Reflections is a weekly spotlight on faith within the campus community through intimate student interviews.
"I have been called everything from a 'camel jockey' to a 'terrorist' because of my religious beliefs," said Danish Siddiqui, a 20-year-old University of Memphis student. But despite the stereotypes, Danish is proud to be a Muslim. He said he does not believe in violence, nor in forcing his faith on others.
"To believe in Islam is to believe in the ultimate truth," said Danish. "I live my life to submit to God entirely, and to work toward a greater community for all."
Islam has an estimated 1.2 -1.5 billion followers, 6 million in the U.S. It was founded by the prophet Muhammed (570-632 C.E.) in what is now Saudi Arabia.
Muslims recognize both Abraham and Jesus as important prophets, but believe Muhammed was the final and most critical messenger of God. Islam is based on five pillars: "shahaadah," testimony of faith; "salah," daily prayers; "sawm," fasting in the month of Ramadan; "zakah," the distribution of charity to the needy and "hajj," the pilgrimage to Mecca that must be made at least once in each follower's lifetime -- money and health permitting. Islam values the traits of tolerance, patience and altruism.
"All things in nature, including plants and animals, worship God in perfect submission," Danish said. Humans are unique in having the free will to choose between right and wrong, so they can be a part of that natural order and live peacefully, or they can follow their own path in a painful and destructive process."
Muslims abide by a number of religious laws, including abstaining from alcohol and avoiding physical contact between unrelated men and women. It is sometimes difficult for students like Danish to satisfy these commitments to their faith. For example, some instructors are not understanding when Danish must leave class for daily prayers.
"I am disappointed that The University has not promulgated an official policy accommodating religious practices of Muslim students or recognizing Muslim holidays," Danish said.
Many American businesses and public institutions close for Christian holidays but reject those of other religions. "That is not right. We need to start showcasing real religious diversity in this country, not just focusing on one or two religions," Danish said.
About 200 Muslim students attend The U of M. There is also a Muslim Student Association, which meets regularly and organizes events on campus.
Like members of any other group, most Muslims today are committed to building a better society for all, said Danish. While it may take time for Muslims to gain mainstream acceptance in the U.S., their views on faith and God are more similar to those of the Judeo-Christian tradition than many realize.
As Danish said, "Islam does not claim to be a new religion, but a manifestation of the same message that was sent through the religions of Christianity and Judaism."
