Islamic marriage advice and family advice

Just Converted from Christianity to Islam; How should I handle the Question from Parents and the Society?

Problems faced by Reverts

Reverted to Islam, but facing Difficulties

Hello, I was told to repost, so I am. I am going to copy and paste what I originally said on another thread and then at the bottom say what I feel now.

Background:

I'm not too sure how (if at all) bad things can get when I tell my mom I want to be a Muslim. I was born and raised a Christian, I'm currently 17 years old living in Ontario, Canada. My mom is British/German and my dad is Trinidadian, although I look like a Mexican (in my opinion) and to many of my friends I look "white" haha.

My dads side of the family is not religious, in fact, I think their mostly Catholic/Christian/Hindu, but not followers, more casual/laid back followers. They don't pray or go to the building they use for worship or anything like that. My moms side of the family is the same, they are all Christian, but the only people who follow Christianity is my mom and my brother - my parents are separated.

My family is only mom, dad and my brother, ..just in case something comes up and someone would want to know. Anyways, that's just a little background.

Slowly getting to the point (excuse me if I'm going off topic or talking too much, I tend to do that when I talk too, I end up giving too much information even if it doesn't matter and I start blabbing on about anything and everything, from cars to potatoes to unicorns)

My situation is me living in a strict Christian home, my mom is somewhat prejudicial against Islam, but not to the point where she'd act like the Westboro or the rednecks in America. She doesn't hate Islam, but does think some pretty radical, stereotypical things about Islam. Growing up with this, I didn't think much about Islam.

Following some changes in my life (early 2012), I took a closer look into Islam, going from doubting God, to doubting Christianity, to agnostic, to curiosity in Islam, to all out interested and eager to learn about and to become a Muslim. Unfortunately, my fear/cowardice is in the way.

As the girl who made the thread, (Editor's Note: Referring to this Post: 15 Year old Muslim Revert living in a strictly Christian family, and can't stand it) her parents don't approve of anything, and my mother doesn't either. I have a friend that I am really thankful for because she has been telling me a lot about Islam and I feel like I should tell my mom about my want to convert.

I guess my situation all comes down to whether or not I do tell her, because unlike some of you, I have it pretty easy. My mom isn't crazy radical against Islam, she just knows of the stereotypes and believes a lot of things that cause her to believe Islam is the enemy that will take over the world and start to hunt Christians (literally).

I expect her to act mad, but other than that I don't really know what to expect. Some people get kicked out, shouted at, made fun of, all that, but I don't think I'm going to get that - and get this, even if I DO get kicked out, I feel like I won't mind - at least, not much. I would feel so embraced, free and "out there", that even though I was kicked out and ridiculed, I would feel happy that I came out and said I'm going to be a Muslim, and the only thing to do next was to do Shahadah (if that's how it works).

I feel like I'm being a Kufr because I'm only denying other religions/pretending to be a Christian (Excuse my ignorance, I'm only telling you all based off of what I know, correct me if I get facts/terms/concepts wrong). Most people have problems that are life threatning and mentally/physically harmful, but I don't think I do.

My mom isn't a crazy redneck that hates everyone not white/Christian, I feel like I'm just making excuses because I'm nervous, does this make me a Kufr or.. what? Am I even eligible for being labled a kufr if I haven't converted officially yet? I know in my heart I believe in Islam, I believe in Allah and Mohammed is his prophet. I'm still learning, I wouldn't say I know much about Islam, but I know enough and I want to convert.

Everyday I want to just go up to her and say: "Mom, I want to be a Muslim", but I can't ever work up the courage to do so even though I'm all pumped up and eager to do so in my room. This has been going on since around February/March, I've done youth sermons (spills, their made up from my church's youth pastor, they are not really sermons, they are more of a "spill" of the youth's mind, we talk about something that's been on our mind that is related to Christianity) twice and I feel really bad because I believe in Islam but I'm teaching Christianity to the church I have to go to.

I can't say no, because it's something all the young people in the church are supposed to do, I mean.. I CAN say no and make up an excuse on why not, but I would look bad (not to sound selfish), I've been going to church with these people most of my life and they somewhat "know" me. They are like family friends.

Anyways, I don't really know what to say other than this, I'm not asking for anything, I guess this is more of a vent for me :p

I'm really curious and interested to read others stories and what they have to say, reading the previous posters really got me going and I want to know what more people will say.

Also, the friend I was talking about told me two prayers:

Bismillah Hira Ma Niraheem - something to pray before I do something.
Astagh Firulha (might have spelled that wrong) - something to pray for forgiveness.

What are some more prayers I can say in my head?

Update:

I just told my mom I wanted to convert, I was told: "You are not allowed to be a Muslim, now go to sleep because we have church in the morning". I am literally so nervous I am feeling sick.

And okay I'll do so if I have the chance, I'm not sure what is going to happen; my internet might be cut, computer taken, etc.

This is what I feel now:

I'm feeling really sick, anxious, nervous, etc. It's expected I guess, I feel like they are going to demand "WHY" I want to be Muslim, and to be honest, I don't know how to answer that. Ever since I started looking into Islam, I've gotten more interested and more and more eager to learn more and become a Muslim, and my mom will not accept it/like it.

I feel like if I ever get seen by people at the church, that they will demand an answer and I don't handle stress very well, I'm not very "outgoing" and I get embaressed easily, this will be extremely hard to put up with.

What are some prayers I can say to help? I know there are a few but I don't know Arabic at all

~ Matthew


Tagged as: , , , , , ,

22 Responses »

  1. I am copying the response you already got from me here:

    As Salamu'alaikum Matthew, this is how you would greet a Muslim 🙂 . I wholeheartedly welcome you to Islam. You are no more Kafir. Because kafir is one who does not believe in Allah is his Only God and Muhammad Peace be upon him as the Final Messenger.

    You have believed. So you are a Muslim. Official conversion is just to prove that you believe. It is required, but you are already a Muslim per me.

    I suggest you to tell you mom that you want to be Muslim and tell her the reason. You any have to face sone difficulties, but insha Allah (God Willing), they will be temporary, and you'll see ease follow.

    Learn as much as possible about Islam to strengthen your faith and your relation with your Creator - Allah. Learn to pray the 5 daily prayers and offer them regularly.

    May Allah accept you

    Muhammad Waseem
    IslamicAnswers.com Editor

  2. According to me, you should be firm on your decision and let your mother know that your are serious.

    You could get in touch with an Islamic Center in your city to gain Knowledge about Islam, learn how to pray, etc. To begin, you could read the following booklet:

    http://ebookbrowse.com/en-my-
    prayer-booklet-inner-pages-pdf-
    d233735884

    You can read the prayers or what they are correctly called : supplications or Duas from a Book called "Fortress of the Muslim". You can ask for a transliteration of this book from the Islamic Center or download from here:

    http://special.worldofislam.info/FotM/fortress_of_the_muslim.pdf

    This book has many many duas or supplications you can memorize and read the translation in order to understand.

