Islam and secularism

Anouar El Younssi argues the “need for an Islamic Reformation” and suggests “the term ‘Islamophobia,’ which (some Muslims)consider an unnecessary burden that stifles any open discussion of Islam and its demerits. Criticism of Islam or any other religion or ideology, following Nawaz and Manji, must be upheld and should be viewed as consistent with the secular right to freedom of expression. In other words, Islam should not rise above criticism. Such a stance affirms that religious doctrines and/or cultural practices—in contrast to the people who adhere to such doctrines or engage in such practices—do not in themselves have rights, for such rights are granted to people rather than to ideas or ideologies or cultures. Human rights must assume priority over religious and/or cultural rights.” Considering that “Christian-phobia (or hatred toward Christianity)” was placed in this context, replacing the term “Islamophobia,” would this hold as a fair criticism in your eyes?  Let’s think, though, about the wrenching that Christianity underwent in the 20th century, then the 21st century.  Christian ideas and ideals have always been molded by cultural factors, though one’s own personal relationship with Christ can essentially withstand criticism.  There are many occasions that Christians have fallen into the trap of excessive criticism, and this has landed the person in a lonely, sad place. This is the danger of the nature of academic and “scholarly” approaches to Christianity, and all its aspects, from theology to ideas to Biblical literature.  Sharp criticism and liberal theologies have though become safe havens for some people, on the other hand.  In the 21st century, Christianity has taken a walloping, which has left little room for the adaptation of beliefs for many.  Christianity will likely continue to be criticized (in the harshest sense of the word), and persecutions seem to be headed our way in the West, as has been the case in some parts of the East and Global South.  It seems like Islam will leave its adolescence with a few of its own regrets and continue to be feared.  Can Christians empathize and understand how religious liberties have been difficult for Muslims?  What are the parallels that Muslims go through that Christians can identify with? Should ideas be protected as rights? Or should only people be shielded from attacks and criticisms?                     

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