Before class on Tuesday, I did not know much about the Islam religion. It was new information to me last week that they praise the same God as Christians. I very much so respect their religion now that I know more about it. I wouldn’t say that I ever disrespected it; I just didn’t know anything about it. I admire that their faith is rooted in peace and submission to God. I think this is similar to Christianity in the fact that both religions put God in control. God is the center and He is all knowing. Another thing I admire is Muhammed, the prophet. One of God’s angles came and spoke to Muhammed and because he submitted to God, he eventually wrote the Koran. The Koran is God’s words to Muhammed and is valued immensely by Muslims. I think the last three misconceptions are important for everyone to hear. I think there is a lot of fear behind America’s feelings. Nevertheless, feelings don’t necessary mean truth. The Koran doesn’t promote violence or oppression of women, Islam is not a religion of terror, and not all Muslims are Arabs.
The other thing that sparked a thought for me was the Shahada. The Shahada is the creed that one would need to say to become a Muslim. I would say that this is the sinner’s prayer in Christianity. You just have to profess your faith, and mean it, and you are now a part of the religion.
One last thing I admire about the Islam religion is their Salot (prayer). They pray five times a day facing Mecca. That means they have to put down everything they are doing at the designated prayer times and pray. I think this is wonderful because it is a way to stop and refocus on God. It also brings a feeling of community because everyone in the world is facing the center point or axis mundi.
I am glad I am learning about other religions besides my own because it allows me to have a deep respect for what others believe.