The ClayTaurus said:In both Christianity and the Islam, those often viewed as the most extreme are the same who take a very litteral interpretation of their respective texts...at least in my opinion.
My problem with Islam is the lack of strong leadership that allows their religion to be misrepresented. I will concede that Christians (although certainly not all of them) would be very vocal in speaking out about similar acts. When Pat Robertson is calling for people to be taken out, a swarm of Christians quickly ostricize him.
This doesn't change the fact that many Muslims are peaceful people. I can only hope that a voice comes through the fuzz to lead them past this.
Which is a nice thought, but my problem comes with the very writings of Islam that justifies deadly retaliation to all who are the infidels, and infidels is anyone who is not converted to Islam. Now whether that teaching was put there as a way to frighten many into becoming Muslim as was the case centuries ago it still is a tenant of their faith.
Oh and Id' like to second Abbey's welcome to the board
