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Why should one be muslim ?

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Topic: Why should one be muslim ?
Posted By: abdelhamidem
Subject: Why should one be muslim ?
Date Posted: 19 April 2010 at 9:02am
Salam to everyone.

I'll be straight forward. I was born muslim and I've been struggling with my faith for many years. Downs and highs like many muslims experience I think. Last summer I decided to stop that yoyo faith, and ask myself why my faith isn't steady. The answer is because I'm not fully convinced. Why am I not fully convinced? I don't really know... I could list a few things that I don't understand or even disagree with Islam, but I think my real question, the one that would give me real strong faith if it was answer is:

WHY should one be Muslim ?

To me, there are only a few types of reasons why people are/become Muslims:

You "feel" it: Somewhere inside you, you know that it's the right path. But then, one must keep in mind that in other religions too you can find people who feel something strong for their religion. Who's right, who's wrong?
Or maybe you had that special experience (a dream, a sign, etc...). That happens in other religions too!! And allow me to say that I refuse to believe other people's experiences. You never really know what happened in their head. You can only trust YOUR own experiences, and even so, you have to be very careful. Our "unconscious" can be surprisingly misleading.

The Scientific data in the Quran: You probably heard/read thousands of times these verses that are supposed to prove something. And of course, there is a japanese/american/british scientist who's there to say how incredible that is, and that it's a miracle. When you look for that scientist on the internet... he doesnt exist or there is no reference to his opinion on Islam. And when you read the verses, they're either nothing special OR so confusing that they could mean anything.


The Miracles:
I really hate those. Miracles like "ALLAH" written on a fish....seriously??? Or trees/plants growing and forming some kind of "La Ilaha Illa Lah". Those are just fake. The last miracle I saw was that of a Jinn photographed in a cave in Yemen. Many arab newspapers were showing it frontpage, and I had many people around me who believed it. From all ages, sexes, and levels of education. But then, I found the same picture on internet, only in a different set. The "Jinn" was in fact a giant puppet in an amusement park in england.


The why:
Why would a man go through all that pain and risk his life just to deliver us a message. A book only filled with good advice for life. Don't steal, don't kill, do good, help your neighbour, give money to the poor, dont fool around, here is how you should share inheritance, etc...
So, what's in it for him? Well, I do not know. Maybe it was just a clever way to rule the country? Offer justice to people in need and they'll follow you. Maybe he was very clever, some kind of genius of politics.

I have a few other general remarks and questions:
The fact that it's important to read the Quran in arabic also bothers me. You have to master arabic if you hope to understand a smal portion of the Quran! That's what I heard. Even the best scholars don't master the Quran fully. Far from that.
So, What is God expecting from us exactly? Imagine I was born a chinaman, and one day I decided to look for the truth, search God. To be completely honest in my search, I should learn hebrew, the latin, arabic, maybe hindi ????
That's another problem. To be completely honest about your faith quest, you should read about allll the religions that exist. Or at least the main religions. Imagine you have to learn the original language of each religion to fully understand it.

Today, the only thing I'm certain of is that God exists. I'm just not sure about Islam anymore.

How can you answer me? And please, don't shoot. I'm a honest person, asking honest questions, honestly looking for answers.



Replies:
Posted By: abuayisha
Date Posted: 19 April 2010 at 11:16am

The Words of Allah , Most High:

" Verily, you will not guide everyone whom you love, but Allah guides whom He wills and He knows best those who Will guided" (Qur'an 28:56)

Allah informs the Prophet that his assiduous pursuit of his uncle, Abu Talib in order to call him to Islam will be of no avail, that he will not be guided; for Allah knows all things - past, present and future, and none other than Allah has knowledge of the unseen. And He informs His Messenger that successful guidance comes only by His will, and He makes successful the guidance for whosoever of His slaves He Wills and that is because He knows best who deserves to be guided to success.

http://www.islamqa.com/tr/ref/books/6 - http://www.islamqa.com/tr/ref/books/6


Posted By: Chrysalis
Date Posted: 19 April 2010 at 12:23pm
Originally posted by abdelhamidem abdelhamidem wrote:

Salam to everyone.

I'll be straight forward. I was born muslim and I've been struggling with my faith for many years. Downs and highs like many muslims experience I think. Last summer I decided to stop that yoyo faith, and ask myself why my faith isn't steady. The answer is because I'm not fully convinced. Why am I not fully convinced? I don't really know... I could list a few things that I don't understand or even disagree with Islam, but I think my real question, the one that would give me real strong faith if it was answer is:

WHY should one be Muslim ?
 


Wa'alaikum salaam Abdel Hamidem,

As far as our Imaan (faith) is considered Brother, almost every many muslims go through times of faith tribulations. It is just not possible to maintain a constant level of Imaan throughout our lives, in very phase of life. Some - like you, hit a lower point than others. Doubt is part of being human. However, when a muslim comes to the point where they are actually thinking if Islam itself is right for them - there is a need to seriously address the issue. (which you seem to have realised already! Allahu Akbar!)

I would like to bring your attention to the fact, that you still thought it important to discuss your doubts regarding Islam with other Muslims. You did not outright go and abandon your faith. To me, it means there is still some faith. What do you think ?

