But why Islam?

[Draco]

Hi all.

As an atheist, it always fascinates me how religious people 'choose' one religion over another. My Muslim friends in particular, know very little of other religions and indeed are not even willing to explore or learn about them - yet alone consider atheism as a possibility. I would assume that exploring other faiths (or atheism) is not encouraged by your religious leaders but are any Muslims in the forum willing to admit that they have considered alternatives?

Thanks.

Draco

 

[Woodrow]

I would say many of us are encouraged to read about all religions. We do not accept Islam upon the teachings of any religious leader. Islam has no ordained clergy nor any living Human authority. We do seek the guidance of scholars that have studied and read more than we have, but we do not accept their teachings simply because they say so. We do question everything. We are not to accept Islam on blind faith, it has to be faith based upon knowledge.

Nearly all of the World's Muslims live in non-Islamic countries and as such have much exposure to many religions. There are more Muslims in the USA than in Kuwait

Kuwait Population

Kuwait > Demographics


Population: 2,505,559
note: includes 1,291,354 non-nationals (July 2007 est.)

Source:http://www.indexmundi.com/kuwait/population.html

Qatar-- Population: 907,229 (2007)

Source: http://www.worldstatesmen.org/Qatar.htm

#103 Jordan: 6,053,193

#119 United Arab Emirates: 4,444,011

Source: http://www.nationmaster.com/graph/peo_pop-people-population

or Palestine

West Bank and Gaza Strip 3,900,000

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palestinian_people

Muslim Population of USA

Q: What about the American Muslim community?

A: An estimated 7 million Muslims live in the USA. They are made up of people from a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds and national origins. Islam is one of the fastest-growing religions in the United States and around the world.

Source: http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/islam.htm

# Encyclopedia Britannica places the number at 5.4 million.
# Other estimates, including our own think tank ISPI, place the number around 7 million.
# Recent study on mosques in the US, conducted jointly by the “Hartford seminary” and “CAIR” gives an indirect estimate of the growth of the Muslim population in the US.
# One-fifth (19%) of American Muslims are converts to Islam.
Source: http://www.ispi-usa.org/Islam_intro/intro_islam32.html

The point of this being is to show that the majority of the world's Muslims do have considerable exposure to other religions and Islam is by our own choice.

 

[believer]

Hi all.

As an atheist, it always fascinates me how religious people 'choose' one religion over another. My Muslim friends in particular, know very little of other religions and indeed are not even willing to explore or learn about them - yet alone consider atheism as a possibility. I would assume that exploring other faiths (or atheism) is not encouraged by your religious leaders but are any Muslims in the forum willing to admit that they have considered alternatives?

Thanks.

Draco

I was born Roman Catholic, studied in my early years in a Protestant Pre-School... again became strong Catholic... then exposed to various Protestant Groups and eventually explored Ecumenical churches... Later on, hanged around with budhists and then with Atheists... eventually, immersed into New Age...then after w while... became a Bum... and became a worshipper of vices... then, became moderate Christian... again, became a Bum... finally after having been through everything and everywhere... and after being down and out... I surrendered to God... realizing that I am powerless and helpless without Him. then I was discovered by Islam... I have read the OT and NT Bibles cover to cover and has been a Seminarian for Priesthood also before but I have never read the Qur'an... and finally, after reading it... I am convinced that my search is over.... and to answer your question...

No, I don't feel like there is any alternative to Islam.

 

[Woodrow]

I was born Roman Catholic, studied in my early years in a Protestant Pre-School... again became strong Catholic... then exposed to various Protestant Groups and eventually explored Ecumenical churches... Later on, hanged around with budhists and then with Atheists... eventually, immersed into New Age...then after w while... became a Bum... and became a worshipper of vices... then, became moderate Christian... again, became a Bum... finally after having been through everything and everywhere... and after being down and out... I surrendered to God... realizing that I am powerless and helpless without Him. then I was discovered by Islam... I have read the OT and NT Bibles cover to cover and has been a Seminarian for Priesthood also before but I have never read the Qur'an... and finally, after reading it... I am convinced that my search is over.... and to answer your question...

No, I don't feel like there is any alternative to Islam.

I just have to add this in. I also was a good catholic and also was a seminarian for the priesthood. I think that ended at about my first comparative religion class.

