Misconception #1:  Islam is a religion that condones violence

With the constant negative portrayal of Muslims and Islam in the media, it is no wonder that this is the number one misconception. 

Islam means peace and submission.  Peace means to be at peace with yourself and your surroundings, and submission means submission to the will of Allah.  A Muslim is one who willingly submits to the will of Allah.  

Nowhere in the Qur’an is violence advocated.  Islam is a religion that stresses the sanctity of life.  A verse in the Qur’an states “anyone who saved one life, it is as if he has saved the whole of mankind and anyone who has killed another person it is as if he has killed the whole of mankind.” (5:32)

About war, like Christianity, Islam permits fighting in self-defense, in defense of religion, or on the part of those who have been expelled forcibly from their homes. It lays down strict rules of combat which include prohibitions against harming civilians and against destroying crops, trees and livestock. As Muslims see it, injustice would be triumphant in the world if good men were not prepared to risk their lives in a righteous cause. The Quran says:

“Fight in the cause of God against those who fight you, but do not transgress limits. God does not love transgressors.” (2:190)

“If they seek peace, then seek you peace. And trust in God for He is the One that heareth and knoweth all things.” (8:61)

War, therefore, is the last resort, and is subject to the rigorous conditions laid down by the sacred law.