Do you consider Islam a legitimate religion?

2014-05-26T18:50:18-04:00

Many who have studied Islam have various feelings as to the status of Islam. Please respond as to why you do or do not accept Islam as a religion.
Does Islam rate protection under the Bill of Rights?

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2014 9:29 PM

2014-05-26T21:29:47-04:00

SFC Hardy,

I have no doubt that Islam is a legitimate religion fully protected under the Bill of Rights.

Warmest Regards, Sandy

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 26 at 2014 10:45 PM

2014-05-26T22:45:36-04:00

I won't comment on the premise of this post because frankly I think it is ridiculous. Regarding the BOR, religious freedom is what is protected, not individual religions. The founding of a particular religion or how it is recognized is totally irrelevant. You are guaranteed freedom of expression of any type regarding religious preference simply for being a free person.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2014 11:17 AM

2014-05-27T11:17:43-04:00

This is indeed what I believe to be a loaded question, designed to provoke a certain response. However with this question you could remove "Islam" and insert any religion into that sentence.

Does anyone have the right to tell a society of people that their chosen religion is legitimate or not? And I do recall a really long time ago some people set sail to an undiscovered country seeking freedom from being persecuted about their religion among other grievances that they had.

The fact is it doesn't matter what my personal view of another religion is, my religion teaches me to respect all, treat all as I would like to be treated and do what I believe to be right and just.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made May 27 at 2014 12:15 PM

2014-05-27T12:15:04-04:00

I almost didn't respond to this post but you have me wondering. Why would it not be considered a "legitimate" religion? And secondly, why would it not be protected by the Bill of Rights? Who are we to decide what is and what isn't a "legitimate" religion? Look around you, there are groups of people who believe in a collective thought that are then classified as a region. Some good, some not so good.

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made May 27 at 2014 1:02 PM

2014-05-27T13:02:47-04:00

Yes, of course Islam is a legitimate religion.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2014 1:39 PM

2014-05-27T13:39:01-04:00

Islam as a whole is recognized as one of the world's leading religions and is one of the three Abrahamic faiths with the other two being Judaism and Christianity. The events of and/or after 9/11 do not make it any less of a religion just as the crusades did not diminish Christianity. There are certain sects of the religion that are extremely violent but as a whole the religion does not preach violence. The same can be said for Christianity and for a small sect (which isn't recognized by the Southern Baptist Convention) known as the Westboro Baptist Church. Judging the whole by the actions of the few is how we breed many of our stereotypes and -isms

Response by SFC Michael Hasbun made May 27 at 2014 3:41 PM

2014-05-27T15:41:09-04:00

All religions are legitimate religions. Where do you draw the line? Number of practitioners? Property ownership? Political influence? There's no hard rubric for determining legitimacy.

Response by SFC Stephen P. made May 27 at 2014 5:38 PM

2014-05-27T17:38:35-04:00

"Does Islam rate protection under the Bill of Rights?"

Have you read the first line in the bill of rights?

'Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion'

Whether or not you or I accept its standing, there is no legislative authority to make that determination.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2014 7:55 PM

2014-05-27T19:55:30-04:00

Yes it is a legitimate religion. Just because there are fanatics that take things to far behind the bible (Davidians?) Islam is a religion. What would your reaction be if followers of Islam started to decry Christianity as being a sham of a religion based on the actions of David Koresh and the Branch Davidians. Or an even better example is those that bash the Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints (LDS, Mormans) based on the actions and teachings of Warrens Jeffs?

Response by WO1 Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2014 9:40 PM

2014-05-27T21:40:10-04:00

SFC Hardy,

I don't understand how anyone can ask if a religion is "legitimate" when a religion can be anything? Whether you agree with it or not is one thing but when you start to question the right of 3 million Americans to practice Islam thats another thing altogether. Just because the terrorist we fight are muslim doesn't make all muslims terrorists. Most of the major religions of the world have extremist branches, just look at the catholic and protestant conflict in Ireland. You can't "delegitimate" something just because you don't believe in it and/or dislike it. We are at war with people who want us dead, not at war with a religion. The last time somebody tried to scrap a religion we had the holocaust, if Islam isn't protected un the BoR then no religion is.

Response by GySgt William Hardy made May 27 at 2014 10:42 PM

2014-05-27T22:42:11-04:00

There are two sides to Islam debate as it has been presented to me:

The people who have discussed this with me, and support Islam as a religion, and say it is due full protection under the law, even though Muslims are causing problems across Europe and now in the USA, state that under The Five Pillars of Islam they express the same tenants of the religion that other major religions state. They have virtually nothing else to add.

The majority on that web site…

Many consider Islam a cult with Satan because behind The Five Pillars of Islam is a male dominated/sexually rewarding Islam. Here are some points to consider:
Muslim men may have multiple wives. Muslim men may have a child as a wife. Muslim men may engage in gay relationships while married to a woman. Muslim men may engage in sex with a prostitute. In addition, men who die killing infidels are given an “E” ticket to heaven where they are rewarded with virgins and an eternal erection. (Yes it does say that). The question asked is, “What kind of religion awards its male member with sexual favors?” For that reason they call it a cult with Satan.

Another point brought out against Islam was that Islam calls for world domination and that the infidel must be either killed or they must pay tribute to Islam. No other religion calls for world domination or making people pay tribute.
Muslim men have been given absolute domain over women to the point that they may beat a woman and even have the right kill a female member of the family without fear of the law under certain circumstances (honor killings). They point to the recent story of the Pakistani man who killed his wife and claims the USA cannot try him because Islam gave him the right to kill his wife. (http://nypost.com/2014/05/21/man-charged-with-killing-wife-after-she-made-him-the-wrong-dinner/)

Here are a few websites: Please check them out. They are not all anti-Islamic sites.
http://islamqa.info/en/cat/218
http://www.justaskislam.com/
http://www.askthesheikh.com/
http://www.rawa.org/temp/runews/2011/10/02/sharia-law-has-led-to-the-legislation-of-child-marriage-in-6-countries.html (Child Marriage)
http://www.muslim-marriage-guide.com/marriage-age.html (Marriage Age)
http://www.islamswomen.com/articles/do_muslim_women_have_rights.php (Women’s Rights)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y-Tw7WhH_aQ (rules for beating your wife)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wp3Eam5FX58 (More rules for wife beating)

We have debated this on another site and the vast majority supports the concept of a cult over a religion. Keep in mind that we don’t get to make that decision under the law. it is only a personal opinion on the anti-Islam side.

