The thing about Islam is... They forget that their Prophet was just another Messenger to their God, Allah and he was Human too. Every Muslim should remember that your relationship with God is just a relationship, Nothing else matters, not the belief of others or what they think about you. Islam Simplified : Believe in God as you wish, What Muhammad advised you were Laws of that day. Times have changed, Maintain a personal Relationship with your God, Please Ignore about other people's beliefs.
im a christian and i can tell u she is better than all religion put togeather. god bless u my sister. the world need more people like u, id love to see u in person. im from malaysia
The Muslims are not allowed to Discuss or even Criticize the Quran. Irshad Manji is one of those Modern women who does that and gets abused. Gay people are commanded to be put to death instantly since they suffer the wrath of Allah. Being Gay is against Islam and Allah will hate you forever. Irshad Manji is openly gay and has the nerve to say that and Muslims abuse her for that. This is a woman can change Islam into being a Belief System rather than a Cult, I really appreciate her efforts.
@samlarsenwrites I always have this feeling that Islam is something about ego. They are the best, they want to be unique, they want to conquer the word, their god is the real one and the best one, prophet mohammad is the last and the greatest, etc... Not all muslims are like that, but even the minority is already a lot of people! Bizarre...
Guys I can't hear what she's saying. All I hear is "I'm a liar" "I'm getting paid to feed you crap" and "I actually don't know anything about Islam lol hope you guys buy this". Is anyone else experiencing this difficulty?
Bravo! I don't agree with everything you said, but am so proud and thankful to you for your strength, honesty, and conviction, - and yes, passion, to express them. You go girl. You sold another book, which by the way, I am pleased with the new title.
@samlarsenwrites not to mention the treatment they give to women and minorities. is really amazing and unbelievable ... but, as we said before, maybe there is a changing from the young. hopefully yes!
@kendrawhisp NOt true, because God made man and women different. in fact, why are there different names to begin with? In islam men and women are essential different, but to make them equal you cant erase what makes them different: women can give birth, men cant, men are essentially stronger, bigger, etc than a women by birth, etc. what islam deals with is equity which is better than equality.
@shashintokyo I am very proud of Irshad manji. I pray to God that many more muslim woman would be like her. Shame on those who find her a threat to Islam...she is the best voice for Islam ...more power Irshad and bless is the mother that brought you to this world.
Candian education system has to be thanked- for that only gave this Muslim lady courage, knowlede,thinking power to talk so fluently and boldy.. Just imagine if she were to be educated in a Muslim country, by this time ,she will be sitting in a house,begetting 20 children,wearing a hijab..
I like the idea of micro-business loans, but I feel that this should be a private enterprise activity NOT a government program! If America were to export its greatest asset (freedom), we'd be so much better off! What we (the US) are doing in Iraq is NOT an example of this! All criticisms aside, the world needs more people like her!
This is important for all people of every religion. She asks, "How we behave is Islam." This is true for Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism. People of of our diverse religions must all stop thinking their way is the only way toward God and realize that we are one human family. We really need positive voices like this one. One test that humanity is evolving and progressing is when we see the female gender being free from the patriarchal systems that are denying and holding girls and women in a role of second class citizen. Irshad Manji is being attacked by those who can't open their minds to these important thoughts and questions. It is these important points that she is sharing which can lead us all toward peace, compassion, respect and unity to all people of all religions. "Dare to ask questions." "Seek and you will find."
Keep in mind a long time ago life spans was short,its was a common practice since the Egyptian times for young children to marry. If you was 17 and not married people will look at you like a 40 year old virgin. X3 It was not that it was wrong, people back then you was lucky if you can live past 40 years old. So Getting married young was a honor meaning you get you pass the fire and have children sooner when the time was right which ensures family growth. Many cultures still practiced this today
Irshad has accomplished a lot in her life, when you (born in 1987, I assume) accomplish a fraction of what she's done, maybe then you'll be worth listening to.
Hmmm,some canadian muslims are telling radicals to beat it out of canada and that their kind is not wanted here.A recent letter ive read condems Hezbollah and warns them out of our country.These shall remain nameless,but that support IS acknowledged.Thank you for speaking out against our enemies.Muslims are free to practice their faith peacefully just like others in the US or canada and ARE protected by law.
Mankind has not been created for fun and enjoyment, yet purely for worshipping Allah alone. Yes we can have responsible fun, but Islam teaches that this life on Earth is nothing but a short stop for the final destination, heaven or hell.
@samlarsenwrites I notice that there was not many people on the audience. But the important thing is that she persists. She's admirable! I totally support her and I show her speeches to people. I've seen other Muslins questioning too without leaving the religion. Maybe that's a tendency of the new generations. Hope so! :)
@paddy6062 Mark 10 10 When they were in the house again, the disciples asked Jesus about this. 11He answered, "Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her. 12And if she divorces her husband and marries another man, she commits adultery."
Damn, Irshad's brilliant and gorgeous! Although I'm an ardent Atheist sworn to destroy Islam by any and all means, I'd be honored to know Irshad personally and enthralled were she ever clasp within my arms.
@GoldenMoonIB Sahih Muslim Bk 4, Number 1885:When Allah's Messenger (may peace he upon him) delivered the sermon, his eyes became red, his voice rose. and his anger increased so that he was like one giving a warning against the enemy and saying:" ... and would further say:" The best of the speech is embodied in the Book of Allah, and the beet of the guidance is the guidance given by Muhammad. And the most evil affairs are their innovations; and every innovation is error."
it was a 9 year old by the way and she was matured. There were many reasons for marriage with her, many of the prophet muhammed(pbuh) marriages created friendship between tribes and the prophet loved his wives equally and treated them all equally , he did all the house work and pampered them i cant go to much into detail cuz of limit. Btw we were put on this earth to see which was best in there conduct, if there was no evil this life wouldnt be a test and we would all be in heaven.
read this: Social (and the resulting legal) attitudes toward the appropriate age of consent have drifted upwards in modern times. For example, while ages from 10 to 13 were typically acceptable in western countries during the mid-19th century,[1] 15 to 18 had become the norm in many countries by the end of the 20th century
@samlarsenwrites 1. Women in west were given the right to vote less then 100 years ago. 2.Women whipped for wearing pants. This is a exceptional case, but even bible says that women should not wear men closthing and vice versa. 3. Slavery did continue in US for a very long time. But it is illegal now across the world and has nothing to do with religion. 4. Lot of descrimination is happening around the world for economic reasons or based on color or race or sex. It is political
@samlarsenwrites Nigerian case was a exception. But you as a Bible believer must know that Bible very clearly says that women shold not wear mens clothes and men should not wear women clothes.
