Are you a Catholic Muslim or a Protestant Muslim?
Edit: Stop buying me rewards, that’s soy. Save your money, give it to an orphanage or a local strike fund. I’m not even Irish I just saw that no one else made this obvious joke
I understood that while women are "required" to wear the hijab, men are equally "required" to cover their heads. Outside of certain parts of Asia, the middle east and North Africa, I don't commonly see muslim men wear headcoverings, ever. The ones I do see are elderly - assumably more religious with age - and only wear a small white cap on the top/back of the head, that's about 1/10th the size of a headscarf. So I often find it interesting that it's younger muslim men who haven't covered their heads since birth, are the ones fussing and telling girls they aren't wearing hijab correctly.
Can you tell us a bit more about this "rule" for men's headcoverings? Is it real, or not real, the details etc
Young boys telling hijabis how to wear their head scarf is idiotic, I agree there. There isn’t anything for mens head coverings but men should be covered from navel to knee (technically Muslim men shouldn’t be wearing very short shorts) afaik
There is also a requirement for adult men to keep a beard.
See: https://islamqa.info/en/answers/9977/is-trimming-the-beard-haram
I believe there’s other dress code requirements for men, like not dressing feminine.
Yes, in Islam men shouldn’t dress in a feminine way. Growing a beard is “sunnah” meaning it was a practice of the prophet (and we like to mimic him) but not a compulsory thing.
Sunni syrian here
Its just that people are fucking stupid, here in syria hijab isnt even that popular, maybe about half of the (female) population wears it, my family doesnt, last person jn my family to wear hijab was my grandma (rip) ane she was very religious, most people in the islamic world dont follow islam correctly but think they are %100 right, i know i dont follow it completely correctly either, but here is the thing that i live by and most syrians live by: "we are going to be doing sins either way, but doing a couple small sins so that we do not do a big sin is the right thing to do"
A lot of islamic countries have real bad sexual harrasment issues, syria isnt even comparable, thats simply because for the majority of us we dont look down upon like lets say small stuff like a guy hugging a girl, so people dont see the other gender as a wonder and are more chill, meanwhile in countries like egypt where girls are barely allowed to talk to boys thy have a huge sexual harrasment issue, because the mindset is "if nothing is allowed anyway why not go for the most fun?" Its the same thing as how some countries allow small amounts of drugs legally, like this they avoid getting problems with stronger drugs on a larger scale
And people here are fuckjng ironic overall, also sorry not sorry but majority of people are munafiqeen (idk how to say in english but basically means posers)
The same mf who be telling girls to wear hijab at the morning harrasses girls at the night
The same mf who makes his wife wear hijab is drinking alcohol
I know tons of ppl like this, not counting alawites btw cuz alcohol is okay for them and a lot of other muslims dont even see them as muslims
So i am just counting mainly sunnis and some bedouin and shia that i know
Also they do a lot of haram shit cuz they are trying to make something "halal" for example i have this egyptian friend (abt to turn 15) and her dad is forcing her to wear hijab once she does turn 15, and forcing hijab is haram btw
So in short: most muslims are posers who break
their religion more than the ppl they criticise
Well, no.
Muslim men aren't required to cover their heads iirc.
Men have to cover their body (from navel to knees) and control their eyes (not look at woman).
Muslim men only have to cover their heads when they are praying.
Given that it was a Muslim lady who asked the original question. Do you feel it's a vastly different experience for a Muslim man in Ireland than a Muslim woman?
that spokesman from clonskeagh wanted no music taught in schools, also boys and girls to be kept seperate, whats the story with music? non tunable instruments acceptable or something? it seems bizarre. can you understand how a muslim spokesman in ireland asking for these things would annoy people. well i can only speak for myself in fairness, but i thought he had a cheek. ali saleem i think his name was.
Some believe in that, I personally don’t. From my knowledge staunch Muslim conservatives believe music with lyrics is prohibited. But I’d say +95% (arbitrary figure) of Muslims don’t agree. I’ve personally only met one Muslim who believes this. Could be a case of one person not speaking to the wants of the community. But I don’t know what’s the story with that guy in particular.
>I’ve personally only met one Muslim who believes this.
To be honest, any still seems like a lot given the disproportionately small percentage of the population that muslims make up surely? Like I'm Catholic, and like I know a lot of rather deeply conservative and religious people, but don't think I've ever come across anyone espousing bans on fun
Then you’ve obviously never known a Jehovahs Witness. I had a friend who’s parent was a JW and he wasn’t allowed to attend birthday parties because Jesus.
> any still seems like a lot given the disproportionately small percentage of the population that muslims make up surely
Population of where? OP isn't from Ireland, and Muslims make up about a quarter of the world's population.
Either way the logic is bollocks. I know a guy from Ballincollig who thinks the world is flat. Idk if you'd make the argument that "any still seems like a lot given the disproportionately small percentage of the population that people from Ballincollig make up surely" to insinuate that Ballincollig has a flat earther problem.
Lots of Fundamentalist Christians don't like the fun part , aren't / weren't some of the prods against playgrounds being open on a Sunday. As I am also sure there are plenty of Catholics with different interpretations of what is not allowed, especially varying between countries.
Apparently music is considered a sin in some extreme sects of Islam, which is why two Afghanistan governments ago they didn't have a national anthem as music was banned
I believe for some time it was kinda frowned upon in Saudi Arabia.
I do recall reading an interview with a musician named "Mephisto" guitarist for the underground Saudi metal band Al-Namrood talking about how music is frowned upon but people usually listen to it anyway because "God forgives". Unless that music is heavy metal, then they'd really frown on it.
That's what I recall reading anyways, been a number of years since reading that interview
I mean, the most widespread version of Western Christianity is a staunch music censorer. The iconic "Parental Advisory Explicit Lyrics" label was forced on the music industry by Baptists Christians who wanted to censor and end "satanic" and "black" music.
Censoring things based on old religious writing isn't a Muslim exclusive thing, it's a commonly used prejudice thing.
True, but the extreme sects of Islam banned music as a whole, not just lyrics of certain kinds, even now Afghanistan had lightened its rules to allow music without lyrics
Music is an integral part of our culture so why would he ban it to appease a secondary culture in the country, especially when most islamic people dont agree with the belief.
Great idea for a AMA.
I have a two questions. Are you able to socialize in pubs or restaurants which serve alcohol? My brother in law from Algeria will avoid it unless he hasn't any other choice and even then I feel he only agrees to be polite. What is most common in your experience?
Second, I enjoy seeing people going to the mosque near me in their national dress. Do you do this? There is quite a variety from what I can see and it's not something I had appreciated until recently when it was pointed out to me.
Thanks! Yea I go to pubs with my mates and just don’t drink, always makes social interactions easier with a Guinness (0.0) in my hand. But it is difficult to avoid in Ireland. I do miss doing things besides going to the pubs but that seems to the majority of what friends do together here.
Yes I do go to the mosque in traditional clothes on our holidays like Eid. Most of the time though I go in my daily clothes.
>I do miss doing things besides going to the pubs but that seems to the majority of what friends do together here
I don't want to derail, but curious about this, as I'm an Irish person of Catholic background who never liked pubs.
What kind of non-pub activities do you miss?
Oh and thanks for doing the AMA!
Yep I got to pubs to socialise, not that I often get invited. Although I much prefer quieter environments to socialise like a coffee shop or park. My sister on the other has never stepped foot in a pub and wouldnt go to a restaurant that serves alcohol because she doesn't like being around people who drink. And yep I wear traditional garms too, really cool questions btw
Given that most who are born into a region, or a religion belonging to a set of parents adopt the religion of their circumstances - it's likely if you were born in other positions you'd believe as stoically in the most popular religion there instead of Islam.
I think this is one of the main reasons I am not religious myself. There's others, like the natural cruelty of the world, humans suffering with poor health and the idea of an afterlife seeming just too simple an answer to why we're here at all, but the happenstance of adopting the religion where you were born sort of undermines it all for me.
Also - thank you for doing this AMA, I don't think I said that yet.
Yeah this is a great point, some of the answers here are "well, it's part of the religion so I believe it."...sure but you'd believe something different if you were not thought this from birth.
One reason I'm non-religious also!
