Muslim-non-Muslim relations in Western societies

Muslim/Non-Muslim Relations

The Muslim communities in North America and Europe have long experienced the test of adapting the practices and teachings of their religions to the particular problems and circumstances that they experience as citizens of the western societies, even as they maintain a robust foothold in the Islamic culture. Staying in silos is the best means of creating disagreements amidst any two groups. So as to evade such a circumstance, non-Muslims ought to make serious attempts to communicate and relate with Muslims.

Relations shall assist in the eradication of misunderstandings as well as stereotypes. It shall also assist to establish a suitable relationship founded on numerous shared beliefs and values. It will also demonstrate that in their daily lives, both Muslims and non-Muslims encounter similar issues and challenges. Interfaith exchanges and conferences should also be promoted. Paying visits to the Muslim homes and mosques shall eradicate several misunderstandings and barriers. Other means of fully engaging Muslims ought to be completely investigated and used (Khan, 2012).

There exists no scarcity of shared values amidst Muslims and the Western world that is mainly Jewish and Christian, faiths that are respected by Islam. Trust in God is an essential Judeo-Christian and Islamic principle. Jews, Christians and Muslims share high ethical values, family values, business values, and so much more. These, together with other shared values, ought to be recognized and built upon to establish mutual respect and understanding (Khan, 2002).

Suggestions for how Muslims should approach and relate to non-Muslim in the west

1. Assume World Leadership

American Muslims are very educated and different. They understand the West, and this places them in a special position to be a bridge amidst the Islam and the West. American Muslims ought to lead the way for world Muslims that is only probable if they acted in a unified manner (Khan, 2007).

2. Leave Baggage Behind

Most of the immigrant Muslim leaders carry with them lots of baggage from their home nations. A few display non-democratic techniques of running institutions, the way other sects are treated, etc. American Muslims ought to think and act alone without being influenced by the external organizations and governments (Khan, 2007).

3. Focus on the Bigger Picture

Majority of the Muslims in America and other western countries do not have sight of the big picture, and instead concentrate on insignificant issues such as control of mosques. Greater issues have typically assumed the back stage for Muslims. Matters like how to marginalize fanatics, and how to bring non-Muslims into the fold ought to be concentrated on rather than unimportant matters, which divide the community and make the significant matters to be overlooked (Khan, 2007).

1. Address Root Causes of Problems

The Western world needs to deal with the basic causes of its issues with the Islam followers. It ought to make serious attempts to understand Muslims and Islam by taking part in productive and serious conversations (Khan, 2007).

2. Be Informed and Sensitive

Western nations ought to be better knowledgeable concerning Muslims and Islam. The Americans and the West, particularly, ought to do whatever it takes to understand and relate with the Muslims (Khan, 2007).

3. Do not Paint all with the Same Brush

Muslims are quite different socially, politically and culturally. Just around 22% of them are Arabs (Khan, 2007). Therefore, why treat them the same way, and judge them based on others mistakes and misdoings?