AT TAHQI:Q

Muslims and Non

Muslim Coountries
A CASE OF STUDY
HUSA:MULLAH

DIFFERENT ASPECTS OF THE PROBLEM ARE STUDIED

Contents
INTRODUCTION
SECTION 1
POPULATION OF MUSLIMS
SECTION 2
PROBLEMS FACING MUSLIMS IN FOREIGN COUNTRIES
2.1-RESTRICTIONS ON RELIGIOUS PRACTISES
2.1.1-SALAT
2.1.2-FASTING AND RAMADHAN
2.2-MOSQU-STATE RELATION
2.3-RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
2.3.1-LACK OF PROPER ISLAMIC INSTITUTE
2.3.2-LACK OF PROPER ISLAMIC SCHOLARS
2.3.3-UNAVAILIBILITY OF PROPER ISLAMIC BOOKS
2.3.4-INCAPIBILITIES OF SCHOLARS IN ARABIC LANGUAGE
2.3.5-LACK OF MOTIVATION IN MUSLIMS TOWARDS INSTITUTES
2.3.6-RESPECTIVE GOVERNMENTAL RESTRICTIONS
2.4-PROBLEM OF MARRIAGES
2.4.1-DIFFERENCES
2.4.2-MUSLIMS GIRLS CANNOT MARRY A NON MUSLIMS
2.4.3-SUITABLE SPOUSE FOR MUSLIM GIRLS
2.4.4-HOMOSEXUALITY
2.4.5LESS NO. OF MALES
2.5-PROBLEM OF VEILING
2.5.1-A STRANGE ACT
2.5.2-FORCE ON HUMAN FREEDOM
2.6-CLASH OF CULTURES
2.6.1-FREE SOCIETY VS BOUND NORMS
2.6.2-MIXED GATHERING
2.6.3-EUROPEAN SOCIETY ALLOW FREE MIXING
2.6.4NO BOUND OF SEX WITHIN BOUND OF MARRYING
Page 2 of 41

2.6.5-SOCIAL INTERACTIONS
2.6.6-PARTIES
2.7-MARGINALIZATION, UNEMPLOYMENT AND DISCRIMINATION
2.8-PROBLEM OF CONVERSION
2.9-PROBLEM OF TERRORISM
2.10-ISLAMIC EXTREMISM
2.11-BIASED MEDIA
2.12-SECTARIAN PROBLEM
2.13-PROBLEM OF SACRIFIES
2.14-VISIBILITY OF CRESCENT
2.15-ANTI ISLAMIC NATIONALIST
2.16-CARTOON ISSUE
SECTION 3
MISCONCEPTION/QUESTIONS ON ISLAM
3.0.1-MISCONCEPTION DUE TO MEDIA
3.0.1-MISCOCEPTION CAHNGES WITH TIME
3.1-WOMEN HAVE NO RIGHTS
3.1.1 SPIRITRUAL RIGHTS
3.1.2- WOMEN HAVE NO FINANCIAL OBLIGATIONS
3.1.3-SOCIAL RIGHTS
3.2-HIJAB FOR WOMEN
3.2.1-HIJAB UPLIFTED WOMEN STATUS
3.2.2-HIJAB PREVENTS MOLESTATION
3.3-ISLAM SPREAD BY SWORD
3.3.1-NO COMPULSION IN RELIGION
3.3.2-SWORD OF INTELLECT
3.4-MUSLIMS ARE FUNDAMENTALISTS
3.4.1-ISLAM MEANS PEACE
3.4.2-ISLAM DEFENSIVE SYSTEM (JIHAD)
3.5-PROHIBITION OF ALCOHOL
3.5.1-ALCOHOLIM IS SATANS HANDY WORK
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3.5.2-MOTHER OF ALL EVILS

3.6-POLYGAMY
3.6.1-AN UPPER LIMIT
3.7-IDOL WORSHIP
3.8-PORK (HARAM)
SECTION 4
4.1-MIGRATION TO NON MUSLIM COUNTRY DARUL HARB
4.2-MIGRATION TO MUSLIM LAND (DARUL ISLAM)
OR LIVING IN NON MUSLIM LAND
4.2.1-THOSE WHO ARE OBLIDGED
4.2.2-THOSE WHO ARE NOT OBLIDGED
4.2.3-MIGRATION IS RECOMMENDED
4.3-VIEWS OF ISLAMIC SCHOLARS
-SHAYKH IBN UTHAYMEEN
-ZAKRIYA AL ANSARI AL-SHAFAII
-IBN-AL-ARABI AL MAALIKI
-AL HAFIZ IBN HAJAR

Page 4 of 41

INTRODUCTION:
Islam is the religion of peace. Peace is the one of the Fundamental Principles of
Islam. But Islam does have a solid defense system (Jihad) [1].
Jihad is the defensive system of Islam. Islam does not allow anyone to disturb its
peace system. But Islamic system is misinterpreted as Islamic offensive system.
Some heretic sects began to misinterpret Islamic defense system in the past, and
some still do it in present.
Anti Islamic elements often magnify these heretic cults which are extremists and
are totally different from Orthodox Islam [2]. These elements misinterpret the
orthodox Islam which condemns the heretic cults of Islam. To blame Orthodox Islam
due to some heretic sects which are extremists is just like to accuse Catholics for
any supposed act of Jehovah Witness.
Islam is the fastest spreading religion in Europe. So Anti Islamic elements feared
that sooner or later truth of Islam shall encompass all across the Europe. So they
attempt to malign Islam. They were initially unsuccessful but when some heretic
groups emerged and committed several evil acts, they got a golden chance to
distort the Islamic Truth. But there are some factors other than heretic groups which
do cause some problems for the Muslims in the World.

Page 5 of 41

Section 1

Population of Muslims

(Image 1 of section 1)
The above map shows the Muslims Population around the World and it is clear
that Muslims are concentrated in Asia (South-Asia), Middle East (Gulf Countries),
some parts of Africa and explicitly Oceania. This provides a clear image about
rest of the world in which Muslims face great problems.