    My opiniong is that you speak seriously to your mother and stand any difficulty you may face with patience and trust in Allah. Allah Will Not Leave you alone. You have accepted His Faith. He Will Protect you. But you need to show sone patience. Also remember that any difficulty you may face is very much temporary. It will fade in no time, insha Allah.

    You could alternatively practice Islam in secret and avoid any Worship to other than Allah, whether it be Jesus Peace be upon him or anyone else. Worship Allah Alone. You could practice Islam and all its obligations in secret.

    Other readers may have other opinions. Make your decision wisely. And insha Allah Allah Will Help you out.

    Wassalamualaikum

    Muhammad Waseem
    IslamicAnswers.com Editor

  3. My dear brother Matthew,

    I hope this messages reaches you in time and that your internet does not get cut off.

    I just want you to know that Allah only tests those that he loves, and this is the first of the many tests in your life. Be patient, and know that things will get easier. Give your mom some time to obsorb the news as this is new for her.

    if you are forced to go to church and dont have a choice- thats okay Allah knows what is in your heart. Slowly your mom will come to realize that you really do believe in islam and that this is not just a phase. Inshallah- God willing then when you get more independent then it will be easier to practice more openly.

    Some prayers or dua that i really like to say are:

    "O Allah , I hope for Your mercy . Do not leave me to myself even for the blinking of an eye (i.e. a moment) . Correct all of my affairs for me . There is none worthy of worship but You."

    129. Allaahumma Rabbas-samaawaatis-sab'i, wa Rabbal-'Arshil-'Adheem, kun lee jaaran min [here you mention the person's name], wa 'ahzaabihi min khalaa'iqika, 'an yafruta 'alayya 'ahadun minhum 'aw yatghaa, 'azzajaaruka, wajalla thanaa'uka, wa laa 'ilaaha 'illaa 'Anta .

    O Allah , Lord of the seven heavens , Lord of the Magnificent Throne , be for me a support against [such and such a person] and his helpers from among your creatures, lest any of them abuse me or do me wrong. Mighty is Your patronage and glorious are Your praises. There is none worthy of worship but You.

    Reference: Al-Bukhari, Al-'Adab Al-Mufrad (no. 707). Al-Albani graded it authentic in Sahih Al-'Adab Al-Mufrad (no. 545).

    Do find support either online- or if you can go to a masjid or islamic centre incase you have questions. Also, there is a muslim youth helpline @ http://www.myhl.ca/ ...you can call this number too if you have any questions and want to talk to someone in person.

    I know this is a challenging time, but you will be rewarded for all your struggle and how well you dealt with it.

    Peace be upon you- Asalamu alikum

    Samira.

  4. I just wanted to mention, in the beginning you dont have to memorize the arabic if thats hard- just say your prayers in a language you understand, as that is much more meaningful and sincere.

    As you get more and more advance, then learn Arabic- but initially learn the English.

    Also, how you make a dua or a small prayer is by putting your hands together close to your chest or face- and say what you need to say to Allah and you end with an ameen.

    You dont not have to put your hands up all the time, its not a requirment. You can just say it in your heart, wherever you are and whatever you are doing...walking, eating, on the bus, etc.

    Here is a video too about making dua:

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bi0cZ0eSlKE

    Hope it helps.

  5. Hi Matthew, i am sorry i missed your real question...

    What do i say to people.....well you speak from your heart. When people ask why you want to be a Muslim, you just say the truth-why you left what you left and what interested you in Islam. Its okay to tell people you are exploring different faiths, they may not understand, but you tell them the truth and thats all that matters.

    I know its not easy, but you did the most difficult thing by changing your thoughts and heart- dont worry what other people think- as long as you are at peace. If you worry about them, then you can make everyone else happy but yourself.

  6. To Waseem.
    I had a bit of confusion as to how you were considered a Muslim, thank you for clarifying.
    I did tell her, it was not taken well; in fact she got my cousin (neighbor) to come over and speak to me. This, by the way, all took place before Church. This lasted from about eight in the morning to exactly ten, and continued until just a few minutes ago. Literally. Anyways, I told her I want to be Muslim, and I got nothing but embarrassment, persecution, bias and prejudice back. It was awful, I literally could not reply to them without crying. This wasn’t after I showered or anything, I was still in bed, until I was forced to get up and I was told she would rather have me in the streets than “worship the devil and his religion” in her house. Anyways, after about half an hour of her telling me stuff like, how dare I go most of my 17 years of life as a Christian, and to just reject Jesus as the son of God/God all of a sudden (this has been going on since February this year, not suddenly, she didn’t figure that out till later). Nevertheless, most of this critisizm revolved around making me feel guilty, embarrassed and bad about wanting to become a Muslim. I want to emphasis on the embarrassment, I am not embarrassed to be a Muslim, I was embarrassed because my family was treating me like this, and I am very sensitive when it comes to these things.
    Anyways, my cousin came over and she started giving me these verses in Ezekiel chapter 8 which say this.

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Ezekiel 8
    King James Version (KJV)
    8 And it came to pass in the sixth year, in the sixth month, in the fifth day of the month, as I sat in mine house, and the elders of Judah sat before me, that the hand of the Lord GOD fell there upon me.
    2 Then I beheld, and lo a likeness as the appearance of fire: from the appearance of his loins even downward, fire; and from his loins even upward, as the appearance of brightness, as the colour of amber.
    3 And he put forth the form of an hand, and took me by a lock of mine head; and the spirit lifted me up between the earth and the heaven, and brought me in the visions of God to Jerusalem, to the door of the inner gate that looketh toward the north; where was the seat of the image of jealousy, which provoketh to jealousy.
    4 And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel was there, according to the vision that I saw in the plain.
    5 Then said he unto me, Son of man, lift up thine eyes now the way toward the north. So I lifted up mine eyes the way toward the north, and behold northward at the gate of the altar this image of jealousy in the entry.
    6 He said furthermore unto me, Son of man, seest thou what they do? even the great abominations that the house of Israel committeth here, that I should go far off from my sanctuary? but turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater abominations.
    7 And he brought me to the door of the court; and when I looked, behold a hole in the wall.
    8 Then said he unto me, Son of man, dig now in the wall: and when I had digged in the wall, behold a door.
    9 And he said unto me, Go in, and behold the wicked abominations that they do here.
    10 So I went in and saw; and behold every form of creeping things, and abominable beasts, and all the idols of the house of Israel, pourtrayed upon the wall round about.
    11 And there stood before them seventy men of the ancients of the house of Israel, and in the midst of them stood Jaazaniah the son of Shaphan, with every man his censer in his hand; and a thick cloud of incense went up.
    12 Then said he unto me, Son of man, hast thou seen what the ancients of the house of Israel do in the dark, every man in the chambers of his imagery? for they say, the LORD seeth us not; theLORD hath forsaken the earth.
    13 He said also unto me, Turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater abominations that they do.
    14 Then he brought me to the door of the gate of the LORD's house which was toward the north; and, behold, there sat women weeping for Tammuz.
    15 Then said he unto me, Hast thou seen this, O son of man? turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater abominations than these.
    16 And he brought me into the inner court of theLORD's house, and, behold, at the door of the temple of the LORD, between the porch and the altar, were about five and twenty men, with their backs toward the temple of the LORD, and their faces toward the east; and they worshipped the sun toward the east.
    17 Then he said unto me, Hast thou seen this, O son of man? Is it a light thing to the house of Judah that they commit the abominations which they commit here? for they have filled the land with violence, and have returned to provoke me to anger: and, lo, they put the branch to their nose.
    18 Therefore will I also deal in fury: mine eye shall not spare, neither will I have pity: and though they cry in mine ears with a loud voice, yet will I not hear them.

