This week in Islam

[Argus]

But it stands to reason that they knew they were coming to a country where they are the minority, where their children would be raised in a secular environment. And the fact is that these kids lose their religion just as others do

Why would it be any different ?

Why would you think this stands to reason? You have no evidence of this. As to their kids, what scanty evidence there is suggests their kids are often more religious than the parents were.

[Freddy]

To choose not to believe in unicorns or a living Elvis is a spiritual choice. Can you hear how ridiculous you sound? Separating church from state so that we aren't a theocracy is not imposing my beliefs on others. It allows for freedom of religion and governments to base decisions on evidence and reality. Those who seek to break that barrier are trying to impose their religion on the population.

You sound like a hypocrite to me. I don't see the difference between you or a Muslim. Your just as righteous as they are Edited June 25, 2015 by Freddy

[Mighty AC]

You sound like a hypocrite to me. I don't see the difference between you or a Muslim. Your just as righteous as they are

I see...so freedom of and from religion bothers you and you're fine with forcing religion on people as long as it's your own? Typical.

[Freddy]

I see...so freedom of and from religion bothers you and you're fine with forcing religion on people as long as it's your own? Typical.

From a Muslim, or a Christian's point of view, Your forcing your beliefs onto them. Since they truly believe in what their religion says, they don't recognize your point of view. They see division of state and religion as the stupidest thing ever. If you believe, then you certainly would like your government to also recognize your beliefs.

What I don't appreciate, is that we have set up our government as atheist, And have invited in immigration from all kinds to come join us into being Canadians, We pretend that it's ok to believe in any religion you choose, but deep down, Our whole system is set up so that we hope with time that their going to realize how stupid they are for believing in such none sense.

So we are lying about being tolerant to other cultures. It's road Apple. We're just a big soft power melting pot. We can't function otherwise.

I don't think we are being honest about it to ourselves and to immigrants.

Edited June 25, 2015 by Freddy

[Mighty AC]

From a Muslim, or a Christian's point of view, Your forcing your beliefs onto them. Since they truly believe in what their religion says, they don't recognize your point of view. They see division of state and religion as the stupidest thing ever. If you believe, then you certainly would like your government to also recognize your beliefs.

There is a reason we try not to let the inmates run the asylum. A secular government with robust church state barriers does not force beliefs on others; in fact, the reverse is true.

All religions can be freely practiced, up until the point said practice infringes on the rights, safety or security of others. Believers who attempt to ensconce their religious practices in law are openly trying to force beliefs on others. Take equal marriage as an example. No religious person is being forced to marry someone of the same sex. They are free to avoid that practice and to teach their children that homosexuality is an abomination if they so choose. At the same time individuals who do not share these hateful beliefs are free to follow their own path. Religious, secular, straight or gay all people are free to follow their own beliefs in this case. Yet, some religious folk would rather force all people to follow their particular practice.

What I don't appreciate, is that we have set up our government as atheist, And have invited in immigration from all kinds to come join us into being Canadians, We pretend that it's ok to believe in any religion you choose, but deep down, Our whole system is set up so that we hope with time that their going to realize how stupid they are for believing in such none sense.

Our government is somewhat secular but still dripping with Christian privilege. For instance, stat holidays are mainly Christian based and we have the word God in our anthem. Freedom, information, affluence and an expanded worldview tend to lead people to give up superstitions...not the lack of a theocracy.

If you favour a theocracy how can you be sure that your preferred brand of superstition will be the one in charge? You may start out just hating gays and support a "Christian", but then find out that your particular flavour isn't running the show. The next thing you know, you are unable to purchase that evil shellfish, cotton poly blends or meat on Fridays. Your children may be taught the earth is 6,000 years old, rapists should marry their victims and the punishment for talking back is a beating or death.

Isn't it better if our government tries to base policy on evidence and the improvement of human well being, and the fairy tales are left for individuals to optionally entertain if they so desire?

