What is the history of hijab?

 

The hijab has a rich and multifaceted history, deeply intertwined with Islamic tradition, cultural practices, and evolving interpretations. Let’s delve into its origins and significance:

1. Etymology and Early Usage:

   • The Arabic word hijab (Arabic: حجاب) originates from the verb حجب (hajaba), which means to hide, conceal, or block.
   • Initially, hijab referred to a partition or curtain. It was used in the context of Islamic rules of modesty.
   • In the Qur’an, the term sometimes denoted a curtain separating visitors to Muhammad’s main house from his wives’ quarters.

2. Clothing Terminology in the Qur’an:

   • While the Qur’an never explicitly uses the word hijab to refer to women’s clothing, it discusses attire using other terms:
     • Jilbab: A loose outer garment or cloak.
     • Khimār: Often translated as headscarf, covering the hair and neck.
   • The exact requirements for veiling are not universally agreed upon.

3. Interpretations and Debate:

   • Islamic religious scholars generally agree that covering the head is either required or preferred.
   • Some scholars and activists argue that it is not mandated.
   • The Qur’an’s mandate is sometimes seen as applying only to Muhammad’s wives, not all women.
   • A metaphysical dimension refers to the veil separating man from God.

4. Variations in Veiling Practices:

   • The practice of Islamic veiling varies globally due to local laws and customs.
   • Some legal systems accept the hijab as an order to cover everything except the face and hands, while others mandate covering the entire body.
   • Reformist groups view veiling as a recommendation based on historical context.

5. Contemporary Perspectives:

   • The hijab is viewed by many Muslims as a symbol of modesty and faith.
   • Some women wear it for adornment as well.
   • In some countries, like Iran, it is legally required, while others have banned certain types of hijab.
   • Saudi Arabia no longer mandates it by law.

In summary, the hijab’s history is multifaceted, reflecting cultural, religious, and individual choices across time and place. ^1 2 3

Why do European women, American continent women, Oceania (Australia, New Zealand, etc.) and other Western women do not wear hijab, burqa, niqab, chador, etc. headscarf?

European, American, and other Western women have diverse reasons for not wearing Islamic head coverings such as the hijab, burqa, niqab, or chador. Let’s explore some of these reasons:

Cultural and Social Norms:

Western societies have different cultural norms and historical contexts. Women’s clothing choices are influenced by these norms.

Secularism plays a significant role in Western countries, emphasizing the separation of religion and state. As a result, religious attire is often considered a private matter.

Freedom of Choice:

Individual freedom is highly valued in Western societies. Women have the right to choose how they express their religious beliefs or lack thereof.

Many Western women choose not to wear headscarves because they believe in the freedom to make their own decisions about clothing.

Employment and Education:

In Western countries, women find that wearing a head covering can sometimes make it harder to get hired.

Some women prioritize their careers and education, and wearing a headscarf might be perceived as a barrier in certain professional settings 1.

Perceptions of Oppression:

For some, the hijab and other Islamic head coverings are seen as symbols of oppression.

Critics argue that these garments restrict women’s freedom and reinforce gender inequalities.

However, it’s essential to recognize that many hijab-wearing women do so voluntarily, finding empowerment and identity in their choice 2.

Integration and Identity:

Assimilation into Western culture often involves adapting to local customs and dress.

Some women choose not to wear headscarves to blend in or feel more integrated into their communities.

Security and Anti-Terrorism Measures:

Legal bans on face-covering clothing (such as the burqa or niqab) are sometimes justified on security grounds as anti-terrorism measures.

These bans aim to ensure public safety by allowing facial identification.

However, the debate extends beyond security concerns and reflects broader tensions between Muslims and Western societies 3.

Personal Preferences and Comfort:

Some Western women simply prefer not to wear headscarves due to personal comfort, fashion choices, or practical reasons.

They may prioritize other aspects of their identity or lifestyle.

In summary, the decision to wear or not wear Islamic head coverings is multifaceted and varies among individuals. It reflects a complex interplay of cultural, religious, social, and personal factors in Western contexts. 3 1 4

Why doesn't Israel have skyscrapers like superior Arabs?

Israel indeed has several impressive skyscrapers, although their numbers and heights may not match those found in some other regions. Let’s explore the reasons behind this:

Geopolitical Context:

·         Israel’s geopolitical situation has influenced its urban development.

