islam - tolerant ...

Submitted by Oliver (United States), Oct 31, 2007 at 21:32

Hello Faisal -

I do not read OT Hebrew - NT Greek or 'classical' arabic - BUT

When I read an English translation of the Hebrew or Christian scriptures - first of all, I can understand the context and the 'message' being conveyed by the author; secondly, I am frequently inspired to be a better person; thirdly, my ability to understand and be inspired bolsters my belief that these writings are indeed God's means of communication to me.

When I read an English translation of the quran (of which I have 7 - all translated by muslims) I come away with a lack of any understanding of context but a full understanding of the author's message of hatred toward 1] poly-theists, 2] unbelievers, 3] Jews and 4] Christians. Based on the clear teachings of the quran - islam is tolerant ONLY of islam - all other 'beliefs' must be at worst elliminated or at best subjurgated. I do not hear MY GOD communicating to me in the quran.

You say, "if we are not able to clarify misconceptions and understand each other, how will we tolerate each other in an increasingly smaller world."

I say, bring out into the open "the beautiful message of peace of Islam" so that all the readers of the forum might be enlightened.

Thank you in advance and may the True and Living God of the Jews and Christians bless your efforts ...

Note: Opinions expressed in comments are those of the authors alone and not necessarily those of Daniel Pipes. Original writing only, please. Comments are screened and in some cases edited before posting. Reasoned disagreement is welcome but not comments that are scurrilous, off-topic, commercial, disparaging religions, or otherwise inappropriate. For complete regulations, see the "Guidelines for Reader Comments".