    It mentions those who pray to the East, and I know Muslims will pray towards Mecca, which is in the East. My cousin continued to explain how this talks about Muslims, and I was just going crazy because I am not knowledable of either Islam or Christianity yet to know what to say or what to think of this.
    She continued to say that Islam is a religion that is spread by the sword, and those who claim to be peaceful are not following Islam completely, and that the radicals/terrorists are the ones following Islam correctly. I can’t use the whole “KKK” and “westboro” example because they will say that those groups don’t express Christianity correctly, but they say terrorism expresses Islam correctly. I can’t seem to get them to understand that terrorists are radicals and suicide masked in “jihad” is wrong. Jihad is struggle, whether it’s mental or physical, it does not mean go kill everyone and you’ll get to heaven.
    She continued to say that those small “supposed Christian” groups are not a giant group and they are a minority whom is despised, whereas the claims that come from terrorists and Iran and all this Israeli stuff is a large group, the are nations of Muslims claiming these things, thus it is true Islam to thing in such a way. I do not know the Islamic stance on Israel or anything, so forgive my ignorance.
    Also, I am trying to learn about Islam, however my privacy, time and space is limited because of the fact that I live with my mom, and the only place I have Is school, which.. well, I need school for education of other things too – however, I will spend as much as time I can learning about Islam. A friend said she will teach me Arabic and what not and I am greatful. Another friend said If something happens and I’m kicked out of my house, the local mosque he goes to will take me in, as he was taken in once too.
    I’m in a really difficult position to learn something like Arabic/prayers often/diligently because my mom expects me to only learn about Christianity and pray and be faithful to that, not Islam. I will try, but this cannot be at home, my room is not private anymore.
    As far as Islamic enters and what not go, I’ve never been the type to go out much, so leaving the house would have to be rare and I need an excuse, I can’t say I’m going to a mosque or a Islamic place because I will be forbidden to go.
    I have went through nothing but “Islam is hate, violence, jihad, satan” etc all day! ALL day! I have patience, but due to my ignorance of both Christianity and Islam, I have little to nothing to say back and I’m cornered, I even have backslides where I start questioning God as a whole and which religion to follow. I in my heart believe Islam, but a part of me is doubting, which I doubt many things, I need prayer and knowledge, forgive me if that last part offends anyone.
    I want to practice secretly, but the only secrecy I get is at school, my computer has been cut off from the internet, I only have a laptop which is always in plain view so I cannot get on it until it is like 1 or 2 AM.
    To conclude my post in response to yours, I have to mention that I don’t know how I would read the Quran and/or the Hadith’s because I have no privacy anymore. Ever since I told my mom about this, I’m not allowed to remain alone. School is the only place I can practice with limits.

    To Samira.
    No worries, my internet isn’t cut from the laptop. And my mother will never accept this, she made it clear that she will not just accept me this way and will always try to make me be faithful to Christianity.
    I actually will be forced to go to church, where I have to do things like pray to Jesus, make sermons (called spills for youth) and act like everything is normal. I’ve been doing this since February of this year, I don’t believe it in my heart what I say/do, but if I say no, it will cause more problems with more than just my family, but the church, who is close to my family. I tried saying I won’t go to Church but that was shut down immediately. I hope that when college comes I can practice more, but I cannot move into an apartment because of financial issues, I simply don’t have the money, and my mom will not support me because she will suspect exactly that, I will move out, become Muslim completely and what not.
    Also, thanks for clarifying Dua, I wasn’t sure how it worked and I had a feeling I had to say obligatory things in order to start.
    I told them (my mom, cousin and youth leader who spoke to me from the church) I had doubts long before I took interest in Islam. I didn’t feel anything spiritual, if I were to be prayed over, get baptised, pray myself, or anything, take communion, ANYTHING, I would feel nothing, it was as if God didn’t exist. I would see people shake and speak all these languages and fall to the ground yelling in some next language (Christians call it speaking in tongues), but I would not even come a mile close to feeling anything like it. Not even slight. I was told I was foolish to think like this based off feeling because I cannot discuss God and believe God based off feeling, I’m not sure what Islam’s stance on this is.
    I was told that I have to guard my heart and I have to stay away from other religions, but then I said: “But that would mean I would accept blindly, I want to be confident in my decision, not raised a certain way and accept because that’s how I was raised”. They say read the bible, pray, read, pray, read, pray, and if I put my heart into and faith into and do it diligently, I will gaon confidence. The problem with this is, how can I gain confidence if I know nothing else? It’s like.. I want to go to France for a tourist trip, but I’m walking around with telescopes glued to my eyes. How can I learn more about France if I’m only focused on one thing? That may not be the best example, but try and understand. They literally said that I cannot use intellect and knowledge to understand God (Christianity) and it will only lead me to the devil (Islam), and this makes me mad because how does intellect make us go astray? I understand God would not want us to act like geniuses and question EVERYTHING to the point where black becomes white and cat becomes dog, but reasonably.. does that make sense? They tell me that I shouldn’t accept blindly, but I should only read the bible and pray to Jesus and I will gain confidence in my decision, but how can I gain confidence if I know only one thing?
    I can go on, there are a few things I haven’t mentioned but hopefully later I will remember them. Apologies if there is any wrong facts or anything silly I said.

    Also, I'm told/asked, how can the Quran say Jesus is perfect, but the Prophet Muslims are to follow is not? They say the Quran says Mohammed asks for forgivness, implying he isn't perfect, yet we follow him, yet it says Jesus IS perfect, but Mohammed we follow.. I don't know of this is true, they just tell me this. They ask why is it that a Muslim can follow Islam completely, be faithful, please God, do everything required and more out of heart and still go to hell? They say Allah can just send you to hell even if you followd correctly, so no matter what, no matter how pious or diligent or how well you follow Islam, you can still go to hell. They use that against Islam and say "Christianity just means you follow Jesus and believe him as your lord and savior, that he is God, the son of god and the holy spirit, and if you do, you go to heaven, no if's and's or but's".