Edited June 25, 2015 by Mighty AC

[WWWTT]

This week in Islam!

https://video-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hvideo-xpf1/v/t42.1790-2/11647566_10153421345196323_1823960416_n.mp4?oh=b942a11852122ab39ccbce1549c73c64&oe=558C9D76

WWWTT

[Guest]

This week in Islam!

https://video-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hvideo-xpf1/v/t42.1790-2/11647566_10153421345196323_1823960416_n.mp4?oh=b942a11852122ab39ccbce1549c73c64&oe=558C9D76

WWWTT

Good for her. I bet we could find someone who says their Stars and Bars has nothing to do with slavery. It's a rebel statement!

[drummindiver]

Isn't that what all religions with enough power do?

d

Edited June 26, 2015 by drummindiver

[drummindiver]

The only ones taking away your way of life in our society is our government in response to this so called 'threat'.

Yes, our way of life hasn't been affected at all.

Happy Holidays.

[Freddy]

There is a reason we try not to let the inmates run the asylum. A secular government with robust church state barriers does not force beliefs on others; in fact, the reverse is true.All religions can be freely practiced, up until the point said practice infringes on the rights, safety or security of others. Believers who attempt to ensconce their religious practices in law are openly trying to force beliefs on others. Take equal marriage as an example. No religious person is being forced to marry someone of the same sex. They are free to avoid that practice and to teach their children that homosexuality is an abomination if they so choose. At the same time individuals who do not share these hateful beliefs are free to follow their own path. Religious, secular, straight or gay all people are free to follow their own beliefs in this case. Yet, some religious folk would rather force all people to follow their particular practice. Our government is somewhat secular but still dripping with Christian privilege. For instance, stat holidays are mainly Christian based and we have the word God in our anthem. Freedom, information, affluence and an expanded worldview tend to lead people to give up superstitions...not the lack of a theocracy.If you favour a theocracy how can you be sure that your preferred brand of superstition will be the one in charge? You may start out just hating gays and support a "Christian", but then find out that your particular flavour isn't running the show. The next thing you know, you are unable to purchase that evil shellfish, cotton poly blends or meat on Fridays. Your children may be taught the earth is 6,000 years old, rapists should marry their victims and the punishment for talking back is a beating or death.Isn't it better if our government tries to base policy on evidence and the improvement of human well being, and the fairy tales are left for individuals to optionally entertain if they so desire?

I used to think so, but the more I learn , The more I'm putting this into question. I think we are losing touch with ourselves in the process. We act in certain ways, but have lost the meaning as to why we act the way we do.

[Mighty AC]

I used to think so, but the more I learn , The more I'm putting this into question. I think we are losing touch with ourselves in the process. We act in certain ways, but have lost the meaning as to why we act the way we do.

I think that's a common feeling for people as they age. Other cultures and the changing of our own can be scary and unsettling. Even if your neighbour is brown and believes in an child raping, warlord, who rode a winged horse or strange looking teenagers appear, who listen to crappy music and, despite being English, speak in indecipherable phrases, you are still free to follow your own customs and beliefs. That's the beauty of secular governments and freedoms, like the ability to choose your own religion or system of beliefs. Theocracies force one culture and brand of mythology on everyone and dictatorial style rule is rarely a good thing.

Life is certainly hell for many, especially women, living in Islamic theocracies, but just look to the US to see the kind of fascism Christians can generate when they have too much power, even in an affluent western nation.

Edited June 26, 2015 by Mighty AC

[Freddy]

I think that's a common feeling for people as they age. Other cultures and the changing of our own can be scary and unsettling. Even if your neighbour is brown and believes in an child raping, warlord, who rode a winged horse or strange looking teenagers appear, who listen to crappy music and, despite being English, speak in indecipherable phrases, you are still free to follow your own customs and beliefs. That's the beauty of secular governments and freedoms, like the ability to choose your own religion or system of beliefs. Theocracies force one culture and brand of mythology on everyone and dictatorial style rule is rarely a good thing.Life is certainly hell for many, especially women, living in Islamic theocracies, but just look to the US to see the kind of fascism Christians can generate when they have too much power, even in an affluent western nation.

