Art. #1:    WHAT IS ISLAM? 
Art.  #2:    WHO ARE THE MUSLIMS?
Art. #3:    WHAT DO MUSLIMS BELIEVE?
Art. #4:    HOW DOES SOMEONE BECOME A MUSLIM?
Art. #5:    WHAT DOES ‘ISLAM’ MEAN?
Art. #6:    WHY DOES ISLAM OFTEN SEEM STRANGE?
Art. #7:    DO ISLAM AND CHRISTIANITY HAVE DIFFERENT ORIGINS?
Art. #8:    WHAT IS THE KA’ABAH ?
Art. #9:    WHO IS MUHAMMAD?
Art. #10:  HOW DID HE BECOME A PROPHET AND A MESSENGER OF GOD?
Art. #11:  HOW DID THE SPREAD OF ISLAM AFFECT THE WORLD?
Art. #12:  WHAT IS THE QUR’AN?
Art. #13:  WHAT IS THE QUR’AN ABOUT?
Art. #14:  ARE THERE ANY OTHER SACRED SOURCES?
Art, #15:  EXAMPLES OF THE PROPHET’S SAYINGS.
Art. #16:  WHAT ARE THE ‘FIVE PILLARS’ OF ISLAM?
Art. #17:  DOES ISLAM TOLERATE OTHER BELIEFS?
Art. #18:  WHAT DO MUSLIMS THINK ABOUT JESUS?
Art. #19:  WHY IS THE FAMILY SO IMPORTANT TO MUSLIMS?
Art. #20:  WHAT ABOUT MUSLIM WOMEN?
Art. #21:  CAN A MUSLIM HAVE MORE THAN ONE WIFE?
Art. #22:  IS ISLAMIC MARRIAGE LIKE CHRISTIAN MARRIAGE?
Art. #23:  HOW DO MUSLIMS TREAT THE ELDERLY?
Art. #24:  HOW DO MUSLIMS VIEW DEATH?
Art. #25:  WHAT DOES ISLAM SAY ABOUT WAR?
Art. #26:  WHAT ABOUT FOOD?
Art. #27:  ISLAM IN THE UNITED STATES.
Art. #28:  HOW DOES ISLAM GUARANTEE HUMAN RIGHTS? 

                                                                                                

Art. #1:  WHAT IS ISLAM?  Islam is not a new religion, but the same truth that God revealed through all His prophets to every people.  For a fifth of the world’s population, Islam is both a religion and a complete way of life.  Muslims follow a religion of peace, mercy, and forgiveness, and the majority have nothing to do with the extremely grave events, which have come to be associated with their faith.

REBUTTAL:  Agreeably, Islam is a not a new religion; it was invented in the 7th century by a man named Muhammad ‘bin Abdallah of the Arabian Peninsula.  For Muslims, he was the last and most holy of God’s prophets, and Allah’s voice on earth.  For those doubting this divine appointment, Muhammad supplied several revelations from Allah to prove it!  

Yes, Muslims are sometimes peaceful, merciful, and forgiving of other Muslims, but these qualities are seldom shown to non-Muslims (infidels) in countries controlled by Islam.  And yes, the majority of the world’s Muslims had no part in the attacks on the World Trade Towers, the Pentagon, numerous attacks on our embassies, or even the daily atrocities committed in the name of Allah.  Indeed, there are probably only around 250,000 to 300,000 Muslims who have graduated from the various terrorist training camps over the last twenty years, including several camps in the U.S., some of which are still operating!  But, compared to the estimated 1.2 to 1.4 billion Muslims in the world this figure is numerically insignificant!  This should come as a great relief to our readers.    


Art. #2:  WHO ARE THE MUSLIMS?  One billion people from a vast range of races, nationalities, and cultures across the globe---from the southern Philippines to Nigeria---are united by their common Islamic faith.  About 18% live in the Arab world; the largest Muslim community is in Indonesia; substantial parts of Asia and most of Africa are Muslim, while significant minorities are to be found in the Soviet Union, China, North and South America, and Europe.
 
REBUTTAL:  The more than one billion Muslims in the world are descendants of those societies conquered by Islam over more than 1,300 years.  Almost every country on earth, except Indonesia, has been forced to choose Islam as its master exclusively by the sword.  Indonesia, with the largest population of Muslims, was able to replace the previous indigenous population, mostly of animists and Buddhists with a minimum of conflict.  However now, with Muslims in complete control, Indonesia is the site of daily atrocities against all members of other faiths, especially Christians.       



Art. #3:  WHAT DO MUSLIMS BELIEVE?  Muslims believe in One Unique, Incomparable God; in the Angels created by Him; in the prophets through whom His revelations were brought to mankind; in the Day of Judgment and individual accountability for actions; in God’s complete authority over human destiny and in life after death.  Muslims believe in a chain of prophets starting with Adam and including Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Job, Moses, Aaron, David, Solomon, Elias, Jonah, John the Baptist and Jesus, peace be upon them.  But God’s final message to man, a reconfirmation of the eternal message and a summing-up of all that has gone before was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through Gabriel. 

REBUTTAL:  Muslims like to point out commonalities of Islam with Judaism and Christianity, for acceptance of Islam.  As a camel driver for 13 years, Muhammad picked up a fragmented and muddled background of Judaism and Christianity, as well as local folk tales and some stories that can be traced to Greek mythology.  Indeed, some stories from the Koran bear more resemblance to those of “The Thousand and One Nights”.   



Art. #4:  HOW DOES SOMEONE BECOME A MUSLIM?  Simply by saying “there is no god apart from God, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God.”  By this declaration the believer announces his or her faith in all God’s messengers, and the scriptures they brought. 
 