Man killed wife for making vegetarian dinner: prosecutors

A Pakistani immigrant beat his wife to death in their Brooklyn home after she made the mistake of cooking him lentils for dinner instead of the hearty meal of goat meat that he craved, according to...

Response by MSG Timothy Smith made May 28 at 2014 11:44 AM

2014-05-28T11:44:14-04:00

In my opinion, you have to define what religion means before you can determine what is legitimate and what is not. But to define it, you have to have something that is more or less absolute. As we can see in our own political spectrum, the Constitution and BoRs can say anything that whoever is in power wants them to say. But those two documents, fine as they are, are not religous documents, unless you accept politics as a social religion. So then, you have to go back to the official documents themseleves (i.e., the Bible, the Q'uran, &tc). Then you have to check on the consistency throughout each, to see which is more consistent all the way through, before cpomparing them with each other. After all that, you have to ask yourself what is a religion. I see it as a belief system, a world view, a way of life. By matching up the two areas, which is the most consistent? But then, anything can be a religion, if you accept that there is a God to worship, in what ever form, whether it be a Divine Being, their job, money, or whatever else that play a role as idols in their lifes. For where the heart is, there lies your religion.

Response by LTC Paul Mullins made May 28 at 2014 1:14 PM

2014-05-28T13:14:58-04:00

It is a religion and protected. But, if you study Christianity and Judaism, you will find some pretty strange stuff too. Some very strict guidance on a variety of things (any one out there giving 10% of their gross paycheck to the church?) and other things that we primarily do not follow today. The modernization of these religions have seen the organizations and clergy lessen the strict codes that were spelled out. If you find a fundamentalist in any religion you will find someone that is out of touch with the modern world. Fundamentalism was coined in the U.S. around 1905 to describe Christians that did not agree with modernization of Christianity. Islam has not modernized for the most part due to the fact that in the Sunni sect no one is allowed to reinterpret Mohommad's teachings, it is the way it was when the 12th Immam died.

fun·da·men·tal·ism [fuhn-duh-men-tl-iz-uhm]
noun
1. a movement in American Protestantism that arose in the early part of the 20th century in reaction to modernism and that stresses the infallibility of the Bible not only in matters of faith and morals but also as a literal historical record, holding as essential to Christian faith belief in such doctrines as the creation of the world, the virgin birth, physical resurrection, atonement by the sacrificial death of Christ, and the Second Coming.

Response by GySgt William Hardy made May 29 at 2014 8:41 AM

2014-05-29T08:41:17-04:00

Thank you for the responses.

1. All of you, 100%, recognize Islam as a religion, and protected under the BoR...even the atheist.

2. On the other site only about 2% recognize Islam as a religion, and said it was a cult...but they still recognized that under the BoR they still have full protection.

I find it interesting how "birds of a feather flock together". The other site and this one have opposite views.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 29 at 2014 8:23 PM

2014-05-29T20:23:48-04:00

Yes I consider it real...religion basically is nothing more than belief in a higher being/beings. In my mind all religions are inherently the same it's just a matter of what you buy into/believe. And if something is defined as religion then yes it is protected.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made May 30 at 2014 11:27 AM

2014-05-30T11:27:11-04:00

1.6 Billion is legitimate. To think otherwise is dangerous but I do not think you are really asking if it legitimate but not a 100% on what you are really trying to ask?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2014 1:53 PM

2014-05-30T13:53:17-04:00

I don't understand what you're getting at. About a billion people would agree that it's a religion.

Response by SPC Charles Brown made May 30 at 2014 2:14 PM

2014-05-30T14:14:29-04:00

Why should it not be considered a legitimate religion? They believe in a Creator God as do Christians and Jewish believers. Granted they call Him by a different name but God whether called Allah, Higher Power, Abba, Yahweh is still God. There are still people who believe that my choice of religion puts me squarely in the midst of a cult, however, the military considers it to be a legitimate religion. Just because you do not believe the same things as another religion does not mean that they aren't legitimate. Not everyone in the who practices Islam is a fanatic or terrorist. I would have to say that it does rate the same protection as that of any other recognized religion. So much for my .02.

Response by MAJ Jim Woods made May 30 at 2014 9:36 PM

2014-05-30T21:36:16-04:00

The General I worked with in Iraq was one of the most devout Muslim's I know. He did not understand the actions of radical Islam. He believed that Islam, Judaism, and Christianity were the true religions and worked together. How else could he justify sending his two American Advisers Christmas Cards every year? Of course we send him the appropriate blessings and wishes for the Muslim holidays.

The problem is that we have never handled anything in the Middle East or Asia well. If you don't understand them or respect them, then don't go! And stop trying to force our belief/political/Military system down peoples throats. It's Nam' all over again X's 2.

Oh Crap..... there I go...... My Agent Orange is acting up.......LOL

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2014 9:37 PM

2014-05-30T21:37:12-04:00

Yes, Islam is a legitimate religion that is protected.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 30 at 2014 10:12 PM

2014-05-30T22:12:28-04:00

As often as I run from religious conversations, I figured I'd add my own nondenominational $0.02 with a question:

With religions so vast and numerous, who are we to decide which religions are "legit"? To followers, all religions are legit. Surprisingly, Islam is one religions with the most followers worldwide. However, even smaller religions warrant their designation and religious protections offered to the larger ones.

