Islam

Fig. 1 Medallion showing "Allah" (God) in Hagia, Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey. What I had gathered from our class discussions around Islam’s beliefs and values. Islam means submission,  from this root word in Arabic salaam. In another sense peace is not technically accurate but close enough. I could agree with this notion that it wouldn’t make sense for everyone to be the same. I mean come on we are all created to be unique and authentic not living dolls. The religion Islam is more legalistic but also more flexibility to new age approaches. Fig. 2  Huuwaida.com, The Five Pillars of Islam and Its Explanation, 2016. (Image by Huuwaida, 2016,  huuwaida.com/the-five-pillars-of0islam-and-its-explanation. Copyright 2016 by Huuwaida. Reprinted with permission.) In order to accept any religion, people must be willing to accept their beliefs and teachings.  Muslim lives are duty bound to the Five Pillars of Islam and adhere to soteriology meaning doctrine of salvation. In the book of Genesis depicts a vision this creator, sustainer of the whole universe. The prophet Muhammad was visited by the archangel Gabriel, whom was the messenger from Allah (God). Listening attentively as the Imam spoke on the differences from between Islam and Christianity.  Allah has no partners meaning the (triune god), Qu'ran and the Bible have similarities both are awaiting the eschaton, charity is very significant in the life of a Muslim, a separate account for money that goes directly to the needs of others.  Upon our visitation to the Jamia Masjid Al Mustafa the Muslim mosque in Otahuhu, was a great privilege it is not every day, we have such an opportunity, to get an insight to how Muslims pray and enter into their sacred space and place of worship. Observing the upper room of prayer how serene and peaceful it was, as the Muslim men began making their way in for afternoon prayer. I was taken by their sheer dedication and commitment taking time out from their busy schedules to attend Zhur. I think the outside world have got it wrong in some way, instead of looking from outside in. It should be done inside out. We can't always rely on media when they to themselves are dictating to international viewers how to think and what to believe. Look at Sonny Bill Williams an international rugby star, has become a Muslim follower because of their beliefs and values that would help him in his pathway, to becoming a better man for his wife and family. Living a simple life and being content, he is not too concerned about life in the limelight. Having an understanding about Islam, and what their religion means to them. We can attentively build relationships and connect with our Muslim friends.