Quote

You "feel" it: Somewhere inside you, you know that it's the right path. But then, one must keep in mind that in other religions too you can find people who feel something strong for their religion. Who's right, who's wrong? 


Yes, that is a very important aspect to having faith in any religion. I'm guessing you don't 'feel it' anymore? How about you try and think why that is so ? What is the root of the issue?

Is it Islamic injunctions you have a problem with (like reading Qur'an in arabic) - that sets you off? Perhaps it is just lack of awareness on your part? sometimes, when we don't really understand certain injunctions we can have a problem practicing them. For example I used to have a huge issue with Polygyny - until I read about it. I also realised that the reason why I had such an issue with Polygyny was because I only got to read the anti-polygyny information. . . never really got the information from the correct sources.

Are you debating Islam with non-muslims? Getting your information from anti-islam website? Sometimes they claim to be doing "constructive criticism" but note their subliminal writing style, tone & language. It can have a gradual effect on our thinking. It is better to fix ones own Imaan before exploring other religions or going into comparative religion or philosophy.

Were you raised in a religious upbringing ? Did you have any sort of religious education during youth ? I might be wrong, but that does effect the strength of your imaan, and the ease to practise/accept it.


Quote Or maybe you had that special experience (a dream, a sign, etc...). That happens in other religions too!! And allow me to say that I refuse to believe other people's experiences. You never really know what happened in their head. You can only trust YOUR own experiences, and even so, you have to be very careful. Our "unconscious" can be surprisingly misleading.


I will have to agree. Not everyone has the wisdom to identify actual signs from no-signs-at-all. Rather a shaky premise to base your faith on, in my opinon. Faith needs to be based on something more substantial. Although signs could help.



Quote The Scientific data in the Quran: You probably heard/read thousands of times these verses that are supposed to prove something. And of course, there is a japanese/american/british scientist who's there to say how incredible that is, and that it's a miracle. When you look for that scientist on the internet... he doesnt exist or there is no reference to his opinion on Islam. And when you read the verses, they're either nothing special OR so confusing that they could mean anything.


Do you believe in the Qur'an though? Do you think there is truth in it?


Quote The why:
Why would a man go through all that pain and risk his life just to deliver us a message. A book only filled with good advice for life. Don't steal, don't kill, do good, help your neighbour, give money to the poor, dont fool around, here is how you should share inheritance, etc...
So, what's in it for him? Well, I do not know. Maybe it was just a clever way to rule the country? Offer justice to people in need and they'll follow you. Maybe he was very clever, some kind of genius of politics.


Do you believe in self-satisfaction? i.e. knowing you did something good/right. Or wanting to help others ? Having a sense of responsibility towards society ? Why does a man only need material reasons to do the above - like you suggest. (whats in it for him?)

Again, where are you getting your information/biography about the Prophet ?


Quote The fact that it's important to read the Quran in arabic also bothers me. You have to master arabic if you hope to understand a smal portion of the Quran!


What makes you think it is necessary to master Arabic ? There are probably hundreds of thousands of Muslims today (and in the past) who probably were illiterate and couldn't even read their native language, let alone master a foreign one. Were they/are they any less Muslim ? Basic Islamic principle, Allah does not burden anyone more than their ability. If you don't have the capability to learn/read Arabic - don't. A few sentences worth of Arabic is all you will need as a bare minimum. Those who cannot even manage those, like converts in old-age, can pray in their native tongue. Allah made Islam easy - not a burden on us.


Quote
So, What is God expecting from us exactly? Imagine I was born a chinaman, and one day I decided to look for the truth, search God. To be completely honest in my search, I should learn hebrew, the latin, arabic, maybe hindi ????


You said you believed in God, yet you are doubting His Intentions and His methods. If you have faith in God - then the simple fact, that He is Just, Kind and Desires the best for us should be enough. Otherwise we will have to backpedal and reevaluate belief in God as well.


Quote
That's another problem. To be completely honest about your faith quest, you should read about allll the religions that exist. Or at least the main religions. Imagine you have to learn the original language of each religion to fully understand it.


No you don't. You don't have to learn Latin, Greek, Arabic etc to get your knowledge of Science, Medicine, Philosophy or Mathematics. So why should religious knowledge be any different? You rely on translations for the former subjects, don't you?

Quote Today, the only thing I'm certain of is that God exists. I'm just not sure about Islam anymore.


It would be a good idea to work on your islamic faith - through good muslim sources. Also, curious, if you are not so sure about Islam, what is your alternative?





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"O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young."


Posted By: Gibbs
Date Posted: 19 April 2010 at 2:25pm
Well why should one be Muslim is like asking why someone wants to be Buddhist or Sikh. There are many paths and many truths to the One (even though Islam claims to be the only truth) so I Think whatever touches the spirit is where that one becomes immersed in the soul of the religion.


Posted By: Chrysalis
Date Posted: 19 April 2010 at 11:15pm
Originally posted by Gibbs Gibbs wrote:

(even though Islam claims to be the only truth)


As does almost every other belief system in the world Gibbs. Saying that a person does not believe that their belief-system is the "only truth" or "best truth" out there could best be termed being diplomatic. Why else would anybody believe in something - unless they actually believe in its truth ?




