Lorne,
The article stated, "The percentage of Americans having an unfavorable view of Islam has jumped from 24 percent in January 2002 to 33 percent now. ... The portion of Americans who say that Islam "doesn't teach respect for other faiths" rose from 22 percent to 35 percent."
Now I believe that. If you remember, after the attacks Islam was bragging how interest when up in the religion since the attacks, not down. They thought it swayed people into believing it. When in fact, all along, I thought this would happen. All people have to do is pick up a Quran and read it, and it is simple to see the view toward Islam should be unfavorable. No one has to convince anyone. Its right there in black and white, just as long as you can read...
It also stated, "A total of 73 percent of Americans do not feel they have a good basic understanding of its beliefs and tenets, and that, too, has risen, from 61 percent last winter. This suggests that any additional information people have gleaned about Islam has confused more than clarified."
Very understandable! Always the mantra was Islam is peace and love. Our own President said it, as the article points out. And then you start reading and studying and you realize, how is "Fight and slay the pagans (non-Muslims) wherever you find them" or "Strike terror [into the hearts of] the enemies of God and your enemies" or "As for these from women, fear rebellion, admonish them and banish them to beds apart and scourge them." and etc, etc... It really gets confusing for those unfamiliar with Islamic teachings. And whats worse, people don't want to believe any religion has tenants that are violent, dangerous and immoral. It goes against the grain of our very liberal society and acceptance of all people. It gets hard to accept a religion of such violence and immorality. How can one reconcile this?
Also, "In August, he said during an interview that Muslims hadn't sufficiently apologized for the terrorist attacks — and he challenged Muslim leaders to offer to help rebuild Lower Manhattan or compensate the families of victims to show they condemn terrorism."
Don't hold your breath on this one, although from a religion of love and peace, you would think this type of reaction would only be natural, and the tip of the iceberg, in what Muslims around the globe should do to show they do not stand behind the acts of 9/11!
And one more statement I loved, "During a dinner in early October sponsored by the Center for the Study of Islam and Democracy, Judith Kipper chastised Muslims for not saying and doing more. "There is a need now for Muslims in America to stand up and be accountable," said Kipper, an ABCNEWS consultant and director of the Middle East program of the Center for Strategic and International Studies. "Keeping your head down isn't going to work anymore."
FINALLY! Someones listening to me...it took a while, but there starting to get it!
God Bless,
IGIT |