REBUTTAL:  Becoming a Christian is equally simple, consisting of a declaration that a person believes that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.  The main difference is that a Christian can renege on his or her declaration of faith at any late date, without major consequence, but a convert to Islam would face a death sentence if renouncing Islam.  Quite a difference! 

Art. #5:  WHAT DOES “ISLAM” MEAN?  The Arabic word Islam simply means “submission”, and derives from a word meaning “peace”.  In a religious context it means complete submission to the will of God.  “Muhammedanism” is thus a misnomer because it suggests that Muslims worship Muhammad rather than God.  “Allah” is the Arabic name for God, which is used by Arab Muslims and Christians alike. 

REBUTTAL:  Islam is well named; an infidel, if offered a choice, may escape death by submission, though there are no guarantees.  And, since the word Islam is derived from another Arabic word meaning peace, this is perhaps part of the explanation of the term “Dar Al-Islam”, or Land of Peace.  “Peace” has an entirely different meaning in Islam;  only a society completely dominated by Dar Al-Islam is “at peace”.  As to Muslims disliking the term “Muhammedanism”, it seems an accurate description of the religion for anyone not Muslim.  We have only Muhammad’s word that he was appointed Allah’s (God’s) Last and Most Perfect Prophet.  In light of his numerous capital crimes and self-serving “revelations”, it would be difficult for any objective non-Muslim person studying the religion, not to label it “Muhammedanism”!                     



Art. #6:  WHY DOES ISLAM OFTEN SEEM STRANGE?  Islam may seem exotic or even extreme in the modern world.  Perhaps this is because religion does not dominate everyday life in the West today, whereas Muslims have religion always uppermost in their minds, and make no distinction between secular and sacred.  They believe that the Divine Law, the Shari’a, should be taken very seriously, which is why issues related to religion are still so important. 

REBUTTAL:  Islam seems strange to most non-Muslims because IT IS STRANGE!  Any religion that has historically been spread almost exclusively by the sword, that still practices genocide and slavery, demeans women, has the highest incidence of sexual abuse of children, and that deliberately and consistently turns its back on all knowledge, unless derived from the Koran or the Hadith, is exceedingly strange!  As for taking the Shari’a seriously; any Muslim should, for his own survival, take this code of law seriously.  Under Shari’a, a Muslim renouncing Islam comes  immediately under a death sentence, and under the Koran, all Muslims are enjoined to carry out the sentence. 



Art. #7:  DO ISLAM AND CHRISTIANITY HAVE DIFFERENT ORIGINS?  No.  Together with Judaism, they go back to the Prophet and patriarch Abraham, and their three prophets are directly descended from his sons – Muhammad from the eldest, Ishmael, and Moses and Jesus from Isaac.  Abraham established the settlement which today is the city of Makkah, and built the Ka’abah towards which all Muslims turn when they pray.

REBUTTAL:  There are several commonalities between Islam, Christianity, and Judaism.  All three religions were born in the Middle East and trace their roots to Abraham.  Jews trace their blood lineage and Christians their spiritual lineage to Abraham and to Isaac, the son of Abraham and Sara.  Islam traces its lineage through Ishmael, the son of Abraham and the servant girl Hagar.  And, many stories of the Koran have their roots in the Bible and all three religions consider Jerusalem as a Holy City.  However, the origins of Islam are those as manufactured by one man, Muhammad.  He appointed himself as Allah’s last and most perfect prophet, and as such, he could do no wrong, even when committing his numerous crimes.  See "Allah vs Jehovah" in the Archives.    



Art. #8:  WHAT IS THE KA’ABAH?  The Ka’abah is the place of worship, which God commanded Abraham and Ishmael to build over four thousand years ago.  The building was constructed of stone on what, many believe, was the original site of a sanctuary established by Adam.  God commanded Abraham to summon all mankind to visit this place, and when pilgrims go there today they say “At Thy service, O Lord”, in response to Abraham's summons. 

REBUTTAL:  It is possible that this shrine has been in existence for over 4,000 years but  doubtful that Abraham and Ishmael had anything to do with its construction.  If Abraham had been involved in its establishment, the Jews of the Arabian Peninsula, before being decimated by Muhammad, would have paid homage there.  Such was not the case.  When Muhammad appeared on the scene, the Ka’abah was a shrine for over 350 heathen gods, but no Jews worshiped there!   



Art. #9:  WHO IS MUHAMMAD?  Muhammad was born in Makkah in the year 570, at a time when Christianity was not as yet fully established in Europe.  Since his father died before his birth, and his mother shortly afterwards, he was raised by his uncle from the respected tribe of Quraysh.  As he grew up, he became known for his truthfulness, generosity and sincerity, so that he was sought after for his ability to arbitrate in disputes.  The historians describe him as calm and meditative.  Muhammad was of a deeply religious nature, and had long detested the decadence of his society.  It became his habit to meditate from time to time in the Cave of Hira near the summit of Jaba al-Nur, the “Mountain of Light” near Makkah.  

REBUTTAL:  Please refer to “Psychological Profile of Muhammad”.



Art. #10:  HOW DID HE BECOME A PROPHET AND A MESSENGER OF GOD?    At the age of 40, while engaged in a meditative retreat, Muhammad received his first revelation from God through the Angel Gabriel.  This revelation, which continued for twenty-three years, is known as the Qur’an.  As soon as he began to recite the words he heard from Gabriel, and to preach the truth, which God had revealed to him, he and a small group of followers suffered bitter persecution, which grew so fierce that in the year 622 God gave them the command to emigrate.  This event, the Hijra, “migration”, in which they left Makkah for the city of Madinah some 260 miles to the north, marks the beginning of the Muslim calendar.  After several years, the Prophet and his followers were able to return to Makkah, where they forgave their enemies and established Islam definitively.  Before the Prophet died at the age of 63, the greater part of Arabia was Muslim, and within a century of his death Islam had spread to Spain in the West and as far to the East as China. 