-------------
"O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young."


Posted By: abdelhamidem
Date Posted: 20 April 2010 at 4:56am
Thank you for you answer Chrysalis

Originally posted by Chrysalis Chrysalis wrote:


Wa'alaikum salaam Abdel Hamidem,As far as our Imaan (faith) is considered Brother, almost every many muslims go through times of faith tribulations. It is just not possible to maintain a constant level of Imaan throughout our lives, in very phase of life. Some - like you, hit a lower point than others. Doubt is part of being human. However, when a muslim comes to the point where they are actually thinking if Islam itself is right for them - there is a need to seriously address the issue. (which you seem to have realised already! Allahu Akbar!)I would like to bring your attention to the fact, that you still thought it important to discuss your doubts regarding Islam with other Muslims. You did not outright go and abandon your faith. To me, it means there is still some faith. What do you think ?�


Yes, there is still some faith. I still feel something (weak though), but I just refuse to rely on my feelings anymore. Feelings are misleading. I grew up in a muslim family, in a muslim country... maybe that's the reason why I have these feelings. Would I have these feelings if I grew up in china? If I was adopted and raised in a buddhist family? I don't think so. What I'm looking for is a universal reason to be muslim.
I came to a muslim forum to ask other muslims why they are muslims. I didn't find the answer myself, even though I tried really hard...

Quote Yes, that is a very important aspect to having faith in any religion. I'm guessing you don't 'feel it' anymore? How about you try and think why that is so ? What is the root of the issue?Is it Islamic injunctions you have a problem with (like reading Qur'an in arabic) - that sets you off? Perhaps it is just lack of awareness on your part? sometimes, when we don't really understand certain injunctions we can have a problem practicing them.


The root of the issue is that I realised that I had no really good reason to be muslim. Islam is just a set of rules, stories, etc... that have nothing special from my point of view. Good rules, yes. Wise stories, yes. But nothing extraordinary. Nothing a wise/smart group of men couldn't write.

Quote
Do you believe in the Qur'an though? Do you think there is truth in it?


What do you mean? If I believe it comes from God? No, I don't believe the Quran comes from God... nor can I prove it doesnt come from God. Why do YOU think the Quran comes from God?

Quote Do you believe in self-satisfaction? i.e. knowing you did something good/right. Or wanting to help others ? Having a sense of responsibility towards society ? Why does a man only need material reasons to do the above - like you suggest. (whats in it for him?)Again, where are you getting your information/biography about the Prophet ?


yes I do believe in self satisfaction, but there's just no way to prove that the prophet just wanted to help other people.
I got my information about the prophet from books written by muslims.

Quote What makes you think it is necessary to master Arabic ? There are probably hundreds of thousands of Muslims today (and in the past) who probably were illiterate and couldn't even read their native language, let alone master a foreign one. Were they/are they any less Muslim ? Basic Islamic principle, Allah does not burden anyone more than their ability. If you don't have the capability to learn/read Arabic - don't. A few sentences worth of Arabic is all you will need as a bare minimum. Those who cannot even manage those, like converts in old-age, can pray in their native tongue. Allah made Islam easy - not a burden on us.


What I mean is that to get a grasp of the miracle that the Quran is supposed to be, you have to master arabic. Reading translations is not enough to see the miracle. That's what everybody tells me.

Quote You said you believed in God, yet you are doubting His Intentions and His methods. If you have faith in God - then the simple fact, that He is Just, Kind and Desires the best for us should be enough. Otherwise we will have to backpedal and reevaluate belief in God as well.


I do believe in God, and I don't doubt his intentions and methods are good... It's just that I don't know what they are. WHAT is God expecting from me? Be muslim because my parents are? Rely on my feelings? I refuse to do so, because it's just not right, not honest, and not smart.

Quote No you don't. You don't have to learn Latin, Greek, Arabic etc to get your knowledge of Science, Medicine, Philosophy or Mathematics. So why should religious knowledge be any different? You rely on translations for the former subjects, don't you?


Yes of course I agree with you on that. But the Quran is supposed to be the work of God; Try to translate it and you're sure to lose something in translation.

Quote
It would be a good idea to work on your islamic faith - through good muslim sources. Also, curious, if you are not so sure about Islam, what is your alternative?


I have no real alternative. If I don't find a suitable answer to my question, I'll just be "gnostic", believing in God but in no religion at all.
I shouldn't need good or bad sources. My question is simple: why should I be muslim? My source is the internet, I'm posting my question all over.

Thank you for trying to help.


Posted By: Hayfa
Date Posted: 20 April 2010 at 7:52pm
Asalaam Alaikum,

Welcome to the Forum. Why are people Muslim? I think you run the gamut of reasons. There is ONE answer.

i think you are asking questions in which we humans may not be able to give an adequate explanation. Like asking about languages.. and why "one" language. I think there often IS a struggle because we don't have all the answers.



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When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy. Rumi


Posted By: Chrysalis
Date Posted: 21 April 2010 at 6:26am
Originally posted by abdelhamidem abdelhamidem wrote:


Yes, there is still some faith. I still feel something (weak though), but I just refuse to rely on my feelings anymore. Feelings are misleading. I grew up in a muslim family, in a muslim country... maybe that's the reason why I have these feelings. Would I have these feelings if I grew up in china?


