What are some misconceptions that you have come across about Islam?
What are some misconceptions that you have come across about Islam?
Islam, one of the world’s major religions, is followed by over 2.01 billion people across the globe [1]. It transcends borders, cultures, and languages, uniting a diverse group of believers under a common faith that has shaped civilizations for over 1,400 years.
The word “Islam” itself is derived from the Arabic word “salām,” meaning peace, and it fundamentally emphasizes the submission to the will of Allah (SWT), as stated in the Quran: “Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam…” (Al- Quran 3:19).
The teachings of Islam are grounded in principles of justice, compassion, and respect for all of creation. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, “The best among you are those who have the best manners and character” (Sahih Bukhari) [2].
Yet, despite its profound and peaceful teachings, Islam is often misunderstood, and Muslims around the world face misconceptions that distort the true essence of their faith.
This article aims to address these misconceptions, providing clarity and insight into the beliefs and practices of Islam. By delving into the historical context, common myths, and core teachings, this piece seeks to offer a more accurate understanding of what it means to be a Muslim.
Through authentic Quranic verses and Hadiths, the goal is to dismantle the stereotypes that have been perpetuated and to foster a greater sense of understanding and respect among readers of all backgrounds.
Origins of Islam and Early History
Islam originated in the early 7th century CE in the Arabian Peninsula, specifically in the city of Mecca (present-day Saudi Arabia). The religion was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) over a period of 23 years through the Angel Jibreell (AS) [Gabriel], who conveyed the words of Allah (SWT), which were later compiled into the Quran. The Holy Quran, regarded as the literal word of Allah, serves as the primary source of guidance for Muslims.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) began preaching the message of monotheism, emphasizing the worship of one God, social justice, and moral integrity. His teachings challenged the polytheistic and tribal norms of the time, which led to significant opposition from the leaders of Mecca. However, the message of Islam gradually spread, gaining followers who were drawn to its emphasis on equality, compassion, and community.
In 622 CE, facing increasing persecution, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his followers migrated to Medina, an event known as the Hijra. This migration marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
In Medina, Islam flourished, and the first Islamic state was established, guided by principles of justice, consultation, and mutual respect. The Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) leadership and the unifying message of Islam helped bring about the peaceful resolution of conflicts between various tribes, laying the foundation for the rapid expansion of Islam across the Arabian Peninsula and beyond.
Misconceptions about Islam and Muslims
Islam Promotes Violence and Terrorism
Misconception: Many people believe that Islam encourages violence and that all Muslims are potential terrorists.
Reality: This misconception is fueled by the actions of extremist groups that falsely claim to represent Islamic teachings. However, the reality is that Islam advocates for peace, justice, and the sanctity of life.
The Quran strongly condemns the taking of innocent lives. One of the most frequently cited verses in this regard is: “Whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land – it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one – it is as if he had saved mankind entirely” (Al – Quran 5:32).
This verse underscores the value of human life and makes it clear that taking an innocent life is a grave sin, equated with killing all of humanity.
Another verse emphasizes the importance of justice and the peaceful resolution of conflicts: “But if they incline towards peace, then you [also] incline towards it and rely upon Allah. Indeed, it is He who is the Hearing, the All Knowing” (Al – Quran 8:61).
This verse illustrates Islam’s preference for peace and reconciliation, even in situations where conflict might arise.
The concept of “Jihad” is often misunderstood and misrepresented by both extremists and those unfamiliar with Islamic teachings. The word “Jihad” literally means “struggle” or “striving” and refers to the internal and external efforts required to live a good Muslim life.
The greater Jihad (Jihad al-Akbar) is the internal struggle against sin, while the lesser Jihad (Jihad al-Asghar) refers to the defense of the Muslim community against oppression and injustice. Importantly, Jihad does not mean “holy war,” and it is not a license for indiscriminate violence.
The Quran explicitly states that fighting is only permitted in self-defense and against those who have initiated aggression. Even then, Muslims are commanded to act justly:
“Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors” (Quran 2:190).
The Quran’s first commandment to Muslims to fight, found in Surah Al-Baqarah 2:190, emphasizes strict limits on warfare: “Fight in God’s cause against those who fight you, but do not overstep the limits: Allah does not love those who overstep the limits.”
Prior to this, the Quran advised Muslims to be patient and to forgive the harm inflicted upon them by disbelievers. However, when aggression threatened the survival of the Muslim community, this verse was revealed to permit self-defense, establishing key principles of Islamic warfare [3].