Response by MSG Martin C. made May 31 at 2014 9:09 PM

2014-05-31T21:09:46-04:00

We shall respect the choices others make when it comes down to their faith. Our opinion is irrelevant on this topic.

Response by SGM Matthew Quick made May 31 at 2014 11:17 PM

2014-05-31T23:17:56-04:00

Why not? Wicca is.

Response by CH (MAJ) Tim Meier, SJ made Jun 1 at 2014 2:31 AM

2014-06-01T02:31:14-04:00

Gunny, the statement "Many who have studied Islam have various feelings" is a statement beneath the dignity of a Senior NCO in the United States Military. How many is "many"? Have studied what? Where? While I *am* a Chaplain in the US Army, I have a doctorate in molecular neurobiology from Stanford, a postdoc in molecular virology with a researcher from Yale, four masters degrees (philosophy, immunology, divinity, theology), and an undergraduate double major in music and biology. Your statement is one of the most disingenuous, offensive, ridiculous, inflammatory, and contemptible I've heard from a Senior NCO.

Response by GySgt William Hardy made Jul 20 at 2014 11:07 AM

2014-07-20T11:07:46-04:00

It's been about a month or so since I first posted this.
I am a strong supporter of the Bill of Rights, including the religious freedom. The problem is that as I speak with people, both military and civilian, I get a lot of negativity. Sources report that from 15 to 25 percent of the Muslim population are terrorists, leaving 85 to 75 percent as peace loving. One video of a committee meeting shows what is going on in terms of those of those what those 75% are not doing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUPMve4EC3A

Those that are strongly anti-Muslim seem to be so because of the lack of any evidence or action on the part of the peaceful Muslims.

If you go on-line you will find where the radical Muslims post clip after clip about Islamic practices that are not a part of the Koran.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6P_UbBsZhc

In this clip, the cleric is telling radicals/terrorists that you not only get 72 virgins but you get their handmaidens also and you get to have sex with all of them. If you check it out for yourself, you will find no such reference in the Koran.

I have been talking with a Marine who is a Muslim and Iraqi veteran and whose father was also a Marine and a Muslim who fought in Vietnam. We have been discussing matters and he is one of the majority who is peaceful. The problem is that the minority is speaking for the majority and everyone is buying into it.

Between the lies of the radicals/terrorists and the non-action of the peaceful followers of Islam, is it not understandable why so many are anti-Muslim? Those that I have spoken to who are very anti-Muslim believe that all Muslims believe the radical view. They believe that Muslims coming into other countries are doing so as a "silent" terrorists who will slowly take over and will have many, many children. They do not recognize that Muslims can be refugees or regular immigrants like anyone else. What they see is the news reports of Muslims in France blocking streets during prayer time and claiming they have the right to do so. They see the riots in the UK where Muslims destroyed their own communities. They see Muslims in the USA who buy land for a Mosque next to a pig farm and then demand that the farmer cease operations and move. They don't see peaceful Muslims standing up and saying positive things or speaking out against the radicals....at least we don't see it on the news.

There is a big problem out there with how we perceive threats, imaginary or real, and it will come back to haunt us if we do not handle things correctly. I do believe that the peaceful Muslims do need to take action and speak against terrorist actions and get that word out so that it is reported on the nightly news. Unitil Americans see more Muslims on the side of peace, attitudes are not going to change.

As I said once before, I find it very interesting that the other sites were so strongly anti-Muslim and here in RP people stuck to the rule of law as set forth in the Constitution.

Response by Sgt John Henry made Jul 20 at 2014 11:59 AM

2014-07-20T11:59:18-04:00

I'm with the First Amendment:

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 20 at 2014 2:51 PM

2014-07-20T14:51:18-04:00

Islam is one of the largest religions in the world. I don't care if a person worships a stone and called it a religion it's protected in the bill of rights. I think anyone who calls themselves an American and advocates for religious intolerance or fails to support people of all faiths to their fundamental human right to worship as they please is a hyprocrite. I am a Muslim and I love this nation, served multiple deployments, and will continue to serve and live in the United States of America because of diversity. Furthermore, I could not stand behind a nation that doesn't allow people their fundamental right to worship as they please.

Response by PFC Thomas Graves made Jul 21 at 2014 11:52 AM

2014-07-21T11:52:45-04:00

That's a dangerous question with so many politically correct fascists in our government's fat-cat bureaucracy. I would recommend that everyone read the Qur'an, some of the Hadith's, and study the history of Islam, so you will easily recognize the disinformation that surrounds the issue.

Response by PO2 Rocky Kleeger made Jul 21 at 2014 2:34 PM

2014-07-21T14:34:29-04:00

Islam, as a faith, has been around a very long time, its not as new as, say, Lutheranism. Islam, historically, actually predates Christianity. Is it a legitimate religion? Are ANY religions legitimate? If you read the OT, you will find that Judaism was the first and then the brothers had a fight and one went one way, while the other went another. However, MOST that follow the NT don't even recognize Judaism as a "legitimate" religion, even though the man the call their Messiah preached it.

So, I ask again, is ANY religion legitimate?

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2014 7:06 PM

2014-07-21T19:06:28-04:00

Is this a serious question?

Freedom of religion is one of the fundamental concepts that this country was founded on. It doesn't matter if someone's a Pastafarian. There are no bona fide requirements on what is a "legitimate" religion or not as far as the Constitution is concerned.

Response by Sgt Mark Ramos made Jul 21 at 2014 9:08 PM

2014-07-21T21:08:10-04:00

I wonder how many of the respondents actually studied the history of Islam or the life of Muhammad. People are free to call any philosophy a religion. But to put Islam on the same standing as Christianity, Buddhism, or any other non-aggressive, non-violent religion is ignorant of the facts. Before calling out all the killing done in the name of Christ, I refer to Christ as a non-violent example. Or the Buddha in respect for all life. Muhammad was a very violent man in his quest for power and riches. He is the ultimate example in Islam. I'm not saying that all Muslims are violent, I simply refer to the example that he set. So before getting indignant, or offended by a legitimate question, study the subject matter. Then you can defend your viewpoint with a little knowledge.