I'm afraid I don't get what you are implying. Care to elaborate? How does being born in a Muslim family & environment give rise to these 'feelings'? How would it differ if you were Chinese?

Quote I don't think so. What I'm looking for is a universal reason to be muslim.


Well, Islam is a universal religion. One of the first (and only) to link people, continents, races, genders, ethnicities under the umbrella of faith - as an ummah. If you no longer believe in Islam - and have such strong misgivings about the Prophet's intentions, and the religion itself - will a universal reason help ?

What do you mean by "looking for a universal reason" ?

Quote I came to a muslim forum to ask other muslims why they are muslims. I didn't find the answer myself, even though I tried really hard...


I doubt that prodding other Muslims to tell you why they believe in Islam will help. You obviously don't/won't agree with it. Especially if to you "Islam is just a set of rules, stories, etc... that have nothing special from my point of view."

If you really do want to "find a reason" to believe in Islam. A blunt yet honest suggestion from me - you may have to change your attitude & approach. Lets be honest, if you are going to start off by saying that Islam is just a set of rules, nothing special, whose Prophet's intentions (nauzubillah) are doubtful - are you really setting out to find something positive in Islam ? You will probably just find something wrong with it.

Adopting another Muslim's reason for faith is not going to help - unless it appeals to you. This is such a complicated question, needing such an indepth answer. Where does one start & where does one end? Islam is so holistic, that every muslim almost always has a unique or special affinity towards a certain aspect of Islam. You shall have to discover on your own what resonates with you. For some it is the Prophet's character, for other's it is the Qur'an, or women's rights, or ettiquette, or detailed coverage of life in general . . . . . .  I'm afraid this is a journey you need to make on your own. Since you know yourself best, and what appeals to you, what you need spiritually. Look at your areas of interest/concern and then research what Islam has to say.


Quote

Nothing a wise/smart group of men couldn't write.

What do you mean? If I believe it comes from God? No, I don't believe the Quran comes from God... nor can I prove it doesnt come from God.

 

There are obviously a lot of issues to address here ! Confused


Quote

yes I do believe in self satisfaction, but there's just no way to prove that the prophet just wanted to help other people.
 


See, even though you apparently don't have proof for either argument, you are tilting towards making negative assumptions ! There is also no proof that Prophet Muhammad was nauzubillah motivated by the selfish reasons you provided earlier - but you believe that.


 
Quote What I mean is that to get a grasp of the miracle that the Quran is supposed to be, you have to master arabic. Reading translations is not enough to see the miracle. That's what everybody tells me.


If anybody wants to get deep into the miracle of the Qur'an - then yes, Arabic would be an added advantage. But I still fail to see how learning arabic becomes a must ? Like I said, it differs from person to person. There are millions of people out there who realise or see the miracle of the Qur'an through translations - not even knowing arabic. If you need extra proof, surely you are going to have to make some effort. So, learn arabic then ! but why complain about it ? And how can one possibly turn that against Islam ?

Quote
I do believe in God, and I don't doubt his intentions and methods are good... It's just that I don't know what they are. WHAT is God expecting from me? Be muslim because my parents are? Rely on my feelings? I refuse to do so, because it's just not right, not honest, and not smart.


Muslim-ness (imaan/faith) is a state of the heart & mind - unfortunately it is not genetic, so having muslim parents doesn't mean one is an actual Muslim unless they believe.

You also cannot completely disregard feelings in this matter, since it is virtually impossible for a human to base a decision on objectivity & thinking alone. Emotions play a huge role. So you'll need to deal with your negative feelings (and its cause) if you want to get back to Islam.

Quote
Yes of course I agree with you on that. But the Quran is supposed to be the work of God; Try to translate it and you're sure to lose something in translation.


On the contrary, when something is God's work - it doesn't lose its purpose/meaning or effect simply due to translation. Because there are Divine aspects involved. Guidance/Hidayat is not dependent on reading the source in its original text/language. Unless you want to get into nitty gritty details or deep research. In matters of religion, Islam in particular - your intention to learn/ gain guidance is what takes precedence.

Quote

I shouldn't need good or bad sources. 


Ofcourse you do. The quality of your information is directly going to effect your understanding, belief, knowledge and yes, faith.




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"O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young."


Posted By: SteppeNomad
Date Posted: 21 April 2010 at 6:44am
Salam Abdel
 
A few points if it helps, since the lady before me has answered most of them, regarding that you didnt get an answer to why Muslims believe in Islam.
 

Everyones experience is different, to why they come to religion, some people base their faith on the scientific miracles of the Quran, where as others to Moral side of it etc, but at the root we all beleive theirs no God But Allah and Muhammed s.a.w is his Messenger, i dont know what other faith can be more simple then this. And why those it matter, because faith is an "individual" thing, we all have different aspects of Islam that we love, even during reckoning, different people will be sent to heaven for different reasons, some for fasting, some for being patient, some for praying, educating others etc.

 

And regarding your point of being brought up into a Chinese or lets say a Buddhist family, obviously your inclinations will be more biased to that faith, but at the end of it, faith is not something the society you are brought up in determine, one can go to pray in church or mosque because everyone else closes their shops, but might not have "faith" if you know what i mean.

