Controversies faced by Islam

Table of Contents

CONTROVERSIES FACED BY ISLAMI

ABSTRACTIII

INTRODUCTION1

BASIC TEACHINGS OF ISLAM1

MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT ISLAM THROUGHOUT THE WORLD2

United States2

Great Britain3

Middle East3

India3

IMPACT OF CONTROVERSIES ON RELATIONS OF MUSLIMS WITH NON-MUSLIMS4

CONCLUSION5

REFERENCES6

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to mention the fact that Islam is taken as a controversial issue throughout the world, stating the reasons behind this. The basic teachings of Islam will be highlighted along with their amalgamation with the cultures of the various countries, Islam is practiced in; the United States, Great Britain, the Middle East, India, Pakistan, and other Asian countries. Furthermore, some light will be thrown on the way Islam is understood and comprehended in all these countries and the way it is compared with other religions like Christianity and Judaism. The paper will conclude with the influence of these perceptions about Islam on the interaction of the Muslims with the non-Muslims all around the world.

Introduction

Islam has always been and still is one of the most controversial subjects to the world. There are many misunderstandings, confusions and false beliefs prevalent about the teachings, goals and standards of Islam. Islam is just a religion like Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism etc; the matter of fact to be of importance is that a religion alone does not affect the society rather it works together with the culture of the country it is practiced in. The basic teachings of Islam, no doubt, remain the same, however, they mold or get molded by the culture, customs and traditions of the place it is practiced in. This reformed face of Islam has an impact on a lot of things, one of which is the relations of Muslims and non-Muslims, being the most important especially when it comes to official and governmental matters.

Basic teachings of Islam

The meaning of 'Islam' is to surrender oneself completely to the will and orders of Allah who is unique and inimitable in His existence. One should handover themselves to Allah's commandments and desires with complete faith in Him, love respect and greatness for their Lord, keeping no doubts about Him.

Muslims believe that Allah is the Lord of all, who created everything and also the mankind; Muslims as well as non-Muslims. Islam has been sent down on earth by Allah through His angel Gabriel and is spread by the Holy Prophet (P.B.U.H), who is the last prophet of all. Gabriel brought Allah's word to the prophet in the form of revelations that were compiled together and are collectively known as The Qur'an. Furthermore, Muslims believe in life after death and that everyone will be rewarded in the life hereafter according to their acts in this temporary life. They believe in angels, the holy books, all the messengers of Allah, the miracles they held and in the Day of Judgment.

Islam is actually a very practical and uncomplicated religion; its teachings leave no confusions for its followers. Islam ensures a modest, cultured and sophisticated society; it realizes that every human being is imperfect and thus provides space for them to make ...