Critical Analysis: Introduction
The purpose of this manuscript is not to judge Islam or believers in Islam but to determine whether Islam is from Allah or whether it is a human religion.
I think Muslims and non-Muslims should agree that if the Qur'an is from Allah, then we should follow it, and if it is not then we shouldn’t. If one is intelligent, open-minded, committed to the truth and willing to seriously research then one should be able to determine whether the Qur'an was authored by 7th century humans or by God.
Many Muslims are very devoted to their faith through fasting, praying, and striving to follow the will of Allah. However, while this devotion is admirable, so is the devotion of people with other belief systems. Unfortunately, not all belief systems can be correct, and they therefore require critical scrutiny.
I hope the reader is committed to following the truth and strives toward an ethical and compassionate life. Part of learning and growing means that beliefs we had when we were younger should no longer accepted. The intent of the manuscript is to discuss Islam very critically.
Growing up, a person may admire a star-athlete, politician, actor, boyfriend/girlfriend, the Olympics, a particular political or economic system, the media, etc. until some scandal, and one realizes that these humans or human-invented institutions are somewhat flawed. A religious worldview tries to define who a person is as well as their personal values. Many people admire their religious worldview, and their religious authorities but it is important to objectively determine the extent that we should devote our lives and the lives of our significant others to such a worldview. Even if one’s religion is true, there are many potential sects and interpretations therefore critical thought is needed to choose the correct path.
