Islam does not allow for people to harm innocent people

[myra]

With regards to DaughterUK's post, I must comment on certain issues that you brought up.

1. The Quranic injunctions are brought upon at certain times and certain events, in which they are related to. It could not be taken out of context, and thus, you would get the message which are disconnected. If you research more deeply, the part of fighting the infidels would be in self-defense. Islam does not allow for people to harm innocent people, and Islam believes that we are not supposed to coerce others in entering the religion. Of course, a Muslim's duty is to spread the message, but if you don't enter, we believe that it is your business with God. (Of course, we consider those who follow Prophet Jesus and other Prophets before Prophet Muhammad the follower of Allah too.) Refer to Surah Al-Kafirun to verify this matter.

Besides that, the issue of forgiveness have been stated too in the Quran. A total disregard for its section in the Quran would be a bias on your part.

For example, in the Chapter of Syura in the Quran: The recompense for an injury is an injury equal thereto (In degree): but if a person forgives and makes reconciliation, his reward is due from Allah: for (Allah) loveth not those who do wrong.

And the Prophet Muhammad also mentioned that the best man is not who is strong at fighting, but the best man are those who are patient.

2. In referring to Prophet Muhammad marrying the young girl, yes he did. But only by name. He was asked by his friend, Abu Bakr to be the caretaker of the girl. However, the marriage was not consummated, meaning, they did not have any sexual relationship until she was matured sexually. So, it is not being pedophile, but more of in terms of guardianship.

3. About women being veiled, it is not about an issue of being "dirty" or morally cheapened. In Islam, women are seen as priceless treasures that need to be taken care of. Same with you taking care of money in the banks- the reason is to be guarded and well-kept from harm. It's the same with covering themselves. They don't disregard themselves as cheap- but rather, they see that it is God's love to protect them from being shown freely to the world. About lowering the gaze, it applies to both men and women who are not related, so BOTH men and women have to comply to this. Men too, have certain parts that they need to cover with regards to their features.

4. About not taking believers as friends and everything, again you're taking it out of context- you need to be clear on the real stories behind it. I suggest you ask a person of religious authority of why they had said so. The Prophet didn't have any trouble befriending Jews whilst in control of Madinah during his time. And one of his wife was a Jew! And our Prophets before Prophet Muhammad were Jews too. So, you might want to check on that.

Thanks.