Islam Continued

As of yet, I'm still shaky on the concept of Islam, but it's becoming clearer. The main thing I'm seeing in Islam writing is its similarity to Christian texts - many passages, when translated, not only are similar to passages in the bible but are (almost word for word) in fact the same as biblical passages. For me, this transition is a littler easier to understand, given that Islam arose not long after christianity, and derived the basis of Islam from christianity, much like christianity derived their basics from judaism. They believe that, instead of being the son of God, that Jesus was simply a prophet. A very important prophet, given, but a prophet nonetheless. Here is where Islam is a little confusing and apparently counter-productive; they believe Jesus was never crucified, because they don't believe God would let that happen. However, they must acknowledge all the strife that has happened and is still happening in the modern world - their words seem misinformed in this sense.

But I'd like to talk a little more about the Qu'ran. In the 2006 film, V For Vendetta, the characters live in a world where Islam is all but banned. Any and all Qu'rans (Koran) have been burned, and owners will be arrested. A supporting character shows the main character his copy, and when she asks him why he has it, given that he isn't muslim, he simply states, "I don't have to be a Muslim to find its imagery and poetry beautiful." I have yet to fully read the Koran, but personally, I've enjoyed some of the passages I've read so far, as an appreciation for a body of literature as opposed to religious text. In the same way, I think it's a good idea for the sophomore english classes to read the bible - many religious texts have more to offer than merely preaching.