Firm Ground: Foundations for Clarifying Textual Misinterpretation

Oftentimes, we are reminded by the critics of our beautiful religion, about the confroversial verses in the Quran that make us all cringe.

“And kill them wherever you find them, and turn them out from where they have turned you out. And Al-Fitnah [disbelief or unrest] is worse than killing… but if they desist, then lo! Allah is forgiving and merciful. And fight them until there is no more Fitnah [disbelief and worshipping of others along with Allah] and worship is for Allah alone.” [Quran Verse 2:191]

“Men are the maintainers of women because Allah has made some of them to excel others and because they spend out of their property; the good women are therefore obedient, guarding the unseen as Allah has guarded; and (as to) those on whose part you fear desertion, admonish them, and leave them alone in the sleeping-places and beat them; then if they obey you, do not seek a way against them; surely Allah is High, Great.” [Quran Verse 4:34]

In a world where Islamophobia is on the rise, and we see the Quran and the teachings of the Prophet (SAW) come under increasing attacks from Islamophobes, how do we respond to the constant criticisms levied against Islam? Critics always point to controversial verses in the Quran which they believe endorse violence, misogyny, hatred, power, control, and intolerance. Is this true? Are critics correct in their asserations about Islam, or are they misinterpreting the verses and the teachings of our beloved Prophet (PBUH)?

As Muslims, what is the proper understanding of these verses, and how should we respond to critics who see Islam as an evil religion?

Join AlMaghrib Institute and Shaykh Abdul Nasir Jangda as we take an in-depth look at some of the most controversial verses found in the Quran, and some of the most controversial Hadith. To register for Firm Ground, please visit almaghrib.org/chicago