I respect this woman however fear for her safety as she said the word RISK I am surprized they have not issued a fatwa against her for conceived heresies The very idea that I am sincerely concerned speaks volumes about exactly what she presents - The Trouble with Islam Today.
@kendrawhisp you need to to watch the documentary called "Slim Hopes" by Jean Kilbourne, and fully aquaint yourself with documentaries produced by MEF (Media Education Foundation).
@samlarsenwrites yes as i mentioned below the hsitory is full of people who use religion for justification. There were mass murders donein thepast in the name of christianity, islam o Judiaism. The crusades and the inquisation of spain and the colonization of asia/Africa was done in the name of christianity.But I think we should not blame the religion and yes some people may be inspired by Hly books as well, but that is tjier interprtation.
@kendrawhisp read teh following: Sigmund Freud identified three influences on the human psyche: the id, the ego, and the superego. In general terms, the id is that source of psychic energy that excites those animalistic tendencies that work for the individual's biological survival, such as greed, power, lust, envy, and pride. The superego is the source of our sense of virtue, morality, and guilt. It urges us to what we consider higher and nobler efforts. The ego is essentially the intellect...
She can have her gay sexuality, she can re-interpret the Quran, she can have her ijtihad she can add and minus the religion she structures...JUST DON'T YOURSELF MUSLIM. it's as simple as that.
@samlarsenwrites another point if you read the history Aisha whom prophet married was one of the biggest scholars of islam and guided people regarding the teachings of God and way of life how prphet lived. This was also for muslims to learn that a women can be a scholar and a leader some 1400 years ago....when europeans were using Women as cattles.
@akhan71192 - "and Jihad actually does mean fighting..." Does it not also include purely emotional struggle, as in the metaphorical "fighting for the betterment of my people", which is not necessarily a physical struggle? How about the struggle to maintain and grow in your faith as "jihad"? I'm not a Muslim. These are things that I've learned from my studies and friends who are Muslim living in various countries where Islam is practiced by the majority of citizens.
@fernandatralala I've seen other Muslins questioning too without leaving the religion. IN Indonesia, young people are starting to drift away from Islam. This is happening because the environment in Indonesian is far more relax than in Arab states. But the Islamic authorities are alarmed by the many conversion of muslims to christianity.
@qizzak yes, she is a lesbian teaching morality. She can do anything to sell the book, some people can sell thier faith, beleif, thier family and even themselves to make money.
@fernandatralala Most of muslims do not like Irshad Manji because she seems to be breaking muslims stereotype that Islam is unquestionable and cannot be criticised. They are disturbed by the fact that she is questioning. I hope she succeeds. She needs the support of muslims and christians alike.
My Muslim mentor says a Hijab is not required... now if she was doing her speeches in a Bikini or a swim suit then yeah I would have issues. But she is dressed appropriately she is not exposing her belly her or any explicit parts... and she is covered neck down.
@samlarsenwrites Again i would deplore the Lesbian and the person in Brunie and all the preachers, reverand and fathers who abused little children in US and Europe. But if you see the Imam was punished and jailed. How many father, preachers and reverand were Jailed and punished?
back then they did and so did your ancestors, read this: Social (and the resulting legal) attitudes toward the appropriate age of consent have drifted upwards in modern times. For example, while ages from 10 to 13 were typically acceptable in western countries during the mid-19th century,[1] 15 to 18 had become the norm in many countries by the end of the 20th century Waites, Matthew (2005). The Age of Consent: Young People, Sexuality and Citizenship. Palgrave Macmillan
@samlarsenwrites State and Religion cannot be seperated. You can see the disaster in western world where you have legal, criminal laws but lack of moral laws, value system, honesty and ethics. I beleive Islam has a better option which is to make evry human being a believer true beleiver and education is a must in islam. It is complusory for every muslim to pray for 5 times and read quran with understanding. They pray the way jesus prayed. But the muslims who do wrong are not muslims.
@samlarsenwrites what amazes me the most is that at this moment of time when is impossible to be isolated and have no different perspectives, there are still people living under such primitive thoughts. To be a martyr to get 72 virgins on paradise? Oh, please...
Wow, if only this were really Islam, a peaceful, open minded, secular Islam. A return to the Islam the blossomed and flourished, that brought us algebra and the number 0, before it fell to the extreme jihadists and never recovered. An Islam that becomes much closer to post enlightenment Christianity. Before the enlightenment, Christianity was a horrible thing ala westboro baptist church... but its much better now.
@samlarsenwrites A woman must not wear men's clothing, nor a man wear women's clothing, for the LORD your God detests anyone who does this. (NIV, Deuteronomy 22:5)
@samlarsenwrites yes you are right...according to the medical science Journal girls can attain puberty anytinme between 9 to 14 years. It varies depending on the diet , climate and other actvity. please check it up in google. But the age limit for marriage according to man made laws are different in different countries and states like 14, 16, 18 years.
I like a lot of what she says, but from reading her bio, it seems she hasn't actually lived in the Middle East. Anyone feel free to correct me if I'm wrong on that. It just seems a bit hypocritical for her to talk so much about "what happens on the ground" when she's never actually lived in the places she's talking about. Similarly, a critique of American culture would be more convincing from someone who is American or has at least spent time there.
@samlarsenwrites Islam seems to be much more political than religious... I don't know much about it to say, but it's what I heard from some muslims. Internet is doing a good thing for the young then! That's great! Nothing like to have different perspectives and be able to dialogue about everything to open minds.