Response by CWO4 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 24 at 2014 12:57 AM

2014-07-24T00:57:45-04:00

Yes, it's a religion.

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Nov 1 at 2014 10:39 AM

2014-11-01T10:39:08-04:00

It is certainly a legitimate religion, definitely more so than the fictitious Pastafarianism or counter-Christian Satanism that continues to gain governmental acceptance.

Islam has been around since the 1st Century AD and is an Abrahamic religion in that Muslims claim Abraham as their patriarch as do Jews. The difference between Judaism and Islam is that Jews worship Yahweh as the one true God, and Muslims worship Allah (who is a different entity from Yahweh altogether).

Islam is most certainly protected under the First Amendment Freedom of Religion clause.

Response by GySgt William Hardy made Nov 1 at 2014 5:16 PM

2014-11-01T17:16:10-04:00

From the day I first posed this question, I have been talking with a Muslim who just recently left active duty. His father is a Muslim and his mother is Catholic. We have been talking about issues in the Islamic faith that have been altered by those of the radical wing of Islam. For example, everyone has heard the stories about how a man will receive 72 virgins if they die in their cause, which by the way is not true, but at any rate, I found a video of an Islamic cleric who up the ante and is telling his followers that if they die in the act of Jihad and in the name of Allah they will get 100 virgins in heaven. Not only that, but each virgin comes with a hand-maiden, each of them has a hand-maiden. That means 100 X 100 X 100 so that each man who dies taking out the infidels will end up with one million virgins in heaven.

The point is that in our discussions I have been told that there are many problems within the Islamic faith. One is that the vast majority of Muslims are illiterate and rely on what the clerics say and take it as fact. This allows the radical wing of Islam to manipulate the population with lies, false or misguided teachings about the Koran.

There was once a simple division...Shiites and Sunnis. Sunnis were once considered the more peaceful side of Islam. Shiites were considered the more right-wing version. That is no longer true. There are radical, terrorist groups in both of the major wings of Islam. You can no longer tell the good guys from the bad simply by the label they wear.

As I talked with my friend, I told him that if the mainstream Muslims kept silent and did not openly oppose the radicals they would eventually be considered a part of the problem and all of Islam would be considered the enemy. He asked what he could do? I asked him if he could speak with his cleric and have his Mosque make a statement. He came back and said that the Mosque was not going to make a public statement for the same reasons many others will not....fear of retaliation from the radicals in this country. Then he made a statement that shook me up...He said he wished he had become a Catholic so he didn't have to be a Muslim in this day and time. No one should have to feel that way about their faith.

It's been a few weeks since I last talked to him. I don't know what is going on right now.

As far as Islam is concerned it is a very simple thing to answer and a difficult one to comply with in today's world. Islam is a faith protected under the constitution; however, there are branches of Islam that do not fit the definition of a religion. As some of the people here have pointed out, a religion like Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, etc, are basically a religion of peace. All religions have something within their beliefs that allows for protection during wars or other similar circumstances. Radical Islam is all about the taking over of the world through violence. As such, it makes it very hard for many in the world, not just America, to accept those groups. At the same time, they tarnish the reputation of the moderate Islams who are not seeking war with the world.

This is going to be a tough area for everyone for a long time.

The newest thought, and it was also one of Allen West's posts, should non-American Islamic immigrants be deported until this War on Terror is over? Should we be so liberal about our immigration policies and extend our Constitutional Rights to people who are potential terrorists or should we wait until they commit a terrorist act and kill American citizens before we make our move? Tough call isn't it?

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 15 at 2014 4:58 AM

2014-11-15T04:58:39-05:00

Nevermind.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 15 at 2014 3:56 PM

2014-11-15T15:56:40-05:00

Well this is certainly a ridiculous question...

Response by SFC Melker Johansson made Dec 5 at 2014 8:22 AM

2014-12-05T08:22:08-05:00

Islam is as valid as any other religion (Christianity, Buddhism, Hinduism, etc). I also don't think any religion should be able to influence the secular government. Your religious beliefs should be kept between you, your family, your church friends, your religious leader, and the divine being you believe in.

Response by SSG (ret) William Martin made Dec 24 at 2014 8:32 PM

2014-12-24T20:32:49-05:00

I will say this, Islam is a religion and individuals in the United States who practice it deserve protection under the U.S. Constitution unless it violates the U.S. Constitution or other individuals such as enforcing sharia law which is a no go.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 24 at 2014 8:47 PM

2014-12-24T20:47:06-05:00

GySgt William Hardy, refer to the attached topic. This boils down to an idea straight out of Orwell's Animal Farm, that "all [religions] are equal, but some are more equal than others." To claim that Islam is not a legitimate religion, or not as legitimate as other religions, you corrupt the entire concept of religious freedom and the protections therein.

Religious bigotry on RallyPoint | RallyPoint

I have seen a worrying trend here on RallyPoint lately where religious bigotry has been on the rise. Stereotypes, blanket statements on religions as a whole, and in general a lot of comments that straddle the fence of hate speech. I understand that many people hold religious beliefs close to their hearts, but I find this to be unacceptable. Should we as a community chastise offending users on an individual basis, or should RP set up and...

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2014 3:19 PM

2014-12-26T15:19:19-05:00

There is nothing wrong with Islam as religion.... the problem like in any other faith is the redicals and stupid exstrimrst that use it in a twisted way to achive power !