    I don't know what to say, and I'm actually expected to come back to church next sunday and have an argument or a list of questions to bring to the youth leader. He literally told me not to go on the internet for answers, not to go to friends and ask "What do I say to this? What do I say next?" etc, he said read the Quran and all the Islamic books, but I have no access..

    Also, I haven't completely converted, I haven't done Shahadah, I believe in my heart Islam, but naturally I have doubts, but I do with everything, sorry if that changes things, I didn't mean to misguide anyone. I do believe Allah and Mohammed is his prophet, just I am going through some trust issues and what not, bare with me please. Also, I notice the title and picture of the thread was edited, the caption of the picture was reverted, I'm not sure what that means exactly but I was Christian > Agnostic > lenient towards Islam > Islam > experiencing mental/spiritual doubts, if that matters

    • Matthew,

      The caption of the above picture says Reverted for the following reason: every soul was created pure by Allah (opposing the concept of Christianity that every soul is sinful and Jesus died for our sins). Every soul is born with a natural disposition of Islam. And before we were created, we were asked by Allah: Am I not your Lord? We said: You are!

      It is mentioned by Allah in the Quran:

      And (remember) when your Lord brought forth from the Children of Adam, from their loins, their seed (or from Adam's loin his offspring) and made them testify as to themselves (saying): "Am I not your Lord?" They said: "Yes! We testify," lest you should say on the Day of Resurrection: "Verily, we have been unaware of this."
      (Al A'raf: 172)

      Everyone was Muslim already when he or she was born. Even you were Muslim, but you became Christian when your parents made you Christian. And then when you came back to Islam, you "Reverted".

      Now, towards clearing your doubts. The doubts you have are common among the non Muslims and even among many Muslims.

      1. The first one your mother said was that Islam is the Religion of Devil.

      Devil or Satan is one who calls towards misguidance and towards the Hell Fire. But the Quran asks us not to follow the Satan. Allah says in a chapter called Baqarah, verses 168 and 169:

      O mankind! Eat of that which is lawful and good on the earth, and follow not the footsteps of Shaitan (Satan). Verily, he is to you an open enemy. [Shaitan (Satan)] commands you only what is evil and Fahsha (sinful), and that you should say against Allah what you know not.

      The same chapter also calls Satan a disbeliever:

      And (remember) when We said to the angels: "Prostrate yourselves before Adam.". And they prostrated except Iblis (Satan), he refused and was proud and was one of the disbelievers (disobedient to Allah).

      (Verse 34)

      Would Satan say that he himself is our open enemy? Would he call himself a disbeliever? There are many other proofs and verses to satisfy you, but I believe this is good enough for a sensible person like you.

      2. You said: "how can the Quran say Jesus is perfect, but the Prophet Muslims are to follow is not? They say the Quran says Mohammed asks for forgivness, implying he isn't perfect, yet we follow him, yet it says Jesus IS perfect, but Mohammed we follow"

      Prophet Muhammad Peace be upon him was Human, so was Jesus Peace be upon him. Quran does not say Jesus was perfect, nor does it say Muhammad was perfect. But it is true that all Prophets are free from sins. Be it Muhammad or Jesus or Moses or Abraham or any other Prophet Peace be upon them all. So, what they say is a lie.

      3. The doubt about Jihad:

      Jihad literally means to struggle. It does not mean to kill. War is a part of Jihad. But bear in mind, it is was and not a random attack known today as terrorism. Islam strongly condemns terrorism and encourages love and mercy.

      Islam teaches us to live in good and peaceful terms with the non Muslims.

      Suicide is totally unIslamic. The punishment for suicide is Hell Fire.

      Violence is not the correct Islam, but it is the opposite of Islam. When Islam came, two big groups of Madinah called 'Aws and Khazraj used to be enemies such that they fought one another. But Islam made them brothers.

      Even with the non Muslims, Islam teacher us to be in good terms.

      Islam is not hatred. It is about love and harmony. You can imagine by yourself. It was your mother and the girl you told you stuff, who are prece hatred. But all of this is futile and lie. Islam is Pure and it help a person purify himself.

      By following Christianity, people may excuse themselves saying Jesus died for their sins, but they can not escape the day on which they will have to face Allah.

      Bible was a Book Revealed by Allah to Jesus. But the followers of later times made changes into it. It is no longer in that pure form Revealed by Allah. But Allah Has said that Quran is under His Protection and will NOT be modified in any way. So, it is a miracle in itself. It has been in the same form since it was Revealed to Muhammad Peace be upon him.

      4. Jesus is not god:

      Those who loved Jesus exaggerated to the extent that they rose him from the status of a Prophet to the status of God. Allah will ask him on the Day of Judgement as it says in the Quran:

      "O 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)! Did you say unto men: 'Worship me and my mother as two gods besides Allah?'

      "He (Jesus) will say: "Glory be to You! It was not for me to say what I had no right (to say). Had I said such a thing, You would surely have known it. You know what is in my inner-self though I do not know what is in Yours, truly, You, only You, are the All-Knower of all that is hidden and unseen.

      "Never did I say to them aught except what You (Allah) did command me to say: 'Worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord.' And I was a witness over them while I dwelt amongst them, but when You took me up, You were the Watcher over them, and You are a Witness to all things. (This is a great admonition and warning to the Christians of the whole world) "If You punish them, they are Your slaves, and if You forgive them, verily You, only You are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise ."

      Allah will say: "This is a Day on which the truthful will profit from their truth: theirs are Gardens under which rivers flow (in Paradise) - they shall abide therein forever. Allah is pleased with them and they with Him. That is the great success (Paradise).

      (Al Maidah: 116-119)

      We do not believe in exaggeration. We give the status that one requires, to that person. We never pull him down, nor do we exaggerate in praising him. We do not give a position to Muhammad Peace be upon him, that belongs to Allah. Allah is God Who Is Worshiped, while Muhammad is His Prophet who Worships. We were commanded by Allah to follow him and obey him, so, we obey him and we follow him.

      A Muslim is one who obeys the command of Allah and does not doubt Allah. Jesus had the same status, when he was Prophet. People exaggerated to lift him from being Human or being Worshiper to Worshiped.

      We believe in the original message of Jesus, but it is not original anymore. It is now diluted. What has remained pure among all Religions is Islam.

      Allah Gives Prophethood to a new Prophet in two ways. He either Reveals the Law while the that existed before that Prophet remains valid, or He Reveals a new Law, thus giving an end to the old Law.
      For example, Jesus was Given the Gospel, which was an extension to Torah. While Quran put an end to the Law of Gospel and Torah.

      Hence, Allah says that the Only Religion Acceptable with Him is Islam.

      To answer your question how you should read the Quran, you could read it on your laptop when from the following website: http://quran.com/ or from http://www.dar-us-salam.com/TheNobleQuran/

      I am hoping I have covered the points you have a doubt on. If you have any other specific doubt, I request you to get it clarified from us here. If I am unable to answer, the others Insha Allah will.