@samlarsenwrites You have been misinformed but the right word is used in all points "Married". Please check with your mom or aunt and check out honestly how many sex partners they had before the married (if married) and the punishment for adultary is Death in Bible and if she was divorced then she cannot remarry (ref Bible)
because she is from a muslim background doesnt mean she understands or know it properly, many people come from muslim backgrounds without true knowledge of islam and i noticed many fallacies in her book to prove it. MANY ARE MIXED UP WHAT IS CULTURE AND WHAT IS ISLAM. TRY UMMAH FILMS: CULTURE VS ISLAM.
This woman still tries to defend Islam as a whole. Rubbish the religion allows spousal abuse 4:34) and other awful things. Do you really believe that the Supreme Being of the Universe would allow such things at any point in history? It's nonesense.
@samlarsenwrites You can see the xample in christianity itself. jesus was a man of God but could only preach for a short period of time and after him people like Paul Hijacked the doctrine of jesus and changed it. Today i really dont know if people follow Jesus or [paul who has written 14 out of 27 books and what jesus the true messaih had said is only in 5 books (Read the red lettered bible). Now how paul contradicts jesus is very simple to prove from bible
@msiddiqui135 in Islam the Quran gives authorization for husbands to beat disobedient wives. This is found in chapter 4, verse 34. Additional references on wife beating are found in Muhammad’s traditions (hadith), and biographical material (sira). Many people have criticized Islam because of this harsh sanction and many Muslims have written articles seeking to mollify or defend it....And you lot even have it on youtube saying its ok..And this is not from the media its from muslims themselves!
@fernandatralala I've seen other Muslins questioning too without leaving the religion. Young muslims are starting to learn not from the Imams but through discussion on the internet. Discussion with Imams usually comes within the framework that Islam is infallible and so the discourse is very limited. If muslims read the hadiths, they will for sure ask many questions because the narratives just reeks of foolish things and contrivances to advance a political actions.
@samlarsenwrites I am not advising you to pass a judgement but if you are a believer then you will beleive in what God says in Bible. Otherwise you are not a believer.
as for being forced to wear niqab its not islamic, actually the quran tells men to be modest first read both of these surah 24:30-31, HIJAB IS A PERSON RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD AND MORE IMPORTANLY ITS ABOUT ATTTITUE, IF A WOMAN IN NIQAB IS A FLIRT, THAN SHE IS NOT ABSERVING HIJAB even though she is wearing one, it gets deeper than the clothes that you wear, its your total conduct with members of the opposite sex, so keep that in mind.
no, you have a problem with mixing the wrong information, marriage was brothehod, not that he married 6 years old, this hadith gets twisted so often, actually she was married to him nine watch was normal back then actually i can say globally because age of marriage and puberty corresponded many years ago, just by mid1900s it changed in canada it was 12 but moved to more popular figures like 14-16 by 1890s!! no are you calling them all pediphiles, read history age of consent & marriage
She "lacks any form of intellectual reasoning"? Kiddo, she's accomplished much more academically (and therefore intellectually) than you have. And what pedestal is she put on? By who? She's been honored by a couple of universities and is invited to speak and discuss at various places... and her values are hardly "double standards".
@paddy6062 In bibilical times Girls were married at early age between 10-13 years depending on Puberty. even in many countries today the marriage takes place when glrs are born, which means that they book the girl but consumate later. this was a similar culture during bibilical times. And regarding muslims or paster fathers or preachers molesting boys and girls has nothing to do with religion.
@msiddiqui135 This was also for muslims to learn that a women can be a scholar and a leader some 1400 years ago. Yet not all muslim women enjoy basic freedoms today....Saudi women cannot: 1. drive or choose their husbands 2. work without permission from parents or brothers. 3. travel without consent 4. vote Muslim women in Niger, Mauritania and Sudan are still being enslaved.
@samlarsenwrites Yes, i agree this may be the case in some countries, but this is all political. women can drive everywhere except saudi as we all can assume that quran doesnt say anything about driving Choosing husband for a women is a women s right as mentioned in Quran. In fact the islamic marriage cannot happen until a women says yes three times and has 3 witness who sign the contract. (Contd)
@msiddiqui135 How many father, preachers and reverand were Jailed and punished? I have not counted..child molestation is punishable by jail term in secular governments. They are marked for life as child molesters and must register in every city they live after they get out of jail. The victims were compensated, even for those cases that happened a long time ago. The payment was only to ease the pain of the abuse, not to absolve the sex offender.
@paddy6062 Friend ...trrue word of Gods are sometimes difficult to digest. In US 2 out of 3 women are domestically abused.. this is wrong but reality. But this is applicable for a person who is righteous and loves his wife. It is for worst of the time and is like a emergency door in a train of bus. Quran alos talks lots of things about equality and importance of good married live. Uptill 10 years ago it was allowed for parents to beat thier children is it right or wrong?
@karlsmith00 This one of the most common abucive language used. let me tell you something what age was Mary when she gave birth to jesus? Another point even today half of the women in country like India get married before they turn 18. In biblical times they follwed law of god and gilrs used to get married after Puberty.
By SINAN SALAHEDDIN, Associated Press Writer Sun Dec 9, 6:14 PM ET
BAGHDAD - Religious vigilantes have killed at least 40 women this year in the southern Iraqi city of Basra because of how they dressed, their mutilated bodies found with notes warning against "violating Islamic teachings," the police chief said Sunday.
is she questioning the fact that quran says it is indeed the last of the scriptures, sent to us from God and for all mankind and times to come? wow...she calls herself a muslim
@msiddiqui135 Taqiyya...this applies till today...even among muslims this is a common practice. Example: 1. Syria killed and destroyed Muslim Brotherhood but Syria supports them in Lebanon. 2. Saudi publicly condemns Saudi terrorists but give funds to Taliban and Al-Qaeda in Pakistan. 3. Imams say Islam is religion of peace but encourage suicide bombings. 4. Women are honored but Quran allows beating of wives. 5. Quran says no to gambling and alcohol. Mos islamic states have casinos.
