Self-defense

When Muhammad was spreading his message, he was met with brutal assaults from neighboring cities.  He told his followers to act as if they’re hands were tied, meaning that they should not retaliate.  I understand why he did this, so that they wouldn’t have a bad label put on them; however, I am a little confused on what it says in the Qur’an about retaliating these days.  If someone were to attack us, are we supposed to fight back or just let them do whatever they want?  Could we kill somebody in self-defense and be forgiven by God, even though killing another human being is the biggest sin a person can do?

the concept of a veil

So all of my previous knowledge of a veil basically comes down to this: a veil means modesty and it is by choice, in most places.  it can also identify oneself with ones faith.  But the concept of a veil still confuses me a bit.  From what I can see, women can basically wear the veil any way the desire. but is the way that they wear the veil significant to their specific religious sect? even after looking online I still cant figure this one out.  I think this would be a cool discussion in class, most especally because a lot of people do not understand the concept of a veil.

Response to tattoos and piercings 2

I don’t think tattoo’s or piercings are restricted alone for reasons such as causing harm to your own body.  I believe that tattoo’s are wrong because they may interfere with praying.  For example, if you have a picture of a person or icon on your body, there may be a false sense of praying to an idol.  Similarly, one should also be careful of praying in an unobstructed area (you shouldn’t be facing any pictures or people).  The reason behind this is to prevent the appearance of praying to anything besides Allah.  Of course, one must assume that Allah know’s everyone’s intention, but I think it is just to prevent any misleading appearances.  I don’t think all tattoo’s are wrong, just primarily ones that are pictures, especially of people.  For example, many Muslims I know have labeling tattoos as a requirement for being in their country’s army.