 

[bewildred]

I think that most people didnt choose to be muslims. It's Islam that chose us. I mean, even those who are muslim by heredity tend to rediscover their religion through new aspects.

Most people under the great emblem of Islam are open to learn about all other religions. The fact is that too many clichés and misconceptions about muslims are carried through mass media.

Bewildred S.

 

[Sheba]

Hi all.

As an atheist, it always fascinates me how religious people 'choose' one religion over another. My Muslim friends in particular, know very little of other religions and indeed are not even willing to explore or learn about them - yet alone consider atheism as a possibility. I would assume that exploring other faiths (or atheism) is not encouraged by your religious leaders but are any Muslims in the forum willing to admit that they have considered alternatives?

Thanks.

Draco

I did not have a religion, although I believed in God..praying only at times of need. However a trip to Mexico 16 years ago lead me to Islam. I was not looking for a religion. Instead I found a way of life that gave meaning to my life...that way of life is Islam.

We must not forget, Islam is not simply a religion...it is a way that God wishes us to lead our lives. The guidance that God gives is there for all those who wish to follow and if followed correctly according to the Quran, a perfect way of life it is too.

 

[glo]

Hi all.

As an atheist, it always fascinates me how religious people 'choose' one religion over another. My Muslim friends in particular, know very little of other religions and indeed are not even willing to explore or learn about them - yet alone consider atheism as a possibility. I would assume that exploring other faiths (or atheism) is not encouraged by your religious leaders but are any Muslims in the forum willing to admit that they have considered alternatives?

Thanks.

Draco

I think you might find that there is a difference between those who converted/reverted to a faith, and those who were born into and raised in that faith.

You will find that many Muslims here at LI are reverts to Islam.
Like all converts/reverts they are likely to have walked a path which explored other faiths and worldviews ... until they reached this particular one.

There is a possibility that those who seek may continue to seek and find themselves exploring other faiths in the future, regardless of how convinced they are by their beliefs at this moment in time.
The same applies to you and me, and everybody else. Who knows what life might throw at us. Can you see yourself being a devout Muslim/Buddhist/Christian/Hindy/Pagan in years to come?? You can't?? Well - who knows!!

I find that those who were born into and raised in a faith can be much less brave to venture out into other world views/beliefs and explore them.
After all, by exploring other beliefs you have to open your mind to other opinions and views - some of which may be a danger to your own!
That's why many people will not engage at all with other faiths.
For some, dabbling with other faiths may put their own beliefs in jeopardy ...

Peace

 

[Fishman]

I just have to add this in. I also was a good catholic and also was a seminarian for the priesthood. I think that ended at about my first comparative religion class.

I've noticed that there are a lot of converts who are from a Catholic or (in the UK at least) a Celtic background. Anybody got any theories on why this is?

 

[Woodrow]

I've noticed that there are a lot of converts who are from a Catholic or (in the UK at least) a Celtic background. Anybody got any theories on why this is?

I think you will find not only were many Catholic, but were very devout Catholics at one time. Many Catholic reverts had also been Priests or seminarians at some point.

(understand I am older generation and the younger Catholics of todays generation might not still do those things.)

My own theory is Islam is not that alien to Catholics. remember for a long time Catholics only accepted the Bible written in Latin and did not consider translations to be the Bible. Catholics fast for 40 days during lent. Catholics use rosary beads as prayer reminders. Catholics believe in praying 5 times a day. Catholics use many references to God(swt) in daily actiities. They say God Bless you when a person sneeses, they say Praise God when something good happens, They say "May God forgive me if I am wrong" when they give religious advice.

Many Catholics view the NT as being more metaphorical than fact. Catholics place more emphasis on God(swt) and less on Isa(as).

Many more things too.

So to sum it up if a Catholic finds the error in some Catholic Teachings and remove them the end result is they discover that they believe as Muslims do.

 

[MustafaMc]

I find that those who were born into and raised in a faith can be much less brave to venture out into other world views/beliefs and explore them.
After all, by exploring other beliefs you have to open your mind to other opinions and views - some of which may be a danger to your own!
That's why many people will not engage at all with other faiths.
For some, dabbling with other faiths may put their own beliefs in jeopardy ...