@msiddiqui135 ..... there was article in times UK last week that most of the UK girls attain puberty by 9. Just because there was an article written does not mean it is true. I can write an article and publish it too. Many years ago someone wrote that the world is going to end in year 2000.
aali1987, how many books have you authored? How much research works and projects have you completed so far? None? I would have thought so. Don't be judgmental or even critical of someone like Irshad, who has achieved more in her young years than many a person of her age or above her age. As to the "double standards" you are mentioning maybe you should look up the definition of "double standard" in a good advanced dictionary of synonyms or in some lexicon. You know: a word a day....
@kendrawhisp The problem is that this society is teaching you to become primitive, and not use your higher human faculties, its in all media, adds, etc. to get a better understanding of what i saying watch documentaries by MEF MEDIA EDUCATION FOUNDATION. I believe they have a channel on youtube, explore some of their documentaries.
@paddy6062 yes you may feel it is wrong according to the present civilized world. But the reason why i gave you the verses from Bible to make you realsie that beating a bad wife is one of the options given in quran but before that it talks about how to care for the wife and how to love her. Quran says that it is mans responsibility to provide all the money for hosing, food etc and if wife earns then she can do whatever she likes with that money.
@GoldenMoonIB lol bro what you mentioned isn't shirk :) This lady is saying haram BUT I do agree some muslims need to be smart when they get their word across and not be soo harsh
@samlarsenwrites sects in islam is forbiddeen according to Quran. the fight between shai and sunni is political just the way you had lots of bloodshed between RC , protestants and other sects.
@kendrawhisp You will not have a successful marriage if you marry a muslim and be atheist, because his/her whole life is centered around islam, prayer, diet, hajj, etc will certainly cause conflict everyday, you will bring wine in his house, and he has to deal with haram constantly which makes it rediculous to even get married, in other words you are looking for a fight. Its like telling someone not to be how they are then get married, that is no marriage.
@msiddiqui135 I beleive Islam has a better option 1. So why are muslim states poor? 2. Why are islamic states governed by dictatorships? 3. Why are muslims asking for democracy and human rights? 4. Why are arab muslims moving , even illegally, to the West? Because of the West?
@suzantasleem Listen, Using the comp. Isn't innovation. It isn't haram to use it. Innovation is bida'h- adding something to the faith that's not true. Like having a wall between men and woman at the masjid as if men and woman can't control themselves. As long as they don't mix, when people say their NEEDS to be a wall- that's bid'ah. Doing something the prophet didn't do is NOT bid'ah. It's just not sunnah. If you have a problem w/ people in saudi guide them- and RESPECTFULLY
@karlsmith00 Wow it seems that your hatred towards islam without knowing islam is evident. If you want to allege something then i would suggest thst you read the source and not the media reports or hear say. There are good christians and bad christians just like muslim...but we do not balme the religion for the action of few bad ones. Read Quran or bible if you want proof anything from it.
@msiddiqui135 she has no moral authority according to all holy scriptures. Again it is a matter of opinion. As a muslim she has every right to question her faith, and to express her opinion. You can choose not to believe her. It is up to you. But just because she is a lesbian, does not mean she is not entitle to the truth.
before you say that, you need to read your own history, because what is the age of consent at that time was not the same age of now. in other words, in the past a child was considered an adult at puberty, this child, preteen, teenageer, young adult, etc did not exist until the 1900th century you cant call all those people child molesters, that is stupid.
@paddy6062 yes it is a form of punishment for disobeident wives. But even the Bible has similar forms of punishment. .........For if a woman will not veil herself, then she should cut off her hair; but if it is disgraceful for a woman to have her hair cut off or to be shaved, she should wear a veil. For a man ought not to have his head veiled, since he is the image and reflection of God; but woman is the reflection of man. (NRSV, 1 Corinthians 11:4-7)
@msiddiqui135 allegations regarding the present Pope, If it is an allegation and not proven, then it is nothing. In secular governments where freedom of expression is allowed, anyone can make allegations at the risk of slander. In Islamic countries, you make this kind of allegation you go to jail for insulting authorities. I am not blaming Islam for a few bad muslims. But I am challenging muslims: Is Islam really a spiritual religion or political ideology?
i guess she already knew that a place in Jahannam is already reserve for her and there is no way for her to turn back..she behave just like the iblis that were described in the Holy Quran..a perfect example is right here infront of our eyes..oh muslim brothers and sisters..if we dont unite now..this pest like irshad jumanji will come in the thousand to sway our faith..its our duty to uphold the sanctity of our holy religion.
@samlarsenwrites Even your foretfather did the same and married early...It was a way of life.Every one was a pedophile according to the defination today ...but waht is the permissable marraige age it varies country to country. Well there was article in times UK last week that most of the UK girls attain puberty by 9. Your logic is baseless and illogical.It is simply a hate which is talking
@kendrawhisp continued...which regulates, controls, and balances the needs of the id with the demands of society and of the superego. Freud believed that a HEALTHY PERSONALITY IS ONE IN WHICH THE EGO BALANCES THE OTHER TWO FORCES EFFECTIVELY, for if one should dominate the other(s) completely, the individual may became either socially destructive or self destructive.....(p 59, Jeffrey Lang: Struggling to Surrender)
@paddy6062 This is all you can say and abuse others. Please write something worthwhile and do not expose your family background and education by abusing others
She has great points. those countries that claim to be islamic have the worst record of civil right violation against women. I am a muslim.
This woman is fabulous - prophetic - highly intelligent and gifted
The thing about Islam is...
They forget that their Prophet was just another Messenger to their God, Allah and he was Human too. Every Muslim should remember that your relationship with God is just a relationship, Nothing else matters, not the belief of others or what they think about you.
Islam Simplified :
Believe in God as you wish, What Muhammad advised you were Laws of that day. Times have changed, Maintain a personal Relationship with your God, Please Ignore about other people's beliefs.
im a christian and i can tell u she is better than all religion put togeather. god bless u my sister. the world need more people like u, id love to see u in person. im from malaysia
The Muslims are not allowed to Discuss or even Criticize the Quran.