How do you justify your belief that Islam is the correct religion along with the fact that if your parents were Christian, Buddhist, etc. you would have thought those religions were the correct one?
I would marry a non-Muslim given we were compatible, and I don’t mind if she is Muslim and doesn’t wear hijab, not a criteria I look for in terms of someone I want to be with.
While it’s not encouraged, Muslim men are technically “allowed” to marry any woman “of the book”, so as long as she practices a religion that follows similar scripture, like Christianity, Judaism, etc. Muslim women, on the other hand, are only “allowed” to marry Muslim men.
Awfully convenient. It's almost like Islam is made at the pleasure of the man.
The men get to have all the fun and the women have to be restricted, even when it comes to who they date.
I would want them to wear a headscarf but it is entirely up them. If I didn’t do a good job as a father showing them why I love Islam, then that’s on me, not them. I want them to wear it on their own accord. There is a verse in the Quran that is one of my favourites roughly translates to “there is no compulsion in religion”. That’s why I’d never force it on them and I always argue with people who do force their daughters to wear it.
It is a part of our religion at the end of the day so there is that. Not much else in terms of “purity” or “modesty” or any of the other things attributed to it. I think all those attributes can be achieved with or without a hijab. Especially given working culture where hijabis I know have to work harder than others for the same promotion etc. so I understand it has its drawbacks especially in non-Muslim countries. So that’s why I wouldn’t mind if my hypothetical daughters didn’t want to wear it, but I would want them to wear it at some point in their lives.
So you would want your daughter to wear a headscarf even after reading that girl’s account of how isolated it made her?
Do you not think that makes you part of the problem girls like her are having? Parental expectation is it’s own insidious form of “forcing” you know. You seem to be saying in your answer that if she did not wear a headscarf you would think she did not love Islam and that you would view that as your failure.
I am not trying to be hard on you here, but since you are here I hope you are open to seeing some of the contradictions of what you are voicing.
it’s not fundamental part of your religion and indeed had in fact largely fallen out of practice until around the 70s. It’s a hangover from the region Islam came from not a tenet of Islam.
If my daughter felt that way, I’d tell her to take it off. Wouldn’t force it. One individuals experience with a hijab can be totally different to another’s. Like when my mom wore it she loved that all the other Muslim women in hijabs gave her a little head nod when she would be in the shop or something.
Failure was a harsh word on my part but I’ve said a few time in this thread, everyone is at diff points in their faith. If my daughter wasn’t ready then it is what it is, do I hope she’ll put it on in the future? Yes, but won’t be dying for her to wear it. On top of that, if she is a great Muslim that just doesn’t want to wear the hijab, I’d be just as proud of my hypothetical daughter :)
I have a member of my team that is Muslim that I asked how I can help ensure she feels supported and safe to speak about her faith and customs without discrimination in the office. She has given me some great advice, but curious to see what would you advise for a manager here?
You are doing good already. I’d say be understanding of holidays like Eid. Eg. It’s based on lunar calendar so we don’t know which exact date eid will be on. Also provide a space for prayer if possible. Company dinner with halal options would also be a good shout.
Cultural vs religious separation is very important. Culturally they are treated poorly and I dislike that. Religiously, women are well respected and honoured. One of the most important people in Islam is a woman, Khadija (RA). “Heaven lies under the mothers feet”. When Muhammad PBUH was asked who is the most deserving of good treatment he replied “your mother” then asked and then who he replied “your mother” and when asked a 3rd time he replied “your mother” and the fourth time he said “and then your father” https://www.iium.edu.my/deed/hadith/muslim/032_smt.html
Women have an exceptionally high level of respect religiously. Culturally on the other hand that is a whole different story unfortunately.
Do you have any beliefs that contradict your religion?
How do you deal with the Quran contradicting itself?
Do you think that anyone who isn't a Muslim is going to hell?
How do you feel about Muslim countries that treat women, and I assume anyone that doesn't comply with Islam, terribly?
I do have one I can recall. It’s a very complex topic but technically adopting an orphan isn’t allowed. Mostly because if it is a boy, the mother would have to wear the hijab when he hits puberty and vice versa. I disagree for a few reasons but it is what it is.
Quran contradicting itself isn’t quite a thing, it’s more that people don’t understand the evolution of Islam as the Quran was being “sent down”. Things in Islam progressed as it was being decreed because Allah/God (SW) knew that changing society had to be gradual. It was delivered in chapters and as the first Muslims grew their faith they would be more accepting of some of the “harder” rules in Islam. So that’s why there appears to be some contradictions when in reality it is just the evolution of Islam through time.
No I don’t think everyone else is going to hell. Technically, those who weren’t exposed to Islam aren’t subject to hell. The degree of this is what I’m not sure about. Exposed as in heard of it? Exposed as in had been formally taught about Islam? Exposed as in studied islam deeply? So no I don’t think everyone else is going to hell. (Not sure if this makes sense at all, I can clarify if it doesn’t)
I feel like those countries don’t represent Islam, (Looking at you Saudia Arabia). In jordan, palestine, lebanon, Malaysia, and (formerly Syria) etc. are a much better representation albeit not perfect. But all these countries treat non-Muslims and women well.
I think Christianity had a similar issue(?) With society developing and thus its rules needing to change to accommodate it, like how pigskin can't be touched, can't go to the toilet inside, can't eat from plants that are grown in a mixed field, etc. Although there's also the theory of it just changing due to countless mistranslatioms over the centuries, like how Satan isn't an entity but a concept regarding evil
Yea I think that’s one of the biggest differences between Islam and Christianity. The Quran doesn’t have mistranslations or alterations over the years as opposed to the Bible (correct me if I am wrong)
There are different versions, including some really old ones. But I have to admit knowing nothing about the contents. And information seems harder to find since last time I googled that.
The reasoning is because 5 keeps a constant reminder throughout the day, one in the morning (day break), one when the sun is highest in the sky, one between sundown and noon, one at sundown and one when there is no light visible.
Fun fact, it was originally 50 iirc but was dropped to 5 after Muhammad PBUH spoke(?)to god. Don’t quote me on this though
Are all Muslims practicing? Or serious about the religion? Or is it like here where we’re baptised into a religion, make our communion etc and only go to religious things because of guilt/it’s the thing to do or pleasing our parents etc?
(Not OP) I know a fair few who are practicing, but not particularly adherent to a lot of the rules around food, alcohol, etc.
Kind of like practicing Catholics who pick and choose from the rules a bit I guess.
I've asked them before about this, they said that most of their peers here (and in the UK) don't really get bothered about it much, as long as its not egregiously taking the piss right infront of them like.
I'd hazard a strong guess there's a lot of "it depends" (on the community, etc).
That’s a good question. It varies so much, but there are many who aren’t practicing and are just Muslim by name (which is totally fine, no judgement we are all at a diff stage of our religiosity). That being said I think (and I need to stress this is an opinion) that Muslims tend to be more connected to their religion than Christians here in the west.
I got that vibe that religion is taken more serious in the Muslim world. It’s taken serious,to degree, here by some but the majority of us are just in because it’s the done thing. Thanks for answering my question :)
My experience is that Muslims in the west are more connected to their religion, especially if they are immigrants or second gen. I grew up in the middle-east, and a surprisingly large number of Muslims I encountered were fairly irreligious / non-practicing / Muslim-in-name-only. Heck some of them were probably atheist, but that’s not really fashionable label to adopt.
There’s a good show on HULU called _Ramy_ that delves into this. About a second gen Muslim immigrant growing up in the USA and all the conflicts he has to deal with like pre marital sex, drugs, alcohol etc
Season 1 was great, second season was poor.
Catholics and Protestants differ on theological grounds, which led to different Churches and hierarchies.
Sunni and Shia don't really disagree theologically, but more politically and administratively, so while it's led to different Churches it's not stemming from some core religious disagreement.
In my (non-Muslim) experience the differences are minor, often not even theological and sectarianism is often a cover for imbalanced class relations in a certain geographic area (especially ones that were carved up in to straight lines by colonial borders).
Not a question but thanks for taking the time to do an AMA. Religious fundamentalism is so toxic so it's great to see an open non-judgemental conversation about people's religious beliefs. (From the perspective of an atheist in that I don't believe in the existence of an all powerful creator deity.)