 

Also, about understanding Arabic to understand the Quran, i think, we have been blessed with a translations now, but over the 100s of years, people were without these, and the man in China did rely on his Chinese Imam to "translate" the religion for him in regards to maybe deeper issues.

 

When the early Muslims spread across the world, they did not stuff Arabic texts into the non Arabs faces, it was through their actions that many accepted Islam.

 

Obvoiusly, we are told to read the Quran in Arabic because it is the word of god and thier is benefit in doing so, we are not told to read other Arabic books to be a better Muslim or unlike some people like to beg and think, it is not a "condition" to learn Arabic, understanding Islam as a whole would not be through such. Otherwise all the Non Arab Muslims are condemned to hell lol.

 

But if you pick up any medical, maths, philisphy book, will only fool yourself if you think you understand the subject without any "background" in the technical words used in whatever contexts, wont try to should like a smart ass here but yeah, hope you understand.

 

I dont think you should let Polarize religion in such way and make it difficult for yourself.

 
 
 
 


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Ya Allah, Bismillah, AllahuAkbar.


Posted By: Gibbs
Date Posted: 25 April 2010 at 1:21pm
I have to push Steppe's point in saying that everyone experience is different and in that you cannot generalize a singularity because of what you think Islam is suppose to bring. Islam is like any religion in my opinion, Islam promotes God and the positive ethics that it brings. Christianity and Buddhism is the same way any religion that promotes positively is good.


Posted By: Angel
Date Posted: 08 May 2010 at 6:38am
Originally posted by abdelhamidem abdelhamidem wrote:


What I'm looking for is a universal reason to be muslim.
I came to a muslim forum to ask other muslims why they are muslims. I didn't find the answer myself, even though I tried really hard...
 
 
Hi there, I am not muslim but I do have something to mention. what you said just above, there is nothing wrong in that in itself but the problem you are having is that you are looking on the outside, outside of yourself for answers, the truth, but it comes from within. If something resonates with you then that is some thing of a truth for you.
You're asking fellow muslims why they are muslims so you have a reason to be muslim, and that is not wrong, we all ask how it is for others, their experiences, this helps us also its part of soul searching.
Many people go from religion to religion to find the truth they go searching here and there and make up many miles of travel only to get back home to find the answer/s.
If you are going to be muslim (or some other believer in something else) then its got to be from you. Not from your parents or friends / peers or tradition but from you.
 
 
Quote The root of the issue is that I realised that I had no really good reason to be muslim. Islam is just a set of rules, stories, etc... that have nothing special from my point of view. Good rules, yes. Wise stories, yes. But nothing extraordinary. Nothing a wise/smart group of men couldn't write.

What do you mean? If I believe it comes from God? No, I don't believe the Quran comes from God... nor can I prove it doesnt come from God. Why do YOU think the Quran comes from God?
 
I do believe in God, and I don't doubt his intentions and methods are good... It's just that I don't know what they are. WHAT is God expecting from me? Be muslim because my parents are? Rely on my feelings? I refuse to do so, because it's just not right, not honest, and not smart. 

I have no real alternative. If I don't find a suitable answer to my question, I'll just be "gnostic", believing in God but in no religion at all.
I shouldn't need good or bad sources. My question is simple: why should I be muslim? My source is the internet, I'm posting my question all over.
 
all this speaks to me of you being a non muslim, especially if you do not believe in the qur'an coming from God.
 
What you need to do is find something that resonates with you be it islam or some other religion or belief.
 
Use your head, reasoning, and also your feelings, you cannot leave out feelings you have feel some thing.
 
Some times its good to just Be! and not be this or that, just yourself - being, and leave out other things just be who are and you will find your answers to who you want to be. 


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~ Our feet are earthbound, but our hearts and our minds have wings ~


Posted By: honeto
Date Posted: 14 May 2010 at 10:32pm
Originally posted by Gibbs Gibbs wrote:

I have to push Steppe's point in saying that everyone experience is different and in that you cannot generalize a singularity because of what you think Islam is suppose to bring. Islam is like any religion in my opinion, Islam promotes God and the positive ethics that it brings. Christianity and Buddhism is the same way any religion that promotes positively is good.


Hi Gibbs,
I believe its more than that. Those of us that believe that we all came from one man,Adam, can easily relate to the fact that there was always One belief, One religion, One true way between man and God. This belief branched out by people as they multiplied, not just in numbers but in opinions as well giving birth to so many different ideas. But that original belief remains the original and true.
Yes, with few exceptions probably most beliefs today teach positively toward a better life, here and for the hereafter. But do they all lead us to that original and true belief Adam was given?
It is the matter of proving the claim.
For example, if we take three largest beliefs in the world on the most fundamental point they profess to preach, God as one, it will be easy to make some distinction.
Christianity for example preaches that God is One, but their practice does not stand by that claim. Hinduism, claims the same, preaches that there is only One God but its follower's practice stands as evidence against their very claim.
Islam is the only belief out of those three that preaches God to be One and its practices does not contradict that claim.
This is the simplest analogy I can give to help you understand that not everyone is right nor everything is alright.
Being a Muslim is nothing more than recognizing your purpose and position in relation to what surrounds you and your relationship with your maker who has given you some responsibilities and provided you with the tools to fulfill them. How you response to that responsibility will determine what you get. Nothing out of the ordinary to understand, right?