Irshad Manji is one of those Modern women who does that and gets abused.
Gay people are commanded to be put to death instantly since they suffer the wrath of Allah. Being Gay is against Islam and Allah will hate you forever.
Irshad Manji is openly gay and has the nerve to say that and Muslims abuse her for that.
This is a woman can change Islam into being a Belief System rather than a Cult, I really appreciate her efforts.
Mehdi Hassan just give up, stop spinning !!!! Irshad is winning because she is honest and speaks the truth
she is 100% correct.
@samlarsenwrites I always have this feeling that Islam is something about ego. They are the best, they want to be unique, they want to conquer the word, their god is the real one and the best one, prophet mohammad is the last and the greatest, etc... Not all muslims are like that, but even the minority is already a lot of people! Bizarre...
Guys I can't hear what she's saying. All I hear is "I'm a liar" "I'm getting paid to feed you crap" and "I actually don't know anything about Islam lol hope you guys buy this".
Is anyone else experiencing this difficulty?
Bravo! I don't agree with everything you said, but am so proud and thankful to you for your strength, honesty, and conviction, - and yes, passion, to express them. You go girl. You sold another book, which by the way, I am pleased with the new title.
@samlarsenwrites not to mention the treatment they give to women and minorities. is really amazing and unbelievable ... but, as we said before, maybe there is a changing from the young. hopefully yes!
@kendrawhisp NOt true, because God made man and women different. in fact, why are there different names to begin with? In islam men and women are essential different, but to make them equal you cant erase what makes them different: women can give birth, men cant, men are essentially stronger, bigger, etc than a women by birth, etc. what islam deals with is equity which is better than equality.
@shashintokyo
I am very proud of Irshad manji. I pray to God that many more muslim woman would be like her. Shame on those who find her a threat to Islam...she is the best voice for Islam ...more power Irshad and bless is the mother that brought you to this world.
I could not have said it better myself!
Candian education system has to be thanked- for that only gave this Muslim lady courage, knowlede,thinking power to talk so fluently and boldy.. Just imagine if she were to be educated in a Muslim country, by this time ,she will be sitting in a house,begetting 20 children,wearing a hijab..
I like the idea of micro-business loans, but I feel that this should be a private enterprise activity NOT a government program! If America were to export its greatest asset (freedom), we'd be so much better off! What we (the US) are doing in Iraq is NOT an example of this!
All criticisms aside, the world needs more people like her!
This is important for all people of every religion. She asks, "How we behave is Islam." This is true for Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism. People of of our diverse religions must all stop thinking their way is the only way toward God and realize that we are one human family. We really need positive voices like this one. One test that humanity is evolving and progressing is when we see the female gender being free from the patriarchal systems that are denying and holding girls and women in a role of second class citizen. Irshad Manji is being attacked by those who can't open their minds to these important thoughts and questions. It is these important points that she is sharing which can lead us all toward peace, compassion, respect and unity to all people of all religions. "Dare to ask questions." "Seek and you will find."
Keep in mind a long time ago life spans was short,its was a common practice since the Egyptian times for young children to marry. If you was 17 and not married people will look at you like a 40 year old virgin. X3
It was not that it was wrong, people back then you was lucky if you can live past 40 years old. So Getting married young was a honor meaning you get you pass the fire and have children sooner when the time was right which ensures family growth. Many cultures still practiced this today
When we belong to a proselytizing religion to be questioned must be a joy.
Irshad has accomplished a lot in her life, when you (born in 1987, I assume) accomplish a fraction of what she's done, maybe then you'll be worth listening to.
Hmmm,some canadian muslims are telling radicals to beat it out of canada and that their kind is not wanted here.A recent letter ive read condems Hezbollah and warns them out of our country.These shall remain nameless,but that support IS acknowledged.Thank you for speaking out against our enemies.Muslims are free to practice their faith peacefully just like others in the US or canada and ARE protected by law.
Mankind has not been created for fun and enjoyment, yet purely for worshipping Allah alone. Yes we can have responsible fun, but Islam teaches that this life on Earth is nothing but a short stop for the final destination, heaven or hell.
@samlarsenwrites I notice that there was not many people on the audience. But the important thing is that she persists. She's admirable! I totally support her and I show her speeches to people. I've seen other Muslins questioning too without leaving the religion. Maybe that's a tendency of the new generations. Hope so! :)
@paddy6062 Mark 10 10
When they were in the house again, the disciples asked Jesus about this. 11He answered, "Anyone who divorces his wife and marries another woman commits adultery against her. 12And if she divorces her husband and marries another man, she commits adultery."
@forgottenmemories63 really appreciate your comment
It is true...a woman DO NOT have to wear a Hi-jab but it is required to dress properly as well as the man too,
Damn, Irshad's brilliant and gorgeous! Although I'm an ardent Atheist sworn to destroy Islam by any and all means, I'd be honored to know Irshad personally and enthralled were she ever clasp within my arms.
u right u don't need to be extreem, u need to be moderate, modest :)
@GoldenMoonIB
Sahih Muslim Bk 4, Number 1885:When Allah's Messenger (may peace he upon him) delivered the sermon, his eyes became red, his voice rose. and his anger increased so that he was like one giving a warning against the enemy and saying:" ...
and would further say:" The best of the speech is embodied in the Book of Allah, and the beet of the guidance is the guidance given by Muhammad. And the most evil affairs are their innovations; and every innovation is error."
it was a 9 year old by the way and she was matured. There were many reasons for marriage with her, many of the prophet muhammed(pbuh) marriages created friendship between tribes and the prophet loved his wives equally and treated them all equally , he did all the house work and pampered them i cant go to much into detail cuz of limit. Btw we were put on this earth to see which was best in there conduct, if there was no evil this life wouldnt be a test and we would all be in heaven.
read this:
Social (and the resulting legal) attitudes toward the appropriate age of consent have drifted upwards in modern times. For example, while ages from 10 to 13 were typically acceptable in western countries during the mid-19th century,[1] 15 to 18 had become the norm in many countries by the end of the 20th century
@samlarsenwrites
1. Women in west were given the right to vote less then 100 years ago.
2.Women whipped for wearing pants. This is a exceptional case, but even bible says that women should not wear men closthing and vice versa.
