the Message Continues ... i1/8

  Article 8  

THE BEGINNERS' INTRODUCTION

The Qur'an is the holy book of Muslims. It contains many stories that are familiar to Christians and Jews. It was not created by man but was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his family) through the Angel Gabriel at the command of God. It contains no scientific fallacies or internal contradictions. In fact, it contains much scientific knowledge discovered by scientists only in this century. The Qur'an is an unparalleled
Arabic literary masterpiece. Furthermore, it survives in its original revealed form, unlike the Torah and the Gospel.

People living in the West and throughout the world should not allow themselves to be ignorant about Islam and Muslims. For example, there are six million Muslims living in the United States out of 1.2 billion in the world. Only 18% of Muslims live in the Arab world. Demographers say that Islam is the fastest growing religion in the U.S. (and the world) due to high birth
rate, immigration, and high conversion rate. By the year 2000, Islam is predicted to be the second largest religion in America if it is not already, surpassing Judaism, Mormonism, Jehovah's Witness, and other religions.

Here are some things you can do with regard to your Muslim neighbors, students, employees, and coworkers that would be appreciated:   Respect their religious convictions by allowing them to pray, dress, fast, and socially interact according to their beliefs.  

Be sensitive about dietary constraints, particularly when it comes to alcohol and pork.  

Feel free to ask questions!  


Contributed by Masooma Beatty.