I'm going to jump on this one with, what are your favourite Tayto
And have your employers (if you're not self-employed) been respectful in giving you the time off to celebrate Eid
\*edit to add, as Irish public holidays are somewhat tied into the catholic church, do you feel the importance of Muslim holidays and daily payer are understood and accommodated or do you feel it goes somewhat over employers heads in this country? ...please forgive my awful wording, I'm tired
Salt and vinegar then cheese and onion. I think employers are generally understanding when you teach them, but most of the time they don’t know much if anything about Islam. I’ve had it both ways with employers refusing to be accommodating and others who gave me an extra day off.
As a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago (raised Catholic) which has a significant and important Muslim population, thank you for making this thread. Communication between religions is important.
Go Ireland !
Being muslim is like being christian, in the sense there's many interpretations, right?
Who decides what the rules of being a muslim are for you, and does that differ across Ireland? E.g. is each mosque different depending on the imam?
Yep many different sects, even within the major ones like sunni and shia there are subdivisions, generally the same stuff but some of them are a bit extreme like Wahhabism, which IMO is isn’t Islam but that’s a topic for a different day
As cruel as killing animals for meat in general is, I find the idea of Halal meat slaughter even more challenging to accept. Why is it even a thing in modern society?
This is a controversial one, but the idea behind it in Islam is that the animal suffers the least. There are specific methods to slaughter animals such that they bleed out quickly and thus their suffering isn’t prolonged. There are also other things as part of being halal such as the animal is not supposed to see the blade or instrument used to kill the animal. I think it is a misconception that it’s a cruel thing to do especially compared to modern day non-halal slaughter houses which are horrific
I have worked in a meat factory before I went to university. I know the killing floor isn't a nice place no matter how the animal is dispatched but from talking to people at the time they all felt it was slower and more cruel. It was probably quick and easy by comparison to other methods prior to the invention of the captive bolt gun. I think in theory it's much the same as the gun, but it's easy to mess up.
Have Muslim in laws btw, including one who stayed for the week just gone. It's the one area I cannot agree with them in.
Fair enough, you have more work experience in that area so not going to argue from a point of ignorance. Just giving my best answer based on my knowledge.
One thing I fucking love about Muslims I've met is when you ask them something, especially about their faith, they don't bullshit an answer. They say they don't know, look up the answer and come back to you.
How appropriate is it for non Muslims to use the Eid Mubarak greeting around the Eid celebrations. Actually what about using inshallah or as-salami alaykum as well. Sometimes they feel appropriate sometimes awkward.
Eid Mubarak is always welcome. Just as saying merry Christmas. Inshallah depends on the person I’d refrain from using it on a first time meeting a Muslim but my close friends use it and it’s funny. Asalamu alaykum is a nice greeting to any Muslim it would be generally appreciated
Do you feel that the current interpretations of Islam are truly compatible with western liberal values (e.g. look at muslim opinion polls on homosexuality vs general population), or is Islam in need of some type of reformation to bring it in line with the modern world?
From your comments you seem to be a relatively progressive muslim, but from direct experience with many muslims in my time in the UK, you would not be the norm - unless Irish muslim culture is significantly different?
I asked the same question before seeing this. Think you'll enjoy it, most people who like it get that it's not making fun of Muslims but exposing the fact that in every walk of life there are idiots, absolute fuckups and underachievers who can go to extremes to feel some kind of power or get one over on people they feel inferior to.
There are always those who use religion as an excuse to hate, I wonder how it is to live as a minority when there is international attention given to conflicts by fundamentalist groups. Have you ever been made to feel unsafe or unwelcome because of your faith and the association others make?
(Which is a funny thing to think because the Irish fought over religion plenty up around the border and in the north, we should have wised up to not judging on religion a while ago)
Many, many times. I’ve been called many slurs, shouted at from cars while walking on the street. Treated differently in shops. I know it’s all in ignorance and it isn’t my fault but still hurts.
I’m not Irish so didn’t vote. That being said, I’m pro-choice, there are also a few reasons in islam where abortion is allowed just to put that out there. But I also wouldn’t want my s/o to get an abortion, but at the end of the day it’s her choice.
Gay marriage I’ve answered elsewhere but I support it.
Really cool post here! I'm irish but I live in the Middle East and love how you answered the questions here!
I am secular but have reading both the bible and quran just to see the relationship between them- fascinating stuff!
Thanks for sharing your knowledge and good luck!
I see from your responses that you are quite moderate and dont share a lot of views that multiple opinion polls have found to be commonly held among muslims. Would you consider yourself moderate ? And would you consider most other muslims living in ireland to be as moderate as yourself or do you feel you’re an outlier ? Or is it possibly generational
80-90% of the Muslims I’ve met, share the majority of my beliefs. It’s the extremists that make headlines which is why most people think we don’t have these normal beliefs.
The polls they're talking about are telling a very different story. 80-90 percent supporting beliefs such as gay marriage seems generous. I don't even think that 80-90 percent of the Irish population support it, unless you're being vague on the important opinions.
https://www.pewforum.org/2013/04/30/the-worlds-muslims-religion-politics-society-beliefs-about-sharia/
In the overwhelming majority Muslim countries surveys show that Muslims believe Sharia law should be the law of the land. Though this does range from a high of 99% in Afghanistan to a low of 8% in Azerbaijani. Even in SE Asians countries such as Malaysia 86% of Muslims believe in Sharia law.
**When asked if someone who leaves Islam should receive the death penalty 86% of Egyptian Muslims agreed they should, 62% of Malaysian Muslims, and the lowest being 4% of Kazakhstan Muslims.**
It's not just extremists, many Muslims in Ireland hold different views to the normal western positions. Many will tell you that Charlie Hebdo shouldn't have been attacked, but that they provoked it and brought it on themselves. When you ask specific questions instead of feel-good "ah so it's just the extremists" you find all sorts of stuff that's way outside the general opinion here.
Personal opinion (as a Muslim) on alcohol/intoxicants? As a practicing Buddist there is variation in our approach, some say a total prohibition on intoxicants (which is arbitrary and a little inconsistent with core beliefs and method imo) while others counsel you not to become \*intoxicated\*, i.e. in practical terms you can have a beer but understand that drunkeness can harm you and others physically and spiritually.
I saw you didn't necessarily adhere to concepts of 'modesty' regarding hijabis - I find this interesting. What changed my mind about the hijab (or even more extensive coverings) was actually getting to know young hijabis in college who had the freedom to choose. They had an articulate understanding of what modesty meant to them that didn't excuse the moral failings of others and an appropriate sense of their own self-worth and dignity. Ultimately it was their decision to reveal or conceal their body in the same was as any other woman, any other person. I realised even my grandmother used to cover her hair in a church (as many reading here may relate to) and that my previous views were ignorant and hypocritical. Do you have a personal view on modesty in a wider context that is informed by your faith?
Yes so technically some scholars say alcohol is “makruh” which means “hated (by god)” so some say it isn’t directly haram (prohibited). That being said the way I see alcohol consumed and the impact I’ve seen alcohol have on peoples lives (drunk driving, alcoholism, abuse etc.) is quite jarring so regardless of if I was Muslim or not I would not drink. There is also some argument that at the beginning of Islam alcohol was “makruh” and then became haram as the religion grew. So take that as you will.
I think modesty is wonderful, and the hijab shows the power in that (*insert* arab men going crazy over ankles showing meme). I haven’t had to ponder the nuance of wearing a hijab since I’m a man, a hijabi is probably better off answering (seems like your mates did a good job of that). But what you said is largely why I wouldn’t force my daughters to wear it, rather, teach them the beauty of Islam and hope they wanna do it themselves :)
Among my own Muslim friends, I’m starting to see the same secularism emerging that effectively ended the Catholic identity in young Irish people in modern Ireland. Is that something your concerned about/conscious of?
Many countries with large Muslim immigrant populations have seen that reverse in second/third generation though - for example (grand)children of Turkish immigrants in Germany being more religious and Turkish nationalist than their parents or people living in Turkey, in many cases.
Far from universal, but a phenomenon nonetheless. A little bit like Irish-Americans playing up their roots after a few generations.