3. Slavery did continue in US for a very long time. But it is illegal now across the world and has nothing to do with religion.
4. Lot of descrimination is happening around the world for economic reasons or based on color or race or sex. It is political
@samlarsenwrites Nigerian case was a exception. But you as a Bible believer must know that Bible very clearly says that women shold not wear mens clothes and men should not wear women clothes.
I respect this woman however fear for her safety as she said the word RISK
I am surprized they have not issued a fatwa against her for conceived heresies
The very idea that I am sincerely concerned speaks volumes about exactly what she presents - The Trouble with Islam Today.
what's the point of following a religion, if you have to revise everything about it, to make it palatable to your lifestyle and values? just wondering
@kendrawhisp you need to to watch the documentary called "Slim Hopes" by Jean Kilbourne, and fully aquaint yourself with documentaries produced by MEF (Media Education Foundation).
@samlarsenwrites yes as i mentioned below the hsitory is full of people who use religion for justification. There were mass murders donein thepast in the name of christianity, islam o Judiaism. The crusades and the inquisation of spain and the colonization of asia/Africa was done in the name of christianity.But I think we should not blame the religion and yes some people may be inspired by Hly books as well, but that is tjier interprtation.
@kendrawhisp read teh following:
Sigmund Freud identified three influences on the human psyche: the id, the ego, and the superego. In general terms, the id is that source of psychic energy that excites those animalistic tendencies that work for the individual's biological survival, such as greed, power, lust, envy, and pride. The superego is the source of our sense of virtue, morality, and guilt. It urges us to what we consider higher and nobler efforts. The ego is essentially the intellect...
She can have her gay sexuality, she can re-interpret the Quran, she can have her ijtihad she can add and minus the religion she structures...JUST DON'T YOURSELF MUSLIM. it's as simple as that.
@samlarsenwrites another point if you read the history Aisha whom prophet married was one of the biggest scholars of islam and guided people regarding the teachings of God and way of life how prphet lived. This was also for muslims to learn that a women can be a scholar and a leader some 1400 years ago....when europeans were using Women as cattles.
@akhan71192 - "and Jihad actually does mean fighting..." Does it not also include purely emotional struggle, as in the metaphorical "fighting for the betterment of my people", which is not necessarily a physical struggle? How about the struggle to maintain and grow in your faith as "jihad"? I'm not a Muslim. These are things that I've learned from my studies and friends who are Muslim living in various countries where Islam is practiced by the majority of citizens.
@fernandatralala I've seen other Muslins questioning too without leaving the religion.
IN Indonesia, young people are starting to drift away from Islam. This is happening because the environment in Indonesian is far more relax than in Arab states. But the Islamic authorities are alarmed by the many conversion of muslims to christianity.
I wish her luck for her endeavour!
@qizzak yes, she is a lesbian teaching morality. She can do anything to sell the book, some people can sell thier faith, beleif, thier family and even themselves to make money.
@fernandatralala Most of muslims do not like Irshad Manji because she seems to be breaking muslims stereotype that Islam is unquestionable and cannot be criticised. They are disturbed by the fact that she is questioning. I hope she succeeds. She needs the support of muslims and christians alike.
My Muslim mentor says a Hijab is not required... now if she was doing her speeches in a Bikini or a swim suit then yeah I would have issues. But she is dressed appropriately she is not exposing her belly her or any explicit parts... and she is covered neck down.
@samlarsenwrites Again i would deplore the Lesbian and the person in Brunie and all the preachers, reverand and fathers who abused little children in US and Europe.
But if you see the Imam was punished and jailed. How many father, preachers and reverand were Jailed and punished?
back then they did and so did your ancestors, read this:
Social (and the resulting legal) attitudes toward the appropriate age of consent have drifted upwards in modern times. For example, while ages from 10 to 13 were typically acceptable in western countries during the mid-19th century,[1] 15 to 18 had become the norm in many countries by the end of the 20th century
Waites, Matthew (2005). The Age of Consent: Young People, Sexuality and Citizenship. Palgrave Macmillan
@samlarsenwrites State and Religion cannot be seperated. You can see the disaster in western world where you have legal, criminal laws but lack of moral laws, value system, honesty and ethics.
I beleive Islam has a better option which is to make evry human being a believer true beleiver and education is a must in islam. It is complusory for every muslim to pray for 5 times and read quran with understanding. They pray the way jesus prayed. But the muslims who do wrong are not muslims.
@samlarsenwrites what amazes me the most is that at this moment of time when is impossible to be isolated and have no different perspectives, there are still people living under such primitive thoughts. To be a martyr to get 72 virgins on paradise? Oh, please...
Wow, if only this were really Islam, a peaceful, open minded, secular Islam. A return to the Islam the blossomed and flourished, that brought us algebra and the number 0, before it fell to the extreme jihadists and never recovered. An Islam that becomes much closer to post enlightenment Christianity. Before the enlightenment, Christianity was a horrible thing ala westboro baptist church... but its much better now.
@samlarsenwrites A woman must not wear men's clothing, nor a man wear women's clothing, for the LORD your God detests anyone who does this. (NIV, Deuteronomy 22:5)
@samlarsenwrites yes you are right...according to the medical science Journal girls can attain puberty anytinme between 9 to 14 years. It varies depending on the diet , climate and other actvity. please check it up in google. But the age limit for marriage according to man made laws are different in different countries and states like 14, 16, 18 years.
yes you can :) try your best :)
I like a lot of what she says, but from reading her bio, it seems she hasn't actually lived in the Middle East. Anyone feel free to correct me if I'm wrong on that. It just seems a bit hypocritical for her to talk so much about "what happens on the ground" when she's never actually lived in the places she's talking about. Similarly, a critique of American culture would be more convincing from someone who is American or has at least spent time there.