·         The country faces security challenges, and its focus has often been on defence infrastructure rather than extravagant skyscrapers.

Land Constraints:

·         Israel is a relatively small country with limited land area.

·         Urban expansion faces constraints due to historical sites, natural reserves, and the need to preserve open spaces.

Density vs. Height:

·         Instead of constructing super-tall skyscrapers, Israeli cities emphasize urban density.

·         Many buildings are mid-rise or high-rise, providing efficient use of space without towering into the sky.

Architectural Priorities:

·         Israeli architecture often emphasizes functionality, sustainability, and integration with the environment.

·         Aesthetic considerations may take a back seat to practicality.

Economic Factors:

·         The cost of constructing and maintaining skyscrapers is substantial.

·         Israel’s economy has focused on technology, innovation, and defence industries rather than massive real estate projects.

Historical and Cultural Context:

·         Israel’s architectural heritage is rich, with influences from various periods and cultures.

·         The focus on preserving historical sites and blending modernity with tradition affects architectural choices.

Tallest Buildings in Israel:

Some notable Israeli skyscrapers include:

·         Azrieli Sarona Tower (Tel Aviv) at 238.4 meters with 61 floors 1

·         Moshe Aviv Tower (Ramat Gan) at 235 meters with 69 floors 1

·         HaShahar Tower (Giv’atayim) at 212 meters with 54 floors 1

In contrast, some Arab cities, particularly in the Gulf region, have experienced rapid growth fuelled by oil wealth, attracting global investment and leading to iconic skyscrapers like the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. Each region’s priorities and circumstances shape its architectural landscape. 1 2.

 

Is there a solid reason why the Egyptians would have had no record of the Israelites leaving Egypt during the Exodus?

 The absence of explicit Egyptian records regarding the Israelites’ departure from Egypt during the Exodus can be attributed to several factors:

Slavery and Embarrassment:

The Israelites were primarily slaves in Egypt, and their status did not warrant extensive documentation.

The manner of their departure was a source of embarrassment for the Egyptians. The miraculous events surrounding the plagues and the parting of the Red Sea might not have been something the Egyptians wanted to memorialize.

Nomadic Nature:

After leaving Egypt, the Israelites became nomads wandering through the desert.

Their transient lifestyle made it challenging for them to leave a lasting impact or leave behind significant evidence.

Desert Environment:

The vast deserts between Egypt and Canaan could have easily swallowed up any evidence of a large-scale migration.

The harsh conditions and shifting sands over 3,000 years could have obscured any remnants of their passage.

Selective Record Keeping:

Ancient Egyptian records were often selective and focused on monumental events, royal achievements, and military victories.

The departure of a group of slaves might not have been deemed significant enough to merit detailed documentation.

Cultural Bias:

The ancient Egyptians might not have considered the Israelites’ departure as a significant loss of labour or a noteworthy event.

Their perspective and priorities shaped the content of their historical records.

In summary, the lack of explicit Egyptian records does not necessarily negate the historicity of the Exodus. Scholars continue to debate the timing and details, but evidence from Egyptian texts and archaeological sites does support the biblical account of the Israelites’ journey during the 13th-century B.C.E. Ramesside Period 1 2.

Rex Nemorensis

Rex Nemorensis, also known as the "King of the Wood," was a figure in ancient Roman mythology associated with the sanctuary of Diana at Lake Nemi, near Rome. According to myth, the Rex Nemorensis was the priest of Diana, the goddess of the hunt and wilderness, who presided over the sanctuary.

The unique aspect of the Rex Nemorensis legend is that the priest held his position through a ritualized form of combat. The priest, often a runaway slave or fugitive, could only become the Rex Nemorensis by defeating the incumbent priest in mortal combat. This practice is sometimes referred to as the "Nemoralia" or "Nemi rites."

The origins and significance of the Rex Nemorensis ritual are not entirely clear. Some scholars suggest that it may have evolved from ancient fertility rites or from older cult practices related to the worship of Diana. Others view it as a symbol of the cycle of death and rebirth, reflecting the seasonal rhythms of nature.

