Challenges facing Muslims in the West

[USResident]

Re: Challenges facing Muslims in the West

@pakone

Asalam Aleykum

This is my first post on gupshup. I was motivated to start a discussion on the challenges faced by muslims in western societies. Often I have heard that a so-called “purer Islam” can be practiced in western, free society. While I am not going to contest that notion, I do know that as a Muslim male:

• Avoiding looking at scantily clad woman during summer time is close to impossible. I know it is their society and their freedom wear what they choose, I look away but it is everywhere. From the shopping mall to the university.

• Finding a zabiha halal place is tough, particularly when you’re driving through new town/city. I can eat vegetarian and stick to fish but I wish I had more options.
  Yes, I am aware of zabihah type websites, but it is a bit hard to find a place in Randomtown USA; Population: 2,000.

• Socializing in the mainstream society without alcohol. Sure I can get a cup of water, juice, soda and I do, but I hate that my colleagues and I can only talk informally in the place where alcohol is prominent. All the parties, professional events and even some desi meetups present this issue.

I grew up in a fairly moderate Pakistani Muslim family environment. As time passed, we became more liberal but that didn’t bring us any spiritual satisfaction. Now I find myself trying to become a better Muslim day to day.

Islam is truly the right path for me. Being born Muslim does not make me one. I see the foundations of my faith grounded in logic. It would be great to hear your thoughts, particularly from a western Islam perspective. Faith is a deeply personal matter for me and I hope that I did not offend.

Nice thread and welcome to gupshup. I hope it stays practical. Me being in the US understand what you mean and how it bothers you and tempts at the same time.

• For the women issue, the best you can get is to stay away from places which are not family oriented. If you are in the work place from 8 - 5 then people dress pretty decently there anyway. This problem is mostly apparent when your in malls or other places. Your best defense is really your control of your nafs. For me I just walk past without even trying to notice. Works 95% of the time but then hey we’re all human and advertently or inadvertently it does happen and not only because you are in USA. The dresses in Pakistan are no exception to feeding our desires, with what our women wear over there in summer, paper thin shalwar kameez, things sometimes become just as mayoob. Again its your Niyah, if it is clean then your actions follow. If you are married then try and go out with your family, which will keep you under control also.

• As far as zabiha goes, its not a problem for me because I am of the opinion that I can consume from the people of the book with exception to intoxicants and pork. However i still always bring zabiha meat in my house but I usually do not have problem eating outside when needed. My honest opinion has been that muslims have over-complicated this issue and unconsciously make a moutain out of a mole hill because they want to act distinct and less through religious conviction.

• This is really something that gets me as well. It becomes quite hard for me to socialize infromally because it starts with a beer and ends with it. I have no choice but to socialize on occasions such as meetings or company lunches and dinners where I know alcoholism will not be permitted. You can also invite to your home if appropriate. There is no need to loose your identity. Not everyone is the same, some people will ridicule you but not all, there are many who respect your beliefs as well and I have seen that come when you at least try to understand their beliefs as well. Christians who are not bigots and practice their religion somewhat tend to be friendly and respectful. My neighbour used to be a minister, I never had issue with him or him with me. We even exchanged visits in each others homes and shared food. He knew my limits and I did his. One more thing in the society here is that you do not start preaching your beliefs to them until they show their own curiosity infact to be friends with them its often more fruitful when when you inquire about their beliefs and occasions. Friends are not made by telling them you are wrong or I can’t mingle with you because I think you do wrong things. You need to find an understanding. You may never be as close with them as you are with your own muslim people but they will not be hostile to you either. Even though they do not share our beliefs many of them can still be very respectful. Infact I have never found much respect in my own people and we are just as much hypocritical as we claim them to be.