Hello buddies,
Just wanted to say that I find it disheartening when Islam gets kicked in the teeth because of the actions of violent bigots & uneducated ignorant clerics. The vast majority of Muslims are good people who abhor the senseless violence committed in their name. The truth is, as strange as it seems with all that's going on, the Qur'an actually promotes peace, understanding & knowledge - 'there is no compulsion in religion' is clearly stated in the book & waging war against others because they are not Muslims is unacceptable. Furthermore, nowhere in the Qur'an does it state that women are beneath men & should cover themselves up completely...these are fabrications by old chauvinistic traditions & extremism. If you read about the Prophet's life including one's written by western scholars like Prof. Karen Armstrong you'll see just how wonderful he was...& that he would be appalled by the violence conducted in God's name. He actually warned his people about extremism & advised us all to follow a middle path. Some verses below...makes me wonder what kind of book those extremist scumbags are reading;
1) “
Those who believe (in the Quran), and those who follow the Jewish (scriptures), and the Christians…and (all) who believe in God and the last day and work righteousness, shall have their reward with their Lord; on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.” (Qur'an, 2:62)
2) “We made you to be a community of the middle way, so that (with the example of your lives) you might bear witness to the truth before all mankind.” (Qur’an, 2:143)
3)
"Let there be no compulsion (or coercion) in the religion (Islam)." (Qur'an, 2:256)
4)
"Whosoever kills an innocent human being, it shall be as if he has killed all mankind, and whosoever saves the life of one, it shall be as if he had saved the life of all mankind." (Qur'an 5:32)
5)
”...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)
Verses found online:
http://theamericanmuslim.org/tam.php/features/articles/quranic_verses_against_extremism/0013622