format_quote Originally Posted by
alcurad
Islam is not a way of life, it is a religion, religion is the broader term.
Christianity is a religion, and Islam is not?
this seems more like a reaction to the negative connotations that Western society attaches to 'religion' per se rather than a legitimate reason.
I kind of agree as well to this.
It might at first seemed that in terms of language, as rpwelton put it, it encompasses a religion AS WELL AS mode of living and therefore we're broadening the concept, where-as western concept of the word religion would be what church a person follows and only that.
But it isn't appropriate really to "sweeten" or "mitigate" Islam. Would you be looking at a "lighter" version or something? Wanting to adopt the spiritual side only? Thinking of practicing the directives but not committing to the worship? Or are you just trying to avoid being called Muslim for fear of negative connotation in your society?
The only thing is if you fear for your life and well-being, yes it's allowed to hide your faith (but that means that after a while you should be making hijra to a place where you can practice Islam freely). But the others are completely forbidden in Islam and will get you nothing. Faith without prayer and fasting, no good. Staying away from what Islam said is bad for you but not committing to the creed, no good. Adopting the obligations gradually, yes you can do so and acceptable, but you need to be prepared to accept the obligations as a whole while teaching yourself how to practice them one by one and adopt them when you can.
May God grant you guidance.