Page 6 of 41

1. Population table
Regions

Muslims
Population

Muslim % of total
population

Central Asia
South Asia
South-East Asia
South East North
Africa
Europe

54,000,000
507,000,000
257,000,000
321,869,000

80
31
13
91.2

% of World
Muslim
Population
3
32
15
19.9

29.6

15.0

6
0.6

2.7
0.3

23.4

100

America
Sub Saharan
Africa
World Total

242,544,000
44,138,000
5,256,000
1,703,146,000

(Table 1 of section 1)

(Pie chart 1 of section 1)

Page 7 of 41

2.

Population Table slim Countries of the World

Name

Population

% of Muslims

Afaganistan

18M

99%

Albania

2.3M

75%

Algeria

22M

98%

Bahrain

.220M

99%

Bangladesh

100M

85%

Cameroon

6.2M

55%

Central African Republic

2M

55%

Chad

4M

85%

Dahomey

3M

60%

10

Egypt

51M

93%

11

Ethiopia

27M

65%

12

Gambia

.4M

85%

13

Guinea

4.3M

95%

14

Guinea-Bissau

.81M

70%

15

Indonesia

161M

95%

16

Iran

48M

98%

17

Iraq

14.5M

95%

18

Ivory Coast

5M

55%

19

Jordan

3M

95%

20

Kuwait

1M

98%

21

Lebanon

3M

57%

22

Libya

3M

100%

23

Malaysia

14.5M

52%

24

Maldive Islands

12M

100%

25

Mali

6M

90%

26

Mauritania

2M

100%

27

Morocco

24M

99%

28

Niger

4.5M

91%

29

Nigeria

100M

75%

30

Oman

.75M

100%
Page 8 of 41

31

Pakistan

90M

97%

32

Qatar

.18M

100%

33

Saudi Arabia

10.5M

100

34

Senegal

7M

95%

35

Sierra Leone

3M

65%

36

Somalia

5M

100%

37

South Yemen

1.5M

95%

38

Sudan

22M

85%

39

Syria

11M

87%

40

Tanzania

15M

65%

41

Togo

2.1M

55%

42

Tunisia

7M

95%

43

Turkey

66M

99%

44

U.A.E

.32M

100%

45

Upper Volta

6M

56%

46

North Yemen

6M

99%

In 1986, the Muslim Education Trust organization (MET) located in the United
Kigdom and directed by Ghulam Sarwar, obtained the 1971 census and information
given by Embassies of the respective countires in London. The 1971 census showed
the Independent Muslim countries population was around 784.5 Million.
(Table 2 of section)
3.

(Population Table)
Muslim Minority Countries
Country Name

Muslims

% of total population

Angola

1.5M

25%

Argentina

.5M

2%

Australia

.13M

1%

Bhutan

.05M

5%

Botswana

.03M

5%

Brazil

.21M

.2%

Bulgaria

1.3M

14%

Burma

3M

10%

Burundi

.7M

20%

Cambodia

.07M

1%
Page 9 of 41

Canada

.1M

.5%

China

100M

11%

Congo

.15M

15%

Cyprus

.21M

33%

Equatorial Guinea

.07M

25%

Fiji

.06M

11%

France

2M

3.80%

Germany

1.5M

2.40%

Ghana

3M

30%

Gibraltar

.003M

10%

Greece

.27M

3%

Hong Kong

.004M

1%

Guyana

.01M

15%

India

100M

12%

Italy

.55M

1%

Japan

.01M

1.00%

Kenya

4M

29.50%

Liberia

.5M

30%

Lesotho

.12M

10%

Malagasy Republic

1.4M

20%

Malawi

1.7M

35%

Malta

.045M

14%

Mauritius

.14M

19.50%

Mozambique

2.2M

29%

Nambia

.034M

5%

Nepal

.5M

4%

Netherlands

.2M

1.50%

Panama

.05M

4%

Phillipines

5M

12%

Portuguese Timor

.012M

20%

Reunion

.09M

20%

Rumania

.2M

20%

Zimbabwe

1M

15%

Page 10 of 41

South Africa

.5M

2%

Sri Lanka

1.2M

9%

Surinam

.1M

25%

Swaziland

.046M

10%

Thailand

6M

14%

Trinidad & Tobago

.127M

12%

Uganda

4M

36%

U.K

1.5M

2.70%

U.S.S.R (Russia)

60M

20%

U.S.A

3.2M

1.50%

Yugoslavia

5M

20%

Zaire

2.4M

10%

Zambia

.7M

15%

(Table 3 of section 3)

Section 2
Page 11 of 41

Problems Faced by Muslims in

Foreign Countries
At present there are several problems faced by Muslims in Western Countries in
particular Non-Muslim Countries in general. Some of the problems faced by
majority of Muslims in Western Country are discussed below:
European countries are grappling with ways to accommodate Muslim minorities
while upholding national values. Getting the balance right has not been easy.
Some policies have drawn public support in some quarters but been criticized
elsewhere as an attack on Islam, such as France's ban on the Burqa (Hijab) and
other face-covering headwear, and Switzerland's referendum banning the
construction of new mosque minarets. Other policies have sought to smooth
tensions between native-born and Muslim communities, such as the introduction
of Muslim councils to help resolve conflicts over cultural practices.

(Section 2.1)

Restrictions on Religious Practices

Governments have sought to restrict or prohibit practices perceived as contradicting
national or liberal democratic norms and values, especially those that condone
violence or are seen as undermining gender equality. Citizenship and integration
tests, as well as arrival contracts, have all been employed to signal the
undesirability of certain practices. For example, Denmark requires immigrants to
sign a statement on arrival committing to respect individual freedoms and gender
equality.
Policies that relate to religious headwear for women have proved particularly
divisive. Bans have taken various forms: local or national bans on the burqa and
niqab (both of which cover the entire body and face) in public spaces; restrictions
on the hijab (the more commonly worn headscarf that leaves the face exposed) in
specific professions or public institutions; and restrictions on religious dress in
schools

Page 12 of 41

(Section 2.1.1)

Salaat
A muslim has to pray five times a day and finds it difficult in foreign countries.
Governments have sought to restrict or prohibit practices like salaat. A mulsim face
problems in offering salaat during office hours. They have no break timings for
salaat or he/she cannot pray in masjid due to lack masjids in western countries.
Allah (s.w.t) says in the Holy Quran,

