what makes Islam different

Submitted by Imam Ahmed Syeed Ali Muhammed (United States), May 16, 2008 at 14:24

G Marcus stated that the two things that make Islam different from other faiths is Jihad, and Sharia Law. In a way that is true. Islam is the only religion that combines both Law, and religion making it all one in the same.

However, his interpretation of the term Jihad is only one of many, and Jihad doesn't just mean Holy war, and Muslims don't just stick to that one interpretation. Jihad means first, and foremost "strive" or "struggle" Of course you can strive in war, but you also strive in other facets of life as well. Anyone having lived in poverty, or without a silver spoon in their mouths can understand what it means to truly strive to live a better life.

Now I'm not saying Marcus is totally wrong about what he is saying. That would prove me ignorant. However, Not all Muslims are violent, or do they agree with how Sharia law is bieng implemented in thier countries. This problem isn't just a concern for the Non Muslim, But also a concern for the Devout Muslims in western countries.

People normally laugh at my interpretations of Islam, and things such as Jihad, etc. But that is the way I see them. Religious belief can be the most passioniate, and emotionally charged subjects to discuss, especially when it is about a religion a person is prejudiced against. Anything a person reads, or learns about that particular religion is already in the negative, unless that person can find a way to look past his prejudices, and look deeper than what he previously did. Islam has a long way to go. Scholars, and leaders of Islam have been shaping, and refroming Islam for centuries, and Islam is once again in need of reform. I feel if I can help a person get a better understanding about the faith I practice, then they may begin to see that not all Muslims view Islam the same. Not all see Jihad as just physical striving, or warfare.

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