The most important rule derived from this verse is that fighting is restricted to those who actively engage in combat. It explicitly states, “Fight against those who fight you,” meaning civilians must not be targeted. Islamic jurists have reinforced this by deeming it impermissible to harm non-combatants, including women, children, the elderly, and religious figures, as well as those who are not directly involved in the fighting, like farmers and laborers.
This principle is echoed in the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his close companion Abu Bakr. The Prophet condemned the killing of women and children in battle, explaining that they were not combatants [4]. Abu Bakr instructed his soldiers not to harm non-combatants or destroy resources, such as trees or livestock, unless necessary for survival. This reflects a deep commitment to justice and mercy, even in times of war [5].
The Prophet’s (ﷺ) own sword bore an inscription as a reminder: “Verily, the worst of people in insolence are those who strike at whoever did not strike them, a man who kills those who did not fight him.” [6] This message underscores the importance of protecting civilians and ensuring that warfare, when unavoidable, is conducted with the utmost respect for human life and dignity. Transgressing these limits is strictly prohibited in Islam, highlighting its commitment to ethical conduct in all aspects of life.
Terrorists who claim to act in the name of Islam are not engaging in legitimate Jihad; instead, they are committing actions that are explicitly condemned by Islamic teachings. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned against such individuals, saying:“Whoever takes up arms against us is not one of us” (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 6659, Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim 98).
The actions of extremists who commit violence in the name of Islam are a distortion of Islamic teachings. The true essence of Islam is one of peace, mercy, and justice. Muslims around the world denounce terrorism and work towards promoting peace and understanding, reflecting the core values of their faith.
Women Are Oppressed in Islam
Misconception: There is a widespread belief that Islam oppresses women, denying them basic rights and freedoms.
Reality: In reality, Islam granted women numerous rights and protections long before any other societies. The Quran and Hadith emphasize the dignity, respect, and equality of women.
The Quran explicitly affirms the equality of men and women in faith and rights. For instance, it states: “And for women are rights over men similar to those of men over women” (Quran 2:228).
The Quran emphasizes the essential unity of men and women in a most beautiful way, “They (your wives) are your garment and you are a garment for them.” (Quran 2:187)
These verses highlights that men and women have mutual rights and responsibilities. Furthermore, the Quran addresses women’s rights to inheritance, property ownership, and participation in social and political life. It also guarantees their right to consent in marriage:
“O you who have believed, it is not lawful for you to inherit women by compulsion. And do not restrict them that you may take [back] part of what you gave them, except that they commit a manifest lewdness. And live with them in kindness. For if you dislike them – perhaps you dislike a thing and Allah makes therein much good” (Quran 4:19).
This verse emphasizes treating women with kindness and respect, and it forbids forcing women into marriage or taking back gifts given to them.
The Quran also includes an entire chapter, Surah An-Nisa (The Women), dedicated to issues pertaining to women’s rights, family laws, and social justice. This chapter addresses various aspects of women’s rights and protections, including marriage, inheritance, and justice.
The Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) further supports the rights and dignity of women. He said: “The best of you are those who are best to their women” (Sunan al-Tirmidhī 1162). Additionally, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: “Women are the twin halves of men” (Sunan Abu Dawood, 236).
This statement emphasizes the equality and complementary nature of men and women, reinforcing that women are equal partners in the human experience.
While cultural practices in some Muslim-majority countries may indeed restrict women’s rights, these practices are often influenced by local traditions rather than Islamic teachings. True Islamic principles advocate for the empowerment and respect of women, reflecting the Quran’s and Hadith’s teachings.
Muslim Women Are Deprived of Inheritance
Misconception: Another prevalent misconception is that Muslim women are deprived of inheritance.
Reality: In fact, Islamic law provides women with specific inheritance rights, which were progressive compared to the norms of many societies at the time of their revelation and still relevant today. The Quran clearly outlines women’s inheritance rights in several verses. One of the primary verses detailing this is:
“Allah instructs you concerning your children: for the male, what is equal to the share of two females. But if there are [only] daughters, more than two, their share is two-thirds of the estate. And if there is only one [daughter], her share is half. For parents, a sixth of the inheritance to each of them if the deceased left children; but if the deceased had no children and the parents are the [only] heirs, then for the mother is one-third…” (Quran 4:11).