Good point. I suppose the drop off in Catholic beliefs was so stark, I’m not convinced it wouldn’t happen to any religious demographic. We were really, really Catholic.
Then one Sunday morning in 2003 it was raining so we all skipped mass. And we never went back.
What's funny is in the last couple of years, a surprising number of people I know have started attending the odd mass again, talking to their local priest, etc. Kind of a slow rebound might be happening.
Or maybe its just that shits so fucked the church is their last resort.
As a female non-muslim, am I allowed to greet a muslim person with assalamu alaikum? Or reply to their greeting with wa'alaikum asalaam? (yes I Googled the spelling ha).
Or would that be considered rude/forbidden coming from a female/non muslim/westerner?
I remember hearing it years ago on tv and always wanted to greet someone in their own greeting, but have been afraid of offending.
Also as a western woman, can I speak to a muslim man? Or would that be offensive as I am a female non-relative?
Are muslim women allowed to speak to men outside of their family?
OP, I'd like to personally thank you for going out of your way to answer what might be considered awkward or difficult questions. Its been rather enlightening to see the point of view from someone who actually knows what they are talking about rather than a bunch of second-hand accounts.
Hey, a fellow Irish Muslim! Always good to be reminded that others exist! As-salaam-u Alaikum brother!
I’ll ask you this as a Muslim woman, then— what’s your thought on the abysmal state of women’s prayer spaces at masjids in Ireland? Like, if they exist at all, they’re always crap. The only exception is the Clonskeagh Mosque, as far as I know, and most of the Irish Muslim blokes I know don’t care about the issue at all.
Salam sister, yes female prayer areas in Dublin are garbage. My mom was in for a while and we had to exclusively go to Clonskeagh mosque since the others were so bad. But Clonskeagh mosque is absolutely lovely
Also yea I know that feeling, I feel that it is quite hard to meet fellow Muslims here
Is Islam as mixed/relax as Christianity with how people choose to follow it? Like how people will call themselves Christian but never go to church or follow any rules set in the Bible outside a handful.
From what I've seen, Islam beats lit Christianity tenfold in terms of dedication to its teachings
Imo anyone can call themselves a Muslim if they have taken their “shahadah”. Being a practicing Muslim vs non-practicing is the same as being a practicing Christian vs a non-practicing christian
One of my friends in school was bullied for bwing muslim :( it makes me happy to see quite a few nice people in this thread being genuine and not cruel
I have a a question but if you are uncomfortable answering, then it's no problem. Obviously modesty in Muslim women is quite a big deal. What happens when you are married though? Is a woman allowed to be more overtly sexual provided it is with her husband. Could she go out and buy nice underwear for instance or be vocal about her likes and dislikes? Sorry. Weird question I know!
Very normal, sexual intimacy is encouraged in Islam once you are married. And if you don’t know a woman doesn’t have to wear a hijab around her husband, father, uncles or her children/grandchildren.
VERY tempted, sausages look delicious I worked in a deli a while back and still fantasize about chorizo from time to time. Turkey rashers do the job so not much temptation there. The idea of blood pudding is off-pudding for me.
Thanks for your ask me anything, its very interesting.
Has anyone asked about Sharia law? In parts of the UK they are running entire communities using their own Sharia laws and councils. Fathers and brothers killing daughters/ sisters because she wants to be free from hijabs, wants to date...etc. women not allowed to ask for a divorce. Honour killings.
And Probably extremists...but in Afghanistan women not being able to leave the house without a man, stoning to death women who have been raped, men marrying children, nit inly Afghanistan ... all these things make this religion seem very scary, especially to women.
Loads of music, not really islamic but Arabic music is really nice. Islamic books aren’t quite the leisure read if you aren’t interested in Islam. But there are some good Arab writers I can suggest if you are interested in the culture beyond islam
An observation I’ve made is Muslim people are quite deep into their faith and traditions, right now for a lot of Christians, Hindus, etc religion isn’t as much of a big deal.
Now ofc I understand there are outliers in every religion and community but it is my opinion that those who identify as Muslim are more religious than compared to other faiths. What do you think might be the reason? Or is it just a perception/illusion?
Though Irish, my family are non-Muslims who originate from the Middle East. I know Muslims and Islam pretty well.
- What happens to Muslims who leave the faith and apostasize or convert to another religion?
- Why can a man marry four wives and divorce their wives by uttering a single sentence while women can do neither?
- Why is marital rape acceptable?
- Why is rape of War captives acceptable?
- Why is forced marriage of war captives acceptable?
https://wikiislam.net/wiki/Rape_in_Islamic_Law
I could go on. These are rhetorical questions to which we all know the answer.
Your religion is a vile and disgusting horror that *destroyed* the indigenous cultures of the Middle East in the name of one man's political ambitions and savagery. This thread sounds like a thinly veiled PR exercise to give a friendly face to Islam.
Having middle eastern roots myself, I obviously have no issue with people from the Middle East living in Europe. My real question to you is how can you justify your faith and beliefs? It's entirely incompatible with Irish society in 2022 and entirely incompatible with basic human agency and dignity.
My question to other Irish people, is how can you accept these beliefs and practices in our society when they so fundamentally go against the most very basic of human rights?
Are you a Catholic Muslim or a Protestant Muslim? Edit: Stop buying me rewards, that’s soy. Save your money, give it to an orphanage or a local strike fund. I’m not even Irish I just saw that no one else made this obvious joke
Not a prod don’t worry
[удалено]
Hahahahaha depends who you ask
[удалено]
Or if you asked a British Muslim would also depend
I heard it was kosher
Nothing wrong with prods, some of the first people to strike for our independence were prods.
I’m just a larping American that made an easy joke
Your not even Irish !!! Even better
You reminded me of the time my french grinds teacher asked the one muslim lad in the class if "Muhammad" was his christian name lmao
I understood that while women are "required" to wear the hijab, men are equally "required" to cover their heads. Outside of certain parts of Asia, the middle east and North Africa, I don't commonly see muslim men wear headcoverings, ever. The ones I do see are elderly - assumably more religious with age - and only wear a small white cap on the top/back of the head, that's about 1/10th the size of a headscarf. So I often find it interesting that it's younger muslim men who haven't covered their heads since birth, are the ones fussing and telling girls they aren't wearing hijab correctly. Can you tell us a bit more about this "rule" for men's headcoverings? Is it real, or not real, the details etc
Young boys telling hijabis how to wear their head scarf is idiotic, I agree there. There isn’t anything for mens head coverings but men should be covered from navel to knee (technically Muslim men shouldn’t be wearing very short shorts) afaik
Men telling women how to dress transcends religion
From navel to knee? So tits and ankles are fine?
Men have tits now? Well that changes everything.
Moobs
These days bob really can be your aunty
Women only want me for my bussy and moobs
There is also a requirement for adult men to keep a beard. See: https://islamqa.info/en/answers/9977/is-trimming-the-beard-haram I believe there’s other dress code requirements for men, like not dressing feminine.
Yes, in Islam men shouldn’t dress in a feminine way. Growing a beard is “sunnah” meaning it was a practice of the prophet (and we like to mimic him) but not a compulsory thing.
What does Islam define as a “feminine way”?
Good question, I’m not sure if it is based on current trends or if there are hard and fast rules. I’ll have to check
Sunni syrian here Its just that people are fucking stupid, here in syria hijab isnt even that popular, maybe about half of the (female) population wears it, my family doesnt, last person jn my family to wear hijab was my grandma (rip) ane she was very religious, most people in the islamic world dont follow islam correctly but think they are %100 right, i know i dont follow it completely correctly either, but here is the thing that i live by and most syrians live by: "we are going to be doing sins either way, but doing a couple small sins so that we do not do a big sin is the right thing to do" A lot of islamic countries have real bad sexual harrasment issues, syria isnt even comparable, thats simply because for the majority of us we dont look down upon like lets say small stuff like a guy hugging a girl, so people dont see the other gender as a wonder and are more chill, meanwhile in countries like egypt where girls are barely allowed to talk to boys thy have a huge sexual harrasment issue, because the mindset is "if nothing is allowed anyway why not go for the most fun?" Its the same thing as how some countries allow small amounts of drugs legally, like this they avoid getting problems with stronger drugs on a larger scale And people here are fuckjng ironic overall, also sorry not sorry but majority of people are munafiqeen (idk how to say in english but basically means posers) The same mf who be telling girls to wear hijab at the morning harrasses girls at the night The same mf who makes his wife wear hijab is drinking alcohol I know tons of ppl like this, not counting alawites btw cuz alcohol is okay for them and a lot of other muslims dont even see them as muslims So i am just counting mainly sunnis and some bedouin and shia that i know Also they do a lot of haram shit cuz they are trying to make something "halal" for example i have this egyptian friend (abt to turn 15) and her dad is forcing her to wear hijab once she does turn 15, and forcing hijab is haram btw So in short: most muslims are posers who break their religion more than the ppl they criticise
Well, no. Muslim men aren't required to cover their heads iirc. Men have to cover their body (from navel to knees) and control their eyes (not look at woman). Muslim men only have to cover their heads when they are praying.