      As long as you believe that Allah Is The Only God Worthy of Worship and Muhammad Peace be upon him is the Final Messenger, and that Jesus Peace be upon him was no more than a Messenger and a Human Being Created by Allah, just like any other Prophet. Infact, he is one of the five mightiest messengers of Allah, namely: Muhammad, Abraham, Moses, Jesus and Noah.

      Muhammad Waseem
      IslamicAnswers.com Editor

  7. To Waseem.

    Ah okay, I was thinking something that that was what was implied, but wasn't sure.

    To make things easier to say, I will refer to my mom and my cousin as family, and instead of saying the man from my church, I will just say church. My family says that it was God who spoke to Adam, Abraham, Moses, and all the way down the line, but they say Islam claims that an Angel spoke to Mohammed, not God. They say Gabriel gave the Quran/Revelation to Mohammed. They continued to say that Satan/the Devil will appear as an Angel of light, and that why would God appear to the others, but an angel would appear to Mohammed? They concluded that it was the Devil who appeared to Mohammed and formed Islam doing so.

    Thanks for clarifying, could you (at the end of your explanations) please include the verses and what chapter they are in? I'm being told many false things and they are all from CHRISTIAN/JEWISH sources, which is.. dumb. That's like going to the shoe store to learn about ice cream.

    I'm aware of what Jihad means, I went to a Mosque (telling my mom I was just going to hangout) with a friend and I was told what it means - it can be a struggle mentally, physically, emotionally, etc, but not necessarily going out and killing everyone who is a Jew, Christian, Hindu, etc. However, the things that back up my family and my church is that there are videos (look for a documentary called: Obsession, the O is the Islamic symbol and the N has an AK47 animated into it) that show real recordings of very large groups of Muslims, of the Iranian president and many leaders and preachers of Islam who say that they will kill all the Jews, Christians, desroy Israel and America all in the name of Allah, for the holy Jihad. Now, I instantly knew that this can't be true Islam and these people are radicals, they are crazy. Unfortunately, there are verses in the Quran that support this but they are taken out of context. I told my family this but they said I'm wrong. I told them suicide means you go to hell, but they insisted that Jihad isn't suicide, it's killing and dying in the name of Allah/God, and that guarantees you go to heaven. They twist it.

    Could you please provide me some verses that show that Islam preaches love? Is there anything that shows Islam says to love your enemy? It is one of the main things that my family and church is using against Islam, they Jesus taught to love your enemy but Islam says to kill them.

    In the Bible it says that Jesus is God and that Jesus claimed he is God, although I know the Bible is corrupted and can be misinterpreted. There are verses that Jesus says "Before Abraham was, I am" and as soon as he said that, Jews started to try and stone him before he escaped. I don't know if you know anything about the Bible, but could you explain this to me? I don't know what verse it is, but I know for sure that is what it says.

    I agree with your last point regarding the Bible not being original anymore, unfortunately, my family and church is under the impression that Islam has changed and that there is proof, but there is proof that the Bible has not - in addition to this, they claim that Islam/Mohammed came years after the Bible/Christianity/Jesus/Jews (etc), and that the Bible prophecies of someone coming in the future to lead everyone astray, and that it describes Mohammed and Islam. So, they say the Bible says Islam/Mohammed is that which has come in the future to deceive.

    Also, I mentioned that in Ezekiel (book of old testament in the bible) that there is a prophecy that those who pray to the East are the evil ones, they are following a false religion. We know that Muslims pray to the East, what exactly does this mean then? Ezekiel is the book, chapter 8 is where this is described. Do you think you could explain this to me?

    Today my family printed out a bio of Mohammed, I forgot most of what was said but my cousin claimed that Mohammed is a compulsive liar, that he took Jewish traditions and put it into Islam, and when the Jews rejected Mohammed as a prophet, he began to withdraw the Jewish traditions from Islam. There's a bunch of other stuff, but I don't remember it.

    It was titled Mohammed, by Michael Bard.

    • Matthew, I have added the chapter names and verse numbers in the above quoted verses.

      Firstly, I would quote some verses that promote peace. Consider a war between two nations. When one catches hold of an enemy soldier who pleads for Mercy, what will he do? Kill him because he is an enemy and it is war.

      But Quran said the following during a war:

      "If one amongst the Pagans ask thee for asylum, grant it to him, so that he may hear the word of Allah; and then escort him to where he can be secure that is because they are men without knowledge." [Al-Qur’an 9:6]

      The Qur’an not only says that a Mushriq seeking asylum during the battle should be granted refuge, but also that he should be escorted to a secure place. In the present international scenario, even a kind, peace-loving army General, during a battle, may let the enemy soldiers go free, if they want peace. But which army General will ever tell his soldiers, that if the enemy soldiers want peace during a battle, don’t just let them go free, but also escort them to a place of security?

      This is exactly what Allah says in the Glorious Qur’an to promote peace in the world.

      The Quran promotes peaceful coexistence in the following verse:

      Allah forbids you not, with regard to those who fight you not for (your) Faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: for Allah loveth those who are just. [60:8]

      Another verse says:

      O believers! Stand out firmly for Allah, as witnesses for the sake of justice, and let not the hatred of a people cause you to turn away from justice. Do justice, for that is akin to piety... [5:8]

      You said there are verses that support the behavior of extreme terrorists, though out of context. My answer is "no". Brother, Quran does not permit the acts carried out by the terrorists who are extremists. Islam is about staying on the moderate path. Neither stay behind nor exaggerate.

      The following verses beautifully describe this idea:

      Except for those who reach a people between whom you have a covenant, or if they come to you with a reluctance in their chests to fight you or to fight their own people. Had Allah willed He would have given them strength and they would have fought you. But if they retire from you, and did not fight you, and they offer you peace; then Allah does not make for you a way against them. [4:90]

      And why should you not fight in the cause of Allah and the weak and oppressed among men, women and children who say, "Our Lord rescue us from this town whose people are oppressors. And give us from You, a protector. And give us from You, a helper" [4:75]

      And Allah says regarding killing innocent Humans, be they Muslim or not:

      Because of that We ordained for the Children of Israel that if anyone killed a person not in retaliation of murder, or (and) to spread mischief in the land - it would be as if he killed all mankind, and if anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of all mankind. And indeed, there came to them Our Messengers with clear proofs, evidences, and signs, even then after that many of them continued to exceed the limits (e.g. by doing oppression unjustly and exceeding beyond the limits set by Allah by committing the major sins) in the land!.