REBUTTAL:  He appointed himself as God’s last and most perfect Prophet, though the Angel Gabriel supposedly brought the appointment from God.  He told his first wife, Khadija, that Gabriel had visited him with a message from God that Muhammad was to be God’s appointed Prophet.  This is what Muslims call “The Night of Power”.  His second revelation came three years later and then the revelations continued until his death.  As to forgiving enemies; Muhammad was never known for any forgiveness of enemies, much to the contrary.  He was known for taking revenge at the slightest provocation, including murdering those jesting at his attempts at storytelling.  For an overview of Muhammad’s activities before and after returning in triumph to Mecca refer  to “Life of Muhammad”, with emphasis on the dates 624 and 627 A.D.



Art. #11:  HOW DID THE SPREAD OF ISLAM AFFECT THE WORLD?  (Note: This article is so full of disinformation, half truths and lies that its contents are rebutted point by point).

STATEMENT:  Among the reasons for the rapid and peaceful spread of Islam was the simplicity of its doctrine; Islam calls for faith in only one God. 
REBUTTAL:  The rapid spread of Islam was only by the sword, and the simplicity of its doctrine was: CONVERT TO ISLAM OR LOSE YOUR HEAD! 

STATEMENT:  It also repeatedly instructs man to use his powers of intelligence and observation. 
REBUTTAL:  From inception, Islam feared knowledge.  Not a single Muslim university offers the range or quality of curricula comparable to the lowliest junior college of the United States, or for that matter, any civilized country.  When Caliph Omar conquered Egypt in 64l A.D., one of his first orders was to burn the Library of Alexandria, which at that time was the largest and most comprehensive repository of knowledge in the world.  As late as 1993, the supreme religious authority of Saudi Arabia, Sheik Abdel-Azian Baaz, stated: "The world is flat; anyone of the round persuasion does not believe in God and should be punished."   

STATEMENT:  Within a few years, great civilizations and universities were flourishing, for according to the Prophet, "seeking knowledge is an obligation for every man and woman."
REBUTTAL:  Yes, great civilizations and universities were flourishing.....in those areas not as yet conquered by Islam, especially in India and Persia (Iran).  As for seeking knowledge, any knowledge not derived from the Koran or Hadith could be dangerous for a Muslim's health! 

STATEMENT:  The synthesis of Eastern and Western ideas and of new thought with old, brought about great advances in medicine, mathematics, physics, astronomy, geography, architecture, art, literature, and history. 
REBUTTAL:  Yes, considerable advances were being achieved, principally based on knowledge acquired from conquered societies, principally those of India and Persia. 

STATEMENT:  Many crucial systems such as algebra, Arabic numerals, and also the concept of zero (vital to the advancement of mathematics), were transmitted to medieval Europe from Islam.  
REBUTTAL:  Entirely true!  Algebra. "Arabic" numerals and the concept of zero, were all three appropriated from the Hindus and then transmitted to Europe. 

STATEMENT:  Sophisticated instruments which were to make possible the European voyages of discovery were developed, including the astrolabe, quadrant, and good navigation maps. 
REBUTTAL:  Most historical scholars credit a Greek astronomer, Hipparchus, with the invention of the astrolabe, some 600 years before Muhammad's  invention of Islam.  The quadrant was invented by Thomas Godfrey in 1730, and the following year John Wadley produced the sextant, a considerable improvement over the quadrant.  Good navigation maps were never the strong suit of the Muslims since their schools, to this day, teach that the world is flat and that the earth revolves around the sun. 



Art. #12:  WHAT IS THE QUR’AN?  The Qur’an is a record of the exact words revealed by God through the Angel Gabriel to the Prophet Muhammad.  It was memorized by Muhammad and then dictated to his Companions, and written down by scribes, who crosschecked it during his lifetime.  Not one word of its 114 chapters, Suras, has been changed over the centuries, so that the Qur’an is in every detail the unique and miraculous text which was revealed to Muhammad fourteen centuries ago.

REBUTTAL:  Please consult “The Koran” in the Archives.         



Art. #13:  WHAT IS THE QUR’AN ABOUT?   The Qur’an, the last revealed Word of God, is the prime source of every Muslim’s faith and practice.  It deals with all the subjects that concern us as human beings: wisdom, doctrine, worship, and law, but its basic theme is the relationship between God and His creatures.  At the same time it provides guidelines for a just society, proper human conduct and an equitable economic system.

REBUTTAL:  Most persons might suppose that a “just society” would protect women and children, reject slavery and genocide, permit religious freedom, respect knowledge, and allow for individual expression.  As to “proper human conduct” and “an equitable economic system”, the Muslim interpretation or understanding of these concepts, is so foreign to that of democratic and civilized societies that there is little common ground for dialogue.     



Art. #14: ARE THERE ANY OTHER SACRED SOURCES?  Yes, the Sunnah, the practice and example of the Prophet, is the second authority for Muslims.  A Hadith is a reliably transmitted report of what the Prophet said, did, or approved.  Belief in the Sunnah is part of the Islamic faith.

