Studying other religions

I’ve noticed Muslims (at least in the west) avoid studying other religions, or do disparagingly so with an overly pronounced skepticism, supposedly because they fear weakening their own faith.

It’s illogical on multiple levels: how are Muslims going to believe the Divine Revelations were released in every language yet still disparage world religions they don’t recognize? Talk about cognitive dissonance.

But more to the point, when a Muslim’s faith is weak, there is no faster remedy to strengthen it than studying world religions with a deep respect. I’m serious. It’s like feeling homesick. The world is a gorgeous place, but occasionally, you want to fall asleep in your own bed. If you’ve never felt “at home” in Islam, exploring other religions may prompt you to recognize what home feels like.

One thought on “Studying other religions

  1. harpycore

    I disagree. If someone’s faith is weak the way to strengthen it would be studying islam to renew and expand their knowledge and to strengthen their bond with God. Learning about other religions can be fascinating when finding similarities that hint at a mutual origin and useful when leading discussions. There are reasons for studying other religions in depth and making comparisons, but if someone’s faith is lacking, how can they profit from something incomplete or distorted from its supposed origins.

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