When you have finished salat remember Allah standing, sitting and lying on
your sides. When you are safe again do salat in the normal way. The salat is
prescribed for the believers at specific times.
(Surat an-Nisa', 103)
The timings of the salat are "dawn," "noon," "afternoon," "evening," and "late evening." The salat
timings are clearly set out in several verses of the Qur'an. Some of these verses read:

So be steadfast in the face of what they say and glorify your Lord with praise
before the rising of the Sun and before its setting. And glorify Him during part of the
night and at both ends of the day, so that hopefully you will be pleased.
(Surah Ta Ha, 130)

(Section 2.1.2)

Fasting and Ramadan

Government employees and Communist party members are banned from fasting,
wearing veils or growing beards, said circulars posted on several official websites.
Other measures - which appear to vary area to area - include forcing restaurants to
maintain their usual opening hours instead of shifting them in light of dawn-to-dusk
fasting.

Page 13 of 41

O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those
before you, sothat you may guard (against evil).(Fasting is) for a fixed number of
days; and if any of you is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed number (Should be
made up) from days later, and for those (who miss the fast for illness or travel) who
are able to do it, is a ransom of feeding one that is indigent. But he that will give
more, of his own free will, it is better for him.And it is better for you that you fast, if
you only knew.
The month of Ramadhan in which was revealed the Qur'an, guidance for mankind,
and clear proofs of the guidance, and the Criterion (of right and wrong) . And
whosoever of you is present, let him fast the month, and whosoever of you is sick or
on a journey, (let him fast the same)number of other days . Allah desires ease for
you; He does not desire hardship for you; and (He desires) that you should complete
the period, and that you should magnify Allah for having guided you, and that
peradventure you may be thankful.
Qur'an (2:183-185)



. "
"

It was narrated that Abu Hurairah said:
I heard the Messenger of Allah say: 'The month of patience ( Ramadan) and three "

days of each month
.is fasting for a lifetime."' (Sahih)

Reference

: Sunan an-Nasa'i 2408

In-book reference

: Book 22, Hadith 319

English translation

: Vol. 3, Book 22, Hadith 2410

(Section 2.2)

Mosque-State Relations
Page 14 of 41

The official recognition of Islam has been problematic in several countries because
of the religion's non-hierarchical structure, meaning Muslim organizations are not
always granted the rights and benefits of other religious groups including tax
benefits, the right to perform marriage and funerals with civil validity and financial
support for Muslim schools.
Governments have sought to encourage the development of representative councils
or umbrella bodies in order to fulfill this role. Austria, Belgium, France, Germany,
Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, Sweden, and the United Kingdom all now have
national councils, formed with varying levels of government support. These councils
help resolve debates on religious practices like imams, prayer spaces, chaplains,
mosques, education, and Halal food, provide a representative hierarchy following
the structure of the Christian church; and deny oxygen to would-be extremists, as
scholar of Islamic relations Jonathan Laurence has put it, by including some minority
voices in public debate.
Assessments of the progress of these councils have been predominantly positive;
successes include the construction of mosques and religious private schools. In
Spain, the orchestrated development of a hierarchical structure resulted in Islam
being officially recognized, providing Muslim communities with the right to religious
education and special cemetery space, for instance.
But policymakers face questions over both the responsibility and membership of
these councils. Because Muslims are so diverse, constructing a body that purports
to represent all Muslims is unfeasible; decisions about which groups to engage
therefore risk being seen as political. At times, the lack of representativeness of
these councils (and the state's role in their composition) has met with criticism. In
the case of the German Islamic Conference for example, an umbrella group was
excluded for supporting a fundamentalist brand of Islam, another walked away
because it perceived the dialogue as having been securitized. The German
intelligence service maintains a black list, which has been criticized for creating a
chilling effect among umbrella groups. Since there is a fine line between
inclusiveness and providing a platform for radical views, the legitimacy of these
institutions may be fragile.

(Section 2.2)
.

Religious Education

Resistance to the provision of Islamic education in mainstream classrooms is slowly

being replaced by the view that it can strengthen, rather than threaten, integration.
Recent reports indicate that, contrary to popular belief, there is little desire for selfPage 15 of 41

segregation among Muslim parents (mixed schools are associated with higher
performance). The choice for Muslims in many European countries has historically
been between private segregated school or no Islamic education at all. Policymakers
have the option of encouraging faith schools and segregated education or providing
support for Islamic education within the regular school system.
" : :
. : " ))
Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
The Messenger of Allah ( )said, "He who is asked about knowledge (of religion) and
conceals it, will be bridled with a bridle of fire on the Day of Resurrection."
[Abu Dawud and At- Tirmidhi].

Sunnah.com reference

: Book 13, Hadith 15

Arabic/English book reference

: Book 13, Hadith 1390

(Section 2.3.1)

Lack of proper Islamic institutions

In Muslim countries there are proper institutions to educate true Islamic teachings.
But in foreign countries particularly Non Islamic Countries there are several Islamic
Institutions which aims to import Islamic teachings yet they provide heretic dogmas
and extremism.
However, it becomes very difficult for them to identify these Institutions which
import correct Islamic teachings from those which import distorted teachings in the
name of Islam.
(Section 2.3.2)

Lack of financial support

(Section 2.3.3)

Lack of Proper Islamic scholars

Reliable scholars of Islam are not found in Europe and in America in required
Page 16 of 41

numbers. A number of scholars who purport to be reliable scholar are pseudo

scholars and they distort Islamic teaching.
A number of Muslims unfortunately seek knowledge from unreliable and persuade
scholars so they receive distorted teachings in the Holy Name of Islam.
(Section 2.3.4)

Unavailability of proper Books

Fundamental books of Islam which are the original and principle sources of Islamic
teachings are unavailable. Translations of a number of books are not from authentic
translators. Some translators embed their sectarian views in the translations. A
number of heretics and deviants present their heretic works as Islamic Books. In
such a situation the necessity of proper books on Islamic Faith and Practice are
required from translated not by a single person but by a committee of several
scholars.
(Section 2.3.5)

Incapability of scholars in Arabic language

Arabic is the language of Islam, God and The Holy Prophet. Arabic is the key to
heavens. All the principle books of Islam and the Texts of Quran and Ahadith are in
Arabic. A translation can never replace the original and principle Arabic books.
Arabic books are available not only in hard copies but in soft copies but without full
command on Arabic that cannot be studied properly. They usually do not
understand the works and need translations. This makes a circle. They finally reach
from where they had begun. The net result becomes zero.
(Section 2.3.6)

Lack of motivation in Muslims towards the

institutions
Muslims have not yet realized the necessity of institutions. An institution requires
money to be run, yet Muslims have not realized this necessity.
To employ proper scholars to teach and to educate Muslim requires a full time job.
Yet they do not have other means of earning. So it is required to motivate all
Muslims to donate to these institutions.
(Section 2.3.7)

Respective governmental restrictions

Many Governments have imposed restrictions on many Islamic Segments which
vary from faith to practice and from teachings to preaching.