REBUTTAL:  There are several thousand hadiths, covering a multitude of subjects, including how to tend one’s hair, receive guests, and conduct routines of hygiene.  Since Muhammad, as God’s Messenger was perfection personified, the Sunnah is considered to be God’s mandate.  Unfortunately, many hadiths, along with the Koran, have been used as part of the formation of Islamic jurisprudence, the Shari’a.  Thus, casual comments of Muhammad, such as how a man’s beard should be worn and his criticism of music, were incorporated into Islamic law.  In Taliban controlled Afghanistan, there were severe penalties against playing music of any kind and the men were obligated to carry a full beard. 



Art. #15:  EXAMPLES OF THE PROPHET’S SAYINGS:

“God has no mercy on one who has no mercy for others.”

“None of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself.”

“He, who eats his fill while his neighbor goes without food is not a believer.”

“The truthful and trusted is associated with the prophets, the saints and the martyrs.”

“Powerful is not he who knocks the other down, indeed powerful is he who controls himself in a fit of anger.”

“God does not judge according to your bodies and appearances but He scans your hearts and looks into your deeds.” 

“A man walking along a path felt very thirsty.  Reaching a well he descended into it, drank his fill and came up.  Then, he saw a dog with its tongue hanging out, trying to lick up mud to quench its thirst.  The man saw that the dog was feeling the same thirst as he had felt so he went down into the well again and filled his shoe with water and gave the dog a drink. God forgave his sins for this action.”  The Prophet was asked: 'Messenger of God, are we rewarded for kindness towards animals?'  He said, “There is a reward for kindness to every living thing.” 

REBUTTAL:  Note that all of the above sayings are Hadiths, not from the Koran.  Below are some “divine” revelations from the Koran, and a few from the Hadith, not so benevolent in nature.   

“When we decide to destroy a population, we send a definite order to those among them who are given the good things of this life and yet transgress, so that the word (Allah’s / Muhammad’s) word is proved true against them; then we destroy them utterly.” (17:16) Note: The “transgression” is not being Muslim and having something they covet!

“I will instill terror into the hearts of the unbelievers, smite ye above their necks and smite all their fingertips off them.” (8:12)

“Fight those who do not profess the true faith (Islam) till they pay the jizya (poll tax) with the hand of humility.” (9:29)
 
"Therefore, when ye meet the unbelievers, smite at their necks; at length, when ye have thoroughly subdued them, bind a bond firmly on them; thereafter is the time for either generosity or ransom; until the war lays down its burdens.  Thus are ye commanded: but if it had been Allah's Will, He could certainly have exacted retribution from him Himself; but He lets you fight in order to test you, some with others.  But those that are slain in the name of Allah -- He will never let their deeds be lost.  Soon will He guide them and improve their condition, and admit them to The Garden (Heaven) which He has announced for them." (47:4-6)
 
"But when the forbidden months have passed, then fight and slay the pagans wherever ye find them, and seize them, beleaguer them, and lie in wait for them, in every strategem of war." (9:5) 

"Allah guarantees that He will admit the Mujahid (Allah's warriors) in His cause into Paradise if killed, otherwise He will return him to his home safely with rewards and war booty." (Hadith) 

"And how many populations we destroyed, which exulted in their life of ease and plenty!  Now those habitations of theirs, after them are deserted--all but a miserable few!  And we are their heirs!" (28:58)



Art. #16:  WHAT ARE THE FIVE PILLARS OF ISLAM?  They are the framework of the Muslim life; faith, prayer, concern for the needy, self-purification, and the pilgrimage to Makkah for those who are able.

I.  FAITH:  There is no god worthy of worship except God and Muhammad is His messenger.  This declaration of faith is called the Shahada, a simple formula which all the faithful pronounce.  In Arabic, the first part is la ilaha illa ‘Llah – “there is no god except God”; ilaha (god) can refer to anything which we may be tempted to put in place of God—wealth, power, and the like.  Then comes illa ‘Llah:’ except God, the source of all Creation.  The second part of the Shahada is Muhammadun rasula ‘Llah:  “Muhammad is the messenger of God”.  A message of guidance has come through a man like ourselves.

A translation of the Call to Prayer is:  

God is most great. - God is most great. -  God is most great. -  God is most great.  I testify that there is no god except God. - I testify that there is no god except God.  I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of God. I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of God.  Come to prayer! – Come to prayer!  Come to success (in this life and the Hereafter)! - Come to success!  God is most great.- God is most great! - There is no god except God.      

II.  PRAYER:  Salah is the name for the prayers, which are performed five times a day, and are a direct link between the worshiper and God.  There is no hierarchical authority in Islam, and no priests, so the prayers are lead by a learned person who knows the Qur’an, chosen by the congregation.  These five prayers contain verses from the Qur’an, and are said in Arabic, the language of the Revelation, but personal supplication can be offered in one’s own language.  Prayers are said at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset and nightfall, and thus determine the rhythm of the entire day.

Although it is preferable to worship together in a mosque, a Muslim may pray almost anywhere, such as in fields, offices, factories and universities.  Visitors to the Muslim world are struck by the centrality of prayers in daily life.

III.  THE ‘ZAKAT’:  One of the most important principles of Islam is that all things belong to God, and that, wealth is therefore held by human beings in trust.  The word zakat means both “purification” and “growth”.  Our possessions are purified by setting aside a proportion for those in need, and, like the pruning of plants, this cutting back balances and encourages new growth.

Each Muslim calculates his or her own zakat individually.  For most persons this involves the payment each year of two and a half percent of one’s capital.  A pious person may also give as much as he or she pleases as sadaqa, and does so preferably in secret.  Although this word can be translated as “voluntary charity” it has a wider meaning.  The Prophet said, “even meeting your brother with a cheerful face is charity.” 

