Was Islam spread by sword and what does it says about Terrorism?
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Rational
Generally there is a belief that Islam was spread at the point of sword and now it is known to be the religion that promotes terrorism. This study will prove to be very significant in unveiling the truth of Islam that what are the myths and what is the reality of the religion Islam that is not known to the world. The sole reason of this study is to gain knowledge about the Islam that what it is about and what views it has regarding terrorism in the world.
Abstract
The research paper explores the religion Islam that how it was spread; by the means of sword or any other means. Secondly, the research paper also analyzes that what Islam says about the terrorism. It identifies various aspects of the religion that leads to the better understanding towards the teachings of Islam. The paper adopted the qualitative methodology to collect the data and thus the results drawn from the research verified that there is a misconception regarding Islam's teaching. It is a religion of peace and harmony not terrorism. 1400 years ago the religion was spread by the intellect and not sword.
Was Islam spread by sword and what does it says about Terrorism?
Introduction
Islam is not only a faith or religion. It is discipline, philosophy and it is a complete code of life Syed, M (2002, p.9). The word Islam is derived from the Arabic word 'salaam', which means 'peace'. It also means to offer ones will to God. Therefore peace is the message that Islam gives, and it can be acquired by aligning one's will to Allah's will (Almighty God). However, today the followers of Islam portray an entire different image by their violent actions. It has become difficult to judge the reality and true image of Islam.
Literature Review
One of the famous scholars has repudiated the misconception that Muslims forced others to convert on the threat of sword. He said “History makes it clear, however, that the legend of fanatical Muslims, sweeping through the world and forcing Islam at the point of the sword upon conquered races is one of the most fantastically absurd myths that historians have ever repeated” ( O'Leary, D. 1923, p.8)
Author of “Islamic Terrorism: Myth or Reality” Syed, M (2002,p.9) tells in his book that “Islam is the most misunderstood religion in the world”. People talk about the religion Islam but they do not put an effort to know what Islam really teaches and what it is about. Unfortunately, without having accurate knowledge they criticize the religion, and it has become a common practice. He further says that people must understand that the religion Islam and the Muslims are separate entities. Islam is the religion that was preached 1400 years ago by the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), Islam must not be misunderstood by the behavior and actions of its believers which are known as Muslims because all of them are not the true ...