NEWSMAKER - A call for Muslim change

Internet Jerusalem Post ^ | Dec. 9, 2003 | Melissa Radler

[Augustinefan]

Good is definitely only found at times when one looks for it. Those who look for the negative will only see negative as long as that's what they seek. It takes courage to look and see both. Humility and honesty are the key requirements to accomplish this.

Besides, I think too many people think Islam = terrorist. It doesn't necessarily, although in the present day practices it does. Just like the Inquisition doesn't necessarily reflect true Christianity, even though it was executed by "Christians".

In fact, I once heard it said that, where there is the greatest good, there is the greatest evil nearby. Probably pretty accurate.

[Pan_Yans Wife]

The only way Islam will change is from within.

By sticking your fingers in your ears and saying, "LALALALALA! I can't HEAR you!" you will never come to a point where dialogue can exist. Without dialogue, why would Islam want to listen to your concerns?

By all means, remain prepared against violence, foreign and domestic. But, at the same time, don't increase the mistrust between both sides. How do you ever expect things to change, if you don't attempt to talk and listen? It seems to me that we are all stuck on this planet for the duration of time. And that we must figure out a way to co-exist.

[Pan_Yans Wife]

As a Christian, I cannot condone violence, and only respond that communication is the key to change.

Islam is responsible for Islam, and I am responsible for my own actions.

So be it.

[PigRigger]

Agree that communication and dialogue is helpful. Unfortunately, unlike the Christian Reformation, an Islamic reformation will require the rewriting of the teachings it is based upon.

It was easy for Luther to point out the hypocrisy of the Catholic Church in his day. The Christian Bible is clearly based upon forgiveness, compassion, and love of one's brother. The New Testament is filled with teachings based on putting another's well being ahead ones' self.

Unfortunately, I don't see a reformation in the Islamic world without major bloodshed. In fact I don't have much confidence it is even possible given the teachings of the Koran.

I've read portions of the Koran; it is clear in its mandate to Muslims. The spreading of the Islamic religion, by the sword if necessary, is acceptable and glorified. The denial of personal freedoms and equality are nonexistent. How can Muslim's hope to change the perception and practice of their religion without first denying its' mandates?

In the end, it will be the Islamic world itself that will have to decide which path it wishes to take. If no reformation is possible than WWIII with the west will be inevitable.

That is why Iraq is so important. No matter how much we assist in rebuilding Iraq, it will be the Iraqi people who will decide which path take. Will it be a democratic government recognizing the rights of others or will it be an Islamic State ruled by sharia law? Success by Iraqi's fighting for freedom, or lack there of, will be an indicator on what we in the west should expect in the future.

IMHO.