BOOK REVIEW: The Koran by Anonymous

 

This is the sacred scriptures of the Islam religion, supposedly penned by that religion’s prophet, Muhammad. Written sometime in the 7^th century, it is claimed by Muslims to be a series of divine revelations given to the prophet by the angel Gabriel. It has become the root book of belief for all sects of that faith.

Upon studying this text, it becomes clear that its interpretations are at the heart of the violence and oppression that has predominated in the Middle East and elsewhere. It clearly states that “men have authority over women because God has made the one superior to the other,” and “as for those from whom you fear disobedience, admonish them, forsake them in beds apart, and beat them” (Women 4:34). This is clearly what makes many men believe they have a right to commit domestic violence. There are also the admonitions, “take neither the Jews nor the Christians for your friends,” (The Table 5:53) and “those that make war against God and His apostle (Muhammad) and spread disorder in the land shall be slain or crucified or have their hands and feet cut off on alternate sides,” (The Table 5:31).  Also, “make war on them until idolatry shall cease and God’s religion (Islam) shall reign supreme” (The Spoils 8:36). Thus the justification of the continuing wars against those of other faiths by the various sects of the Muslim religion.

For myself, personally, I found the God described in this book to be somewhat arbitrary and capricious. Over and over it is stated that “Your Lord knows you best. He will show you mercy if He will, and punish you if He pleases” (The Night Journey 17:52). In other words, a person may spend their lifetime praying and doing good deeds, and nowhere are they given the assurance that the God they pray to loves them enough to allow them into Paradise. All in all, not a very happy thought. Give me a God who loves me, wants the best for me, and promises an eternity in a place of beauty and peace.