Response by Sgt Adam Jennings made Dec 26 at 2014 4:44 PM

2014-12-26T16:44:40-05:00

Hmm, I see nothing but a baiting question here. Although I don't follow or believe the teachings of Islam I can no more deny it as a religion as I can any other religion in the world. Do I think they're right? No, but it isn't mine to judge or condemn them either.

Not all Muslims are extremists.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Dec 26 at 2014 4:45 PM

2014-12-26T16:45:59-05:00

It's more of a radical cult. It may be a religion but it is an anti-christian religion. It promotes the exact opposite of societies values. Islam has no place in the post Iron Age world.

Some say Islam isn't really like that, I say pick up a news paper from almost any country, any day and repeat that.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 26 at 2014 8:33 PM

2014-12-26T20:33:04-05:00

With over a billion adherents, we'd be foolish not to a knowledge it as a "legitimate religion".

Having said that, I disagree with it. Personally, I feel it's toxic and regressive, just like many other religions. I don't make public policy, nor am I in a position to interpret religious freedom of those who believe in something that I do not.

They do deserve protection to practice their religion. They should be afforded certain protections, just like any other religion. The door was opened long before we were born, concerning religious rights. There's no shutting it now.
Down-vote to your heart and souls' content, but it doesn't change reality.

Response by SSG Peter Muse made Dec 26 at 2014 11:37 PM

2014-12-26T23:37:26-05:00

I look at this question and find it antagonistic and see there is so much going on with the answers. When I see many of the answers it only proves that most people are not mature enough or informed enough to form a truly intelligent response based on anything more than tribal wisdom or media fed jumble. Is it remotely possible that radical Islam spawned from over 1,000 years of them being persecuted by Christians? Or, How have Christians treated Jews? Then there have been cases where each group has chased some other group based on their religious beliefs.

Response by PO2 Gerry Roberson made Dec 27 at 2014 12:41 AM

2014-12-27T00:41:41-05:00

First, DEFINE what "legitimate" ACTUALLY means and describe clearly WHAT metric is being used to define it. A religion usually involves a deity or deities to believe in. It can also involve belief in a system of thought. Capitalism and communism have by many individuals been raised to the level of religion, evidenced by the level of regard given those systems. Political ideology and party affiliation have also been used as such. Adolf Hitler raised Nazism to a religion, replacing Christ on the cross in churches with a portrait of himself and the Bible with a copy of Mein Kampf in its place, baptizing babies before the swastika, loftily muttering "nazibabble" over that poor child. Even science is raised to that level by so many as evidenced by the stridency of its adherents and the hostility aimed toward those of a more spiritual mind. I personally believe that this universe did not "pop into existence all by itself" and everything did not merely "fall right into place all by itself". I believe it was CAUSED by THE original thought and word. The law of gravity and the laws of motion are often spoken of. There HAD to be a LAWGIVER. Again, define "legitimate".

Response by PO2 Gerry Roberson made Dec 27 at 2014 12:54 AM

2014-12-27T00:54:44-05:00

Sgt. Ben Keen, I'm rather like-minded. We have strayed so far off the mark that now peaceful protest under the 1st Amendment is described as terrorism, can you believe that? And divergent thought and speech is called hate speech, not inflammatory speech intended to directly and personally offend and provoke violence, which should be called hate speech. I believe political correctness is at the root of some of this instead of basic common sense. For me, being politically correct means contacting my representatives at all levels when the need arises and properly filling out the ballot on election day.

Response by Sgt Jennifer Mohler made Dec 27 at 2014 9:23 AM

2014-12-27T09:23:48-05:00

I have never heard anyone utter the words "not legitimate" in the direction of Islam. I am confused and flabbergasted that this is even a topic. No one here has been able to figure out how this is even a debate.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 9:29 AM

2014-12-27T09:29:05-05:00

I don't consider leave unprotected under the Bill of Rights the Islamic Religion, if we do that we will fail our Constitution

Response by SGT Justin Singleton made Dec 27 at 2014 10:36 AM

2014-12-27T10:36:01-05:00

Fairly easy answer...yes, it is a legitimate religion. Religion can be understood as faith (belief) through practice (cult); Islam is one of the three Hebraic religions (modern Judaism, Christianity, and Islam). Not only is it a legitimate religion, but it is one of only three (the other two Hebraic religions) that has a truly monotheistic and transcendent view of a god (Modern Zoroastrianism being something of a cult of Islam rather than a separate religion). All other religions can be placed in the category "Continuity"—those that believe less of transcendent deities and more continuous with the world of nature and the world of men (I am using this term how John Oswald uses it).

Although modern Judaism, Islam, and Christianity stand in direct opposition with each other and are not mutually accepting of the other two, they have the same origins.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 11:00 AM

2014-12-27T11:00:55-05:00

"Many who have studied Islam"?!
I'm going to venture that any who have actually studied it regard it as a legitimate religion.
Those who have only looked up the Wikipedia page or want to start an argument might not, but I also venture this wasn't a "legitimate question." (Those who have studied it have various feelings)

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 1:14 PM

2014-12-27T13:14:13-05:00

GySgt William Hardy I'm not sure what direction you intended for this discussion to go?

1. Yes. Islam is a legitimate religion dating back to the 7th century.
2. I Accept Islam as a religion Based on historical development of all religions.
3. Yes. It rates protection under the bill of rights.
First Amendment to the United States Constitution
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.

If you are referring to Extremest using Islam for personal agenda, now that is a different story.

Response by COL Ted Mc made Dec 27 at 2014 3:30 PM

2014-12-27T15:30:50-05:00

GySgt William Hardy I realize that I'm coming into this discussion late [and admit that I haven't read ANY of the responses] - HOWEVER when you ask "Does Islam rate protection under the Bill of Rights?" you raise a point that few see and fewer want to admit.

That point is that the government doesn't have to infringe anyone's Constitutional Rights to practice their religion if it simply defines a set of beliefs as NOT a "religion" at which point it can suppress that set of beliefs and incarcerate those who subscribe to them.