Page 17 of 41

No proper solutions have been found. This requires a series of dialogues between
Muslim scholars and the representatives of governments.

(Section 2.4)

Problem of marriages
Muslim boys and girls face the difficulties in getting proper spouse for them. It is
permitted in Islam that Muslims males can marry pious women of people of the
Book (Ahlul Kitab). But Muslims females cannot marry except a Muslim.
So Problem of Muslim girls is obvious. Their parents are in constant mental problems
for their daughters. Problem of Muslim boys are also multifold. A number of women
of Ahlul Kitab communities find it difficult to be a confirmable for Muslims traditions.
(Section 2.4.1)

Differences
Some Muslims men have married women from Ahlul Kitab. But these women often
find Islamic Norms to difficult to follow. Such marriages have issues of own. Often a
Marriage between a Muslim male and a Jew or a Christian female does not continue
for life long. This generates another problem about the religion of the siblings.
Quran Shareef which say that
Do not marry unbelieving women until they believe even a slave woman who is a
believer, is better than a unbelieving woman, even if she allures you.
( Surah Baqrah, Ch. No.2, Verse No. 221,)

(Section 2.4.2)
Page 18 of 41

Muslims girls cannot marry a non Muslim

Muslim girls are not allowed to marry a non Muslim male. This is a cause of problem
for those girls who fell in love with Non Muslim males or for reasons want to marry
them. Violation of Islamic principles causes a problem to Muslim Parents. Who
cannot prevent their daughters from such an activities.

Another Verse in the Quran tells

They are blaspheming, they are doing Kufr, those who say Jesus is, Christ the son of
Mary, those who say Allah is Christ the son of Mary.
(Surah Maidah Ch. No. 5, Verse No. 72)

(Section 2.4.3)

Suitable spouse for Muslim girls

Suitable males are often not found for Muslim Women. Since Muslim society itself is
constituted from the elements of different countries and cultures. A Muslim girl of
one society is likely to find problems in another Muslim society. This causes a
problem of marriage. Educated Muslim girls dislike marrying less educated Muslim
males and those men who are equally qualified are generally not available. Cast and
Creed problems are also present. People of one sect generally dislike to marrying
their daughters in other sects even if they are flexible to some extent. But this is a
different matter where they are compelled to show some rigidity.
(Section 2.4.4)

Homosexuality
Many European countries have allowed this act. However Islam Prohibits is ironically.
So it cause a problem. Some Muslim women and men are inclined to this act and
this immediately causes great problems. Muslim parents cannot tolerate such an
activity.

The Qur'an describes the people of Lut (Lot) as follows:

When We sent Lut, he said to his people, "What! do you commit the indecency
which none in all the nations had committed before you? Look at you! You approach
the men lustfully instead of approaching yourwomen! No, you are a people who
have exceeded the limits." The only answer of his people was that they said, 'Expel
Page 19 of 41

them from your city, surely they are a people who seek to keep themselves clean!"
So We delivered him and his followers, except his wife; she was one of those who
tarried behind. We sent upon them a rain. So behold how was the end of the guilty
people. (7:80-84)
The Qur'an also describes how Prophet Lut tried to reason with his people when
they approached his three guests (who were actually angels in human form):
When the people of Lut saw the handsome young men, they came to him, running
towards him. Lut had anticipated this because they had been doing evil deeds from
before.
When the people reached close to his house, Lut said pointing towards his
daughters that, "O my people! These are my daughters, they are purer for you.
Fear Allah and do not disgrace me in regard to my guests. Isn't there among you a
man of right mind?"

They said,
"You know better that we have no desire for your daughters; and you surely know
what we desire." (11 :78-79)
Explaining the details of the punishment, Allah says,

"So when Our commandment came, We made the highest part [of the city] its
lowest and rained upon them stones of hard clay in succession."
[Quran: 11:82]

(Section 2.4.5)

Less no of males
Men and women are the two partners which constitute a home. Marriage is greatly
recommended in Islam, but numbers of men are generally less than women in many
parts of the world. In some Non Muslim countries Muslims do face the same
problem. Pure Islamic solution to this problem is Polygene. But Polygamy is not
allowed in many Non Muslim countries. Also it is not practiced in Muslim societies in
General. Due to this the lesser number of Males is creating a problem for Muslim
families.

Page 20 of 41

(Section 2.5)

Problem of veiling
Islam orders Muslim women to cover their bodies. But such practice is strange in
foreign countries. So they think it is forced bounding on human freedom. Women
observing Islamic dresses after free prejudiced anti Islamic elements.
The Quran mentions in Surah Noor
Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their
modesty: that will make for greater purity for them: and Allah is well acquainted
with all that they do.
[Al-Quran 24:30]

(Section 2.5.1)

It is found to be a strange act.

Veiling of face is not found in European countries. So it does appear to be a strange
act. A natural response to a strange act is that they consider it as an act which
degrade an women.

(Section 2.5.2)

Force bounding on human freedom

Non Muslims consider this act of covering the face as a bounding on human
freedom. So they somehow receive the idea that Islam is against the freedom of
women.