This verse demonstrates that women are entitled to a share of the inheritance, though their share may be different from that of men. The reason for this differentiation, as explained in Islamic jurisprudence, is linked to the financial responsibilities assigned to men in family life. Men are generally required to provide for their families financially, while women are not obligated to use their wealth for family support, thus reflecting a balance in financial responsibilities.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also emphasized the importance of following the Quranic injunctions on inheritance. Narrated by Ibn ‘Abbas, the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Give the inheritance to those who are entitled to it, and whatever is left should go to the closest male relative of the deceased.” (Sahih Bukhari) [7].
Islamic inheritance laws provide women with a recognized right to inheritance and a financial stake in their family’s wealth, which is still in line with contemporary principles of justice and equity. These laws stand in stark contrast to many pre-Islamic practices where women often received no inheritance at all.
Even today, Islamic inheritance laws offer a structured and fair approach to distributing wealth, ensuring that women have legal rights to inherit and benefit from family assets.
Islam Is Intolerant of Other Religions
Misconception: A common misconception is that Islam is intolerant of other religions and seeks to impose itself by force.
Realty: This belief often arises from misunderstandings or misinterpretations of Islamic teachings. However, Islam’s core principles emphasize religious tolerance, freedom of belief, and peaceful coexistence with people of other faiths. The Quran explicitly states that there should be no compulsion in matters of faith:
“Let there be no compulsion in religion, for the truth stands out clearly from falsehood” (Quran 2:256).
This verse underscores the principle that faith is a personal matter, and no one should be forced to embrace Islam or any other religion. It affirms that individuals are free to choose their beliefs without coercion, highlighting Islam’s respect for religious freedom.
Another verse that promotes interfaith harmony is: “Indeed, the believers, Jews, Christians, and Sabians—whoever ˹truly˺ believes in Allah and the Last Day and does good will have their reward with their Lord. And there will be no fear for them, nor will they grieve.” (Quran 2:62).
This verse recognizes the righteousness of people from different faith traditions and assures them of their reward with God, emphasizing that Islam acknowledges the goodness in other religions and their followers.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also demonstrated this principle of tolerance and coexistence in his actions. One of the most notable examples is the “Constitution of Medina”, a document he established to govern the diverse communities in Medina, including Muslims, Jews, and other tribes. This constitution guaranteed religious freedom and equal rights to all citizens, regardless of their faith.
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Whoever killed a Mu’ahid (a person who is granted the pledge of protection by the Muslims) shall not smell the fragrance of Paradise though its fragrance can be smelt at a distance of forty years (of traveling). [8]
This Hadith emphasizes the importance of protecting non-Muslims who live in Muslim lands or have agreements with Muslims, highlighting the duty of Muslims to ensure the safety and rights of those who follow other religions.
The Caliphs who succeeded the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) embodied the values of tolerance and coexistence in their leadership. Abu Bakr instructed his army to avoid harming non-combatants, religious figures, and civilians, emphasizing the protection of human life and property, regardless of religious affiliation. Umar ibn al-Khattab established the Pact of Umar with the Christian population of Jerusalem, guaranteeing their religious freedom and the safety of their places of worship. He even refused to pray in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre to protect its Christian status.
Muslim Men Must Marry Four Wives
Misconception: Another common misconception is that Islam requires Muslim men to marry four wives.
Reality: In reality, the practice of polygamy in Islam is not mandatory but rather an option that comes with strict conditions. It was introduced during a time when it was necessary for the welfare of society. The Quran permits a man to marry more than one wife, but it does so with specific guidelines and a strong emphasis on justice:
“And if you fear that you will not deal justly with the orphan girls, then marry those that please you of [other] women, two or three or four. But if you fear that you will not be just, then [marry only] one or those your right hand possesses. That is more suitable that you may not incline [to injustice]” (Quran 4:3).
This verse allows for the practice of polygamy but places a significant condition on it: justice. A man must treat all his wives with complete fairness. If he fears that he cannot maintain this level of equity, he is instructed to marry only one. The verse highlights that the primary concern is justice and fairness, not the number of wives.
The context of this verse is also important. It was revealed after the Battle of Uhud, where many Muslim men were killed, leaving behind widows and orphans. Polygamy was permitted as a way to protect and support these vulnerable members of society. However, even then, it was not an obligation but an option to address specific social needs.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) further emphasized the importance of fairness in marriages. Abu Hurairah narrated that: The Messenger of Allah said,
“Whoever has two wives and favors one of them over the other will come on the Day of Judgment with one side of his body drooping” (Sunan al-Tirmidhī, #1141.).