@samlarsenwrites Islam seems to be much more political than religious... I don't know much about it to say, but it's what I heard from some muslims. Internet is doing a good thing for the young then! That's great! Nothing like to have different perspectives and be able to dialogue about everything to open minds.
@samlarsenwrites You have been misinformed but the right word is used in all points "Married". Please check with your mom or aunt and check out honestly how many sex partners they had before the married (if married) and the punishment for adultary is Death in Bible and if she was divorced then she cannot remarry (ref Bible)
because she is from a muslim background doesnt mean she understands or know it properly, many people come from muslim backgrounds without true knowledge of islam and i noticed many fallacies in her book to prove it. MANY ARE MIXED UP WHAT IS CULTURE AND WHAT IS ISLAM. TRY UMMAH FILMS: CULTURE VS ISLAM.
This woman still tries to defend Islam as a whole. Rubbish the religion allows spousal abuse 4:34) and other awful things. Do you really believe that the Supreme Being of the Universe would allow such things at any point in history? It's nonesense.
She is an optimist
@samlarsenwrites You can see the xample in christianity itself. jesus was a man of God but could only preach for a short period of time and after him people like Paul Hijacked the doctrine of jesus and changed it. Today i really dont know if people follow Jesus or [paul who has written 14 out of 27 books and what jesus the true messaih had said is only in 5 books (Read the red lettered bible).
Now how paul contradicts jesus is very simple to prove from bible
@msiddiqui135 in Islam the Quran gives authorization for husbands to beat disobedient wives. This is found in chapter 4, verse 34. Additional references on wife beating are found in Muhammad’s traditions (hadith), and biographical material (sira). Many people have criticized Islam because of this harsh sanction and many Muslims have written articles seeking to mollify or defend it....And you lot even have it on youtube saying its ok..And this is not from the media its from muslims themselves!
@fernandatralala I've seen other Muslins questioning too without leaving the religion.
Young muslims are starting to learn not from the Imams but through discussion on the internet. Discussion with Imams usually comes within the framework that Islam is infallible and so the discourse is very limited. If muslims read the hadiths, they will for sure ask many questions because the narratives just reeks of foolish things and contrivances to advance a political actions.
@samlarsenwrites I am not advising you to pass a judgement but if you are a believer then you will beleive in what God says in Bible. Otherwise you are not a believer.
as for being forced to wear niqab its not islamic, actually the quran tells men to be modest first read both of these surah 24:30-31, HIJAB IS A PERSON RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD AND MORE IMPORTANLY ITS ABOUT ATTTITUE, IF A WOMAN IN NIQAB IS A FLIRT, THAN SHE IS NOT ABSERVING HIJAB even though she is wearing one, it gets deeper than the clothes that you wear, its your total conduct with members of the opposite sex, so keep that in mind.
no, you have a problem with mixing the wrong information, marriage was brothehod, not that he married 6 years old, this hadith gets twisted so often, actually she was married to him nine watch was normal back then actually i can say globally because age of marriage and puberty corresponded many years ago, just by mid1900s it changed in canada it was 12 but moved to more popular figures like 14-16 by 1890s!! no are you calling them all pediphiles, read history age of consent & marriage
She "lacks any form of intellectual reasoning"? Kiddo, she's accomplished much more academically (and therefore intellectually) than you have. And what pedestal is she put on? By who? She's been honored by a couple of universities and is invited to speak and discuss at various places... and her values are hardly "double standards".
@paddy6062 In bibilical times Girls were married at early age between 10-13 years depending on Puberty. even in many countries today the marriage takes place when glrs are born, which means that they book the girl but consumate later. this was a similar culture during bibilical times. And regarding muslims or paster fathers or preachers molesting boys and girls has nothing to do with religion.
@msiddiqui135 This was also for muslims to learn that a women can be a scholar and a leader some 1400 years ago.
Yet not all muslim women enjoy basic freedoms today....Saudi women cannot:
1. drive or choose their husbands
2. work without permission from parents or brothers.
3. travel without consent
4. vote
Muslim women in Niger, Mauritania and Sudan are still being enslaved.
@samlarsenwrites Yes, i agree this may be the case in some countries, but this is all political. women can drive everywhere except saudi as we all can assume that quran doesnt say anything about driving
Choosing husband for a women is a women s right as mentioned in Quran. In fact the islamic marriage cannot happen until a women says yes three times and has 3 witness who sign the contract.
(Contd)
@msiddiqui135 How many father, preachers and reverand were Jailed and punished?
I have not counted..child molestation is punishable by jail term in secular governments. They are marked for life as child molesters and must register in every city they live after they get out of jail. The victims were compensated, even for those cases that happened a long time ago. The payment was only to ease the pain of the abuse, not to absolve the sex offender.
that is what shea means.... that women can do whatever they want.....most importantly......think independently
@paddy6062 Friend ...trrue word of Gods are sometimes difficult to digest. In US 2 out of 3 women are domestically abused.. this is wrong but reality. But this is applicable for a person who is righteous and loves his wife. It is for worst of the time and is like a emergency door in a train of bus. Quran alos talks lots of things about equality and importance of good married live. Uptill 10 years ago it was allowed for parents to beat thier children is it right or wrong?
@karlsmith00 This one of the most common abucive language used. let me tell you something what age was Mary when she gave birth to jesus?
Another point even today half of the women in country like India get married before they turn 18.
In biblical times they follwed law of god and gilrs used to get married after Puberty.
By SINAN SALAHEDDIN, Associated Press Writer
Sun Dec 9, 6:14 PM ET
BAGHDAD - Religious vigilantes have killed at least 40 women this year in the southern Iraqi city of Basra because of how they dressed, their mutilated bodies found with notes warning against "violating Islamic teachings," the police chief said Sunday.
is she questioning the fact that quran says it is indeed the last of the scriptures, sent to us from God and for all mankind and times to come?
wow...she calls herself a muslim
@msiddiqui135 Taqiyya...this applies till today...even among muslims this is a common practice. Example:
1. Syria killed and destroyed Muslim Brotherhood but Syria supports them in Lebanon.
2. Saudi publicly condemns Saudi terrorists but give funds to Taliban and Al-Qaeda in Pakistan.
3. Imams say Islam is religion of peace but encourage suicide bombings.
4. Women are honored but Quran allows beating of wives.
5. Quran says no to gambling and alcohol. Mos islamic states have casinos.
@msiddiqui135 what has this got to do with beating her??
