Thank you for your feedback. I concur. Individual responsibility must be revived in our hearts. Often we remain in a pattern of religious practice that was inherited from our families and cultures. Every one must seek knowledge and do their best to represent the values of Islam in an excellent way. May God forgive and bless us, Amin.

This is an ongoing journey Br Paul. Education towards an integrated Islamic understanding is needed in many parts of the world and of course here in the U.S. as the generations that came before, brought their “versions of Islam” which is highly shaped by culture and politics. I believe there are psycho-social and historical roots as to why our intellectual and spiritual tradition has lost it’s potency in practice. That is a another story.

I feel every individual must sincerely work on themselves, share their experiences, open conversations and those in position to teach, should teach. Alhamdulilah there are many brothers and sisters working towards re-education on the issue of Islamic understanding and practice. I am able to reach out through my workshops and the families and individuals I work with directly, as God blesses me to do so. Keep your ummah in your prayers!

I think that is so, but unfortunately, as I indicated, that is sometimes (often?) not the way Islam is presented to (at least some) converts: not “a proper relationship to the Divine” but little rules of minute behavior, do this and don’t do that, and make sure you put your socks on in the right order (I am not kidding). The real question is, How should Islam properly be presented to inquirers (potential or actual converts), and how should the community deal with those who are more concerned with fingernails and socks than with one’s personal, profound relationship with Allah (swt), a relationship that might transform’s one life? It seems to me that in some places, at least, in the western countries, things are badly askew in how Islam is presented.

Amin! I find that whenever extremes exist a middle course is usually closer to the truth. For example obsession, of punishment is no better than obsession with love of the Divine. Although I’d rather be in love more, still a healthy harmony is needed to stay on track.

Thank you so much for your feedback. Absolutely, our tradition is supple and the attributes of Allah can play a large role in our personal development along with knowing the Divine deeply.

Thank you so much! Keep smiling, it’s Sunnah!

Thank you for your comment. Yes knowledge is the greatest worship. Through knowledge we are illuminated and with this light we can see and act accordingly!

Thank you for your reflections! I believe the top priority of any convert is a proper relationship to the Divine.