The Prophet said:  “Charity is a necessity for every Muslim.”  He was asked:  “What if a person has nothing?”  The Prophet replied:  “He should work with his own hands for his benefit and then give something out of such earnings in charity.”  The Companions asked:  “What if he is unable to work?”  The Prophet said”  “He should help poor and needy persons.”  The Companions further asked:  “What if he cannot do even that?”  The Prophet said:  “He should urge others to do good.”  The Companions said:  “what if he lacks that also?”  The Prophet said:  “He should check himself from doing evil.  That is also charity.”

IV.   THE FAST:  Every year in the month of Ramadan, all Muslims fast from first light until sundown, abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations.  Those who are sick, elderly, or on a journey, and women who are pregnant or nursing are permitted to break the fast and make up an equal number of days later in the year.  If they are physically unable to do this, they must feed a needy person for every day missed.  Children begin to fast (and to observe the prayer) from puberty, although many start earlier.  Although the fast is most beneficial to the health, it is regarded principally as a method of self-purification.  By cutting oneself off from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person gains true sympathy with those who go hungry as well as growth in one’s spiritual life.

V.  PILGIRIMAGE (Hajj):  The annual pilgrimage to Makkah--the Hajj --is an obligation only for those who are physically and financially able to perform it.  Nevertheless, about two million people go to Makkah each year from every corner of the globe providing a unique opportunity for those of different nations to meet one another.  Although Makkah is always filled with visitors, the annual Hajj begins in the twelfth month of the Islamic year (which is lunar, not solar, so that Hajj and Ramadan fall sometimes in summer, sometimes in winter). Pilgrims wear special clothes: simple garments which strip away distinctions of class and culture, so that all stand equal before God.

The rights of Hajj, which are of Abrahamic origin, include circling the Ka’abah seven times, and going seven times between the mountains of Safa and Marwa as did Hagar during her search for water. Then, the pilgrims stand together on the wide plain of Arafa and join in prayers for God’s forgiveness, in what is often thought as a preview of the Last Judgment.

In previous centuries the Hajj was an arduous undertaking.  Today, however, Saudi Arabia provides millions of people with water, modern transport, and the most up-to-date health facilities.  The close of Hajj, is marked by a festival, the Eid al-Adha, which is celebrated with prayers and the exchange of gifts with Muslim communities everywhere.  This, and the Eid al Fitr, a feast day commemorating the end of Ramadan, are the main festivals of the Muslim calendar.

REBUTTAL:  Most non-Muslim scholars agree that when Abraham turned Hagar out, he was living in present day Israel, over 750 miles from the Ka’abah of Mecca!  This considerable shift in geography is only another instance of Islam’s re-invention of history.  


Art. #17:  DOES ISLAM TOLERATE OTHER BELIEFS?  The Qur’an says: “God forbids you not, with regards to those who fight you not for (your) faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them; for God loveth those who are just.”  (Qur’an, 60-8)

It is one function of Islamic law to protect the privileged status of minorities, and this is why non-Muslims places of worship have flourished all over the Islamic world.  History provides many examples of Muslim tolerance towards other faiths; when the caliph Omar entered Jerusalem in the year 634, Islam granted freedom of worship to all religious communities in the city.  Islamic law also permits non-Muslims minorities to set up their own courts, which implement family laws drawn up by the minorities themselves.

REBUTTAL:  Of the entire booklet, the above lies are the MOST OUTRAGEOUS!   In  all Muslim countries, it is extremely dangerous to worship outside of Islam and hundreds of non-Muslims are killed daily!  Remember that the booklet we are critiquing was produced and published by Saudi Arabia, the most repressive society of the entire Muslim world, perhaps of the entire earth!  Today, there is not a single Jewish synagogue or Christian church in that entire country and the persecution of Christians and Jews is standard there and in all of Islam!

History does provide a few cases of temporary Muslim tolerance towards other faiths, but none that were long lasting.  That of Caliph Omar lasted only a short while until he had solidified his power base.  Islamic Law, the Shari’a, allows no courts other than those of Islam and all infidels are judged under Islamic Law!  Note that in the Koranic verse above, Allah (Muhammad) does not specifically forbid Muslims from dealing fairly with peaceful infidels, but, He (Allah / Muhammad) does not specifically enjoin them to do so; there is a considerable difference!  



Art.  #18:  WHAT DO MUSLIMS THINK ABOUT JESUS?  Muslims respect and revere Jesus, and await his Second Coming. They consider him one of the greatest of God’s Messengers to mankind.  A Muslim never refers to him simply as “Jesus”, but always adds the phrase ‘upon him be peace’.  The Qur’an confirms his virgin birth (a chapter of the Qur’an is entitled “Mary”), and Mary is considered the purest woman in all creation.  The Qur’an describes the Annunciation as follows: ‘Behold!’, the Angel said, ‘God has chosen you, and purified you, and chosen you above the women of all nations.  O Mary!, God gives you good news of a word from Him, whose name shall be the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, honored in this world and the Hereafter, and one of those brought near to God.  He shall speak to the people from his cradle and in maturity, and shall be of the righteous.’