Peace

I believe that you hit upon an important point. Our religous views are often an important aspect of our personal identity. If all of our family and friends believe a certain way then subconciously we may choose to believe the same way in order to fit in. To consider a different, often opposing, point view that challenges our perception of reality is quite rare I believe. To believe differently from those surrounding us calls for a lot of courage (or willingness to take risks) in order to venture forth into the unknown.

 

[glo]

I've noticed that there are a lot of converts who are from a Catholic or (in the UK at least) a Celtic background. Anybody got any theories on why this is?

I don't know what you mean by Celtic background, but I agree with much Woodrow said about Catholicism.

Speaking from my own Catholic upbringing I would say that Catholicism emphasizes laws and rituals to a greater extend than Protestantism, and has (in my experience) a lesser emphasis on a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ.
(I am sure there would be Catholics who would disagree with me. I am purely speaking from my own experience)

So in some ways Catholicism and Islam have similarities.

I think some Christians turn to Islam because they seek firm rules and a certain rigidity (which in turn offers a sense of security), which they don't seem to find in Christianity.

I hope you are well, Fishman. Our paths don't seem to cross very often these days.
Peace :thankyou:

 

[Draco]

I believe that you hit upon an important point. Our religous views are often an important aspect of our personal identity. If all of our family and friends believe a certain way then subconciously we may choose to believe the same way in order to fit in. To consider a different, often opposing, point view that challenges our perception of reality is quite rare I believe. To believe differently from those surrounding us calls for a lot of courage (or willingness to take risks) in order to venture forth into the unknown.

I find it interesting that you make this observation Mustafa, particularly as you are a Muslim, but I'm certainly inclined to agree with your point.

I'm of the opinion that many religious people, Muslims in particular, risk being ostracized by their family and community if they choose to abandon their belief. A belief that is typically heavily intertwined into their daily lives.

I was raised a Roman Catholic but later became agnostic and finally atheist. I personally did not find it difficult to apostatise but my religious rituals involved merely going to church every Sunday. After I started critically analysing my faith and finding the flaws in it’s reasoning, it was not hard to remove my weekly attendance to the church from my routine. My life barely changed other than the fact that I didn’t have to wake up early on Sunday mornings any longer – but even this was a great relief.

For Muslims, I think there are many more rituals that must be adhered to on a daily basis and, after many years, these become part of daily life and are much more difficult to depart from. Similarly, there are more community rituals for which an apostate would no longer feel part of.

Perhaps these practical difficulties contribute to preventing critically analysing one’s religion?

 

[Woodrow]

Perhaps these practical difficulties contribute to preventing critically analysing one’s religion?

One thing about asking questions. all questions are biased and the answers will differ based on the audience the question is directed to. The audience here is composed to a very large extent of very open minded people that have critically analyzed their beliefs.

I doubt if you will find many LI members who fear any analysis or refutations of their beliefs. Very few people who are not secure in their beliefs, would even venture forth to explore a forum that allows open refutations and encourages debate over beliefs.

We do have the "Comparative Religion" section closed until after Ramadan, but once the section reopens, I believe you will find that most of the Muslim members here are quite well informed of the beliefs of other faiths and we remain Muslim based upon informed faith and have come to the conclusion we accept Islam by choice and not because of heritage.

 

[MustafaMc]

I think some Christians turn to Islam because they seek firm rules and a certain rigidity (which in turn offers a sense of security), which they don't seem to find in Christianity.

This may apply to some Muslim reverts, but it definitely does not apply to my own experience. Having grown up as a Baptist, there were very few religous rituals in my upbringing. The rituals of Islam, particularly the 5 daily prayers, were a difficult aspect for me to adjust to. It has required considerable discipline to learn portions of the Quran in Arabic and to structure my daily life such that I make time for prayer. My reason for choosing Islam has more to do with my perception that Islam 1)teaches the proper beliefs about God, 2) that it is the Will of my Creator for how to live my life - one aspect of which is how to properly worship Him and 3) that it is the only means to gain Paradise and to avoid Hellfire.

 

[amille40]

I think the reason there are so many former christian reverts to Islam (myself among them) is also due to the ease at which one can go from the New Testament to the Quran. It is simply a step forward spiritually.

I, like you Draco and similar to many others who look across many faiths, landed in atheism for awhile. While it made sense to me at the time, I found that I couldnt get out of the habit of asking something greater than myself for help. Looking back now on my confusion then I had basically surrendered to God and asked for his help while still disbelieving. I am so grateful that I was always given the strength to continue looking for faith and was led to Islam.

