Chapters 11-13

While I was reading these chapters, I became very frustrated with Christianity and how they represented their faith. Through out the chapters, I found myself comparing the ruling styles of the Muslim and Christian leaders. I was frustrated that "Christians" acted on behalf of Christ and did some pretty horrendous acts. Even though I am not of Muslim faith, I too was frustrated at the "Muslims" for not following the original teachings of Muhammad of living a pious, humble and non extravagant life that respects the other two religions. Through out these readings, it seems that people can never stick to the original teachings of the religious authorities (Jesus and Muhammad), regardless if they are legitimate or not. If you're a Christian, then follow the teachings of Jesus. If you're a Muslim, then follow the true teachings of the Qu'ran!

In chapter of the crusades, I kept thinking, did these "Christians" even read the bible at all? Now I know that not all people were literate, and most might have gotten their information from religious leaders, but I still can't believe how the cause of liberating the tomb of Christ from Islam and justifiable cause to wipe out an entire city. Even after the crusade, it seemed like these crusaders did not know what to do with the city. They massacred the whole city, and took the ruins for their personal wealth. They have reclaimed Jerusalem, but most soldiers went home.

I am glad that I was able to read these chapters though and get a better grasp and understanding of the Muslim faith. "The Qur'an therefore instructed Muslims to return to the original, pure religion of Abraham, who had lived before either the Torah or the gospel and had, therefore, been neither a Jew nor a Christian. He had simply been a Muslim, one who had made this total surrender of his life to God." Even though I do not agree, I can sympathize with the fact that Muhammad wanted to purely follow God. Though they did not treat the dhimmis as equals, Islamic rulers for the most part ruled with religious tolerance. There were internal conflicts within the faith, and a period where the Caliph AL-Hakim burned down crosses and segregated the dhimmis and forced them to convert to Islam. But for the most part, I found it rather appealing that out of all the religions, the Islamic religion has brought the most peace less blood shed up to this point.

In conclusion, people completely misinterpret their own faith. I wonder if they do the same now. I must admit that I am in no place to judge what is the real truth in these teachings. Everyone has their own interpretations of the same thing, and that's a problem. Also, I am very glad to start seeing the Islamic side to the story.