      (Maidah:32)

      The following verses emphasize on opting for forgiveness, peace and that which is good/righteous:

      But if the enemy incline towards peace, then you also incline towards peace, and trust in Allah: for He is One that hears and knows (all things). [8:61]

      And those who, when gross injustice befalls them, they seek justice. The recompense for a crime shall be its equivalence, but whoever forgives and makes right, then his reward is upon Allah. He does not like the wrongdoers. And for any who demand action after being wronged, those are not committing any error. The error is upon those who oppress the people, and they aggress in the land without cause. For these will be a painful retribution. And for he who is patient and forgives, then that is an indication of strength. [42:39-43]

      Allah guides with it (The Quran) whoever follows His acceptance, to the ways of peace; and He brings them out of the darkness and into the light by His leave; and He guides them to a Straight Path. [5:16]

      The true servants of the Beneficent are those who walk upon the earth humbly, and when the ignorant ones address them, they say, "Peace!" [25:63]

      Not equal are the good and the bad response. You shall resort to the one which is better. Thus, the one who used to be your enemy may become your best friend. [41:34]

      To these We grant twice the reward for that they have been patient. And they counter evil with good, and from Our provisions to them, they give. [28:54]

      To each is a direction that he will take, so you shall race towards good deeds. Wherever you may be, Allah will bring you all together. Allah is capable of all things. [2:148]

      O you who believe, if you go forth in the cause of Allah, you shall investigate carefully. And do not say to those who greet you with peace: “You are not a believer!” You are seeking the vanity of this world; but with Allah are many riches. That is how you were before, but Allah favoured you, so investigate carefully. Allah is expert over what you do. [4:94]

      There is a verse in Surah Baqarah verse 256:

      "Let there be no compulsion in religion.”

      Thus, following Islam is a free will and the Reward for being correct or not is to be decided by Allah on the Day we shall Meet Him. May we Meet Him while He is Pleased with us.

      Allah clearly states in chapter 60:

      6. Certainly, there has been in them an excellent example for you to follow, for those who look forward to (the Meeting with) Allah (for the reward from Him) and the Last Day. And whosoever turn away, then verily, Allah is Rich (Free of all wants), Worthy of all Praise.

      7. Perhaps Allah will make friendship between you and those whom you hold as enemies. And Allah has power (over all things), and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

      8. Allah does not forbid you to deal justly and kindly with those who fought not against you on account of religion and did not drive you out of your homes. Verily, Allah loves those who deal with equity.

      What better treatment can a non Believer or a Kaafir get?

      This was only a part of what Quran says. Insha Allah, if you go on reading the Quran, you will find many others.

      Also, brother, I do not know what you believe about Jesus and his "death". It is my duty to inform you that Jesus did not die, but was risen alive to the Heavens by Allah. I don't know if you know this, but I feel it is necessary to mention. Allah says in Surah Aal Imran:

      157. And because of their saying (in boast), "We killed Messiah 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), the Messenger of Allah," - but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but the resemblance of 'Iesa (Jesus) was put over another man (and they killed that man), and those who differ therein are full of doubts. They have no (certain) knowledge, they follow nothing but conjecture. For surely; they killed him not [i.e. 'Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary) ]:

      158. But Allah raised him ['Iesa (Jesus)] up (with his body and soul) unto Himself (and he is in the heavens). And Allah is Ever All-Powerful, All-Wise.

      159. And there is none of the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians), but must believe in him ['Iesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), as only a Messenger of Allah and a human being], before his ['Iesa (Jesus) or a Jew's or a Christian's] death (at the time of the appearance of the angel of death). And on the Day of Resurrection, he ['Iesa (Jesus)] will be a witness against them.

      I hope you believe in this. Christianity teaches that Jesus "died". And he died for the sins of people. While Quran says this. And that the sin of a person is upon himself. Allsh says in Surah Isra Verse 15:

      Whoever goes right, then he goes right only for the benefit of his ownself. And whoever goes astray, then he goes astray to his own loss. No one laden with burdens can bear another's burden. And We never punish until We have sent a Messenger (to give warning).

      My brother, it is great that you bring these points, in order to clarify them. If you still have more, please mention, in order to have it clarified. And I can not comment on the verse of the Bible, as I do not know much about it. Even if I did, I don't think it would be relevant, as Quran is the Book for entire Humanity at this point, and will remain so, until we Meet Allah.

      Muhammad Waseem
      IslmaicAnswers.com Editor

      • Concerning the verse of the bible you quoted, 'before abraham was i am', there is much to understand if you understand the verse in context. Many christians use this verse as a proof to there claims that jesus is God. They claim that since jesus was already in existance before abraham was even borned/created into this world, it means jesus is God.

        Let me say this, in your bible, God told jeremiah 'before i formed thee in the belly (of your mother) i know thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb i sanctified thee, and i ordained thee a prophet unto the nation''jeremiah1:5 , here God is telling jeremiah that before he (God) created him (jeremiah), he(God) knew him, and he (God) has already made him a prophet before he (jeremiah) even goes to his mother's womb... What kind of prophet is this? Before he even goes into his goes into his mother's womb? So what this means is god knew everything about jeremiah before jeremiah was even created... Just like God knows everything about me, you, and all living things that exist in this world even before God created them.. GOD knows i would be seating in my room at exactly this time and typing this massage to you. GOD knows this thousand of years ago, even before i was created, also god knows everything about you even before he creates you.. he knows everything about us brother even before he creates us... So similary, before abraham was born into this world, jesus was in the knowledge of God almighty.. GOD knows everything about jesus even before abraham was created/born into this world... That is the only way you can rationally explain that verse 'before abraham was i am'... Because in the bible, there is a very clear and explicit distinction between jesus and God almighty.
        According to the bible, jesus said my father is greater than i, john14:28.
        He said, my father is greater than all, john10:29.
        In acts2:22, peter testifies that jesus is a man, sent by God with miracles which GOD DID BY HIM.. The verse affirmed that jesus perform miracles not by his powers, but by the power of God.
        In matthew28:18 jesus said all powers are given onto him, meaning all does powers he used in performing miracles, (waking the dead, healing the blind etc) are not his. It was God that gave him those powers.
        In john5:30, jesus said "i can of mine own self do nothing: as i here i judge: and my judgement is just; because i seek not mine own will, but the will of the father which hath sent me"
        In john17:3, jesus affirmed that he is a massanger sent by God, and there is only one true God.
        In mark12:28-32, jesus testifies that the first commandment is to acknowledge that God is only one, also the scribe affirmed jesus sayings about one God and said there is none (worthy of worship ) but He (GOD).

        • Brother matthew, God almighty (we call him Allah in arabic language) is trying to stear you to His true path, the path that would lead you to success in the afterlife... But the devil (satan) is trying to sway you away from Allah, and your relatives/parents are busy there blocking the way for you. ALLAH said "AND WHOEVER SEEKS A RELIGION OTHER THAN ISLAM, IT WILL NEVER BE ACCEPTED OF HIM, AND IN THE HEREAFTER HE WILL BE ONE OF THE LOSERS (ie dwellers of hell fire for all eternity)"koran3:85...
          For all your doubts to clear out of your mind, you really have to know what real islam is and what true and sincere muslims do... Also you have to make some research, so that you would realise that christianity is not the religion of God/ALLAH.