She said: ‘O my Lord!  How shall I have a son when no man has touched me?’  He said: ‘Even so; God creates what He will.  When He decrees a thing, He says to it, “Be!” and it is.’  (Qur’an, 3:47)

Jesus was born miraculously through the same power, which had brought Adam into being without a father:  “Truly, the likeness of Jesus with God is as the likeness of Adam.  He created him of dust, and then said to Him, ‘Be!’, and He was.”  (3:59)

During his prophetic mission Jesus performed many miracles.  The Qur’an tells us that he said:  I have come to you with a sign from your Lord: I make for you out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, and breathe into it and it becomes a bird by God’s leave.  And I heal the blind, and the lepers, and I raise the dead by God’s leave.  (3:49)

Neither Muhammad nor Jesus came to change the basic doctrine of the belief in one God, brought by earlier prophets, but to confirm and renew it.  In the Qur’an Jesus is reported as saying that he came: To attest the law which was before me.  And to make lawful to you part of what was forbidden you; I have come to you with a sign from your Lord, so fear God and obey me. (3:50)

The Prophet Muhammad said:  Whoever believes there is no god but God, alone without partner, that Muhammad is His messenger, that Jesus is the servant and messenger of God, His word breathed into Mary and a spirit emanating from Him, and that Paradise and Hell are true, shall be received by God into Heaven. (Hadith from Bukhart)

REBUTTAL:  The early suras of Medina pay homage to Christ, while later suras of Mecca diminish his importance, relegating Him to just another prophet.  The difference was Muhammad’s changing attitude towards Christians and Jews.  While courting both religions for converts in Medina, his suras concerning Jesus were respectful.  But upon attracting few converts, and once his power base was secure, he commenced a bloody persecution of those Jews and Christians not willing to convert, and his attitude towards Jesus changed drastically, as seen by the following suras.

Denying the Divinity of Jesus:  “O People of the Book!  Commit no excesses in your religion; nor say of Allah aught but the truth.  Christ Jesus the son of Mary was no more than a Messenger of Allah, and His word, which he bestowed on Mary, and a Spirit proceeding from him; so believe in Allah and His Messengers.  Say not ‘Trinity’; desist; it will be better for you, for Allah is one God; glory be to Him; for Exalted is He above having a son.” (4:171)

Denial of the Holy Trinity:  “They do blaspheme who say: Allah is one of three in a Trinity; for there is no God except One God.”  (5:73)

Denying Christ’s crucifixion: “That they said in boast, ‘We killed Christ Jesus, the son of Mary, the Messenger of Allah…But they killed Him not, nor crucified Him, but so it was made to appear to them’.”  (4:157)  According to Muslims, Christ was not crucified; instead, a man named Shabih, who closely resembled Jesus, was sacrificed.  From the above revelations of Allah (Muhammad), it appears that certain Christians equating Jehovah with Allah might wish to re-think their position.

Christians are deemed mortal sinners because of their belief in the divinity of Christ:  God (Allah) will forbid him the Garden (Heaven) and the fire (Hell) will be his abode."
(5:72)



Art. #19:  WHY IS THE FAMILY SO IMPORTANT TO MUSLIMS?  The family is the foundation of Islamic society.  The peace and security offered by a stable family unit is greatly valued, and seen as essential for the spiritual growth of its members.  A harmonious social order is created by the existence of extended families; children are treasured, and rarely leave home until the time they marry.

REBUTTAL: The foundation of Islamic society is certainly not the family; it is control!  Islam is a dysfunctional, unstable and misogynistic society based upon autocratic rule of the husband, the Alpha Male.  Women are chattels, a half step above slavery, and children have little chance to interact with their fathers.  Generally their concept of a father is that of an absent person.  The extended families referred to is the possibility of a Muslim man having many wives, quasi-wives, and concubines.  A woman is often seen only as a toy, to be tossed aside whenever a prettier toy is found.  The results are horrendous; Osama ‘bin Laden was one of 17 children from the 10 wives of his father.

Since the rapid expansion of Islam needed more and more warriors; what better way than to encourage polygamy?  A Muslim warrior was entitled to keep, or sell, any woman he took by his own hand.  Captive women’s babies soon matured to become the new recruits of Muslim cavalry.  It is not known if Muhammad’s large harem was to set an example, or just a result of his own base nature.  In either case, it worked!  In today’s world, the demographic conquest of Europe is being achieved by similar means.  See "Demographic Conquest" in the Archives Section.



Art. #20:  WHAT ABOUT MUSLIM WOMEN?  Islam sees a woman, whether single or married, as an individual in her own right, with the right to own and dispose of her property and earnings.  A marriage dowry, is given by the groom to the bride for her own personal use, and she keeps her own family name rather than taking her husband’s.  Both men and women are expected to dress in a way, which is modest and dignified; the traditions of female dress found in some Muslim countries are often the expression of local customs.  The Messenger of God said:  “The most perfect in faith amongst believers is he who is best in manner and kindest to his wife.” 

REBUTTAL:  In most Islamic societies, a woman, single or married, has practically  no rights under the Koran, and several suras denigrate women.  The section "Sexuality in Islam" of the Archives is pertinent.     



Art. #21:  CAN A MUSLIM HAVE MORE THAN ONE WIFE?  The religion of Islam was revealed for all societies and all times and so accommodates widely differing social requirements.  Circumstances may warrant the taking of another wife but the right is granted, according to the Qur’an, only on condition that the husband is scrupulously fair.

REBUTTAL:  “Scrupulously fair”, for Muslims following the Koran has a different meaning than in other societies, especially concerning the dynamics of marriage.  Though Allah (Muhammad) said that a man should have only four wives, Muslims admit that he had at least ten, and many scholars suggest about fifteen.  Of course, no accurate count was ever made as to the number of concubines or slaves that he owned. 



Art. #22:  IS ISLAMIC MARRIAGE LIKE CHRISTIAN MARRIAGE?  A Muslim marriage is not a “sacrament”, but a simple, legal agreement in which either partner is free to include conditions.  Marriage customs thus vary widely from country to country.  As a result, divorce is not common, although it is not forbidden as a last resort.  According to Islam, no Muslim girl can be forced to marry against her will; her parents will simply suggest young men they think may be suitable.

