I am interested in Islam and international relations so I was thinking, when I am older, I may want to major in those to. But my problem is about Islamic studies. I am not Muslim and I have no desire to become one (nothing wrong with them, just not my lifestyle) and it seems that all courses and centers that teach you Islamic Studies expect you to become Muslim. Is that true that I will have to become Muslim and adopt that religion to take a course in Islamic Studies?
2007-12-29 13:45:33 · 16 answers · asked by Tim Buck 5 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Try taking a look at your area college for courses.
I know that the California State system has comparative religion studies and some campuses have specific studies of Islam.
Understanding others is a smart thing to do.
To do so while maintaining your own identity is admirable.
2007-12-29 13:54:32 · answer #1 · answered by Light Knight 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I don't know about courses but i would advise that you precede with caution because some courses are teaching things that are not correct. Others have teachers who are from sects and they are adding their own opinions and sometimes non Muslims are teaching Islam better than some Muslims!! I would recommend that you supplement your studies with outside Islamic studies with a scholar outside the university.
2016-04-02 01:09:08 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is a difference between studying a religion as an academic subject and being instructed in the religion. Try to find a course that does the former, it will be far more valuable to study the subject critically.
2007-12-29 13:51:22 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Yes, I highly recommend it as part of your studies. You be the
judge after taking the appropriate classes. Who said you
need to be a Muslim to take such classes?
Even if someone asks you to be converted, ask them what the
reason behind it? There is no such concept in Islam. It is all
people's perspective and preachers wish.
All I can say is, if you to read the Quran in any of those classes
I request you that you pay respect to it, just as we respect the
bible and torah.
Take the theology classes and I believe many universities
are offering and I was told Univ of Berkeley does too.
2007-12-29 13:57:10 · answer #4 · answered by JustDoit 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No one can force you do become ANYTHING. I know lot of people who have learned about Islam and never converted. Take the course and learn a bit. Education is a wonderful thing.
2007-12-29 13:55:21 · answer #5 · answered by ♥ terry g ♥ 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You might want to consider looking for a school with a program on Middle Eastern Studies, instead. That would allow you to learn about their culture, without the pressures of converting.
2007-12-29 13:58:32 · answer #6 · answered by Searcher 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No, that's not at all true. I'm getting a religious studies major. I've learned about Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Islam- I've never felt any pressure to convert.
2007-12-29 13:53:58 · answer #7 · answered by Kelsey H 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
No, it is not how you learn Islamic studies. If you go to a 'Madrassa' to learn about Islam then you will have to be Muslim to attend. Any other place in the world is an open book.
2007-12-29 13:52:46 · answer #8 · answered by blase' blahhh 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I highly doubt that you could not take the course without becoming a Muslim. I would highly recommend taking it. It is also an excellent idea to understand the beliefs of other religions.
2007-12-29 13:48:43 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 3⤊ 1⤋
I don't think anyone can push Islam on you. Before starting the course you can make it clear that you do not have any intention to revert to Islam.
2007-12-29 13:48:42 · answer #10 · answered by Happily Happy 7 · 4⤊ 0⤋