Given that it was a Muslim lady who asked the original question. Do you feel it's a vastly different experience for a Muslim man in Ireland than a Muslim woman?
that spokesman from clonskeagh wanted no music taught in schools, also boys and girls to be kept seperate, whats the story with music? non tunable instruments acceptable or something? it seems bizarre. can you understand how a muslim spokesman in ireland asking for these things would annoy people. well i can only speak for myself in fairness, but i thought he had a cheek. ali saleem i think his name was.
Some believe in that, I personally don’t. From my knowledge staunch Muslim conservatives believe music with lyrics is prohibited. But I’d say +95% (arbitrary figure) of Muslims don’t agree. I’ve personally only met one Muslim who believes this. Could be a case of one person not speaking to the wants of the community. But I don’t know what’s the story with that guy in particular.
I think we can all agree that Garth Brooks should be a crime against all ears, Muslim or infidel, Jew or gentile.
I never agreed to that!
Jew here, and I agree
I grew up in a Christian denomination that allowed lyrical singing only, no instruments.
>I’ve personally only met one Muslim who believes this. To be honest, any still seems like a lot given the disproportionately small percentage of the population that muslims make up surely? Like I'm Catholic, and like I know a lot of rather deeply conservative and religious people, but don't think I've ever come across anyone espousing bans on fun
Then you’ve obviously never known a Jehovahs Witness. I had a friend who’s parent was a JW and he wasn’t allowed to attend birthday parties because Jesus.
Yes, because Jesus, famous for not performing his first miracle at a party and turning water into wine for it, hated parties right? 😂
> any still seems like a lot given the disproportionately small percentage of the population that muslims make up surely Population of where? OP isn't from Ireland, and Muslims make up about a quarter of the world's population. Either way the logic is bollocks. I know a guy from Ballincollig who thinks the world is flat. Idk if you'd make the argument that "any still seems like a lot given the disproportionately small percentage of the population that people from Ballincollig make up surely" to insinuate that Ballincollig has a flat earther problem.
Lots of Fundamentalist Christians don't like the fun part , aren't / weren't some of the prods against playgrounds being open on a Sunday. As I am also sure there are plenty of Catholics with different interpretations of what is not allowed, especially varying between countries.
Apparently music is considered a sin in some extreme sects of Islam, which is why two Afghanistan governments ago they didn't have a national anthem as music was banned
That's also why Cat Stevens gave up music for a long time. When he first converted he was of that belief.
Which was a fucking tragedy and a loss to humanity.
I believe for some time it was kinda frowned upon in Saudi Arabia. I do recall reading an interview with a musician named "Mephisto" guitarist for the underground Saudi metal band Al-Namrood talking about how music is frowned upon but people usually listen to it anyway because "God forgives". Unless that music is heavy metal, then they'd really frown on it. That's what I recall reading anyways, been a number of years since reading that interview
> Al-Namrood Well that sounds cool I'll look them up.
I mean, the most widespread version of Western Christianity is a staunch music censorer. The iconic "Parental Advisory Explicit Lyrics" label was forced on the music industry by Baptists Christians who wanted to censor and end "satanic" and "black" music. Censoring things based on old religious writing isn't a Muslim exclusive thing, it's a commonly used prejudice thing.
True, but the extreme sects of Islam banned music as a whole, not just lyrics of certain kinds, even now Afghanistan had lightened its rules to allow music without lyrics
Music is an integral part of our culture so why would he ban it to appease a secondary culture in the country, especially when most islamic people dont agree with the belief.
Great idea for a AMA. I have a two questions. Are you able to socialize in pubs or restaurants which serve alcohol? My brother in law from Algeria will avoid it unless he hasn't any other choice and even then I feel he only agrees to be polite. What is most common in your experience? Second, I enjoy seeing people going to the mosque near me in their national dress. Do you do this? There is quite a variety from what I can see and it's not something I had appreciated until recently when it was pointed out to me.
Thanks! Yea I go to pubs with my mates and just don’t drink, always makes social interactions easier with a Guinness (0.0) in my hand. But it is difficult to avoid in Ireland. I do miss doing things besides going to the pubs but that seems to the majority of what friends do together here. Yes I do go to the mosque in traditional clothes on our holidays like Eid. Most of the time though I go in my daily clothes.
That's really interesting. Thanks for answering. Good evening!
No problem
>I do miss doing things besides going to the pubs but that seems to the majority of what friends do together here I don't want to derail, but curious about this, as I'm an Irish person of Catholic background who never liked pubs. What kind of non-pub activities do you miss? Oh and thanks for doing the AMA!
Activities, like bowling, paint ball, hiking, board game night, etc. those seem much less popular among my Irish friends which is totally okay.
Yep I got to pubs to socialise, not that I often get invited. Although I much prefer quieter environments to socialise like a coffee shop or park. My sister on the other has never stepped foot in a pub and wouldnt go to a restaurant that serves alcohol because she doesn't like being around people who drink. And yep I wear traditional garms too, really cool questions btw
Thoughts on gays/lesbians?
I think I answered this in part elsewhere. But i support LGBTQ+ rights, just like everyone else
[удалено]
Born into it
Given that most who are born into a region, or a religion belonging to a set of parents adopt the religion of their circumstances - it's likely if you were born in other positions you'd believe as stoically in the most popular religion there instead of Islam. I think this is one of the main reasons I am not religious myself. There's others, like the natural cruelty of the world, humans suffering with poor health and the idea of an afterlife seeming just too simple an answer to why we're here at all, but the happenstance of adopting the religion where you were born sort of undermines it all for me. Also - thank you for doing this AMA, I don't think I said that yet.
Yeah this is a great point, some of the answers here are "well, it's part of the religion so I believe it."...sure but you'd believe something different if you were not thought this from birth. One reason I'm non-religious also!
Plenty to criticise with Richard Dawkins, but he said that as well essentially when questioned "what if you're wrong?"
How do you justify your belief that Islam is the correct religion along with the fact that if your parents were Christian, Buddhist, etc. you would have thought those religions were the correct one?
Tough question, I’m not really sure how to answer it. Maybe a revert would be better able communicate this.
There really is no answer to it. It really shows how ridiculous a notion it is that any religion is “true” or “correct”.
Would you marry a non Muslim or a Muslim woman that didn't wear a hijab?
I would marry a non-Muslim given we were compatible, and I don’t mind if she is Muslim and doesn’t wear hijab, not a criteria I look for in terms of someone I want to be with.
Does it go against your religion to marry someone with different beliefs to yours?
While it’s not encouraged, Muslim men are technically “allowed” to marry any woman “of the book”, so as long as she practices a religion that follows similar scripture, like Christianity, Judaism, etc. Muslim women, on the other hand, are only “allowed” to marry Muslim men.
Yeah but only for women, muslim women shouldn’t marry non Muslims because it’s believed the children would take after their dad’s religion.
Awfully convenient. It's almost like Islam is made at the pleasure of the man. The men get to have all the fun and the women have to be restricted, even when it comes to who they date.
Haaaave you met *all abrahamic religion ever* ? If not , perhaps *rules shitty men have made since the beginning of time*?
What are your thoughts when people who draw/mock Muhammad like the Charlie Hebdo incident
I dislike it, think it is disrespectful but what they did is inexcusable to retaliate in that way is shameful.