Where that gets "sticky" is that the government can do that to ANY set of beliefs - even that "so-called 'Christianity' stuff".

Response by MAJ Raúl Rovira made Dec 27 at 2014 4:37 PM

2014-12-27T16:37:33-05:00

I can't answer the question. Next Slide.

In my view, religion is not the issue.

The problem comes with a twisted personal interpretation of (insert religion). It becomes worse when a particular religion is used as an excuse to justify an action. History has several of examples.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 4:44 PM

2014-12-27T16:44:04-05:00

It has lasted longer than its founder so yes, I consider it a religion and not a cult.

Response by SPC Tim McKenzie made Dec 27 at 2014 4:56 PM

2014-12-27T16:56:09-05:00

No. It is a death cult with no tolerance for any other beliefs or rites. The best thing we could do would be to cut off all contact with them. Let them die.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 5:00 PM

2014-12-27T17:00:32-05:00

Is that a legit question? It is the largest fear mongering religion and fastest growing religion in the world today. It is to be feared, and resisted with all force necessary. In another 100 years, Christians will live in fear in this country...unless we stand our ground now. Almost all religions have some form of separation of church and state/govt, what is unique about Islam is there is no division or separation of church and state, actually the state religion becomes Islam, and cannot run without religion, the religion is the rules of the state. Punishment is directed by the Quran...it's an ingenious business model, one that will keep it alive and flourishing for centuries....perhaps the question should be: should we allow Islam in a Christian country, because coexist is a word that only exists in Unicorn land.

Response by PV2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 5:57 PM

2014-12-27T17:57:55-05:00

what ever someone believes in, its a legitimate religion

Response by 1LT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 7:10 PM

2014-12-27T19:10:23-05:00

Yes it is. I understand that Islam has gotten a bad rap due to the actions of some extremists but the good majority of Islamic people would not ever behave like that. Like pretty much every religion Islam is meant to be practiced peacefully. Don't let those extremist ruin it for everyone else. If you do that then you might as well say that the members of the KKK represent what is Christianity, it is simply not true.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 27 at 2014 7:14 PM

2014-12-27T19:14:58-05:00

Ummm, a billion Muslims really can't be wrong. It's a religion that steamed from the other two Abrahamic which are Judaism and Christianity.

And yes in regards to the bill of rights, we have freedom of religion, be it beliefs in Jesus, Muhammad(PBUH) and/or the flying spaghetti monster.

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 2:26 AM

2014-12-28T02:26:19-05:00

Man, I was all excited to come in to what I thought was going to be some good, bloody, RallyPoint discussions action... but everyone's pretty much spot on regarding Islam, and the Bill of Rights. Like most things the actions of a few shitheads shouldn't fuck it up for others. There's even violent Buddhist extremists out there.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 3:19 AM

2014-12-28T03:19:02-05:00

Why would this be a question? It is in our bill of rights, the first one out of the ten.

Response by SFC Josh Jackson made Dec 28 at 2014 1:47 PM

2014-12-28T13:47:31-05:00

This is a tough one. From the standpoint of belief, it's impossible to invalidate someone else's beliefs. If someone holds a sincere set of beliefs, it's perfectly valid to that individual. I could, for example, believe with all my heart the precepts of Pastafarianism, and consider the Flying Spaghetti monster the One True God. If I hold this belief in my heart to be true, but others do not, who gets to call it legitimate?

I will say that I think Islam has degenerated over the centuries. In antiquity, the Muslim world was one of art and science. They were once generous with religious liberty, and even gave us Algebra (I can cite sources, if you're going to go there with me).

Also, it's easy to confuse the belief system itself with individuals who purport to adhere to it. There are good people and bad people, all who fervently claim Islam. There are good and bad people who claim to be Christian. If a self-proclaimed religious person commits an act of terror in the name of their belief system, is that the fault of the belief system, or the result of the interpretation of the practitioner?

Response by 1SG Cameron M. Wesson made Dec 28 at 2014 2:47 PM

2014-12-28T14:47:54-05:00

Lots of good answers.... But.... Yes.. . and yes... Don't get easier than that.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 28 at 2014 10:54 PM

2014-12-28T22:54:14-05:00

This is a loaded loaded question that will quickly and indiscriminately identify ignorant bigots. The legitimacy of a religion can't be question because of a few thousand bad/extremist, Muslims when the there are over a billion peace loving tolerant ones. Do we discredit Christianity because of the Provisional Irish Republican Army or Ku Klux Klan? Should we discredit the people with a lack of belief in anything due to the ideology of atheist such as Lenin and Stalin? fortunately, it is legitimate and is protected by the bill of rights; unfortunately, so is this question.

V/r
FC2 Deon Irvin

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 7:44 AM

2014-12-29T07:44:58-05:00

Do you consider the Marine Corps a legitimate branch of service? I ask because it is just as relevant as your question above. However, I'm not sure you're asking a question, or venting a frustration. You recall something from the distant past called the "Crusades" maybe? Where Christians killed and looted in the name of God? Same difference today. Islam is a religion to be respected just like any other. Just because people do terrible things in the name of it does not damn the entire sect.

Response by SPC Leisel Luman made Dec 29 at 2014 1:18 PM

2014-12-29T13:18:58-05:00

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 3:08 PM

2014-12-29T15:08:15-05:00

I do not believe it is the right of anyone to stipulate a "legitimate" religion. Everyone has a right to believe a certain way. That belief system may not fall in line with any "established" religions. Stipulating whether a certain religion is legitimate undermines the premise of religious liberty.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 29 at 2014 3:08 PM

2014-12-29T15:08:48-05:00

I'm unwilling to pass such a judgment on the religions of others, if only to avoid having the same done to my own creed.

Response by 1SG Nick Baker made Dec 29 at 2014 7:41 PM

2014-12-29T19:41:58-05:00

Islam, Judaism, and Christianity all came from Abraham. Each one has many factions.