I would like to make a point on Buddhism, about which I know little. Is it not that in order to achieve a higher degree you aught to leave worldly things even your family? If we all wanted to do that, that will be end of it, right. In Islam, you can achieve the highest level, not by leaving your family or other worldly possessions but by simply and honestly playing the best and responsible role with what God has lawfully provided for you.

Hasan

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The friends of God will certainly have nothing to fear, nor will they be grieved. Al Quran 10:62



Posted By: Gibbs
Date Posted: 15 May 2010 at 4:55am
@Honeto,

You are absolutely right. You know very little about religions outside your own. Buddhism if I can recall from listening to lectures, doesn't teach about leaving your family. It teaches about getting rid of "the thirst" that is the desire of life. This philosophy is comparable to Muslims being taught to not be so attached to this world but focus on the next. Basically its about not being materialistic.

As for Islam being the only religion that practices strict monotheism I disagree. What about Judaism and Sikhism? Or try Unitarianism? Of course I know about Adam and the sky wizard and the smokeless talking genie (I'm just kidding) as I received the same speech from in-laws.

My point is, is that a billion or so Muslims are Muslim because Islam is true to them. Having a large population doesn't make something necessarily true. Truth, or the presumption of truth comes from within.


Posted By: Matt Browne
Date Posted: 16 May 2010 at 9:49am
We have to keep in mind that �spiritual truth� should not be confused with mathematical or scientific truth (based on scientific method). Spiritual truth is based on human feelings and faith. We all know that language is full of ambiguity. This also applies to the word truth. Misunderstandings occur when different people communicate with each other using the same words but with different meanings.





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A religion that's intolerant of other religions can't be the world's best religion --Abdel Samad
Great minds discuss ideas. Average minds discuss events. Small minds discuss people--Eleanor Roosevelt


Posted By: Nur_Ilahi
Date Posted: 20 May 2010 at 10:23pm

What is a Muslim?

A Muslim is someone who submit to the will of Allah.

Who believes the Oneness of Allah the Creator of the whole Universe.

Who believes that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah - a normal human being - a perfect example for humankind.

Who believes that Quran is the authentic word of Allah - sent down in the language of man.

Abdel,
Every creations in this whole universe is actually submitting to the will of Allah. From the minutest of the atom, to the movement of the earth in its orbit and all that you can see with your eyes - are all Muslims. We human kind were born Muslims - only the parents were the ones that brought the children as otherwise.
 
There could only be One God who created the whole universe. The same God that Muslims, Jews, Christians, Hindus or any other religion worship. Some worship Him directly, while others worship thru a creation of The Creator. Some - like the Muslims - have a clear concept of God as stated in the Quran - while some have a blurr or twisted image of God. Astaghfirullah.
 
God or Allah in His Mercy, had sent down the last Prophet - the best Creation of The Creator - as the best example of a human being - for us to emulate him - a leader that shows the right way to Him. No one in this world could ever be compared to Muhammad Salallahualaihiwassalam. No one.
 
The Quran is the only authentic scripture still around without any corruptions from mankind unlike other scriptures. A source of knowledge not only for this world, but most importantly in the next. The same Scripture read by Muslims in the North, South, East, West or any other part of the world, in the same one language chosen by God Almighty.
 
Islam is the natural religion - Adeenul Haqq. Islam is not only a religion, but a way of life.
 
We live in the same earth, the same planet, the same universe.
Breathing in the same air, drinking the same water, eating the same source of food, standing on the same earth.
 
Living in this world, you or none of us have a choice but to believe in the One and Only God - Allah Subhanahuwataala.


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Ilahi Anta Maksudi, Wa Redhaka Mathlubi - Oh Allah, You are my destination, Your Pleasure is my Intention.


Posted By: Darth Ultor
Date Posted: 21 May 2010 at 3:51am
I find that hard to believe that there is only one true path to God. I agree that "Islam" in the most literal sense of the word is the best path, but once you get into some finer details, I disagree. Like if a person of the book is given the true message of Islam, and doesn't say, "La ilaha illa'Allah, Muhammad rasul Allah." will go to Hell. I think God accepts everyone into Heaven or punishes them based on their faith and most of all, their actions.


Posted By: Nur_Ilahi
Date Posted: 22 May 2010 at 8:24am
I would not want to say that there is only One True Path to God. And it is good that you agree that "Islam" in the most literal sense of the word is the best path.

I would say that Islam is not only a religion but a complete way of life that is compatible with nature. I dare not say that those who are not Muslims would not enter heaven. Because from what I understand, we enter heaven due to God's mercy and we enter hell (nauzubillahiminzalik - may God forbid) due to His Justice. I hope you understand this clearly.

There is a secret to our existence and there are many Saints and Gnostics from other religions who had discovered this secret without even saying Lailahailallah Muhammadurasulullah.

�Who knows himself will know his Lord.�   It means we have to study ourselves.

Who are we?

