In todays society there an emphasis on authenticity, thinking for yourself, individuality etc. Whatever you do... this mantra is a must... DON'T FOLLOW!!!!
In Islam there's the idea of "taqleed" or following a jurists opinion.
It also has the connotaiton of emulation, imitation.
Having been through many tough times I have looked at - and looked up to - some of the Muslim "elders". They're healthy and happy at a ripe old age, and AFAICT neither smoke nor drink. Nor are they isolated from community, their age is not a vice but a source of respect, and they have a sense of purpose in life. Virtues I appreciate and admire.
I just don't get that kind of inspiration from other faiths. Maybe the closest is reading Butlers "Lives of the Saints" - but they tend to be middle class super-people.
So is this a valid approach to life, or a sleazy cop out?
Say (O Muhammad
): "Travel in the land and see what was the end of those who rejected truth." (quran 6:11)
I am asking because there seems to be an assumption from secularists that authenticity, individuality etc.... are almost absolute virtues. Without them we're be lost, immoral, or ever worse: we'd be religious.
In Islam there's the idea of "taqleed" or following a jurists opinion.
It also has the connotaiton of emulation, imitation.
Having been through many tough times I have looked at - and looked up to - some of the Muslim "elders". They're healthy and happy at a ripe old age, and AFAICT neither smoke nor drink. Nor are they isolated from community, their age is not a vice but a source of respect, and they have a sense of purpose in life. Virtues I appreciate and admire.
I just don't get that kind of inspiration from other faiths. Maybe the closest is reading Butlers "Lives of the Saints" - but they tend to be middle class super-people.
So is this a valid approach to life, or a sleazy cop out?
Say (O Muhammad
I am asking because there seems to be an assumption from secularists that authenticity, individuality etc.... are almost absolute virtues. Without them we're be lost, immoral, or ever worse: we'd be religious.
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