The Rex Nemorensis and the sanctuary of Diana at Lake Nemi have captured the imagination of writers and scholars throughout history, including James George Frazer in his work "The Golden Bough." The mythological figure has also appeared in various works of literature and art, often as a symbol of power, sacrifice, and the mysteries of the natural world.

What religion is the weirdest of all?

Raelism, also known as the Raelian Movement, stands out as one of the most unconventional and peculiar religions. Let me share some intriguing details about it:

Founder: Raelism was founded in 1974 by Claude Vorilhon, a former French car-racing test driver who later adopted the name Rael.

UFO Beliefs: At its core, Raelism is a UFO religion. It posits that extra-terrestrial scientists from another planet visited Earth thousands of years ago and were responsible for creating all forms of life, including humans.

Scientology: While not as otherworldly, Scientology is another fascinating religion. Developed by L. Ron Hubbard in 1954, it delves into the true spiritual nature of humans, their relationships, and their connection to the universe. According to Scientology, humans are immortal spiritual beings with experiences extending beyond a single lifetime.

Nation of Yahweh: This religion, named after its leader Yahweh Ben Yahweh, is an offshoot of the Black Hebrew Israelites movement. It draws from biblical interpretations but departs from mainstream Christianity and Judaism. Some consider it a black supremacist cult. ⚖

Church of All Worlds: Founded in 1962, this neo-pagan religion emerged from a group inspired by a fictional religion in Robert A. Heinlein’s sci-fi novel “Stranger in a Strange Land”.

Subud: Founded by Muhammad Subuh in the 1920s, Subud is a movement centred on spontaneous and ecstatic exercises. Its central feature is the practice of “latihan,” a spiritual activity held twice a week.

Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster (Pastafarianism): A delightful mock religion, it originated from an open letter demanding that the theory of the Flying Spaghetti Monster be taught alongside evolution in schools. It’s legally recognized in the Netherlands and New Zealand!

These religions offer a glimpse into the fascinating diversity of human beliefs and practices.  1 2 3 4

 

What are some examples of human cruelty?

For hundreds of years, in the choirs of the Vatican, the Pope and his buddies were quite fond of great singing voices. There was just one problem with a beautifully voiced youth — they’d hit puberty and age out of it. Your balls drop, your voice drop, and poof! It’s gone. Gone is the magic. What a waste of great acoustics in all those beautiful cathedrals, no?

Someone discovered that in men who were castrated at an early age, the voice tends to remain high-pitched. But just a shrill voice alone won’t do — it has to be a trained voice, belonging to a trained singer. Someone who naturally has a large ribcage and a large lung capacity. Choir masters began to seek out the most talented boys, and promise them and their parents a glorious, financially secure future… surely their careers would last forever, if they kept that youthful timbre? There was but one condition…

The boy would have to be castrated. Many of the young, talented singers were convinced. There was a lot of money to be earned, and many came from poor families… the money was just too good to refuse. Whether the boy agreed or not mattered little; the parents had the final say. There were often many more siblings to feed and clothe and the choice seemed easy enough. So the boy would be tied up and emasculated.

I can’t imagine the horror… you’re eight years old, ten, maybe eleven at most. You’re a good little Christian boy, you sing in the Church choir, you try your hardest to please your parents, please the pastor, the priests. Obey, obey, and obey. Be ever so obedient, ever so useful, and so pious. You can’t really say no. A great sacrifice is demanded, and did God not sacrifice His only son?

You’d agree to it. Or you wouldn’t. It would make no difference — your nads would be gone. So would any chance to ever have a child of your own. And no, it wasn’t quite like the priests and their celibacy; they still had a choice, after all, and you didn’t. Many priests had secret lovers, you, however, were done for.

Not all castrato singers made it big. Despite the promises of great wealth, many of them remained mediocre at best or never quite reached the heights they dreamed of reaching… as middle age set in, their appearances grew ever-more bizarre, their limbs overly stretched, ribcages overgrown, fingers long and slender. They developed man-boobs. Brittle bones. No body hair, no facial hair, no testosterone, often no erections and being unable to perform sexually.

The few, who did become successful, often became fabulously successful. Men like Farinelli were the Michael Jackson’s of their era. Their fame lasted for decades. Their wealth was great. But the price was high, far too high. When the authorities began to crack down more on the practice, excuses were invented, families would claim the boys were operated on “due to an accident”, being bitten by a dog or boar or because of a disease… for decades more they found loopholes to continue the sick practice.

