What is the point?

Submitted by Mahfooz ur Rahman (Bangladesh), Aug 7, 2009 at 08:56

... History repeats itself, but is always ignored by the ignorant and the condemned.

[I take this opportunity to appeal to my non-Muslim brothers and sisters not to be swayed by propaganda and learn about Islam from Islamic scholars, and read true history. Then you will surely change your opinion on Islam and consequently on more than billon Muslims of the world, with whom you must share this world, till the end of time. It is, therefore, in your own interest to promote peace and not hostility towards the billion Muslims who are growing fast, and will soon be the largest religion of the world. On this count also, you need to study and understand a historical phenomenon that is alive and well, and stronger than ever before, even after repeated assaults on it and its adherents. I therefore, grieve for the American and British soldiers pointlessly dying in Afghanistan, as much as I grieve the innocent Afghan civilian deaths, and deaths of helpless women and children. The Koran enjoins that there is no compulsion in religion and your religion is yours as mine is mine. So, let there be intra-religious understanding and thereby peace for all, I pray! ]

Then suddenly, I get a long piece forwarded to me by one Mr Rahim on the origin of the Arabic word Allah.

Whatever may be the etymological chronology of a word in its change and mutations through the ages, it is the current usage and meaning that is of prime significance. The meaning and significance of the word 'Allah' is understood by every Muslim, not only currently but through the ages as explained and taught by The Prophet of Allah (SM), his respected Companions, his trusted Khalifas, and great and most learned Islamic scholars such as Hazrat Imam Ghazzali (RA) and Hazrat Imam Hanifa (RA), to name just two. There is little or nothing that Mr Rahim or the likes of him can add in this respect.

As to continuity of our faith, of course, every Muslim knows and believes in all the Books revealed by Allah before the revelation of the Koran to the Last Prophet (SM), as they also believe in and respect all the Prophets (mentioned in the Old Testament, revealed to Prophet Moses/Musa before being repeated in the Koran) who were sent for guidance of mankind by divine wish before the last prophet. That is to say, Prophet of Islam. On him, Allah put a seal on prophet hood. There will none till the Day of Judgement. We, the Muslims, believe and have firm faith in all of above.

I find such a 'research' as above is quite pointless. It simply wastes time in opening debates on matters that were settled centuries ago.

Peace be upon you all, dear brothers and sisters, (my dear fellow Muslims and of all other faiths as well).

Humbly

Mahfooz

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