I personally dont think one can fully understand or appreciate their religion without being able to discourse on other religions- to see what they have that others are not offered. I would also think (again, my opinion) that testing ones faith by learning about others is a testament to their conviction. I don't think any Muslims fear or refuse to learn about others religions, but rather may be ignorant of it due to their geographic location. Hey, there are still something like 10% of americans who cant place America on a map.

 

[Intisar]

Never considered leaving Islam. The Quran is way too powerful. I have explored other religions and I honestly see it as a blessing to be (born) a Muslim because I do not indulge in what Allah has prohibited. The Quran refutes other religions. Atheism to me is just plain ridiculous but when I was younger I tried to explore the concept of God and the world around me. Still learning though, it makes my imaan (faith) stronger. Hope that answers your question Draco.

 

[DAWUD_adnan]

Hey, there are still something like 10% of americans who cant place America on a map.[/QUOTE]


lol, I remember this, such as , such as ,

 

[Draco]

I, like you Draco and similar to many others who look across many faiths, landed in atheism for awhile. While it made sense to me at the time, I found that I couldnt get out of the habit of asking something greater than myself for help. Looking back now on my confusion then I had basically surrendered to God and asked for his help while still disbelieving. I am so grateful that I was always given the strength to continue looking for faith and was led to Islam.

I must admit myself that from time to time, particularly in times of great trouble or strife, I'm tempted to pray for help out of the situation. But isn’t it just all too convenient to turn to someone (or something) that seemingly offers light at the end of the tunnel? I’ve observed that religion is often happy to step in when people are at their most needy and vulnerable, which has always made me suspicious of it. As you said Amille, you were looking for something, and if you’re looking for something badly enough you’re sure to find something.

 

[Draco]

Never considered leaving Islam. The Quran is way too powerful. I have explored other religions and I honestly see it as a blessing to be (born) a Muslim because I do not indulge in what Allah has prohibited. The Quran refutes other religions. Atheism to me is just plain ridiculous but when I was younger I tried to explore the concept of God and the world around me. Still learning though, it makes my imaan (faith) stronger. Hope that answers your question Draco.

I don't think it does answer my question, maybe you could clarify. For a start, why is atheism ridiculous to you?

 

[Woodrow]

I must admit myself that from time to time, particularly in times of great trouble or strife, I'm tempted to pray for help out of the situation. But isn’t it just all too convenient to turn to someone (or something) that seemingly offers light at the end of the tunnel? I’ve observed that religion is often happy to step in when people are at their most needy and vulnerable, which has always made me suspicious of it. As you said Amille, you were looking for something, and if you’re looking for something badly enough you’re sure to find something.

I’ve observed that religion is often happy to step in when people are at their most needy and vulnerable, which has always made me suspicious of it.

I agree with that. I can not understand how anybody could be persuaded to follow any Evangelist. You get a national disaster or a war and the evangelicals will flock to the scene faster than cats to a tuna fish cannery. (See note below for what I mean by evangelical in this context)

Then you get the "Fox hole saved agains" There are no atheists in a fox hole is largely true. People that normally don't believe in God(swt) suddenly become very religious when the bullets are flying. But, once the shooting stops and they see they are still alive the gratitude and purpose changes back to their "great" combat skills.

The ones who stay are usually the ones that feel like Allah(swt) found them at a time they did not feel any need to look for him. Most Muslim reverts did not seek to become Muslim or at least did not realize they were seeking. Very few reverts have ever been approached by a Muslim asking them to accept Islam. Many reverts actually have little knowledge about Islam, but oddly and for no apparent reason, they get an insatiable urge to learn all they can about Islam. They revert when they discover, becoming Muslim is not going to be an instant cure for anything, But, there is such a powerful desire to say the shahadah and live as a Muslim. There is no tangible reason why any person would revert to Islam. Yet, people who have never even seen the Qur'an are seeking to learn how to become Muslim. It is not an easy path and there are many obstacles, it only takes a matter of seconds to become a Muslim, but it takes a lifetime to be a Muslim.



NOTE: By evangelical I am not referring to any denomination or faith here. I mean a person of any faith that uses a disaster as a tool to impose their belief in God(swt). Sort of using a blackmail tactic rather than as a act of compassion.