Eventually the Vatican officially forbade the practice somewhere in the 19th century, but not before many young lives were forever destroyed. All that pain and suffering just for a damn choir… Alessandro Moreschi, who died in 1922, was the last castrato singer of the Vatican.

Jews made sacrifices to God during the time of Jesus. When and why did they stop making sacrifices?

The practice of making sacrifices in Judaism dates back to ancient times, with sacrifices being an integral part of the religious rituals prescribed in the Torah (the Hebrew Bible). These sacrifices were performed at the Temple in Jerusalem, which was the central place of worship for the Jewish people.

The cessation of sacrifices can be traced to a significant event in Jewish history: the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. The Second Temple was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE, during the First Jewish-Roman War. This event marked the end of the sacrificial system as it had been practiced for centuries.

Without the Temple, the central place where sacrifices were to be offered according to Jewish law, the practice became impossible to continue in its traditional form. Additionally, the loss of the Temple and the subsequent dispersal of the Jewish people led to a shift in Jewish religious practices and interpretations.

After the destruction of the Temple, Judaism underwent a transformation, transitioning from a religion centred on Temple rituals and sacrifices to one focused on prayer, study, and observance of the Torah's commandments. Rabbinic Judaism emerged as the dominant form of Judaism, emphasizing synagogue worship, study of Jewish texts, ethical living, and observance of the commandments.

Today, while sacrifices are no longer practiced in Judaism, their symbolism and significance continue to be remembered and reflected upon in Jewish liturgy, theology, and traditions.

 

 

Are wealthy children really advantaged?

 Do you know him?

He is Aryaman Birla -son of Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman of the Aditya Birla Group. Being the scion of one of the wealthiest families of India, Aryaman Birla too was expected to take-over his father. But he chose a road less travelled. He decided to become a cricketer. Going by how wealthy he is, he probably had the best facilities to pursue his dream.

In the 2017–18 Ranji Trophy, he made his debut for Madhya Pradesh. Shortly after, he was signed by the IPL team Rajasthan Royals. Apparently, he needed a solitary half-century to get signed by the Royals.

Being a top-order batsman, he's had a below mediocre career. He averages around 27 in First class cricket with one century and a half century.

He was dropped by his domestic team and was released by the Royals in 2020. Not the ending you expect, eh?

If I were at his position, I'd have no choice but to put in the extra effort to better myself. I couldn't have walked up to my father and said, 'I failed at cricket. I am quitting’.

What is Aryaman Birla doing right now? Surprise, surprise —

He is flourishing as a young entrepreneur. He knew if he had failed at cricket, he would always have a cushion to fall back on. Most of us don't have this privilege.

Wealthy children ARE advantaged. But does that guarantee success? NO.

I guess the more facilities you have, the lazier you become.

Let's look at this guy —

Yashasvi Jaiswal. He plays for Mumbai in domestic cricket and Rajasthan Royals in the IPL. His story is the exact opposite of Aryaman's. His father was a small-time shopkeeper in Bhadohi in Uttar Pradesh. Jaiswal moved to Mumbai to pursue cricket. For three years, he lived with groundsmen in the Muslim United Club’s tent at the Azad Maidan ground in Mumbai. He had to, after he was thrown out of a dairy shop where he used to sleep.

His achievements, He is the youngest cricketer in the world to score a List A double century. He was the leading run-scorer of India U-19 team and player of the tournament at the 2020 Under-19 World Cup in South Africa.

While being wealthy gives you a head-start over the others, it doesn't mean you can't catch up to them. If you have the drive to reach the zenith, you'll do it besting all other odds.

