Loga'Abdullah

Hello and Happy Saturday Everyone!

I wish to thank Upasana for her interview last week. It was wonderful to learn more of the Hindu faith so thank you so much for sharing Upasana!

Today we have a new post so please welcome Loga'Abdullah. Loga'Abdullah is a Muslim and I know you're going to enjoy his interview as well!

Here Is Loga'Abdullah's Introduction:

Loga’Abdullah was born and raised in Canada and currently lives and works overseas. He writes on the blog: www.alhamdulilah.info. He is a student and does not claim to be an authority or scholar, rather his writing encourages discussion and reflection.

1) What religion do you practice?

I am a Muslim, meaning I practice the religion of Islam. This is a faith that confirms the belief in the Prophets of Judaism and Christianity, such as Moses, Abraham, Noah and Jesus – peace and blessings be upon all of them. Fundamentally the message of Islam is that there is only One God and nothing else is to be worshipped except Him.

2) Would you consider yourself a moderate, conservative or other.

As a Muslim, and speaking from a Muslim perspective, I can not generalize the many aspects of life (politics, economics, lifestyle and otherwise) as one single ideology. Rather, the believers are just, as God says in the Qur’an (2:143) Muslims are to be a “just community.” Therefore one must look at each specific issue and analyze the matter thoroughly in order to arrive at a truthful and just position.

3) What's your heaven/paradise like?

God says: “Gardens of eternity” and “a beautiful place of (final) return.”

4) In your opinion, does everyone make it into heaven/paradise? If they do not, why?

God is Just. Justice necessitates that not all people are treated in the same manner, for their actions are not the same – to do otherwise would be unjust, which God is far from. As a result, God will, by His Grace and Mercy, admit some to Paradise; “the sincere (and devoted) servants of God” (37:40) as God describes them in the Qur’an.

5) What makes your religion a good fit for you?

It is the Truth.

6) What are your holy days and what do you do to celebrate them?

Muslims Celebrate two Eid holidays, as well as every Friday. We enjoy these days with companionship, remembrance of God, prayer and meals.

7) Do you consider people of other faiths to be your friends?

Yes – and, amongst my family there are members who do not share my faith.

8) Would you ever join people of another faith to celebrate one of their holy days? Please explain why?

Muslims believe that there is only One God worthy of worship, and therefore it is not befitting of such a believer to celebrate the worship of idols or people.

9) What are your thoughts on the burka, and Shariah Law?

Regarding “burka” mostly known as “niqaab” elsewhere in the world, women ought to have the ability and right to wear this if they choose to do so. Shariah Law is a misnomer of sorts, due to translation. “Shariah” is not just “law” in the English sense of the word, rather it encompassesmore aspects of life. For example, the good manners that one is to have with ones parents and the care that is to be given to orphaned children. It includes cleanliness of the self and of the environment as well as more traditional legal codes.

10) Are women allowed to hold religious office (priest, minister, rabbi, iman etc) in your religion and how do you feel about it?

Women have been, and continue to be, great scholars in Islam. During all times women have been great teachers and scholars. Some of the greatest narrators of Prophet narrations are women. I assume your question is speaking about leading the prayer – due to the nature of prayer, women may led other women but not groups of men.

11) How much does your religion affect your daily life and how much thought do you give it when making a decision? Does it affect in anyway your decision on abortion, gay marriage, etc?

I take my guidance from God, His Book and His Messengers. So, yes, the decisions I make in my life are guided by my beliefs.

12) In your opinion, if someone is not of your faith, will they go to hell?

Judgment is for God alone – it's not for me or for anyone to determine if a person will be successful in there Hereafter or not. God says:“Allah will admit those who believe and work righteous deeds” (22:23).

13) Who do you think is not a practicing ----- in your religion and why?

Not practicing is simply not doing what the faith outlines. Muslims believe in One God, pray, give in charity, fast and make pilgrimage.

14) Have you ever been the target of a hate crime? Please explain.

Sometimes people who appear as Muslims are discriminated against in the workplace and in society in general, however that is not par for the course and generally speaking most people aim to understand and work with one another.

15) Do you ever feel like your religion devalues you?

Never.

16) Does your religion give you peace of mind?

Yes.

17) Do you believe in reincarnation?

No.