Religious Perspectives - Essay Example

Similarities and Differences of Religious Perspectives Islam houses many points of view. An analysis of two disparate stances may reveal heretofore unrealized truth about each. The aim of such exercises may not only to be to practice applied logic with respect to beliefs but also to devise resultant thought based on the strengths of each while mitigating their weaknesses. Here, we compare and contrast the religious perspectives of the "Radio announcer" and "the Preacher" Shaykh Mahmud in "A Radio Mawlid Sermon".

They agree on some premises. For example, both speak clearly as if the audience is a homogenous group of Believers. As such, each forbids evil and enjoins good. That is the crux of any similarity in their perspectives.They seem to disagree on the very reason for the sermon. Popular observance of some holidays in honor of individuals is the main point of ideological contention between the speakers. The announcer leans toward approval while implying Shaykh Mahmud was somehow opposed (Windows, 109).

He embraces the legendary remembrance of individuals. He focuses on the fallibility of scholars especially how they could inadvertently thwart good in their nearsightedness (Windows, 110). Shaykh Mahmud's sermon was a pretty standard "Be fair to others and praise your Maker" sermon. He did not explicitly oppose anything of the sort (Windows, 110 - 116). His non-mention of Sidi 'Abd ar-Rahman 'Uthman ash-Shahawi could be interpreted as a rejection of the proceedingsEach speaker establishes a distinct position on how they believe Islam should be performed.

The announcer approaches the celebration in terms of the overt observance of a holiday born in modern legend and appeals mostly to logic. Shaykh Mahmud approaches it in terms of the esoteric message appeals mostly to Qur'an and Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (SWS).One may infer certain points about the different ways that some contemporary Muslims think about Muslim devotional practices. It is known that local holidays are an area of question throughout Muslim communities everywhere. In the past the fusion of custom with religion had fueled the impetus toward religious revival.

"A Radio Mawlid Sermon" is just open example of a controversy that has raged in the Muslim World for centuries. This has been a challenge since the earliest days of our faith.Amidst these challenges, one is wise to follow the middle way. Islam advocates balance in life: balanced worship, balanced family, balance business, balanced self, balanced universe. One may infer balanced thinking. The human heart is two-fold, intellect and emotion. It is not either that may be said to Praise Allah (SWT) alone, but both in unified balance.

Knowledge of His Supremacy elicits feelings marvel just as emotional peace helps us reason more clearly. As such, a wise Believer may wish to honor The Most Honorable by separating fact from fiction and balancing ones worldview based not only on logic or authority but both: information and reason. Islam houses many perspectives as there are Muslims because ultimately each soul will stand before Allah alone. Although there are elements of behavior we all share, we are each still individuals, and Allah (SWT) sees us as such.

Why not do exactly like Sidi 'Abd ar-Rahman 'Uthman ash-Shahawi Each soul is unique. Granted, maybe some are more praise-worthy that others, but if I was to become so noted, I would hope a shaykh would praise Allah alone and direct Muslims to a purer faith for me anonymously. To honor our faith is honor enough for me.Works CitedRenard, John. Windows on the House of Islam: Muslim Sources on Spirituality and Religious Life. Berkeley: University of California Press, 1998.