It's definitely much easier to control a population that is very fragmented into very small and insignificant community.

[Mighty AC]

It's definitely much easier to control a population that is very fragmented into very small and insignificant community.

As long as we're saddled with a ridiculous 'winner take all' voting system then I suppose fragmentation and disinterest in the aim of the ruling party.

[Guest]

Islamic State targets Giza. No more Pyramids, no more Sphynx

That would be a shame. With any luck the Egyptian Army will wipe them out first.

http://news.nationalpost.com/news/world/isil-vows-to-demolish-the-pyramids-and-the-sphinx-amid-wave-of-attacks-on-egyptian-forces

Edit> I should make it clear that I believe the vast majority of Muslims actually have no problem with the Sphynx. Just in case.

Edited July 3, 2015 by bcsapper

[msj]

So, some Muslims want to have a cementary in Texas: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/friendlyatheist/2015/07/20/texans-oppose-muslim-cemetery-for-all-sorts-of-racist-ignorant-reasons/

But, of course, some radical Texans don't want it so they are threatening to put pigs heads up on the land.

Yes, Texas love in action.

Not often you will get a story defending Muslims from me but if Catholics can have a cementary then why not Muslims?

And if the land is zoned for that type of thing then let the people have their place to rot.

[Guest]

Not often you will get a story defending Muslims from me but if Catholics can have a cementary then why not Muslims?

And if the land is zoned for that type of thing then let the people have their place to rot.

Absolutely.

[Guest]

Forgetting all the negative stuff for a moment, this is pretty cool.

http://www.bbc.com/news/business-33436021

"The person who actually wrote it could well have known the Prophet Muhammad. He would have seen him probably, he would maybe have heard him preach. He may have known him personally..."

[Argus]

Forgetting all the negative stuff for a moment, this is pretty cool.

http://www.bbc.com/news/business-33436021

"The person who actually wrote it could well have known the Prophet Muhammad. He would have seen him probably, he would maybe have heard him preach. He may have known him personally..."

Maybe he knew his 9 year old wife, too...

[GostHacked]

Maybe he knew his 9 year old wife, too...

God murdered his only son. Good comparison I think.

[Argus]

God murdered his only son. Good comparison I think.

No, he did not. Jesus was killed by he Romans. He allowed Jesus to be killed, it's true. But then he was reborn, right, and went to Heaven.

[The_Squid]

Comparing myths is rather futile...

[Argus]

Comparing myths is rather futile...

True. I compare the behaviour of those who believe in the myths.

[Argus]

Just when you think Muslim crazies can't get any crazier and you come across something which shows you how wrong you were!

I came across this little item yesterday on the new book Iran's leader has just released. Iran's leader is not its president, by the way, because Iran is a theocracy. All decisions have to be approved by the mullahs, and the guy in charge is Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He's just come out with a book explaining how important it is to destroy Israel, and how Iran can bring this about by continuing to support terrorist attacks until all the Jews go back to Europe. Comes across as a real nice guy you can definitely rely on to honor a treaty... uh huh.

http://nypost.com/2015/08/01/iran-publishes-book-on-how-to-outwit-us-and-destroy-israel/

One of the parts of the article which caught my eye was this:

One such principle is that a land that falls under Muslim rule, even briefly, can never again be ceded to non-Muslims. What matters in Islam is ownership of a land’s government, even if the majority of inhabitants are non-Muslims. Dozens of maps circulate in the Muslim world showing the extent of Muslim territories lost to the Infidel that must be recovered. These include large parts of Russia and Europe, almost a third of China, the whole of India and parts of the Philippines and Thailand.

Seriously? Is that really an Islamic principle? Apparently! Because a brief google search shows The Muslim Brotherhood, ISIS, and Al Quaeda, among others, all calling for the need for Muslims to reconquer Al Andalus! For those of you who don't recognize the name, they're talking about Spain, which they conquered some time ago then got booted out by the locals - in 1492.