(Section 2.6)

Clash of Cultures
Page 21 of 41

Muslims are divided in into several countries, yet they share some common Islamic
Norms. But these norms are often inconsistent with European culture in European
countries. Muslims regardless of their cultures, countries, creeds, societies are
struggling to conserve and safeguard these norms in an environment where they
are difficult to survive.
These problems may be subdivided in many types but some most important types
are as follow:
(Section 2.6.1)

Free society vs. Bound society

Islam bound Muslims in Norm. These Norms are not found in European countries. So
the conflict of Norm Free society and Normed society appears. Many western people
consider that Islam is making unnecessary conflict in their society.
(Section 2.6.2)

Mixed Gathering
Mix gathering is a normal case rather unmixed gathering is abnormal in western
countries. Any gathering of only one sex is generally considered as discrimination
on the basis of gender. But on the contrary Islam prohibits mix gathering. So a
problem is naturally implied and Muslim men and women who want to observe
Islamic laws and norms found such gathering very inconvenient.

Jareer ibn Abdullah [may Allah be pleased with him] said: I asked the Messenger of
Allah [P.B.U.H] about an accidental glance at a woman. He commanded me to turn
my gaze away.
[Al-Tirmidhi]
The Messenger of Allah [P.B.U.H] said: O Ali [his cousin], do not follow a glance
with another, for you will be forgiven for the first, but not for the second.
[Al-Tirmidhi: 2701]
Then mix gathering is strictly prohibited in Islam.

(Section 2.6.3)
Page 22 of 41

European society allows free mixing (males and

females).
Similar to stated above problem there is an other problem and this problem is just a
generalization of the predecessor problem. In many cases Muslim men and women
have to do jobs in presence of women and men respectively. Once again this
problem is unsolvable. Similarly on different places a restricted society is
impossible.
(Section 2.6.4)

There is no bound of sex within the bound of

marriage
Free sex is allowed in European Countries. In many countries free sex is more
common then bound sex. This cause a great problem for young generation to
observe Pure Islamic laws . Islam very strictly prohibits from it.
Do not go near adultery, surely it is an indecency, and an evil way [of fulfilling
sexual urge].
(17:32)
(Section 2.6.5)

Social interaction
There are many issues around interaction of men and women in Islam: being
alone with someone of the opposite gender, touching /hugging/shaking
hands/kissing, and social mixing.

(Section 2.6.6)

Parties
Parties are a special form of hell for Muslims, they mix many of the above
problems -- they celebrate secularized religious celebrations, they
involve many interactions with the opposite gender, they involve the
consumption of alcohol.
(Section 2.7)
Page 23 of 41

Marginalization, Unemployment, and

Discrimination
These negative perceptions and anxieties are sometimes exacerbated by the
perceived marginalization and social exclusion of some groups of Muslims.
Commentators point to their higher-than-average unemployment ratesespecially
among womenand low education levels as cause for concern. Muslims are also
significantly under-represented in high-profile and political positions in Europe. As
with other immigrant communities, some Muslim groups are more likely to live in
areas with high poverty and inadequate public services, raising concerns.
But a number of factors lie behind these trends. Since a substantial proportion of
the Muslim population across Europe was recruited through the guest worker
schemes of the 1950s and 1960s, many of these migrants were low-skilled and
came from rural areas. This meant that they lacked the skills, education, and
financial capital to thrive in their destination country. Another factor is that Muslims
face considerable discrimination in the labor market, with numerous studies
showing that people with Muslim-sounding names are less likely to get both
shortlisted and hired

(Section 2.8)

Problems of Conversions
Missionaries, Atheists etc. often try to target young Muslims and to convert them to
their respective folds.
Muslim parents face two types of problems.

Lack of Knowledge
Due to lack of proper knowledge of the Religion of Islam they are unable to answer
the question asked.

Lack of religious Knowledge

Some Muslims drift from Islam to get their desired freedom. There are no proper
institutions which educate Muslims to respond such questions.
(Section 2.9)
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Problem of Terrorism:
Many Terrorists commit the acts of terrorism in the holy name of Islam. They make a
false and a heretic image of Islam.
Even Orthodox Muslims are supposed to be heretics by these heretics.They easily
misguide Muslim youth who do not have sound knowledge of Islam.
A common person of such countries finds it very difficult, and is unable to
distinguish between the Orthodox teachings of Islam and the Heretic Pseudo
teaching.
In spite of all effort no proper solution of this problem has been found.

Invite (all) to the way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and argue
with them in ways that are best and most gracious.
[Al-Quran 16:125]
(Section 2.10)

Islamic Extremism
Security fears have infused public discourse about Muslims in the years following
the September 11 attacks. In Europe, the flurry of successful and foiled terrorist
attacks including the Madrid train bombings, the London Underground bombings,
and the attack on Glasgow Airport made counter-terrorism a central policy priority.
The role of homegrown terrorists in these attacks encouraged governments to
turn their attention inwards and scrutinize relations with their Muslim populations.
These attacks were widely denounced by Muslim groups, but levels of anxiety about
terrorism remain high: a 2011 Pew Global Attitudes survey found that 73 percent of
respondents in Germany, 70 percent in Britain, and 68 percent in France are worried
about Islamic extremism.
For many Europeans, these concerns unite to form an impression that Muslims have
failed to integrate. This conclusion is simplistic, not least because Muslims are
extremely diverse and the problems described above apply only to a small
percentage. Almost all Muslims condemn terrorism, and strongly disassociate from
radical or extremist groups and ideology. But these anxieties put pressure on
policymakers to take action.

Page 25 of 41

(Section 2.11)

Biased Media
Media is constantly maligning Islam and is distorting its teaching.
Muslim Media are very rare and they if there are some cannot provide antidotes for
such activities.
Media is constantly and continuously propagating against Islam.
These Propagandas are creating problems not only in proper understanding of Islam
, but also are causing confusions about the Islamic truth.
(Section 2.12)

Sectarian Problems
Sectarian problems still exist among Muslims and some extremists attempt to divide
Muslims in rival groups. A lot of energies are consumed in sectarian conflicts. These
sectarians forget the basic principle that Unite we stand and divided we fall. Anti
Islamic elements often use them to make Muslims weak.
The Glorious Quran says:
And hold fast, all together, by the rope which Allah (stretches out for you), and be
not divided among yourselves;
[Al-Quran 3:103]
It is Prohibited to make sects and divisions in Islam
The Glorious Quran says:
As for those who divide Their religion and break up into sects, thou hast no part in
them in the least: Their affair is with Allah: He will in the end tell them the truth of
all that they did.
[Al-Quran 6:159]
(Section 2.13)
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Problem of Sacrifice
Sacrifice is one of the important practice in Islam. But many Non Muslims countries
consider this as cruelty to animals. Even the majority of such countries are non
vegetarian yet they prohibit from sacrifices of animals.

