Muslims often complain of misconceptions about their religion in the West. We took a hard look. The most prevalent myths of Islam are the ones held by Muslims and Western apologists. The only exception may be the misconception that all Muslims are alike. They are not of course. But many Muslims apparently believe this as well. This is why there are various factions insisting that they are true Muslims. Those who disagree with them are either infidels, hijackers, or hypocrites. Don’t be fooled! Hear the myths but know the truth.
Islam Means “Peace”
The Myth: Muslim apologists sometimes claim that the root word of Islam is “al-Salaam,” which is “peace” in Arabic.
The Truth: An Arabic word has only one root. The root word for Islam is “al-Silm,” which means “submission” or “surrender.”
There is no disagreement about this among Arabic or Islamic scholars. al-Silm (submission) does not mean the same thing as al-Salaam (peace).
Submission and peace can be very different concepts. But peace can be brought about by forcing others into submission.
As the modern-day Islamic scholar, Ibrahim Sulaiman, puts it, “Jihad is not inhumane. Despite its necessary violence and bloodshed, its ultimate desire is peace which is protected and enhanced by the rule of law.”
In truth, the Quran not only calls Muslims to submit to Allah, it also orders them to subdue people of other religions until they are in a full state of submission to Islamic rule. This has inspired the aggressive history of Islam, its military, and demographic success in conquering other cultures.
Be thankful every day. Show your thankfulness to others with appreciation for them. Give thanks to God every day for what He provides for you. Count your blessings instead of your wants. A thankful heart is a happy heart.
I know we are to be content, but can we be too content? I believe it’s good to want better. Better health, better wealth, better thoughts, better happiness, better life, etc. Don’t want better things out of greed, but want better for peace & joy. This new year I will strive to be more diligent to do better. Better in the things I should be doing anyway. Better at being a good dad. Better at being a good friend. Better at being organized. Better at reaching goals. Better at being a good example. Better at all things that will improve my life. Better at being healthy. Better at helping others. Better at being better.
In case you didn’t know…The United Nations International Peace Day is scheduled for September 21, 2017. This also coincides with the start of God’s Appointed Fall Feasts. This year’s theme: Together for Peace: Respect, Safety and Dignity for All.