Response by SPC Daniel Edwards made Dec 29 at 2014 10:13 PM

2014-12-29T22:13:34-05:00

I believe that Islam itself is a religion in of itself. It is the religious nutcases that pervert it. Every religion has one. It is just that the Islamic extremists are making front and center because of everything going on in the world. Back in the 90s, Christian fundamentalists were front and center for a while. I am pretty sure that eventually someone else will grab the spotlight

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 30 at 2014 9:19 AM

2014-12-30T09:19:00-05:00

I'm proud of all the respectful responses I read; not surprised. The answer is no longer an opinion, since a little over 2 Billion people think so. And since the first three words you tagged enclosed to your question were "Islam", "Religion", and "Constitution" the answer is now an emphatic "YES".

Response by SFC Kenneth Hunnell made Dec 30 at 2014 7:53 PM

2014-12-30T19:53:47-05:00

We are a guiding light to emulate freedom of religion in this country, if you decide who is right and who is wrong. You are taking the freedom of religion away with deciding who is right or wrong.

Has anyone ever thought about the idea of people having a different path to get to the same place

Response by SFC Walt Littleton made Feb 10 at 2015 1:03 PM

2015-02-10T13:03:07-05:00

Religion has caused the most turmoil in the world. Humans have used religion to forward their ideology. If you really dig into any religion you find that they are based on an idea or notion that their is a supreme being that is bigger than all of us. All religion is based on the premise that we all should follow a set of civic standard that allows people to live in peace and harmony to pursue your dreams. There is evil in this world and evil people use religion to their advantage to control and dictate evil by interpreting religion to meet their end goal. If you look through history evil is manifested through ignorance. Keep the population uneducated, control them by using religion as third tool or to give evil a bases to operate. Don't allow the people to think freely, take their dignity and use violence or fear to achieve their agenda and this gives them the power they need. I'm a Born Again Christian and I know there is a place for me when I pass. This allows me to be very happy, no worries and most of all how I should treat my neighbor. Always watch for evil because it will always come knocking however I'm educated enough to know what evil is and insure I'm not taken advantage of. If you don't believe it's not for me to judge. I just encourage a non-believer to do your research and find a religion that feels right for you. You might realize as I did that you will enjoy life so much more. Good Luck on Your Journey.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 19 at 2015 12:17 AM

2015-02-19T00:17:53-05:00

Doesn't matter if I think it is a religion or not. Doesn't matter if I accept it as a religion or not. I don't believe in Scientology but it doesn't make it go away and it sure doesn't mean that others don't believe it exists. As far as the Bill of Rights, as long as it applies to those of us who reside in the US then it applies to everyone.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 20 at 2015 8:16 PM

2015-02-20T20:16:19-05:00

No, I think it's a religion, but some people have used it as a way to attempt to dominate the world. I tend to agree with the folks who say that the ISIS crazies of this world and their ilk are using Islam to cover their murderous intentions. They are not true Muslims. And I'm not a Muslim apologist, not by any means.

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Feb 20 at 2015 10:15 PM

2015-02-20T22:15:34-05:00

Response by SPC Stewart Smith made Feb 21 at 2015 12:02 AM

2015-02-21T00:02:44-05:00

It's a religion. Just like all the other religions. At some point in history there has been a push from most religions to convert everyone by force. There is always push back and it never succeeds. Nor will it ever succeed.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 23 at 2015 2:56 AM

2015-03-23T02:56:04-04:00

ANY religion in America is legitimate for that matter under the pretense of the 1st Amendment. Its legitimacy however is questioned once it becomes physically or psychologically violent, or directly/indirectly contributes to societal riffles.

This is the #1 reason for American prosperity for all, a very delicate balance of acceptance and in some cases, tolerance of 'questionable' religions to a point.

This question should be reworded because only God alone ultimately decides which religion is 'legitimate', and 'we the people' should make every opportunity to allow the free will to deliberate those legitimacies in a non-intrusive fashion.

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 11 at 2015 12:41 PM

2015-04-11T12:41:21-04:00

I think everyone should recognize it as a religion as much as many do not agree with it (and trust me...I do not like what I see about it either). But maybe the question should be: Are those radicals we know as Taliban, ISIS and other groups, truly Muslims?

I think we can all agree there are varying splinters of Christianity that most would see as wrong. I think history has taught us that there were periods of time when people were killed in the name of Jesus.

My bottom line is that Religion is a very dangerous thing. All it takes is one interpretation to clash with another to cause violence.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Apr 12 at 2015 4:49 PM

2015-04-12T16:49:27-04:00

Agree loaded question. Religion is in the eye of the beholder. We tend to think of other religions as not needed or relevant in our personal lives. That said, it's our courts that frequently weigh in through adjudicating religious liberty questions. The one that come to mind was the Sikh high school kid who was banned from having the knife (kirpan) in school. I don't remember how that turned out but the legal rub points typically boil down to public safety or not trampling rights going the other way.

Insofar as the military is concerned, the "system" staffs chaplin denominations to religions that matter, i.e. there's a demographic need that should be formally met. I recall some instruction at the time that provided some accommodation to small ones like Bahia but no formal staffing. I think the likely current mix is Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox, Jewish, Muslim, and Buddhist (copied from Wiki). I'll tell you when I first came in 3 of them weren't there.

My take is to respect others and respect they can have a different religion and hope for the same in return. Lord knows there's a big time shortage of respect and an epidemic of intolerance going around.

Response by SGT Anthony Bussing made Apr 12 at 2015 7:29 PM

2015-04-12T19:29:20-04:00

All religion is bogus...there is no god...

Response by MAJ Byron Oyler made May 26 at 2015 11:17 PM

2015-05-26T23:17:11-04:00

If you want a true answer on this, you need someone that has studied Islam to a graduate or doctorate level but does not follow the faith.