(Section 2.14)

Visibility of Crescent
Islamic Year consists of either 355 days or 354 days. A Lunar Islamic month begins
with the visibility of the Lunar Crescent. A Lunar Month may be of 30 days or 29
days since the moon varies the period of its revolution around earth from 29.2 to
29.8 days, forming an irregular ellipse around earth. Several other factors are also
involved, up till now no unique formula for the prediction of Lunar Crescent has
been derived. Therefore It is one of the most difficult problems of theoretical and
practical astronomies to predict the visibility of Crescent. On the other hand the
identification of the first month in cases of Ramdan, Shauval and Zilhajj are
significant.
(Section 2.15)

Anti Islamic Nationalists

Anti Islamic Nationalists are not religious yet they do consider Islam as a foreign
religion . They are also alarmed by the spreading of Islam. So they do not miss a
single chance to maligned Islamic Truth.They often try to offend Muslims by doing
different unholy acts.
(Section 2.16)

Cartoon Issues
In some western countries cartoon of Holy Personalities of Islam are deliberately
published in news paper. They exercise such a practice in the name of freedom of
expression. But it is the matter of faith to respect Holy Personalities of Islam.
Muslims are Super Sensitive on these issues. There cannot be any compromise on
Page 27 of 41

this issue. Muslims have no option but to make agitations. Some Anti- Muslim
elements make such issues to malign Islam.

Section 3

Misconceptions about Islam

(Section 3.0.1)

Misconceptions due to media

The common misconceptions about Islam arise in the minds of a majority
of non-Muslims, because they are constantly being bombarded with misinformation
about Islam. International media is mainly controlled by the western world, whether
it is
international satellite channels,
radio stations,
news papers,
magazines
or books.
Media (internet)
Recently the Internet has become a powerful medium of information. Though it is
not controlled by anybody, one finds a large amount of virulent propaganda about
Islam on the Internet.
(Section 3.0.2)

Misconceptions change with time

The most common questions about Islam are different in different periods and
eras. This set of twenty most common questions is based on present times.
Page 28 of 41

Decades earlier, the set of questions was different and decades later too, the set of
questions may change depending upon how Islam is projected by the media.

(Section 3.1)

Muslim women have no rights

(Section 3.1.1)

Spiritual Rights
Surah Al-Nisa (Chapter 4) verse 124 (4:124)
If any do deeds of righteousness be they male or female and have faith, they will
enter heaven, and not the least injustice will be done to them
Surah Al-Nahl (Chapter 16), verse 97 (16:97)
Whosoever performs good deeds whether male or female and is a believer, we
shall surely make him live a good life and we will certainly reward them for the best
of what they did.
The Quran makes it clear that both men and women have the same
spiritual nature; Surah Nisa (Chapter 4), verse 1 (4:1)
Oh Human kind! Reverence your Guardian-Lord who created you from a single
person and created of like nature his mate.
In Surah Nahl (Chapter 16), verse 72 (16:72)
And Allah has made for you mates (and companions) of your own nature. And
made for you out of them sons and daughters and grand children.
In Surah Araf (Chapter 67), verse 189 (7:189)
It is He who created you from a single person and made his mate of like nature, in
order that he might dwell with her (in love).

Page 29 of 41

(Section 3.1.2)

Women have no Financial Obligations

Islamic law gives more Financial Security to women than to men.
In Surah Nisa Chapter 4, Verse 34 (4:34)
Give the women (on marriage) the dower as a free gift.
(section 3.1.3)

Social Rights
Surah Al-Takvir Chapter 81, Verses 8 and 9 (81 : 8-9)
When the female (infant), buried alive, is questioned, for what crime she was
killed.

(Section 3.2)

HIJAB FOR WOMEN

One of the common misconceptions about Islam is that Islam degrades women by
keeping
them behind the veil. The status of women in Islam is often the target of attacks in
the secular media. The hijab or the Islamic dress is cited by many as an example of
the subjugation of women under Islamic law
(Section 3.2.1)

Hijab uplifted Women status

And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their
modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what
(must ordinarily) appear thereof; that they should draw veils over their bosoms and
not display their beauty except to their husbands, their fathers, their husbands
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fathers, their sons...

[Al-Quran 24:31]
(Section 3.2.2)

Hijab prevents molestation

The reason why Hijab is prescribed for women is mentioned in the Quran in the
following verses of Surah Al-Ahzab
O Prophet! Tell thy wives and daughters, and the believing women that they
should cast their outer garments over their persons (when abroad); that is most
convenient, that they should be known (as such) and not molested. And Allah is OftForgiving, Most Merciful.
[Al-Quran 33:59]
The Quran says that Hijab has been prescribed for the women so that they are
recognized as modest women and this will also prevent them from being molested .

(Section 3.3)

ISLAM SPREAD BY THE SWORD (Forced people to

convert to Islam)
It is a common complaint among some non-Muslims that Islam would not have
millions of adherents all over the world, if it had not been spread by the use of
force.