@msiddiqui135 ..... there was article in times UK last week that most of the UK girls attain puberty by 9.
Just because there was an article written does not mean it is true. I can write an article and publish it too. Many years ago someone wrote that the world is going to end in year 2000.
aali1987, how many books have you authored? How much research works and projects have you completed so far? None? I would have thought so. Don't be judgmental or even critical of someone like Irshad, who has achieved more in her young years than many a person of her age or above her age. As to the "double standards" you are mentioning maybe you should look up the definition of "double standard" in a good advanced dictionary of synonyms or in some lexicon. You know: a word a day....
@kendrawhisp The problem is that this society is teaching you to become primitive, and not use your higher human faculties, its in all media, adds, etc. to get a better understanding of what i saying watch documentaries by MEF MEDIA EDUCATION FOUNDATION. I believe they have a channel on youtube, explore some of their documentaries.
@paddy6062 yes you may feel it is wrong according to the present civilized world. But the reason why i gave you the verses from Bible to make you realsie that beating a bad wife is one of the options given in quran but before that it talks about how to care for the wife and how to love her. Quran says that it is mans responsibility to provide all the money for hosing, food etc and if wife earns then she can do whatever she likes with that money.
@GoldenMoonIB
lol bro what you mentioned isn't shirk :)
This lady is saying haram BUT I do agree some muslims need to be smart when they get their word across and not be soo harsh
@samlarsenwrites sects in islam is forbiddeen according to Quran. the fight between shai and sunni is political just the way you had lots of bloodshed between RC , protestants and other sects.
@kendrawhisp
You will not have a successful marriage if you marry a muslim and be atheist, because his/her whole life is centered around islam, prayer, diet, hajj, etc will certainly cause conflict everyday, you will bring wine in his house, and he has to deal with haram constantly which makes it rediculous to even get married, in other words you are looking for a fight. Its like telling someone not to be how they are then get married, that is no marriage.
maybe so, but what's that got do with my question!?!
@msiddiqui135 I beleive Islam has a better option
1. So why are muslim states poor?
2. Why are islamic states governed by dictatorships?
3. Why are muslims asking for democracy and human rights?
4. Why are arab muslims moving , even illegally, to the West?
Because of the West?
@suzantasleem
Listen, Using the comp. Isn't innovation. It isn't haram to use it. Innovation is bida'h- adding something to the faith that's not true. Like having a wall between men and woman at the masjid as if men and woman can't control themselves. As long as they don't mix, when people say their NEEDS to be a wall- that's bid'ah. Doing something the prophet didn't do is NOT bid'ah. It's just not sunnah.
If you have a problem w/ people in saudi guide them- and RESPECTFULLY
9/11 started in US. in my country Macedonia started in 1379 i am happy it started in US hopfooly something will be done to stop this evel
If u knew what really means what u said...she's been there and what she says is not crap...
The worls actually needs these kind of debates
think!
@karlsmith00 Wow it seems that your hatred towards islam without knowing islam is evident. If you want to allege something then i would suggest thst you read the source and not the media reports or hear say.
There are good christians and bad christians just like muslim...but we do not balme the religion for the action of few bad ones. Read Quran or bible if you want proof anything from it.
@msiddiqui135 she has no moral authority according to all holy scriptures.
Again it is a matter of opinion. As a muslim she has every right to question her faith, and to express her opinion. You can choose not to believe her. It is up to you. But just because she is a lesbian, does not mean she is not entitle to the truth.
before you say that, you need to read your own history, because what is the age of consent at that time was not the same age of now. in other words, in the past a child was considered an adult at puberty, this child, preteen, teenageer, young adult, etc did not exist until the 1900th century you cant call all those people child molesters, that is stupid.
@paddy6062 yes it is a form of punishment for disobeident wives. But even the Bible has similar forms of punishment.
.........For if a woman will not veil herself, then she should cut off her hair; but if it is disgraceful for a woman to have her hair cut off or to be shaved, she should wear a veil. For a man ought not to have his head veiled, since he is the image and reflection of God; but woman is the reflection of man. (NRSV, 1 Corinthians 11:4-7)
Riiiiight.
@msiddiqui135 allegations regarding the present Pope,
If it is an allegation and not proven, then it is nothing. In secular governments where freedom of expression is allowed, anyone can make allegations at the risk of slander. In Islamic countries, you make this kind of allegation you go to jail for insulting authorities.
I am not blaming Islam for a few bad muslims. But I am challenging muslims: Is Islam really a spiritual religion or political ideology?
i guess she already knew that a place in Jahannam is already reserve for her and there is no way for her to turn back..she behave just like the iblis that were described in the Holy Quran..a perfect example is right here infront of our eyes..oh muslim brothers and sisters..if we dont unite now..this pest like irshad jumanji will come in the thousand to sway our faith..its our duty to uphold the sanctity of our holy religion.
@samlarsenwrites Even your foretfather did the same and married early...It was a way of life.Every one was a pedophile according to the defination today ...but waht is the permissable marraige age it varies country to country.
Well there was article in times UK last week that most of the UK girls attain puberty by 9. Your logic is baseless and illogical.It is simply a hate which is talking
NJIRR
@kendrawhisp continued...which regulates, controls, and balances the needs of the id with the demands of society and of the superego. Freud believed that a HEALTHY PERSONALITY IS ONE IN WHICH THE EGO BALANCES THE OTHER TWO FORCES EFFECTIVELY, for if one should dominate the other(s) completely, the individual may became either socially destructive or self destructive.....(p 59, Jeffrey Lang: Struggling to Surrender)
@paddy6062 This is all you can say and abuse others. Please write something worthwhile and do not expose your family background and education by abusing others