Muzna
April 4, 2012, 3:09pm
21
Re: Customized Islam
In the realm of faith, there is no single interpretation that can be considered valid. So long as the author himself is not present to expound on his own work, no one can assume to know what the original intention was, or is.
What we deem then to be valid is relative. Ultimately its based on who we are as individuals or society. So for a person (or society by extension) that is inherently liberal, the Koran and hadeeth will take on a liberal leaning, and vice versa with conservatives.
To rely to much on established “scholars” risks turning a deeply personal faith into one that is exceedingly esoteric and hence prone to the same inequities that befall any system that is left in the hands of a chosen few.
The best approach to Islam I believe, and indeed any system, is to keep in mind the very basic tenets that we all agree on. Equity and justice, avoiding harm, and pursuing the greatest good for all those in our dealings within our means. So long as we abide by these tenets, and establish that we will interpret our faith in pursuance of these ends, we are serving Islam.
God has gifted us with reason and logic. Employing these faculties in an sincere manner will answer many questions regardless of sect or creed.
Everything else is unknowable and is best left in the hands of the almighty. We as mortals can only do our best.
Very, very well said.
I do find that we doubt our ability to comprehend and reason more than we should and rely upon “scholars” to define the do’s and don’ts a bit too much.
I enjoyed your post enough to read it twice.
Thank you.