(Section 3.3.1)

No compulsion in religion.
Page 31 of 41

With which sword was Islam spread? Even if Muslims had it they could not use it to
spread Islam because the Quran says in the following verse:
Let there be no compulsion in religion: Truth stands out clear from error.
[Al-Quran 2:256]
(Section 3.3.2)

It is the sword of intellect

The sword that conquers the hearts and minds of people. The Quran says in
Surah Nahl, chapter 16 verse 125:
Invite (all) to the way of thy Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching; and
argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious.
[Al-Quran 16:125]

(Section 3.4)

MUSLIMS ARE FUNDAMENTALISTS AND

TERRORISTS
This question is often hurled at Muslims, either directly or indirectly, during any
discussion on religion or world affairs. Muslim stereotypes are perpetuated in every
form of the media accompanied by gross misinformation about Islam and Muslims.
In fact, such misinformation and false propaganda often leads to discrimination and
acts of violence against Muslims.
(Section 3.4.1)

Page 32 of 41

Islam means peace

Islam is derived from the word salaam which means peace. It is a religion of peace
whose fundamentals teach its followers to maintain and promote peace throughout
the world. Thus every Muslim should be a fundamentalist i.e. he should follow the
fundamentals of the Religion of Peace: Islam.
(Section 3.4.2)

Islamic defensive system (Jihad)

He should be a terrorist only towards the antisocial elements in order to promote
peace and justice in the society. The Islamic defensive system is misunderstood or
mistook. Jihad is the defensive system of Islam. Islam does not allow anyone to
disturb its peace system. But Islamic system is misinterpreted as Islamic offensive
system. Some heretic sects began to misinterpret Islamic defense system in the
past, and some still do it in present.
Anti Islamic elements often magnify these heretic cults which are extremists and
are totally different from Orthodox Islam. These elements misinterpret the orthodox
Islam which condemns the heretic cults of Islam.

(Section 3.5)

Prohibition of Alcohol
Some argue on the prohibition of alcohol that why is the consumption of alcohol
prohibited in Islam?
(Section 3.5.1)

Alcoholism is Satans handy work

Page 33 of 41

The Glorious Quran prohibits the consumption of alcohol and answers in the
following verse:
O ye who believe! Intoxicants and Gambling, (dedication of) stones, and
(divination by) arrows, are an Abomination of Satans handiwork; eschew such
(abomination), that ye may prosper.
[Al-Quran 5:90]

(Section 3.5.2)

Mother of all evils

The Prophet of Islam Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
Alcohol is the mother of all evils and it is the most shameful of evils.
( In Sunan Ibn-I-Majah Volume 3, Book of Intoxicants, Chapter 30 Hadith
No. 3371)

(Section 3.6)

Misconception related to polygamy

Why is a man allowed to have more than one wife in Islam?
Quran permits limited polygyny As I mentioned earlier, Quran is the only religious
book on the face of the earth that says marry only one. The context of this phrase
is the following verse from Surah Nisa of the Glorious Quran
Marry women of your choice, two, or three, or four; but if ye fear that ye shall not
be able to deal justly (with them), then only one.
[Al-Quran 4:3]
(Section 3.6.1)

An upper limit
Before the Quran was revealed, there was no upper limit for polygyny and many
men had scores of wives, some even hundreds. Islam put an upper limit of four
wives. Islam gives a man permission to marry two, three or four women, only on the
condition that he deals justly with them.
Page 34 of 41

In the same chapter i.e. Surah Nisa verse 129 says:

Ye are never able to be fair and just as between women....
[Al-Quran 4:129]
Therefore polygene is not a rule but an exception. Many people are under the
misconception that it is compulsory for a Muslim man to have more than one wife.

(Section 3.7)

Idol worship
When Islam is against idol worship why do the Muslims worship, and bow down to
the Kaaba in their prayer?
Kaaba is the Qibla i.e. the direction Muslims face during their prayers. It is important
to note that though Muslims face the Kaaba during prayers, they do not worship the
Kaaba. Muslims worship and bow to none but Allah.
It is mentioned in Surah Baqarah:
We see the turning of thy face (for guidance) to the heavens: now shall We turn
thee to a Qiblah that shall please thee. Turn then thy face in the direction of the
Sacred Mosque: wherever ye are, turn your faces in that direction.
[Al-Quran 2:144]
Hadith of Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) Regarding the black stone, hajr-easwad, there is a hadith (tradition), attributed to the illustrious companion of the
Prophet Muhammed (pbuh), Umar (may Allah be pleased with him).
According to Sahih Bukhari, Volume 2, book of Hajj, chapter 56, H.No. 675.
Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) said,
I know that you are a stone and can neither benefit nor harm. Had I not seen the
Prophet (pbuh) touching (and kissing) you, I would never have touched (and kissed)
you.
(Section 3.8)

Pork (Haram food)

Why is the eating of pork forbidden in Islam?
The Quran prohibits the consumption of pork in no less than 4 different places.

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It is prohibited in 2:173, 5:3, 6:145 and 16:115.

Forbidden to you (for food) are: dead meat, blood, the flesh of swine, and that on
which hath been invoked the name of other than Allah.
[Al-Quran 5:3]
The above verses of the Holy Quran are sufficient to satisfy a Muslim as to why
pork is forbidden.

Section 4
(Section 4.1)

MIGRATION TO NON MUSLIM COUNTRY (DARUL

HARB)
Page 36 of 41

Before you immigrate to any country, you have to make sure your faith will be solid
and that you will be able to keep the religious identity of your children safe in face
of temptations and evil surroundings, and then you can move to any place you
want.
Muslim Shari`ah scholars have divided hijrah, or immigration, into five
categories: fard (obligatory), haram (forbidden), mustahabb (recommended), makru
h (disliked), mubah (permissible).
Immigration is obligatory when you are forced to change your religion and establish
you faith freely in your location, in which case you have to move to another area
where
you
can
worship
Allah
without
restraint.
It is haram when you immigrate for evil purpose, to corrupt your faith, or cause
mischief in the land of Allah.
It becomes makruh when you feel your religion will become under great risk.
And it is mubah if you make sure your faith will remain strong and you will benefit
from the new location you want to move to.
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: I disown every
Muslim who settles among the mushrikeen.
Narrated by Abu Dawood, 2645; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani
in Saheeh Abi Dawood.

(Section 4.2)

MIGRATION TO MUSLIM LAND (DARUL ISLAM)

Living in a Non Muslim Country
Allah Says (what means):
Verily! As for those whom the angels take (in death) while they are wronging
themselves (as they stayed among the disbelievers even though emigration was
obligatory for them), they (angels) say (to them): "In what (condition) were you?"
They reply: "We were weak and oppressed on earth." They (angels) say: "Was not
the earth of Allah spacious enough for you to emigrate therein?" .
[Quran 4: 97].