          You see the christians, in there dogmas beleive jesus is king of kings and the lord of lords, and jesus is actually God incarnate.. They also beleive him to be son of God, and in trinity. And you see, when ever am talking to christian preachers and pastors, they always give up, and they stay quite to listen to what am saying... They dont have proof to back up their claims, and they themselves could not explain many of the christian doctrines and the bible, they simply say 'it is a misery that can't be explained '..
          Let me also tell you this, the bible is been interpolated and changed over time. Let me just site one example for you out of the thousands.
          Chatolic church is the near oldest form of church. If you look at the chatolics bible, it has 73 books, later the protestants protested and throw away 7 books from the catholics bible, now the protestant bible is a collection of 66 books... The question is who gave those protestant the authority to distort and throw away 7 books out of what they call the book of God??? And if you say the protestant did the right thing, then it means they realised that those books are been added later in life..
          But in the case of the koran, ever since God revealed the book, and ever since it is been compiled, nothing has been changed up till this day. Even the christian historians affirm to this, just go to the encyclopidia braticana and type on the koran, and see what this honest christian historians have to say about the koran and muhammad. They said koran is the only religeous book on the surface of the earth that maintains its purity ever since it is been revealed.

          nothing has changed in the koran and nothing would change in the koran till the end of this world...
          Islam is the ONLY religion on the surface of the world that do not ascribe divinity to anyone Along with God or ascribe a son to God.. The hindus beleive krishna, ramah, calancawota (forgive me if i haven't spelt it right) to be God incarnate. Just like the christians beleive jesus to be God incarnate and begotten son of God, just like the buddists ascribe divinity to buddah, and just like the jews call ezra 'son of God'. Etc etc

          again let me bring up this interesting point since you were/are a christian..

          In matthew4:1-11, in this chapter, i read that the devil (satan) actually carried the messiah (jesus), and took him from place to place. How can the devil carry God? GOD IS above such blasphemy!
          Then the devil orders him (jesus) to prostrate before him and worship him, even tempting him with worldly possessions. HOW can the devil even dare such am audacity with God???
          Look my friend, from the bottom of your heart, if you read this chapter, you would certainly declare that jesus is not God...

  8. Also, I'm curious, what is my name in Arabic and what is it in Islam? I think it was Matta in Arabic..

  9. Matthew was a disciple of Jesus, the son of Mary (Peace be on them). You may continue this name in Islam if you wish so. It is translated to Matta in Arabic. But you don't need to be called Matta, you can still be called Matthew even though you are Muslim.

    The logic is that if your name before Islam is polytheistic, you're required to change it. Otherwise, you can continue the old name.

    Muhammad Waseem
    IslamicAnswers.com Editor

  10. So matthew, if you wish to remain a muslim, then i think its better you hide your faith from your parents and relatives, not least so that they shouldnt confuse you and sway you away from Allah.. Or lest, they would punish you financially and emotionally if you make it clear to them that you would remain a muslim. At this point in time, you are very new to islam and you dont have much knowledge on islam, hence you are very vulnerable and you can easily be confused.
    So now pretend to your parent/relative as though you have renounced your faith and you have gone back to christianity.. This will make them to leave your ways and they wouldnt set much eyes on you. Every time they ask you to follow them to church, you should bring up some excuses and you shouldnt follow them.
    Then what follows next is to start seeking the real and true knowledge of your islamic faith 'from reliable source'.. This would mean that you have to be very careful on the kind of websites you visit to learn islam, many of those site a runned by nonmuslims and they would only increase your doubt about islam. Many of them are critics of islam, and they only criticize islam and muslims. So If you must learn about islam, you have to visit islamic sites that a runned by muslims. Also the books you read should be authored by muslims.

    And also you have to practice your islamic faith secretely. This means you are going to be praying your five daily prayers secretly in your private room, with your friends if you visit them, also you gonna locate a mosque outside the vicinity of your parents and relatives and be praying there time to time... By the time you are old enough to be independent and cater for your needs, then at that time, you can open up to them and tell them about your faith. And by then, you must have grasp the full knowledge of islam and you can answer any question they pose on you..
    May God guide you brother.

    If you have any question on any matter regarding islam, then fill free to ask here .

  11. To Waseem.
    Thanks, I'll come back to these in the future.
    However I have a few concerns (not doubts, just questions). The Quran clearly states these things you shown me, I don't see how it would be difficult to interpret and then act wrongly upon these things, so why is it that countries like Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, (etc) have such issues? There are groups upon groups, leaders upon leaders who declare they will kill all the Israel, Jews, Christians, British and the Americans because they are in a Holy War with them. How would these radicals twist and "misinterpret" the Quran so gravely?

    Also, just to clarify once more, the Quran says to take in an enemy to give him refuge? What about the part where it says something around the lines of; do not ally yourself with the enemy. I understand this does not mean "don't help them" but in a sense, couldn't people interpret "don't ally yourself with-" as "nope, sorry, be gone!"? Just a question.

    What do you think causes a terrorist to think he is doing the Godly? You stated that Allah says killing a man is like killing mankind, and saving a man is like saving mankind, what makes a terroriost think his murders are an exception? The whole "those who die because of Islam will get to heaven first"? (Correct me if that is wrong, I'm just remembering vaugley). I'm just blown away at the fact that people can ignore these things as blatant as my family/church.

    Also, as far as it goes where Jesus was replaced on the Cross, why was Jesus the only one to be hated like that? Why was Jesus replaced with another man, if the Jews wanted Jesus dead, not another?

    I do believe in everything you are saying/what the Quran states, don't worry. I just question and have my concerns for the sake of understanding more and finding an answer for that what is being held against me.

    To Mohd.
    I understand that, but Christians claim Jesus said he was around before Abraham was even born, so I'm a bit confused as how to answer a Christian. I understand that God knows all about us before we are born though.

    I also have to ask, how can I present these verse to them? I mean, I have already heard what they say about these verses, and they claim that Jesus (God) is prayer to his father form (God).. I even laugh because it's like.. how do you believe this?

    I do make research, trust me haha, this is one of the sites I have come across as a result. I also agree that Christians will give up because (as my church told me EXACTLY), you can't argue with a Muslim because they will plan out everything to say, to counter everything you say. But I agree, they don't have proof or back up, they wil take something that is written in black and white, clear, digit by digit, but they will say: "Oh, no, you see, Biblical language is beautiful and Jesus spoke in such a way that it only SEEMS like this! But really, it is this.".. you get what I mean.

    And I know the Bible has been changed, but the Quran hasn't, but Christians insist vice versa.
    I do know that Jesus is not God, a friend of mine led me through the Shahadah about an two or three hours ago, so I guess officially I am a Muslim. Also, the verse you read doesn't mean he picked up Jesus haha, It meant that he was led, as in showed where to go.. in a sense. I don't know either why he "God" would be led by the Devil

    To Waseem (2)
    It is required in Islam to change my name? I can't exactly change my name anyways because of my family, and that would cost a lot of money no? Also, how is Matthew a polytheistic name?