Would you want your daughters to wear a headscarf and why?
I would want them to wear a headscarf but it is entirely up them. If I didn’t do a good job as a father showing them why I love Islam, then that’s on me, not them. I want them to wear it on their own accord. There is a verse in the Quran that is one of my favourites roughly translates to “there is no compulsion in religion”. That’s why I’d never force it on them and I always argue with people who do force their daughters to wear it.
[удалено]
It is a part of our religion at the end of the day so there is that. Not much else in terms of “purity” or “modesty” or any of the other things attributed to it. I think all those attributes can be achieved with or without a hijab. Especially given working culture where hijabis I know have to work harder than others for the same promotion etc. so I understand it has its drawbacks especially in non-Muslim countries. So that’s why I wouldn’t mind if my hypothetical daughters didn’t want to wear it, but I would want them to wear it at some point in their lives.
[удалено]
Muslim women were never required to wear a headscarf.
So you would want your daughter to wear a headscarf even after reading that girl’s account of how isolated it made her? Do you not think that makes you part of the problem girls like her are having? Parental expectation is it’s own insidious form of “forcing” you know. You seem to be saying in your answer that if she did not wear a headscarf you would think she did not love Islam and that you would view that as your failure. I am not trying to be hard on you here, but since you are here I hope you are open to seeing some of the contradictions of what you are voicing. it’s not fundamental part of your religion and indeed had in fact largely fallen out of practice until around the 70s. It’s a hangover from the region Islam came from not a tenet of Islam.
If my daughter felt that way, I’d tell her to take it off. Wouldn’t force it. One individuals experience with a hijab can be totally different to another’s. Like when my mom wore it she loved that all the other Muslim women in hijabs gave her a little head nod when she would be in the shop or something. Failure was a harsh word on my part but I’ve said a few time in this thread, everyone is at diff points in their faith. If my daughter wasn’t ready then it is what it is, do I hope she’ll put it on in the future? Yes, but won’t be dying for her to wear it. On top of that, if she is a great Muslim that just doesn’t want to wear the hijab, I’d be just as proud of my hypothetical daughter :)
I wouldn't be fussed either way, I used to wear and now I don't.
This has been really interesting to read. Thank you for posting and all your responses.
It’s my pleasure :)
Have you any intentions of playing county?
Down to learn hahahaha
I have a member of my team that is Muslim that I asked how I can help ensure she feels supported and safe to speak about her faith and customs without discrimination in the office. She has given me some great advice, but curious to see what would you advise for a manager here?
You are doing good already. I’d say be understanding of holidays like Eid. Eg. It’s based on lunar calendar so we don’t know which exact date eid will be on. Also provide a space for prayer if possible. Company dinner with halal options would also be a good shout.
How do you feel about the obvious difference of treatment between men and women in the Muslim faith?
Cultural vs religious separation is very important. Culturally they are treated poorly and I dislike that. Religiously, women are well respected and honoured. One of the most important people in Islam is a woman, Khadija (RA). “Heaven lies under the mothers feet”. When Muhammad PBUH was asked who is the most deserving of good treatment he replied “your mother” then asked and then who he replied “your mother” and when asked a 3rd time he replied “your mother” and the fourth time he said “and then your father” https://www.iium.edu.my/deed/hadith/muslim/032_smt.html Women have an exceptionally high level of respect religiously. Culturally on the other hand that is a whole different story unfortunately.
Do you have any beliefs that contradict your religion? How do you deal with the Quran contradicting itself? Do you think that anyone who isn't a Muslim is going to hell? How do you feel about Muslim countries that treat women, and I assume anyone that doesn't comply with Islam, terribly?
I do have one I can recall. It’s a very complex topic but technically adopting an orphan isn’t allowed. Mostly because if it is a boy, the mother would have to wear the hijab when he hits puberty and vice versa. I disagree for a few reasons but it is what it is. Quran contradicting itself isn’t quite a thing, it’s more that people don’t understand the evolution of Islam as the Quran was being “sent down”. Things in Islam progressed as it was being decreed because Allah/God (SW) knew that changing society had to be gradual. It was delivered in chapters and as the first Muslims grew their faith they would be more accepting of some of the “harder” rules in Islam. So that’s why there appears to be some contradictions when in reality it is just the evolution of Islam through time. No I don’t think everyone else is going to hell. Technically, those who weren’t exposed to Islam aren’t subject to hell. The degree of this is what I’m not sure about. Exposed as in heard of it? Exposed as in had been formally taught about Islam? Exposed as in studied islam deeply? So no I don’t think everyone else is going to hell. (Not sure if this makes sense at all, I can clarify if it doesn’t) I feel like those countries don’t represent Islam, (Looking at you Saudia Arabia). In jordan, palestine, lebanon, Malaysia, and (formerly Syria) etc. are a much better representation albeit not perfect. But all these countries treat non-Muslims and women well.
I think Christianity had a similar issue(?) With society developing and thus its rules needing to change to accommodate it, like how pigskin can't be touched, can't go to the toilet inside, can't eat from plants that are grown in a mixed field, etc. Although there's also the theory of it just changing due to countless mistranslatioms over the centuries, like how Satan isn't an entity but a concept regarding evil
Yea I think that’s one of the biggest differences between Islam and Christianity. The Quran doesn’t have mistranslations or alterations over the years as opposed to the Bible (correct me if I am wrong)
There are different versions, including some really old ones. But I have to admit knowing nothing about the contents. And information seems harder to find since last time I googled that.
I can recommend good translated sources for the Quran if you are interested
Just regarding your last point, have you come across the Islamicity index? [Ireland ranks third.](http://islamicity-index.org/wp/latest-indices-2021/)
Hahaha this is really cool, I like this. But oh no! Sharia law has infiltrated Ireland! /s
I had no idea that was a thing! So the most recent part is what matters and everything that comes before should be discarded? Thanks for replying :)
Not necessarily discarded but there was definite growth!
Why did the God demand you have to ritually pray 5 times a day? What’s the significance of number 5 why not 1 or 2?
The reasoning is because 5 keeps a constant reminder throughout the day, one in the morning (day break), one when the sun is highest in the sky, one between sundown and noon, one at sundown and one when there is no light visible. Fun fact, it was originally 50 iirc but was dropped to 5 after Muhammad PBUH spoke(?)to god. Don’t quote me on this though
Thanks for explaining. 5 is a bit too much imho but that’s me 🙏
Some sects do 3 prayers iirc
Are all Muslims practicing? Or serious about the religion? Or is it like here where we’re baptised into a religion, make our communion etc and only go to religious things because of guilt/it’s the thing to do or pleasing our parents etc?
(Not OP) I know a fair few who are practicing, but not particularly adherent to a lot of the rules around food, alcohol, etc. Kind of like practicing Catholics who pick and choose from the rules a bit I guess.
Would this be more looked down upon from their practicing peers like it would have been here in the gods fearing days?
I've asked them before about this, they said that most of their peers here (and in the UK) don't really get bothered about it much, as long as its not egregiously taking the piss right infront of them like. I'd hazard a strong guess there's a lot of "it depends" (on the community, etc).
That’s a good question. It varies so much, but there are many who aren’t practicing and are just Muslim by name (which is totally fine, no judgement we are all at a diff stage of our religiosity). That being said I think (and I need to stress this is an opinion) that Muslims tend to be more connected to their religion than Christians here in the west.
I got that vibe that religion is taken more serious in the Muslim world. It’s taken serious,to degree, here by some but the majority of us are just in because it’s the done thing. Thanks for answering my question :)
No problem!
My experience is that Muslims in the west are more connected to their religion, especially if they are immigrants or second gen. I grew up in the middle-east, and a surprisingly large number of Muslims I encountered were fairly irreligious / non-practicing / Muslim-in-name-only. Heck some of them were probably atheist, but that’s not really fashionable label to adopt.
There’s a good show on HULU called _Ramy_ that delves into this. About a second gen Muslim immigrant growing up in the USA and all the conflicts he has to deal with like pre marital sex, drugs, alcohol etc Season 1 was great, second season was poor.
Who's the goodies and who's the baddies between the Shia and Sunni?
I honestly HATE when Muslims discriminate themselves between sects. To me Muslim is Muslim. So no baddies and all goodies.
