Hi Carol
For example, the Qur'an seems to give the impression, that Muslims are not to attack the people of the book unless they are attacked first. the Qur'an seems to give the impression that the holy places of the People of the Book are not to be attacked ( surat al-hajj 40)
This would give the impression, that when Muhammad sought to expand Islam by the sword, his expansion into christenised areas and against the Jews in Mecca was quite contrary to the Qur'an.
And there is a verse in th e Qur'an that says, Also when there is Mischief or evil, meaning if there is trouble and mischief in other lands, it ok to defend that people from Evil, and it is a myth we Muslims took over by the Sword, well We allowed Freedom of Religions, take a look when we took over Spain, the Churches and Synagouges are still there from the time when Islam took over, Also i do Christianity has a Dark History with bloodshed also, Islam is not the only one to be blame, All religions have a Dark History (Buddhasim can be an exception) so bringing past conflict, wouldn't make much of an arguement.
The hadith and the Sunna to a Muslim appear to give the impression that Muhammad was a picture of perfection.. "the best of the prophets and his creeds the noblest of all creeds." yet, we see that he behaved and believed many questionable things, and was even quite superstitious.
According to Who's Teachings? What Allah says or does, it is known to him, Just because rest of the Society takes it as Superstious doesnt mean it is.
To discuss Muhammad's life is one thing, to try and copy it, as commanded by many Muslim websites, is something quite different. The historical accounts that are held in christendom presents a Muhammad who declared "fight the pagans wherever you find them." (Sura 9:5). the World within Islam presents a man who is seen as a hero and a blessing and noble
Please elaborate.
Reality is.. when they battled, they were promised salvation.. and all that that meant to them as rewards in paradise
"Let those fight in the cause of Allah, who sell the world for the Hereafter. To him who fights in the cause of Allah, whether He is slain, or gets victory, soon shall we give him a reward of great value." (Sura 4:74)
If this is the only way to be assured salvation for your soul, wouldn't you also fight in the battles?
I will answer this later, 8)