This Hadith underscores the serious responsibility that comes with polygamy in Islam. It is not merely about having multiple wives but about ensuring that each wife is treated with equal care, respect, and justice. The consequences of failing to do so are severe, highlighting that polygamy is not to be taken lightly.
Islam does not mandate that a Muslim man must marry four wives. The option of polygamy is provided under specific circumstances and comes with strict requirements for fairness and justice. It was introduced in a context where it was necessary to support vulnerable members of society, but it is neither compulsory nor encouraged unless the conditions of justice can be met.
The Roots of Islamophobia in the West
The Western world’s fear and reluctance to accept Islam as it does other religions stem from a complex mix of historical, cultural, and political factors.
One significant reason lies in the legacy of historical conflicts, such as the Crusades and the expansion of the Ottoman Empire into Europe. These events created deep-rooted suspicions and animosities between the Christian West and the Muslim world, which have persisted through the centuries. Even today, these historical memories influence perceptions, often casting Islam as a foreign and threatening force.
Moreover, the portrayal of Islam in Western media significantly contributes to this fear. Media outlets frequently highlight the actions of extremist groups, linking Islam with violence and terrorism.
This selective reporting ignores the reality that the vast majority of Muslims lead peaceful lives and reject extremism. As a result, Islam is often unfairly depicted as inherently violent, reinforcing negative stereotypes and deepening mistrust among Western audiences.
Cultural differences also play a critical role in shaping Western attitudes towards Islam. Islamic social and moral codes, such as those related to gender roles, dress, and family structure, can be seen as incompatible with Western secular and liberal values.
This perceived clash of cultures leads to misunderstanding and fear of the unfamiliar, making it harder for Western societies to accept Islam as they might other religions that align more closely with their own cultural norms.
Political agendas further complicate the issue. In many Western countries, some political leaders and groups exploit fear of Islam to gain support, often framing it as a threat to national security or cultural identity. This fear-mongering not only fosters Islamophobia but also hinders efforts to build bridges of understanding between Muslim and non-Muslim communities.
At the core of these challenges is a widespread lack of understanding of Islam in the West. Many Westerners have little knowledge of Islamic teachings and practices, leading to misconceptions and unfounded fears.
Bridging this gap through education, dialogue, and increased interaction between Muslim and non-Muslim communities is essential for overcoming these barriers and fostering a more accepting and inclusive society.
Conclusion
The misconceptions surrounding Islam, such as the belief that it promotes violence, oppresses women, or mandates polygamy, often stem from a combination of historical misinterpretations, cultural practices, and the actions of a minority of extremists.
These misconceptions have been exacerbated by media portrayals and a lack of understanding of Islamic teachings. In reality, these views distort the core principles of Islam, which emphasize peace, justice, and respect for all human beings.
The renowned Islamic scholar, Karen Armstrong, explains that the root of many misconceptions lies in ignorance and the tendency to judge Islam by the actions of a few rather than its teachings.
She argues that Islam, like any other major religion, has a rich history of promoting human dignity and rights. Armstrong states, “Islam is not a religion of violence. The word ‘Islam’ is related to ‘salam,’ peace. Islam insists on the absolute sanctity of human life, and the Quran states that killing one soul is like killing the whole of mankind.” [9]
Additionally, John L. Esposito, a prominent scholar of Islamic studies, notes that misconceptions about Islam often arise from a failure to distinguish between cultural practices in some Muslim-majority countries and the actual teachings of Islam.
He writes, “Many of the issues criticized in Islam, such as the treatment of women or the use of violence, are not rooted in the religion itself but in cultural and political contexts that have deviated from Islamic principles.”. [10]
These misconceptions not only misrepresent Islam but also contribute to the violation of human rights by fueling discrimination, prejudice, and hostility against Muslims. Addressing and correcting these false beliefs is crucial in fostering mutual respect, understanding, and peace among all communities.
Misconceptions are violations of human rights because they perpetuate false narratives that lead to the marginalization and mistreatment of individuals based on their faith.
Through education, dialogue, and a commitment to understanding the true teachings of Islam, it is possible to overcome these misconceptions and build a more just and inclusive society.
