close, yet...

Submitted by Taj (United States), Feb 26, 2008 at 04:58

Humanist

Unfortunately, you continue to use terms in a general sense that are not condusive to dialogue. I don't hold a centrist view and I am confident that most Muslims hold the same views I do in this country - of course I have you at a decided disadvantage - knowing many more Muslims than you do. So, what you see is clearly not as expansive as what I see and know about my religious community, but I hope in time your perspective broadens.

I would challenge you in your assumption that my religious views are in contradiction to the Constitution (with the exception of examples like Section 2 of Article , etc...) - and let me preface this challenge by pointing out that your opinion implies a novice approach to understanding aspects of Islam such as the meaning of "shariah" (a common islamophobic position)...I would respectfully suggest you study up on this fascinating and multi-faceted subject - it will alleviate you of some of the generalities you employ I assure you.

For example, you will find that democracy and shariah are not antonyms and you will be pleasantly surprised to realize that Muslims in the US are actually living according to shariah as a default according to the comprehensive meaning of the term. And interestingly enough, you'll find a rich and long Islamic tradition here in the US (guess where the cities of Mecca, Ohio and Medina in Ohio and Washington get their names? Whose Quran was it that Rep Keith Ellison used in his swearing-in ceremony?) ;-)

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