Page 37 of 41

This is a stern warning from which the scholars deduced that it is a clear indication
that migrating is obligatory. Moreover, carrying out the religious obligations is
compulsory on every individual who has the ability to do so. Therefore, the one
who cannot follow his religion in a place has to migrate from that place to another,
since religion is more important and precious than any other matter.
The Prophet

said:

"I am free from any Muslim who lives among polytheists ...The fire of each group
should not be visible to the other."
[Abu Daawood and Al-Bayhaqi]
The narration means that they are not allowed to live at the distance from where
they could see each other's fire at night. According to the great majority of Muslim
scholars the ruling of this immigration remains mandatory till the Day of Judgment.
Ibn Qudaamah (REHMATULLAH) also said:
'After the given details, people are of three kinds as far as the matter of
immigration from a non-Muslim country is concerned:
(SECTION 4.2.1)

THOSE WHO ARE OBLIGED

Those who are obliged to migrate: Muslims who cannot follow their religion freely
and who are able to migrate to a Muslim country must migrate (no other choice is
given to them).'
They are those who are able to migrate and who cannot practise their religion
openly in dar al-harb. It is obligatory upon a female even if she does not have a
mahram, if she thinks she will be safe when travelling, or if the risk of travelling is
less than the risk of staying in dar al-harb

SECTION4.2.2

THOSE WHO ARE NOT OBLIGED

The ruling of migration does not cover the Muslims who cannot migrate due to
compulsion or who are too weak to migrate such as women, children and the like,
such are not addressed by this rule. Allah Says (what means):
Except the weak ones among men, women and children who cannot devise a plan,
nor are they able to direct their way. For these there is hope that Allaah will forgive
them, and Allaah is Ever Oft-Pardoning, Oft-Forgiving.

Page 38 of 41

[Quran AL-Nisa 4:98-99]

Due to the lack of their ability to migrate, migration could not be considered
recommended in this case under Sharee'ah.

Section 4.2.3

Migration in Mustaahaab (recommended)

Migration is recommended for some Muslim but it is not compulsory. For instance,
Muslims who live in a non-Muslim country but they are allowed to act freely
according to their religion; they are merely recommended to migrate to Muslim
countries to help the Muslim nation and increase the members of the Muslim
community.
The evidence for this is the fact that Al-'Abbaas
stayed in Makkah even after embracing Islam.

the uncle of the Prophet

It is also reported that when Nu'aym An-Nahhaam

wanted to migrate, his
tribesmen came to him and said: 'Stay here and follow your religion, we will protect
you from anyone who causes harm to you, and keep on doing to us the good you
used to do (he used to look after their orphans and widows). He

delayed his

migration for a period and thereafter he migrated. The Prophet

said to
him: "Your people were better for you than my people were for me. My people
expelled me and tried to kill me, while your people protected you and gave you
shelter." He
replied, "But O Prophet of Allaah! Your people chased you away to
the obedience of Allaah and to Jihaad against His enemies, while my people
discouraged me from migration and
held me back from the obedience of Allaah."
[Al-Mughni].

Section 4.3

Views of Islamic Scholars

Shaykh Ibn Uthaymeen (may Allah have mercy on him) was asked about this
matter and he said:
This is one of the most difficult issues nowadays because countries vary, as
stated above, and because for some Muslims, if they go back to their homelands
they will be persecuted for their religion whereas they are safe from that in the
Page 39 of 41

kaafir countries. But if we say that it is haraam for them to settle among the
kuffaar, then where is the Islamic state that will accept them and allow them to
settle there?! This is the meaning of what he said, may Allah have mercy on
him.
Zakariya al-Ansaari al-Shaafai said in his book Asna al-Mataalib (4/207):
It is obligatory to migrate from the kaafir lands to the Muslim lands for those who
are able to do that, if they are unable to practise their religion openly.
Ibn al-Arabi al-Maaliki said:
Hijrah (migration) means leaving dar al-harb [non-Muslim lands] and going to dar
al-islam [Muslim lands]. This was obligatory at the time of the Prophet (peace and
blessings of Allah be upon him) and remains so after his time for those who fear
for their lives.From Nayl al-Awtaar, 8/33, by al-Shawkaani.
Al-Haafiz Ibn Hajar said concerning the hadeeth,
I disown every Muslim who settles among the mushrikeen:
This is to be understood as referring to those who are not safe to practice their
religion there. Fath al-Baari, commentary on hadeeth no. 2825
In al-Mawsooah al-Fiqhiyyah (20/206) it says:
Dar al-harb refers to every place in which the rule of kufr prevails. One of the
rulings that have to do with dar al-harb is hijrah (migration). With regard to
migration from dar al-harb, the fuqaha divided people into three categories:
Those who are obliged to migrate: they are those who are able to migrate and
who cannot practice their religion openly in dar al-harb. It is obligatory upon a
female even if she does not have a mahram, if she thinks she will be safe when
traveling, or if the risk of traveling is less than the risk of staying in dar al-harb
Those who are not obliged to migrate: they are those who are unable to do so,
either because of sickness or because they are forced to stay in the kaafir land, or
those who are weak, such as woman and children, because Allah says
(interpretation of the meaning):
Except the weak ones among men, women and children who cannot devise a
plan, nor are they able to direct their way
[An-Nisa 4:98]
Those for whom migration is mustahabb but not obligatory: they include those
who are able to migrate but are also able to practice their religion openly in dar alharb. It is mustahabb for such a person to migrate so that he can participate in
jihad and increase the numbers of the Muslims.
Page 40 of 41

In a fatwa issued by the Standing Committee (12/50):

One may also migrate from a mushrik land to another mushrik land that is less evil
and where there is less danger to the Muslim, as some of the Muslims migrated
from Makkah at the Prophets command to Abyssinia.

REFERENCES
zakirnaikqa.wordpress.com
Settling abroad in a non Islamic country by Dr Israr Ahmed
(YOUTUBE.COM)
islamqa.info
http://www.islamweb.net/
http://www.islamicislamic.com/
Can we live in non Muslim countries? - Q&A - Dr. Haitham al-Haddad
(YOUTUBE.COM)
Is it permisable to move to non muslim country - Sheikh Dr. Muhammad Salah
( YOUTUBE.COM)
LECTURES OF MUHAMMAD TARIQ

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