    To Mohd (2)
    I will remain Muslim, I will go through the trouble my family will put my through, I would rather be homeless/temporarily living in the local mosque than to live with my family, but since 1) that's illegal to leave your famiy like that haha, and 2) the Quran says to respect your family and to not let your belief divide your family? (something like that).

    I would much rather learn to pray with someone(s) so I can get in a habit of what the prayer is and memorize so i can do it on my own, but I cant do that because of privacy issues. I know you say to hide my faith but I feel bad to tell them I'm going back to Christianity, only to reveal to them later I want to become Muslim again.. if you get what I mean

    • I dont see why you, as a person who has just converted, should concern yourself with changing your name. Your concerns should be how best you can handle your parents and also how to gain more knowledge about islam. By the way, what waseem said was that matthew was a disciple of jesus (a.s.) so, since jesus was a monotheist, you can keep that name.

  12. SALAM Matthew! Let me add something to what my brothers have said. I would like you to know that the bible is always full of contradictions as the previous writers not just claimed but had provided you with many references. One of the grevious contradiction is wether Jesus is God, Lord, son or servant of God. The christians will always argue that jesus is Lord, with reference to bible, and when they fail to prove it they say that Jesus and God are one. This statements and their likes are very contradictory and have no reasonable answer in the bible. Lets consider the following biblical verses. 1- 1 corrinthians,8:6 in this verse, the bible shows that there is only oneGod, which is God, and there is only one lord which is Jesus. Point of reference in this verse is Jesus is lord. But in many other verses, Lord is not reffered to jesus but to God. Read this. Matthew,22:37 "Jesus said unto him, it is written again, thou shalt not tempt Lord thy God" also in Mark,12:29. "And Jesus answered him, the first of all the commandments is, hear, O, Israel; the Lord our God is One ord." again in Luke,1:15-16. "he shall be great, and shall be called the son of the highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David.". Now, are all these verses describing Jesus as God or Lord? The answer is no. But if a christian insist that lord in this verses are Jesus despite their clear meanings which are not, then, 2- lets agree for the sale of argument that lord refer to Jesus, but lord is not technically refered to as God, as in matthew,22:44. "The LORD said unto my Lord, sit thou no my right hand...". matthew you should know that all the terrorism in this world which are associating to muslim groups are mostly lies, and it is because of many conspiracy theories against islam and muslims and so you should not believe in then. It is not the topic of my discussion now, otherwise, I would have shown to you some biblical verses which jesus said "I am not sent to bring peace into this world but sword"

  13. Matthew, insha Allah I'll explain.

    What happened in Iraq, Palestine and Afghanistan has two parts. One, external attacks. Two, attacks by the locals. Other countries, for some reasons attacked these countries and killed a lot of innocent Muslims. These Muslims did so in return. But it is not justified that the Muslims kill innocent non Muslims for what the other countries have done. Islam tells us to have patience:

    And if you take your turn, then retaliate with the like of that with which you were afflicted; but if you are patient, it will certainly be best for those who are patient. [16:126]

    What is meant by retaliation is as I told you above in my other reply. Some ignorant people translate it to mean that you kill every innocent non Muslim, and this is totally against the Islamic Law. Islam promotes Peace. It does not want war. But when it can not be avoided, war happens. For example, if America attacks Iraq, there is no option with Iraq but to defend themselves. Additionally, this verse prohibits us from transgression. For example, if someone slaps you once, you can't slap him twice. The second slap would count as oppression or transgression. This is how particular Islam is about peace.

    Being over-sentimental over what the Muslims face all around the World, some ignorant Muslims make it a point to make it seem to the youth that Islam orders us to kill non Muslims. This is not with reference to Quran, but personal sentiments and love for the Muslims. It is not justified and Allah Will Deal with them. The youth who have no attachment with the Quran don't bother what Islam says. They just intend to follow these corrupt people and end their lives after creating troubles for other innocent Muslims around the World with their ignorant and oppressive deeds.

    Islam is free from what they do. That is their personal deed and has nothing to do with Islam. Islam tells us something else, while they do something else.

    But this does not mean that the verses of the Quran are taken out of context to defame Islam. The International Media has played a huge role in doing this. For example, thousands of innocent Muslims have been slain in Burma/Myanmar over past few months. How many newspapers and news channels around the World withheld this news just because it was about Muslims?

    The Quran is obvious, while the people who choose extreme paths are far away from the True teachings of the Quran.

    Don't Ally yourself with non Muslims

    The verse that mentions that refers to the idolators and the disbelievers who are combatants against Allah, His Messenger and the believers. Allah said in 60:1,

    (If you have come forth to strive in My cause and to seek My good pleasure.) Allah says, `if you are as described here, then do not take the disbelievers as supporters. If you migrated in Jihad (meaning a war - as mentioned by me earlier) for My cause and for seeking My pleasure, then do not take My enemies and your enemies as protecting friends, after they expelled you from your homes and property in rage against you and rejection of your religion.'

    The verses are quoted out of context by those who hate Islam and the Muslims, in order to prevent people like yourself from accepting the Truth of Islam.

    Islam promotes peace and love. But they are being torn all over the World for no plain reason. What a small group of ignorant extremists do can not be termed correct Islam, as it is clearly opposing the Truth.

    I hope I answered your questions to satisfy yourself.

    Muhammad Waseem
    IslamicAnswers.com Editor

  14. asallam allaikom

    mathew what i think is that u did a big mistake by telling ur parents, u should have kept it to yourself till u do ur full research about islam and collect all the knowledge u will be needing in convincing ur parents why u converted.
    my opnion is that u should take it slow with ur parents dont show them anything anymore for now and just tell them that u dont want to talk about it anymore with anyone.

    do ur researches and ask ur friends and go to a mosque talk with a sheikh over there and he would help u and tell u more.

    actually im in the same situation as u but i have converted to a muslim from Christianity 6 years ago and i havent told my parents about it yet, fear of them forcing me to go to church and keeping convincing me im wrong, so since then i have been waiting to turn 21 have a good job and telling them the truth inshallah( with gods will)

    u would have some doubts at the begging its normal but try to learn more by googling and friends this is what i did.
    and i can say that im 100% believing in allah elhamdulelah im thanks-full that im a muslim which i feel that allah loves me to make me convert and believe and be protect me

    ps i pray in my bed without putting a veil on or anything cause of my parents so u could do the same and if someone interrupts u, as if ur just on the bed on the laptop or on the phone..etc

    allah be with u and keep u on the right path inshallah( with gods will)

  15. @Matthew - how are you my bro.

    did you pronounce the shahadah ?

    __________________
    May Allah grant us success! May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet, his family and Companions!

Leave a Response

Cancel Reply