K
Kouyate42
Guest
Exactly.I have made a pretty extensive study of Islam, both history and theology, and have interacted with Muslims regarding religious beliefs in Turkey, Jordan, and Tunisia. I find the above statement to be way off base, both historically and in contemporary belief of most Muslims I have met. It is hard to refute that during the first centuries of the Islamic empire, Islam tolerated Christians pretty well. Sure, they were restricted on building new churches and from public liturgies/parades on the streets. Yes, they imposed a tax on Christians and Jews, but the tax was roughly equivalent to the tithing expected of Muslims. On balance, Muslims were more tolerant of Christians than vice versa. The behavior of the Crusaders was pretty reprehensible, especially the slaughter after the sack of Jerusalem by Crusaders in 1099.
I am not an apologist for Islam. My study indicates massive problems with the entrenched beliefs of Muslims regarding the life and inspiration of Muhammad and the nature of the Qu’ran as a historical document. Yet, there is beauty in the way Muslims glorify God. I believe it is the same God we Catholics worship, though with a much different understanding of the complex and mysterious nature of God.