Q. As a white Anglo protestant, how can I understand why so
many people are drawn to the radical parts of Islam, or is this the 'real'
mainstream viewpoint coming to bear? I live in the
I must admit I know little about Islam but it seems that
when Muhammad when to
Is it just the work of radicals that is driving this global
confrontation? (Christians have had their issues also -
Why the dissent between the Sunni and Shias,
if they are both from the same faith?
The few families I know are respectful, practice their
religious beliefs, and seem to be over achievers. I am trying to understand why
the conflict between Muslims and non-Muslims?
Why haven't moderate Muslims who find the suicide bombings
appalling spoken out? Is it fear of reprisal? Could you suggest some links or
books that would help me better understand these issues? Thanks in advance for
your time.
A. Keep in mind that there are 1.4 billion Muslims worldwide
and it is the fastest growing religion in the world. If Islamic teachings are
as radical as the media portrays, that would not be the case. Radicalism is not
endemic to Islam, every religion has its fair share.
Not so long ago, sectarian violence and slaughter within Christianity would
make today's Sunni/Shia schism pale by comparison.
As you noted, the Muslims whom you interact with share the
same horror at suicide bombings and are also concerned about their fellow human
beings. The media is having a field day right now with Muslims and Islam.
Sooner or later, it will be someone else's turn
(unfortunately), probably the Chinese. Throughout our history, there always has
to be fear of a "bad guy" (the Vietnamese, Japanese, Germans,
Italians, Africans, Irish, native Americans, etc.)
Many Muslims (including organizations like CAIR) do speak out
against the insane violence in our world today but it is seldom publicized as
it does not make for captivating news - dirt sells much better.
Karen Armstrong, a former nun and world renowned scholar on
various religions, has dealt with this subject in detail. We recommend the
following books:
1) Holy War: The Crusades and Their Impact on Today's World
2) Muhammad: A Biography of the Prophet
3) Islam: A Short History
4) Muhammad: A Prophet for Our Time
You may also refer to the writings of John Esposito, Founding
Director of Georgetown University’s Center
for Muslim-Christian Understanding.
Carl Ernst also has some good books on this subject, so does
Louay Safi and Abdulhamid Abusulayman.
Posted January 21, 2007