Where do we come from?


The only thing that I could safely say is that Islam is the simplest religion to understand and the best example of a human being that any one can emulate is indeed Muhammad Rasulullullah.


A sign of God's Mercy, giving His Servants a chance to come to Him, to know Him thru a religion that is simple but true.





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Ilahi Anta Maksudi, Wa Redhaka Mathlubi - Oh Allah, You are my destination, Your Pleasure is my Intention.


Posted By: Gibbs
Date Posted: 22 May 2010 at 9:14am
Every religion is a way of life. If you have tenants and faiths that ask you to live by them daily its a way of life. I keep hearing that here but there is no difference than how Buddhist live or Jews.

I disagree that Islam is simple. In another thread you have people fighting over what kind of prayer to pray and in another people bad mouthing sects. Simple to me is 2+2


Posted By: Chrysalis
Date Posted: 22 May 2010 at 10:00am
Originally posted by Gibbs Gibbs wrote:

Every religion is a way of life. If you have tenants and faiths that ask you to live by them daily its a way of life. I keep hearing that here but there is no difference than how Buddhist live or Jews. 


I believe Hassan addressed this quite appropriately. Like he said, one of the MAJOR differences in Islam versus any other religion like Judaism or Buddhism is - Islam is an all encompassing way of life. It is not simply restricted to the mosque, or to ceremonial acts of worship. It is how we live, and act in our daily lives. . . . its a living religion.



Quote I disagree that Islam is simple. In another thread you have people fighting over what kind of prayer to pray and in another people bad mouthing sects. Simple to me is 2+2


For you,  2+2 simple . . . yet I am sure that to a person who lacks knowledge of mathematics -  2+2 will not be simple. 

Same with Islam. To those who have the required islamic knowledge and awareness . . . it is easy. For those who lack fundamental knowledge, it will not be easy. The problem here is not the complexity of Islam, it is people's individual perspectives about Islam. You don't find Islam simple - fair enough. However that doesn't really disprove Islam's simplicity.




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"O Lord, forgive me, my parents and Muslims in the Hereafter. O Lord, show mercy on them as they showed mercy to me when I was young."


Posted By: Gibbs
Date Posted: 22 May 2010 at 4:24pm
There is no math in Islam except that which is prescribed I know that but I'm referring to the issues concerning Islam and religion. There is nothing simple about religion. Religion will always be complex.


Posted By: Nur_Ilahi
Date Posted: 22 May 2010 at 4:47pm
To know whether Islam is simpler than other religion, then you have to do comparison with other religion.

Most importantly about any religion is the concept of God.

What is the concept of God in Islam versus the concept of God in other religion.

The concept of God in the Quran is very clear, simple, straightforward and compatible with the intellect.


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Ilahi Anta Maksudi, Wa Redhaka Mathlubi - Oh Allah, You are my destination, Your Pleasure is my Intention.


Posted By: Gibbs
Date Posted: 22 May 2010 at 5:54pm
Well to Hindus the bhagavad gita is an easy read as well I'm sure


Posted By: Nur_Ilahi
Date Posted: 22 May 2010 at 7:49pm
If you are sure, I politely invite you to debate it here.

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Ilahi Anta Maksudi, Wa Redhaka Mathlubi - Oh Allah, You are my destination, Your Pleasure is my Intention.


Posted By: Nur_Ilahi
Date Posted: 22 May 2010 at 7:57pm
I wonder where is the original poster now?

Abdel, why are you not showing up?

Would you please kindly respond to any of our replies?

Don't be like the American sniper in Iraq. Shoot then hide, shoot then hide, wanna shoot again, realized there are too many people getting alert.






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Ilahi Anta Maksudi, Wa Redhaka Mathlubi - Oh Allah, You are my destination, Your Pleasure is my Intention.


Posted By: Gibbs
Date Posted: 22 May 2010 at 9:25pm
Nur_Ilahi that American sniper comment was a low blow. I have friends that serve in the armed forces and if you imply the duties of an American sniper implies cowardice I would think again. This isn't about military might


Posted By: Gibbs
Date Posted: 22 May 2010 at 9:40pm
As far as being sure I was referring to being sure from the perspective of the of the believer. Every person of faith believes their religion is a way of life and it is. Every article of faith is tantamount to laws we follow everyday in our respective lands.

Hindus I'm sure believe what they believe is a way of life. I'm pretty confident I don't need to prove that since India has made the cow sacred which tells me that respecting this animal is not a temporary thing but a way of life for them this is what I meant.


Posted By: Nur_Ilahi
Date Posted: 22 May 2010 at 11:08pm
Originally posted by Gibbs Gibbs wrote:

Nur_Ilahi that American sniper comment was a low blow. I have friends that serve in the armed forces and if you imply the duties of an American sniper implies cowardice I would think again. This isn't about military might


In the first place, your friend or the American Army, has no right to be there.

People do not call a sniper a sniper if he shows bravery, is it not?


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Ilahi Anta Maksudi, Wa Redhaka Mathlubi - Oh Allah, You are my destination, Your Pleasure is my Intention.