REBUTTAL:  Agreed, a Muslim marriage is certainly not a sacrament!  It is a simple legal agreement, but the husband is the one with the power under Muslim law.  A divorce or annulment instigated by a wife is practically impossible to pursue, if opposed by a husband.  However, a husband can divorce a wife by simply saying, “I divorce you!” three times in succession.  Discussion is presently ongoing in the Muslim world as to whether this can be accomplished by telephone!  As to Muslim girls being forced to marry against their will, since arranged marriages are the tradition, few Muslim girls would dare oppose any choice of husband proposed by parents.  Please consult "Women Under Islam" in the Archives.   

 

Art. #23:  HOW DO MUSLIMS TREAT THE ELDERLY?  In the Muslim world there are no old people’s homes.  The strain of caring for one’s parents in this most difficult time of their lives is considered an honor and blessing, and an opportunity for great spiritual growth.  God asks that we not only pray for our parents, but act with limitless compassion, remembering that when we were helpless children they preferred us to themselves.  Mothers are particularly honored:  The Prophet taught that, “Paradise lies at the feet of mothers”.  When they reach old age, Muslim parents are treated mercifully, with the same kindness and selflessness.
                                                                  
In Islam, serving one’s parents is a duty second only to prayer, and it is their right to expect it.  It is considered despicable to express any irritation when, through no fault of their own, the old become difficult.

The Qur’an says:  “Your Lord has commanded that you worship none but Him, and be kind to parents.  If either or both of them reach old age with you, do not say ‘uff’ to them or chide them, but speak to them in terms of honor and kindness.  Treat them with humility, and say, ‘My Lord! Have mercy on them, for they did care for me when I was little’. ” (17:23-4)

REBUTTAL:  There are valid reasons why there are no “old people’s homes” in Islam.  First and foremost, there are not that many “old people” represented, as population percentages of Muslim countries.  More than half the population of Muslim countries is sixteen years of age or less.  Secondly, there is little profit motive for the establishment of old people’s homes in the Muslim world.  In more open and affluent societies, where a family has income from both spouses, care for the elderly can be afforded and provided either by relatives or by social services.  In most of the backward societies of Islam, where women are not allowed to work outside the home, they become the unpaid care-givers of older relatives.  Additionally, few countries of the Muslim world can afford anything beyond the bare basics of social services.  The average gross family income of the entire Muslim world, using United Nation statistics of 2000, is less than $7,000 a year, even after taking into consideration the billions of petrodollars and other currencies flowing into several Muslim countries.  So much for bragging about caring for the elderly!



Art. #24:  HOW DO MUSLIMS VIEW DEATH?  Like Jews and Christians, Muslims believe that the present life is only a trial preparation for the next realm of existence. Basic articles of faith include: the Day of Judgment, resurrection, Heaven and Hell.  When a Muslim dies, he or she is washed, usually by a family member, wrapped in a clean white cloth, and buried with a simple prayer preferably the same day.

Muslims consider this one of the final services they can do for their relatives, and an opportunity to remember their own brief existence here on earth.  The Prophet taught that three things can continue to help a person even after death; charity which he has given, knowledge which he had taught and prayers on their behalf by a righteous child.

REBUTTAL:  None.



Art. #25:  WHAT DOES ISLAM SAY ABOUT WAR?  Like Christianity, Islam permits fighting in self-defense, in defense of religion, or on the part of those who have been expelled forcibly from their homes.  It lays down strict rules of combat, which include prohibitions against harming civilians and against destroying crops, trees, and livestock.  As Muslims see it, injustice would be triumphant in the world if good men were not prepared to risk their lives in a righteous cause.  The Qur’an says:  “Fight in the cause of God against those who fight you, but do not transgress limits.  God does not love transgressors.” (2:190)  And: “If they seek peace, then seek you peace.  And trust in God for He is the One that heareth and knoweth all things.”  (8:61)

War, therefore, is the last resort, and is subject to the rigorous conditions laid down by the sacred law.  The term Jihad literally means “struggle”, and Muslims believe that there are two kinds of Jihad.  The other “Jihad” is the inner struggle, which everyone wages against egotistic desires, for the sake of attaining inner peace.

REBUTTAL:  In the double-speak of Islam, a “transgressor” is any non-Muslim society or nation and “the last resort” is when a nation or society is unwilling to embrace Islam and be enslaved without a fight.   On conquering another society, after the initial orgy of killing and rape subsided, you can be assured that only the old and infirm were harmed (killed); the balance of inhabitants were enslaved, either physically or through the harsh systems imposed on conquered societies, including the Jisyah (poll tax) and Haraj (land tax).  And a few other quotes from Allah (Muhammad) are:

"I am the Prophet that laughs when killing my enemies." (Hadith)

"It is not fitting for a prophet that he should have prisoners of war until he hath thoroughly subdued the land." (8:67)  Note: Some translations read "until he hath made slaughter in the land." 

"The punishment of those who wage war against Allah and His Messenger and strive with might and main for mischief through the land is: execution , or crucifixion, or the cutting off of hands and feet from opposite sides, or exile from the land." (5:33)



Art. #26:  WHAT ABOUT FOOD?  Although much simpler than the dietary law followed by Jews and the early Christians, the code which Muslims observe forbids the consumption of pig meat or any kind of intoxicating drink.  The Prophet taught that “your body has rights over you”, and the consumption of wholesome food and the leading of a healthy lifestyle are seen as religious obligations.  The Prophet said: “Ask God for certainty (of faith) and well-being; for after certainty, no one is given any gift better than Health!” 

REBUTTAL:  None. 



