Submitted by Haseeba Syed, Islamic Circle of
North America, on 2010-05-24.
Let's imagine, you come home after a long hard day of work, or school.
Or, you've been running errands and doing other chores all day. You turn
on the television, and tune to the news channel after dinner. Some of
the words you hear most often include Muslim, Islam, and Muhammad. But
what do you really know about Muslims and Islam besides what you've
heard on the news and seen on TV?
You deserve to know what Islam
really is about. "Islam" means submission to the will of God. It is a
complete way of life, not just a religion. There are more than 7 million
Muslims here in the United States. People of all cultures around the
world represent Islam; Muslims are not just from the Middle East or
South Asia.
Some common misconceptions about Islam pertain to
Islam and women. Many people do not know the real reason why Muslim
women wear a headscarf or dress modestly. Another misconception about
Islam relates to terrorism, and violence. Another misconception relates
to the Prophet Muhammad, and his position in Islam.
Here is your
chance, to actually learn the truth about Islam and get your questions
answered from real Muslim scholars. On Saturday, May 29th, a free
symposium will be offered entitled "A Window to Islam." This seminar is
open to people of all faiths. The aspects involved in this presentation
include an open question and answer session, along with a presentation
about Islam's approach to the family system and how to overcome family
challenges. Also, there is a presentation that explores The Qur'an,
which is the Holy Book for Muslims. Also, misconceptions about Islam
will be explored. The origin of the Qur'an will be addressed. In
addition, there will be live performances of Islamic songs and a
cultural bazaar tour. The evening will conclude with an ethnic dinner.
This
is a great opportunity for people of all faiths to open lines of
communication and to discuss various issues pertaining to Islam and
America. This event will encourage dialogue between people of different
cultures and religions. One of the only ways to increase tolerance is
through knowledge of each other's beliefs and ideals. You may be
surprised to know how many things Muslims have in common with people of
other faiths. Muslims actually do believe that Jesus, Abraham, and Moses
were all prophets. There are so many other similarities, and they will
be discussed at the conference.
Come join the Muslim community
and learn the truth about Islam. Get your questions answered from Muslim
scholars that have a high degree of knowledge. Learn more about the
similarities Islam has with other faiths. Take a tour of the bazaar and
learn about different cultures. Come have dinner hosted by Muslims that
are more than willing to answer any questions you may have. The
symposium will take place on Saturday, May 29th, from 2:30 pm to 7:30
pm, at the Connecticut Convention Center in Hartford. Don't miss this
opportunity, and don't forget to bring a friend along!