing what I was told as a Muslim woman, following the obligatory Islamic marriage instead of what I felt was right and would benefit myself to enlightenment. From that marriage, I almost lost my life. Unfortunately I'm not the only Muslim or ex Muslim woman who has survived domestic violence and spousal rape. My Abi somehow fails to see that. I wrote him a letter stating that but he insists dating is haram.

    I stay true to myself and respectfully explained that also. I also reminded him that men of his calibre are rare and do not court women with respect - they either catcall or kill women for turning down their advances which happens a lot in black communities ( I'm African American myself). My Abi have been divorced from my mother in 1995 and he remarried the woman he's known since high school in 2004.

    I strayed from Islam for years on and off (I was born Christian but my mother unexpectedly made the decision to be part of the NOI (Nation of Islam) then Sunni - shutting us away from our very loving and supportive Christian family. For over 2 decades my life as Muslim was beyond difficult; I was bullied for years in school wearing Hijab.

    I tried to educate my peers about Islam, including the mean ones but to no avail - I was still being tormented and had no salvage except in reading. My mother was no comfort and chastised me for defending myself and other kids regardless of their religion. I was and remain a lifelong honor student.

    The Muslim sisters were such wonderful and beautiful women with big hearts that was amazing moms and business owners along with their husbands. Their husbands were amazing also who respected women a great deal, the Muslim kids I grew up around were so cool and lovable - these were the people my Abi knew well. When my mother and Abi divorced, my mother isolated my siblings and I from the good Muslims and kept us around Muslims who were just like her - bad people who's backbiting was their theme and hid behind Islam.

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  57. (continued) Over years my mother told me I deserved to be a victim of domestic violence, I caused the sexual assault done against me when I was 17, she was glad I was raped when I was a 18 year old virgin by a drug dealer who was a repeat rapist, said its my fault I was molested by her Muslim ex husband whom she knew was a repeat pedophile when she married him. My mother said my kids are slow and worthless and should've been aborted because they are 100% black.

    I may have only one mother but she is not humane and lack a heart despite her being educated. I learned at an early age that higher education doesn't equal to wisdom. Forgiveness for things that my mother willingly allowed and done to me hasn't happened and won't. My mother and I was estranged for years and I'm no longer speaking to her. Why? She is inherently cruel and was an extremely toxic, abusive mother. My biological father is a womanizing deadbeat. Both claimed Islam is their religion. I no longer speak to my mother. I ceased all contact from her for 4 years.

    My kids are Puerto Rican, Native American, Korean and black whom are excellent students and respectful of each other, elders, peers and myself. They are 11 and 8.7. I teach them Spanish in 3 dialects, some Arabic, Korean, Mandarin and computer binary numbers. I teach them to respect all who respects them. I'm not sure why is it that when Arabic is spoken, people assume that the speaker is Muslim which is not always true. I've met all kinds of wonderful people from all religions who speak fluent Arabic and any other beautiful language.

    After my divorce from my physically, verbally, mentally and sexually violent ex husband, I ended up being an atheist agnostic. By that I mean: I have a feeling there is a higher being when I see good things happen - but so many atrocities - ESPECIALLY done against kids and teens implemented by adult humans part of Abrahamic religions/non Abrahamic religions causes me to doubt there is ANY higher power that gives a shit to stop violence, incest, rape, forced marriages outweighs my faith sometimes.

    After my divorce from my abusive and adulterous ex husband which pitched me into single motherhood, I had to start over; took a few years but I've gotten my self confidence back and will be a high school world history teacher soon; my current profession is IT (Information Technology) in 2 years.

    I'm glad you're a strong voice, I hope you continue to speak up and may God continue to bless you ❤.

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  58. Sorry I had to break my comment down, lol.

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  59. Hi Dee Jay, and thanks for your fascinating comment and testimony. I sympathise massively with you regarding your childhood and experiences. I'm sorry you had to go through what you went through, and I must tell you that none of the injustices and abuse you faced was your fault at all. You were a victim but now you've overcome and see clearly now to speak with wisdom and knowledge about your past to help others. I am glad you came across my blog, and I like your first paragraph the best :)

    Your mother's personal troubles and character probably fueled her cruelty, along with her Islam. It increasingly seems to me from many such examples that Islam can bring out the worse in already damaged people. But of course this is counter-balanced by your many decent and loving Muslim family and friends.

    "My heart aches for kind Muslims who wish to explore their options and live happy as well as in peace but are suppressed - stifled even - by their terrorist dictators" Mine too. I believe there are many, many such Muslims who secretly dislike their faith and are drawn to Christianity or atheism or are already Christians or atheists in their hearts, and if the reprisals were not so severe the number of Muslims globally will be seriously reduced. I believe God is using the current Syrian refugee crisis to draw more Muslims to the West where they would have the freedom to live as ex-Muslims.

    I'm interested to know what religion, if any, you are teaching your kids? And I would also advocate for you to forgive your mother for your sake. But from the tone of your writing, I think you're quite stable and clear-headed in your feelings towards her, which is good. I'm glad that you have not let your painful past define you, and I sincerely wish you and your precious children the best of everything. Drop me an email at sweetweet121@gmail.com, you seem like my kind of person :)

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