Art. #27:  ISLAM IN THE UNITED STATES: It is almost impossible to generalize about American Muslims: converts, immigrants, factory workers, doctors; all are making their own contribution to America’s future.  This complex community is unified by a common faith, underpinned by a countrywide network of mosques.  Muslims were early arrivals in North America.  By the eighteenth century there were many thousands of them, working as slaves on plantations.  These early communities cut off from their heritage and families, inevitably lost their Islamic identity as time went by.  Today many Afro-American Muslims play an important role in the Islamic community.

The nineteenth century, however, saw the beginnings of an influx of Arab Muslims, most of whom, settled in the major industrial centers where they worshiped in hired rooms.  The early twentieth century witnessed the arrival of several hundred thousand Muslims from Eastern Europe: the first Albanian mosque was opened in Maine in 1915; others soon followed, and a group of Polish Muslims opened a mosque in Brooklyn in 1928.

In 1947 the Washington Islamic Center was founded during the term of President Truman, and several nationwide organizations were set up in the fifties.  The same period saw the establishment of other communities whose lives were in many ways modeled after Islam.  More recently, numerous members of these groups have entered the fold of Muslim orthodoxy.  Today, there are about five million Muslims in the U.S.

REBUTTAL:  No, it is not impossible to generalize about Muslims, of the U.S. or of any other country, so long as the generalization holds true for a large part of a society, in this case, that of the Muslims.  A valid generalization of Muslims is that a large percentage are ignorant but devout followers of their religion, and would follow the lead of their local imam or of a higher authority.  A basic tenet of Islam, as repeatedly urged by the Koran (Allah / Muhammad), is to kill or enslave all non-Muslims.  Hopefully, most U.S. Muslims would refuse, but if only a small percentage were to join in Jihad, chaos would result.  Thankfully, the figure of five million Muslims given by the Saudi brochure is highly inflated for political purposes; the amount is probably closer to two million.

There were undoubtedly a few, but it is an outright lie, that any significant number, of black African Muslims, were shipped to the U.S.  Most of the Blacks were animists, not likely to have followed the religion of their oppressors.  The African slave trade, from the 8th century to the present, has been and still is, controlled by Muslims.  By the time that slaves were first shipped to the New World, a definite prohibition against a Muslim enslaving another believer was well in place.  The above disinformation, stating that many thousands of them were plantation slaves, is a blatant attempt to convert blacks of the U.S. to Islam.  And, it is certainly working; the rosters of professional and college sports teams are replete with Muslim names.  How sad that the race most exploited by Arab slavers  is rushing to embrace their old taskmasters.  See "Slavery in Islam" of the Archives. 



Art. 28:  HOW DOES ISLAM GUARANTEE HUMAN RIGHTS?  Freedom of conscience is laid down by the Qur’an itself:  “There is no compulsion in religion.”
 (2:256)

The life and property of all citizens in an Islamic state are considered sacred whether a person is Muslim or not.  Racism is incomprehensible to Muslims, for the Qur’an speaks of human equality in the following terms:

“O mankind!  We created you from a single soul, male and female, and made you into nations and Tribes so, that you may come to know one another.  Truly, the most honored of you in God’s sight is the greatest of you in piety.  God is All-Knowing, All-Aware.”  (49:13)

REBUTTAL:  Under Muslim law, the Shari’a, there are absolutely no human rights for infidels, and precious few even for Muslims, especially for women and children.  Even the concept of human rights is incomprehensible to most Muslims.  As to racism, Arab Muslims have throughout the history of Islam, shown a decided bias against non-Arabic believers.  This is perhaps best illustrated by the fact that no translation of the Koran into any language other than Classic Arabic is recognized.   

To a certain extent, human rights are reflected by a society's judicial system.  "Ongoing  Genocide" and "Islamic Jurisprudence" of the Archives are helpful in understanding Islam's outlook on "human rights." 

Whether dealing with an individual, corporation, government, or for that matter any other type of entity, a few half-truths, or pieces of disinformation or misrepresentation, might be excused as an error or ignorance on the part of the entity.  But, a continuous barrage of all of the above should not be tolerated! 

Saudi Arabia is “Keeper of the Faith”, birthplace of Muhammad, and location of the Kaaba, Mecca, and Medina.  And, since that country is controlled by the Wahhabi sect, it is also the most repressive government of the Muslim world and perhaps of the entire world!  As such, any information issuing from Saudi Arabia is highly suspect and should be closely scrutinized.  Please consult "Enemy Number One" of the Archives.  

Below are excerpts from a report issued by the U.S. State Department in 2000, entitled:  “Saudi Arabia: Country Reports on Human Rights Practices”.  This report, in its entirety, is available at most public libraries. 

“Freedom of Religion does not exist.  Islam is the official religion, and all citizens must be Muslims.  Neither the Government, nor society in general, accepts the concepts of separation of religion and state, and such separation does not exist.  Under Shari’a, a conversion by a Muslim to another religion is considered apostasy. 

Public apostasy is a crime punishable by death if the accused does not recant.  Islamic religious education is mandatory in public schools at all levels.  All children receive religious instruction….Citizens do not have the right to change their government.  The Council of Senior Islamic Scholars, reviews the government’s public policy, for compliance with Shari’a.

The government views Islamic law as the only necessary guide to protect human rights.  There is a legal and systematic discrimination based on sex and religion.” 

 
[Editorial Endnote:  Saudi Arabia is the country that has been the most instrumental in the financing and propagation of Islamic Terrorism throughout the world!  Until business, political, academic and spiritual leaders and the general public recognize the danger of Islam, we will continue to lose the battle against Islamic terrorism!] 
                                                    
                                           - VERITAS VOS LIBERABIT -