Response by SGT Darryl Allen made Jun 5 at 2015 11:53 PM

2015-06-05T23:53:59-04:00

What studies did you find, because I doubt 1.8 billion people on this planet got it wrong. Islam is as legitimate as Christianity.

Response by Capt Jeff S. made Jun 6 at 2015 12:00 AM

2015-06-06T00:00:23-04:00

Islam has components of religion in it, BUT is it a religion or is it much more than that?

Truth be told, Islam is a political movement and Sharia justice system that operates under the guise of being a religion.

The religious aspects of Islam are what it uses to gain new converts and keep old ones from leaving. I don't know of any other religions that harbor so much hatred toward others, and so much intolerance of those whose belief systems are different. Islam is not a religion of peace. Violence follows wherever it goes. It can not coexist with other forms of government and other forms of religion. It seeks to impose its rules on others. How many religions advocate the overthrow of governments? Is it a valid religion if it explains how to have sex with children, and ANIMALS? I mean, seriously?!!

Don't believe me?

http://www.answering-islam.org/Shamoun/bestiality.htm

Response by TSgt Kenneth Ellis made Jun 6 at 2015 12:25 AM

2015-06-06T00:25:28-04:00

It's not a religion. It is a political system.

Response by PO2 Jo Wi made Jun 10 at 2015 1:55 PM

2015-06-10T13:55:03-04:00

Is related to Judaism and Christianity, and is the 3rd Abrahamic religion that believes in the god of Abraham.

Second, in the Treaty of Tripoli (signed by John Adams in 1796) it states that the USA is to make peace with Muslims nations per article 11:

"Art. 11. As the Government of the United States of America is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion; as it has in itself no character of enmity against the laws, religion, or tranquility, of Mussulmen [Muslims]; and as the said States never entered into any war or act of hostility against any Mahometan [Muslim] nation, it is declared by the parties that no pretext arising from religious opinions shall ever produce an interruption of the harmony existing between the two countries."

Sounds pretty legit to me. Now, just because groups like Al Qaeda and ISIS are making the religion look bad does not mean that the good followers from Indonesia or China are also bad people.

Response by GySgt Bernard Ferguson made Jun 10 at 2015 2:03 PM

2015-06-10T14:03:35-04:00

Its a political system disguised as a religion.

Response by SFC Robert Wheeler made Dec 14 at 2015 1:20 PM

2015-12-14T13:20:09-05:00

Ok, I am going to assume that you are serious although I really wished you weren't. I have yet to see any empirical data that says any religion is legit and you are asking me if Islam is legit? Since when did we arbitrarily begin questioning whether someone's religion is legitimate? In this country, you can start a new religion every week and if you are properly incorporated and have the correct tax status, nobody questions it. Your question is insulting and looks like a dog whistle for your own particular brand of xenophobia and racism. How do you like me now? Hooah?

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 14 at 2015 10:14 PM

2015-12-14T22:14:53-05:00

no. If you read their Holy book it is their way or die.

Response by CPT Gurinder (Gene) Rana made Dec 16 at 2015 1:36 AM

2015-12-16T01:36:54-05:00

Islam is a religious belief, just like Christianity and it needs to be treated with the same respect. Fanatics in Islam are not the true representatives of that religion, just as the fanatics in Christianity or any other religious belief. The Constitution is blind to race, religion, creed, religion and national origins. The Constitution promotes equality and fairness.

Response by 1LT A. Uribe made Dec 16 at 2015 9:46 PM

2015-12-16T21:46:46-05:00

Hell no, it's more of a cult than anything. It's a religion of hate and murder!!!

Response by PO1 Aaron Baltosser made Dec 22 at 2015 3:45 PM

2015-12-22T15:45:54-05:00

I don't see it as a legitimare religion. Killing anyone that practices another faith is acceptable. Almost any religious system has some similarities. Work toward being a better honest person. Love those around you. Be kind in your dealings with others. Islam does not mince words in regards to honesty encouraging the principle of Taquiyya, or lying to anyone not muslim in order to dupe them into a false sense if security until they can be ounished accirding to the Koran for theur transgression. IF it could evolve to something that wasn't a security risk to all those around, perhaps my view would change.

Response by MSgt Michael Smith made Dec 27 at 2015 8:40 PM

2015-12-27T20:40:08-05:00

Yes. It meets every criteria of a religion. And anyone who says Islam is not a legitimate religion is 100% wrong. There is absolutley no room for debate.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 15 at 2016 11:41 PM

2016-09-15T23:41:13-04:00

Islam is not a true religion it is nothing more than a facade for terrorism and terrorist activity and has even been banned entry into the United States in the 1950's therefore it should not have any protection under the bill of rights

Response by Sgt Wayne Wood made Sep 30 at 2016 2:17 AM

2016-09-30T02:17:34-04:00

With, what? 1.4 BILLION followers? It's as legitimate as they come.

Response by MSG Brad Sand made Jun 12 at 2017 10:36 AM

2017-06-12T10:36:25-04:00

You need to define 'legitimate'?
Islam is a World wide religion. It has attacked its neighbors from its founding and has converted by the sword for a millennium, but they are open about this? It is only the Progressive Left in the West who does not believe they are being honest when they chant they are going kill or enslave us (everyone does know that slavery is still in practice in many Muslim nations?) and still holds doubts about their sincerity when they go out and kill other all across the globe?
Yes, they are violent blood craving animals, but that does not mean they are not legitimate?

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 13 at 2020 8:50 AM

2020-02-13T08:50:10-05:00

Of course it’s legitimate. Beneficial is another matter

Response by SPC David S. made Feb 14 at 2020 10:22 AM

2020-02-14T10:22:05-05:00

If Pastafarianism is protected then yeah all religions are protected.

I feel a better questions is what can we do to help curb violent extremism in religions?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flying_Spaghetti_Monster

Flying_Spaghetti_Monster