Posted By: Nur_Ilahi
Date Posted: 22 May 2010 at 11:10pm
Originally posted by Gibbs Gibbs wrote:

Hindus I'm sure believe what they believe is a way of life. I'm pretty confident I don't need to prove that since India has made the cow sacred which tells me that respecting this animal is not a temporary thing but a way of life for them this is what I meant.


A true religion is a religion that is compatible with the intellect.


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Ilahi Anta Maksudi, Wa Redhaka Mathlubi - Oh Allah, You are my destination, Your Pleasure is my Intention.


Posted By: Gibbs
Date Posted: 23 May 2010 at 1:16am
@ Nur_Ilahi

Nice to know you assume where my friends are stationed. If you must know they (they are three) are stationed in Germany. Two are Navy Seals who I'm sure would kill Iraqi insurgets without the need to hide. Anyway its obvious you don't have any knowledge of American military.


Posted By: Hayfa
Date Posted: 23 May 2010 at 6:28am
  Iagree with Gibbs. A sniper is part of ANY countries military. I bet you there are snipers from all over the globe. Because someone is a sniper does not mean they are a coward either. They have a special skill. That is all. If anyone watches a biathalon they are incredible people who can ski really, really fast over long distance, stop, bring the heart rate down and shoot.  I would not assume  that someone is a sniper because they are a coward. It is one position in a military.

Many people all over the world join their countries armed forces. They DO believe they are there to defend their country. Having a military is not wrong. What it, at times, is used for is wrong. But not all the time. Often the soldiers are worth no more than anyone else. They too are pawns. Just like ALOT of people who follow various leaders and power hungry people.






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When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy. Rumi


Posted By: Gibbs
Date Posted: 23 May 2010 at 7:01am
Thanks Hayfa

Anyway I prefer to keep this about the appropriate subject matter than about what duties military personnel have.


Posted By: I♥Jesus
Date Posted: 23 May 2010 at 10:18am
Originally posted by Nur_Ilahi Nur_Ilahi wrote:


A true religion is a religion that is compatible with the intellect.

I think a pagan religion is one which is compatible with the intellect.  Compatibility with intellect can be achieved simply by discarding revelation.

 What is the "intellectual compatibility" of praying at specific times?  Of Ramadan or Hajj at specific times?  Furthermore, Muhammad also said there were times NOT to pray.

This is not to criticize Islam, but to give an example of why I disagree with your logic.  Islam would simpler, and more intellectually compatible if these rules were discarded.  Islam has very few miracles, but do the miracles of the elephant or of Muhammad producing water from his fingertips in the desert make Islam any less true?

The simplest and most intellectually compatible religion is worship of self.  God becomes a projection of man's desire.   "New Age" religions are very simple and intellectually compatible for this reason.  People love them because they 'make sense' and it makes them feel good.  Well enough, but there is nothing there but idolatry.  No scriptural revelation, no prophecy, no miracles, no healing.

No, I think a true religion has a connection to divine power.  I think simple and understandable is more likely to indicate falsity and man-made origins.


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If Allah had so willed, He would have made you a single people, but (His plan is) to test you in what He hath given you: so strive as in a race in all virtues. 5:48


Posted By: Pati
Date Posted: 23 May 2010 at 2:07pm
Originally posted by abdelhamidem abdelhamidem wrote:

Salam to everyone.

I'll be straight forward. I was born muslim and I've been struggling with my faith for many years. Downs and highs like many muslims experience I think. Last summer I decided to stop that yoyo faith, and ask myself why my faith isn't steady. The answer is because I'm not fully convinced. Why am I not fully convinced? I don't really know... I could list a few things that I don't understand or even disagree with Islam, but I think my real question, the one that would give me real strong faith if it was answer is:

[...]

Today, the only thing I'm certain of is that God exists. I'm just not sure about Islam anymore.

How can you answer me? And please, don't shoot. I'm a honest person, asking honest questions, honestly looking for answers.


Hi abdelhamidem,

First of all, I want to tell you that I fully understand your feelings, because I had it. I am Catholic, and I was, for long time (years), rejecting any religious feeling (hurting everyone with that way). But the truth is that it was not a personal thing, but a social one: my friends were not interested in religion, they said they were "atheist" or whatever... and I was such a weak person that I just followed them.

But after time, I realize that I never stopped believing in God, I just made a theatre to be "cool". But the feeling was there, and actually, it just re-appeared in public one day, when one of my friends said the worst blasphemy it may exist, and something inside me like an ON button was reactivated and I started a strong discussion with that person, talking about God, about how good He is and how ungrateful we, st**id humanity are. I was talking for I don't know how long, and finally, he asked for forgiveness and we went on with our friendship.

That was the moment I realized that sometimes, we are weak as human being, but sooner or later God is sending us the message, or the power or whatever to show us that the truth is inside us.

My suggestion for you is just to explore Islam from the deeper part of your heart. Give Islam a chance, because maybe there is a button inside you waiting to be on, and you cannot say you are not Muslim, until you know you are believing in God trough other Faith (that's another possibility, but I would suggest you to leave this one apart by the moment).

Try to concentrate yourself, read the Quran and pray asking directly God for the answer you need, and maybe you will realize that the answer was always there.

Regards,
Patricia


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No God wants the killing, but the peace.
The weapons are carried by people, not by religions.



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