Islam is a widely-misunderstood religion. Therefore those who are unfamiliar with the faith have misunderstandings about its teachings and practices. Common misconceptions include that Muslims worship a moon-god. Islam is oppressive against women. Or that Islam is a faith that promotes violence.
Here we bust these myths. And expose the true teachings of Islam.
Muslims worship a moon, God
Some non-Muslims mistakenly believe that Allah is an “Arab God,” a “moon God,” or some idol. Allah is the proper name of the One True God in the Arabic language. The most fundamental belief that a Muslim has is that “There is only One God,”. The Creator, the Sustainer known in the Arabic language. And by Muslims as Allah. Arabic-speaking Christians use the same word for the Almighty.
Muslims don’t believe in Jesus
In the Qur’an, stories about life and teachings of Jesus Christ (called ‘Isa in Arabic) are abundant. The Qur’an recalls his miraculous birth. About his education, and the miracles he performed with God’s permission. There is even a chapter of the Qur’an named after his mother. Mary (Miriam in Arabic). However, Muslims believe that Jesus was a fully human prophet. And not in any way divine himself.
Most Muslims are Arabs
While Islam is often associated with Arabs. They make up only 15% of the world’s Muslim population. The country with the largest community of Muslims in Indonesia. Muslims make up 1/5 of the world’s population. With large numbers found in Asia (69%), Africa (27%), Europe (3%), and other parts of the world.
Islam oppresses women
It is a myth of Muslim practices such as forced marriage, spousal abuse, and restricted movement. It directly contradicts Islamic law. Governing family behavior and personal freedom.
Muslims are violent, terrorist extremists
Terrorism cannot be justified under any valid interpretation of the Islamic faith. The entire Qur’an, taken as a complete text. It gives a message of hope, religion, and peace. It is to a faith community of one billion people. The overwhelming message is that peace is found through faith in God. Found injustice among fellow human beings. Muslim leaders and scholars speak out against terrorism. In all its forms and offer explanations of misinterpreted or twisted teachings.
Islam is intolerant of other faiths
Throughout the Qur’an, Muslims are reminded that they are not the only ones who worship God. While Jews and Christians are called “People of the Book,”. So, it is meaning people who have received previous revelations from the One Almighty God. That we all worship. Therefore the Qur’an also commands Muslims to protect from harm. Not only mosques, but also monasteries, synagogues, and churches — because “God is worshiped therein.”
Islam promotes Jihad
The word Jihad stems from an Arabic word, which means “to strive.” Other related terms include “effort,” “labor,” and “fatigue.” Essentially Jihad is an effort to practice religion. In the face of oppression and persecution. The action may come in fighting the evil in your own. However, heart or in standing up to a dictator. Military effort is included as an option. But as a last resort and not “to spread Islam by the sword.”
The Quran was written by Muhammad
The Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) over two decades. While calling people to worship One Almighty God. And to live their lives according to this faith. So, the Qur’an contains stories of Biblical prophets. Because these prophets also preached the message of God. Information is not merely copied. But the oral traditions focus on the examples and teachings. That we can learn from them.
Islamic prayer is just a ritualized
Prayer is a time to stand before God and express faith. To give thanks for blessings. And seek guidance and forgiveness. So, During Islamic prayer, one is modest, submissive, and respectful to God. However, by bowing and prostrating ourselves to the ground, we express our utmost humility before the Almighty.
The crescent moon is a universal symbol of Islam
However, the early Muslim community did not have a symbol. During the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). So, Islamic caravans and armies flew simple. Solid-colored flags (generally black, green, or white) for identification purposes. Therefore, the crescent moon and star symbol pre-dates Islam by several thousand years. It wasn’t affiliated with Islam until the Ottoman Empire placed it on their flag.