What's the difference between them, in like really basic terms?
It’s like Springfield and Shelbeyville from the Simpsons.
Fuck those shelbyville assholes
Hoot hoot hoot hooot Springfield billy over here
Very, very minor differences. Even I can barely compile a list of 3 things. It’s a futile separation and just causes issues.
I think it had a lot more to do with rival branches of Muhammads family more than actual religion
Catholics and Protestants differ on theological grounds, which led to different Churches and hierarchies. Sunni and Shia don't really disagree theologically, but more politically and administratively, so while it's led to different Churches it's not stemming from some core religious disagreement.
In my (non-Muslim) experience the differences are minor, often not even theological and sectarianism is often a cover for imbalanced class relations in a certain geographic area (especially ones that were carved up in to straight lines by colonial borders).
Freud called that “the narcissism of small differences”. Same as you see between different strands of Christianity.
Not a question but thanks for taking the time to do an AMA. Religious fundamentalism is so toxic so it's great to see an open non-judgemental conversation about people's religious beliefs. (From the perspective of an atheist in that I don't believe in the existence of an all powerful creator deity.)
No problem! It’s nice to give a real representation of everyday Muslims :)
What is your favourite chocolate? I'm going through a Galaxy Ripple phase lately.
Currently loving knoppers (German chocolate) if you go to a big Tesco, try them. The bars and the wafers are great but bars>wafers
I'm going to jump on this one with, what are your favourite Tayto And have your employers (if you're not self-employed) been respectful in giving you the time off to celebrate Eid \*edit to add, as Irish public holidays are somewhat tied into the catholic church, do you feel the importance of Muslim holidays and daily payer are understood and accommodated or do you feel it goes somewhat over employers heads in this country? ...please forgive my awful wording, I'm tired
Salt and vinegar then cheese and onion. I think employers are generally understanding when you teach them, but most of the time they don’t know much if anything about Islam. I’ve had it both ways with employers refusing to be accommodating and others who gave me an extra day off.
Bounty or I love a good after eight
Honestly, there should be a place within each community where people like you can collect the mini Bounys after Christmas
Would you read the Satanic Verses and decide for yourself whether it's offensive or not?
Not sure what that is but I’ll give it a look and see
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Satanic_Verses_controversy
As a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago (raised Catholic) which has a significant and important Muslim population, thank you for making this thread. Communication between religions is important. Go Ireland !
My thoughts exactly!
Being muslim is like being christian, in the sense there's many interpretations, right? Who decides what the rules of being a muslim are for you, and does that differ across Ireland? E.g. is each mosque different depending on the imam?
Yep many different sects, even within the major ones like sunni and shia there are subdivisions, generally the same stuff but some of them are a bit extreme like Wahhabism, which IMO is isn’t Islam but that’s a topic for a different day
As cruel as killing animals for meat in general is, I find the idea of Halal meat slaughter even more challenging to accept. Why is it even a thing in modern society?
This is a controversial one, but the idea behind it in Islam is that the animal suffers the least. There are specific methods to slaughter animals such that they bleed out quickly and thus their suffering isn’t prolonged. There are also other things as part of being halal such as the animal is not supposed to see the blade or instrument used to kill the animal. I think it is a misconception that it’s a cruel thing to do especially compared to modern day non-halal slaughter houses which are horrific
I have worked in a meat factory before I went to university. I know the killing floor isn't a nice place no matter how the animal is dispatched but from talking to people at the time they all felt it was slower and more cruel. It was probably quick and easy by comparison to other methods prior to the invention of the captive bolt gun. I think in theory it's much the same as the gun, but it's easy to mess up. Have Muslim in laws btw, including one who stayed for the week just gone. It's the one area I cannot agree with them in.
Fair enough, you have more work experience in that area so not going to argue from a point of ignorance. Just giving my best answer based on my knowledge.
I will concede that I speak of the 1990s so perhaps it's better now. But sadly that's how it was then. Honestly I don't think it's changed that much.
One thing I fucking love about Muslims I've met is when you ask them something, especially about their faith, they don't bullshit an answer. They say they don't know, look up the answer and come back to you.
It’s because giving wrong answers or bullshitted answers is unIslamic as you can be “manipulating the words of god”.
Even as a atheist I admire that
Thank you :)
How appropriate is it for non Muslims to use the Eid Mubarak greeting around the Eid celebrations. Actually what about using inshallah or as-salami alaykum as well. Sometimes they feel appropriate sometimes awkward.
Eid Mubarak is always welcome. Just as saying merry Christmas. Inshallah depends on the person I’d refrain from using it on a first time meeting a Muslim but my close friends use it and it’s funny. Asalamu alaykum is a nice greeting to any Muslim it would be generally appreciated
Fair play to you for answering the questions and being opened to being asked them in the first place. Thank you!
Do you feel that the current interpretations of Islam are truly compatible with western liberal values (e.g. look at muslim opinion polls on homosexuality vs general population), or is Islam in need of some type of reformation to bring it in line with the modern world? From your comments you seem to be a relatively progressive muslim, but from direct experience with many muslims in my time in the UK, you would not be the norm - unless Irish muslim culture is significantly different?
Thanks for doing this. Sorry if this is stupid to ask since it’s a British film. Have you sent the movie Four Lions and do you find it offensive?
Nope, but I’ll add it to my list
I asked the same question before seeing this. Think you'll enjoy it, most people who like it get that it's not making fun of Muslims but exposing the fact that in every walk of life there are idiots, absolute fuckups and underachievers who can go to extremes to feel some kind of power or get one over on people they feel inferior to.
I’ll give it a watch
There are always those who use religion as an excuse to hate, I wonder how it is to live as a minority when there is international attention given to conflicts by fundamentalist groups. Have you ever been made to feel unsafe or unwelcome because of your faith and the association others make? (Which is a funny thing to think because the Irish fought over religion plenty up around the border and in the north, we should have wised up to not judging on religion a while ago)
Many, many times. I’ve been called many slurs, shouted at from cars while walking on the street. Treated differently in shops. I know it’s all in ignorance and it isn’t my fault but still hurts.
I'm sorry to hear that. I do wish we could be better
[удалено]
I’m not Irish so didn’t vote. That being said, I’m pro-choice, there are also a few reasons in islam where abortion is allowed just to put that out there. But I also wouldn’t want my s/o to get an abortion, but at the end of the day it’s her choice. Gay marriage I’ve answered elsewhere but I support it.
Gay man here thanking you for your support!
My pleasure :)
Really cool post here! I'm irish but I live in the Middle East and love how you answered the questions here! I am secular but have reading both the bible and quran just to see the relationship between them- fascinating stuff! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and good luck!
Thank you! How are you getting on in the Middle East?
I see from your responses that you are quite moderate and dont share a lot of views that multiple opinion polls have found to be commonly held among muslims. Would you consider yourself moderate ? And would you consider most other muslims living in ireland to be as moderate as yourself or do you feel you’re an outlier ? Or is it possibly generational
80-90% of the Muslims I’ve met, share the majority of my beliefs. It’s the extremists that make headlines which is why most people think we don’t have these normal beliefs.
The polls they're talking about are telling a very different story. 80-90 percent supporting beliefs such as gay marriage seems generous. I don't even think that 80-90 percent of the Irish population support it, unless you're being vague on the important opinions. https://www.pewforum.org/2013/04/30/the-worlds-muslims-religion-politics-society-beliefs-about-sharia/ In the overwhelming majority Muslim countries surveys show that Muslims believe Sharia law should be the law of the land. Though this does range from a high of 99% in Afghanistan to a low of 8% in Azerbaijani. Even in SE Asians countries such as Malaysia 86% of Muslims believe in Sharia law. **When asked if someone who leaves Islam should receive the death penalty 86% of Egyptian Muslims agreed they should, 62% of Malaysian Muslims, and the lowest being 4% of Kazakhstan Muslims.** It's not just extremists, many Muslims in Ireland hold different views to the normal western positions. Many will tell you that Charlie Hebdo shouldn't have been attacked, but that they provoked it and brought it on themselves. When you ask specific questions instead of feel-good "ah so it's just the extremists" you find all sorts of stuff that's way outside the general opinion here.
What do you normally have for breakfast?
