Breaking the Stereotypes of Islam

Many people in America have a misconception about the religion of Islam. When the word Muslim is mentioned, some people automatically think of the word terrorism because of September 11th and the War in Iraq. However, it is time for Americans to start to understand Islam and to stop having stereotypical thoughts about the Islamic religion.

The first step to understanding Muslims is to understand the religion of Islam. Islam is not a newly developed religion, however, Islam is the same religion that God revealed through all of His prophets to every people, starting with Adam (peace be upon him). A fifth of the world’s population is considered Muslim. One of the most magnificent aspects of the religion of Islam is that it is also a way of life.

Muslims are not limited to being of one specific race or nationality. As a matter of fact one billion people from a vast range of races, cultures, ethnicities across the globe are united by their Islamic faith. The world’s largest Muslim community is located in Indonesia and about 18% live in the Arab world. Which wipes out the stereotype that the majority of Muslims is from or live in the Arab world.

So what do Muslims believe? Many stereotypical people would assume Muslims believe in an angry God who allows terrorism and suicide bombings. However, Islamic faith is based on the total opposite. Muslims believe in One, Unique, Incomparable God; in God’s angels, in the Prophets through who His revelations were brought to mankind; the Day of Judgment and the accountability of ones good and bad deeds; in God’s complete authority over human destiny and the after life. Muslims also believe that God will admit His righteous servants into Heaven (Paradise) and the people who did not believe in His revelations to the fire of Hell.