[WIP]

Just when you think Muslim crazies can't get any crazier and you come across something which shows you how wrong you were!

I came across this little item yesterday on the new book Iran's leader has just released. Iran's leader is not its president, by the way, because Iran is a theocracy. All decisions have to be approved by the mullahs, and the guy in charge is Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. He's just come out with a book explaining how important it is to destroy Israel, and how Iran can bring this about by continuing to support terrorist attacks until all the Jews go back to Europe. Comes across as a real nice guy you can definitely rely on to honor a treaty... uh huh.

http://nypost.com/2015/08/01/iran-publishes-book-on-how-to-outwit-us-and-destroy-israel/

One of the parts of the article which caught my eye was this:

One such principle is that a land that falls under Muslim rule, even briefly, can never again be ceded to non-Muslims. What matters in Islam is ownership of a land’s government, even if the majority of inhabitants are non-Muslims. Dozens of maps circulate in the Muslim world showing the extent of Muslim territories lost to the Infidel that must be recovered. These include large parts of Russia and Europe, almost a third of China, the whole of India and parts of the Philippines and Thailand.

I have too many other things to read rather than to waste time on propaganda coming from the NY Post! So, when it comes to the neverending Muslims are going to takeover Israel story, I'll look at who's got the guns, who's got the unregulated nukes, and who's doing the ethnic cleansing to drive Palestinians out of the West Bank and make Gaza unlivable, and I'll just call Bullshit to it as something we should pay attention to.

A sidebar to our election story could be: why has Harper turned Canada from an independent western nation with a public position of working for peace in the Middle East into a pro-Israel lapdog! There is a similar theme in most stories of foreign conquerors claiming territories by divine right: In America, they claimed to establish a "Shining City on a Hill" in an almost empty undeveloped wasteland....which more recent anthropological evidence from human settlements reveals to be a total lie. In Israel, it's returning to a land that mostly had many people already living there for many generations that had to be forced out to create a Jewish state and to keep expanding that Jewish state to make room for more and more arrivals..

Seriously? Is that really an Islamic principle? Apparently! Because a brief google search shows The Muslim Brotherhood, ISIS, and Al Quaeda, among others, all calling for the need for Muslims to reconquer Al Andalus! For those of you who don't recognize the name, they're talking about Spain, which they conquered some time ago then got booted out by the locals - in 1492.

Yes, and the border nuts in the Southwest (most of whom only arrived there after WWII) go on and on about a small Mexican group that has the goal of reconquering lands America seized 150 years ago. It's another matter of who's got the guns/and who doesn't! Everything else is drivel.

And yes, I've heard of Andalus. Now tell the other half of the story that the Moor Kingdom was a cosmopolitan society which was destroyed when they were completely forced out of Spain and Ferdinand & Isabella set up their Catholic kingdom which ethnically cleansed out Muslims, Jews, heretical Christians and other minority religions....even accusing remaining converted Jews (Conversos) of secretly practicing their Jewish religion and putting them to the test of inquisition trials. Most of the prominent Jews, such as the renowned Jewish scholar and philosopher - Moses Maimonides, had to flee to North Africa to escape being put to the sword.

[bush_cheney2004]

....A sidebar to our election story could be: why has Harper turned Canada from an independent western nation with a public position of working for peace in the Middle East into a pro-Israel lapdog!

More revisionist history.....the Canada Israel Free Trade Agreement was negotiated by the Liberals.

Nearly two decades ago, the Liberal government of Prime Minister Jean Chretien signed a bilateral free trade pact with Israel. According to the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development (DFTD), "the Canada-Israel Free Trade Agreement (CIFTA) has assisted in the tripling in the value of merchandise trade between our two countries since it came into force in 1997."

http://www.thewhig.com/2015/06/25/expanding-canada-israel-trade-a-good-thing