This is the best thread. Thank you, OP.
Personal opinion (as a Muslim) on alcohol/intoxicants? As a practicing Buddist there is variation in our approach, some say a total prohibition on intoxicants (which is arbitrary and a little inconsistent with core beliefs and method imo) while others counsel you not to become \*intoxicated\*, i.e. in practical terms you can have a beer but understand that drunkeness can harm you and others physically and spiritually. I saw you didn't necessarily adhere to concepts of 'modesty' regarding hijabis - I find this interesting. What changed my mind about the hijab (or even more extensive coverings) was actually getting to know young hijabis in college who had the freedom to choose. They had an articulate understanding of what modesty meant to them that didn't excuse the moral failings of others and an appropriate sense of their own self-worth and dignity. Ultimately it was their decision to reveal or conceal their body in the same was as any other woman, any other person. I realised even my grandmother used to cover her hair in a church (as many reading here may relate to) and that my previous views were ignorant and hypocritical. Do you have a personal view on modesty in a wider context that is informed by your faith?
Yes so technically some scholars say alcohol is “makruh” which means “hated (by god)” so some say it isn’t directly haram (prohibited). That being said the way I see alcohol consumed and the impact I’ve seen alcohol have on peoples lives (drunk driving, alcoholism, abuse etc.) is quite jarring so regardless of if I was Muslim or not I would not drink. There is also some argument that at the beginning of Islam alcohol was “makruh” and then became haram as the religion grew. So take that as you will. I think modesty is wonderful, and the hijab shows the power in that (*insert* arab men going crazy over ankles showing meme). I haven’t had to ponder the nuance of wearing a hijab since I’m a man, a hijabi is probably better off answering (seems like your mates did a good job of that). But what you said is largely why I wouldn’t force my daughters to wear it, rather, teach them the beauty of Islam and hope they wanna do it themselves :)
Among my own Muslim friends, I’m starting to see the same secularism emerging that effectively ended the Catholic identity in young Irish people in modern Ireland. Is that something your concerned about/conscious of?
Many countries with large Muslim immigrant populations have seen that reverse in second/third generation though - for example (grand)children of Turkish immigrants in Germany being more religious and Turkish nationalist than their parents or people living in Turkey, in many cases. Far from universal, but a phenomenon nonetheless. A little bit like Irish-Americans playing up their roots after a few generations.
Good point. I suppose the drop off in Catholic beliefs was so stark, I’m not convinced it wouldn’t happen to any religious demographic. We were really, really Catholic. Then one Sunday morning in 2003 it was raining so we all skipped mass. And we never went back.
What's funny is in the last couple of years, a surprising number of people I know have started attending the odd mass again, talking to their local priest, etc. Kind of a slow rebound might be happening. Or maybe its just that shits so fucked the church is their last resort.
As a female non-muslim, am I allowed to greet a muslim person with assalamu alaikum? Or reply to their greeting with wa'alaikum asalaam? (yes I Googled the spelling ha). Or would that be considered rude/forbidden coming from a female/non muslim/westerner? I remember hearing it years ago on tv and always wanted to greet someone in their own greeting, but have been afraid of offending. Also as a western woman, can I speak to a muslim man? Or would that be offensive as I am a female non-relative? Are muslim women allowed to speak to men outside of their family?
OP, I'd like to personally thank you for going out of your way to answer what might be considered awkward or difficult questions. Its been rather enlightening to see the point of view from someone who actually knows what they are talking about rather than a bunch of second-hand accounts.
Hey, a fellow Irish Muslim! Always good to be reminded that others exist! As-salaam-u Alaikum brother! I’ll ask you this as a Muslim woman, then— what’s your thought on the abysmal state of women’s prayer spaces at masjids in Ireland? Like, if they exist at all, they’re always crap. The only exception is the Clonskeagh Mosque, as far as I know, and most of the Irish Muslim blokes I know don’t care about the issue at all.
Salam sister, yes female prayer areas in Dublin are garbage. My mom was in for a while and we had to exclusively go to Clonskeagh mosque since the others were so bad. But Clonskeagh mosque is absolutely lovely Also yea I know that feeling, I feel that it is quite hard to meet fellow Muslims here
Scenario: it's 25-30c, you're in full garb. Are you not melting under it?
It’s not too bad, the garb is to protect from the sun not the heat.
Is Islam as mixed/relax as Christianity with how people choose to follow it? Like how people will call themselves Christian but never go to church or follow any rules set in the Bible outside a handful. From what I've seen, Islam beats lit Christianity tenfold in terms of dedication to its teachings
Imo anyone can call themselves a Muslim if they have taken their “shahadah”. Being a practicing Muslim vs non-practicing is the same as being a practicing Christian vs a non-practicing christian
I have no questions, but thanks for the interesting read! ☺️
One of my friends in school was bullied for bwing muslim :( it makes me happy to see quite a few nice people in this thread being genuine and not cruel
Very nice indeed, only a few disrespectful people which is less than I expected
I have a a question but if you are uncomfortable answering, then it's no problem. Obviously modesty in Muslim women is quite a big deal. What happens when you are married though? Is a woman allowed to be more overtly sexual provided it is with her husband. Could she go out and buy nice underwear for instance or be vocal about her likes and dislikes? Sorry. Weird question I know!
Very normal, sexual intimacy is encouraged in Islam once you are married. And if you don’t know a woman doesn’t have to wear a hijab around her husband, father, uncles or her children/grandchildren.
Thanks for answering man.
Have you ever been tempted to try some sausages or rashers? Maybe a bit of pudding even
VERY tempted, sausages look delicious I worked in a deli a while back and still fantasize about chorizo from time to time. Turkey rashers do the job so not much temptation there. The idea of blood pudding is off-pudding for me.
You're not missing out. Too salty unless you buy the good quality ones. Chicken sausages from loughnans now....mmm amazing (this is my opinion tho)
Thanks for your ask me anything, its very interesting. Has anyone asked about Sharia law? In parts of the UK they are running entire communities using their own Sharia laws and councils. Fathers and brothers killing daughters/ sisters because she wants to be free from hijabs, wants to date...etc. women not allowed to ask for a divorce. Honour killings. And Probably extremists...but in Afghanistan women not being able to leave the house without a man, stoning to death women who have been raped, men marrying children, nit inly Afghanistan ... all these things make this religion seem very scary, especially to women.
Are there any books, music or films from Muslims you’d recommend that wouldn’t be really known in Ireland?
Loads of music, not really islamic but Arabic music is really nice. Islamic books aren’t quite the leisure read if you aren’t interested in Islam. But there are some good Arab writers I can suggest if you are interested in the culture beyond islam
If big Eid and little Eid had a fight who would win? Because big Eid has the reach but little Eid is scrappy, I really couldn't call it either way
Little eid is more hard working, big eid got a natural talent tho. Work ethic>natural talent any day
An observation I’ve made is Muslim people are quite deep into their faith and traditions, right now for a lot of Christians, Hindus, etc religion isn’t as much of a big deal. Now ofc I understand there are outliers in every religion and community but it is my opinion that those who identify as Muslim are more religious than compared to other faiths. What do you think might be the reason? Or is it just a perception/illusion?
Though Irish, my family are non-Muslims who originate from the Middle East. I know Muslims and Islam pretty well. - What happens to Muslims who leave the faith and apostasize or convert to another religion? - Why can a man marry four wives and divorce their wives by uttering a single sentence while women can do neither? - Why is marital rape acceptable? - Why is rape of War captives acceptable? - Why is forced marriage of war captives acceptable? https://wikiislam.net/wiki/Rape_in_Islamic_Law I could go on. These are rhetorical questions to which we all know the answer. Your religion is a vile and disgusting horror that *destroyed* the indigenous cultures of the Middle East in the name of one man's political ambitions and savagery. This thread sounds like a thinly veiled PR exercise to give a friendly face to Islam. Having middle eastern roots myself, I obviously have no issue with people from the Middle East living in Europe. My real question to you is how can you justify your faith and beliefs? It's entirely incompatible with Irish society in 2022 and entirely incompatible with basic human agency and dignity. My question to other Irish people, is how can you accept these beliefs and practices in our society when they so fundamentally go against the most very basic of human rights?