What social skills can I learn from your experiences in just 10 minutes?

v  Always stand up when someone enters a room to greet them. Don’t just sit and offer them a handshake Stand up and greet them with respect.

v  Start a random conversation with strangers to boost your social skills. It would help you to talk to anyone and anywhere and this will also help you to feel more confident.

v  Never say “No” for any favour asked, immediately, to anyone. Ask for some time to think, and later on reply negatively.

v  Don’t help unless asked. But in case of emergency like a fire taking place instead of calling the fire brigade take a bucket of water and start doing what everyone else was meant to do. You need to stand out from the rest of the crowd so take action if you feel like someone needs help and don’t shy away.

v  Be the first one to smile in a metro, in your office, anywhere.

v  If you see a disabled person ask them for help if they deny then just move away and accept it. I noticed how people of my age group are even shy to help someone in crowd. ( personal experience/ first-hand experience)

v  The less you speak, the more curious people get. So, keep your mouth shut if you want to be interesting.

v  Be the first one to initiate a hand shake. And make sure it's firm.

v  Don't interrupt in a conversation. Listen politely.

v  Hold your significant other's hand whenever attending a meet up or a function. It shows the strength of your relationship.

What if Noah's ark is actually the planet Earth?

 I will give you a little different answer than most. Noah’s ark was likely a real thing and a real event. In all likelihood, the story has the germ of truth because it appears in several different versions in several different religions during the same period in time.

Before writing, oral history was a real thing. People repeated stories with an accuracy that is baffling to modern people who are reliant on writing. I have seen an Irish father and son who could independently quote the same 30,000-line Celtic saga from memory without significant differences.

But like the old sagas, there was a tendency to embellish stories to make them more interesting and religious people frequently added religious or supernatural explanations to the stories as a means of “explaining” the parts that they did not have the science or knowledge to understand. And mistranslations often obscured words and their original meanings.

So, this is a plausible scenario.

About 7,600 years ago (in the Pre-Pottery Neolithic) the Black Sea was about 400 feet lower than now and had wide fertile plains around it where there was considerable farming and husbandry. Surrounding the fertile plains were steep cliffs similar to the ones I have seen at Sinop and Trabzon. The reason the Black Sea was lower was that there was no connection to the Mediterranean Sea.

Then the Dardanelles and Bosporus was breached by the waters from the Mediterranean and the Black Sea began to fill. Modern scientists have calculated that forty days and nights of flooding would have been plausible given the volume of water involved.

During that period is is likely that some farmer noticed the rising water and did something about it. The something would be to build a coracle — around boat made of bent willows and covered in rushes and/or hides coated with tar for waterproofing. (he term “gopher wood” is a mistranslation of Khofered wood which is wood coated with tar.) Then the farmer would have gathered his immediate family and two of each of his farm animals (some sources say seven of each) into the boat and they would have survived. This is a sketch of what it might have looked like.

The design is based on Babylonian and Sumerian accounts of the flood. The animals would likely have been squabs (doves which were eaten), sheep, goats and cattle and dogs.

Over time the story was embellished, mistranslated, and given religious significant. But it is like one of those movies that say they are based on a true story. The original story may have been true, but the movie is almost entirely fiction.

Many of the ancient stories that have come down to us are based on true events or people. My favorite is Jason and the Golden Fleece. It seems that as late as the 18th Century, Tatars in the Crimea would stake sheep’s fleeces down in mountain streams to catch gold particles in the fibers. When there was enough gold in them they would then burn them and collect the gold. I am certain that at some point someone stole some of the fleeces.

And the site of Troy was discovered using the Iliad, which was not written by Homer, but simply written down by Homer. Another oral narrative that turned out to be true.

The anti-Islamic people wouldn't have hate our religion that much if they would just read the whole Qu'ran and try to understand what's actually in it. Do you guys agree?

I don't have personal opinions, but I can offer some insights on this topic.

It's important to recognize that perceptions of Islam, like perceptions of any religion, can be influenced by a variety of factors, including cultural, political, and social contexts. People's attitudes toward Islam may be shaped by their personal experiences, media portrayals, interactions with Muslims, and interpretations of religious texts.

Reading the Quran in its entirety and seeking to understand its teachings can certainly provide valuable insights into the beliefs and practices of Islam. However, it's also important to recognize that interpretations of religious texts can vary widely among individuals and communities. What one person finds inspiring or meaningful in the Quran, another person may interpret differently or find objectionable.

Additionally, attitudes toward Islam are often influenced by broader issues such as stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination, and geopolitical tensions. Negative perceptions of Islam may be fuelled by misinformation, fear of the unknown, or political agendas.

Promoting understanding and dialogue between people of different faiths and backgrounds is essential for fostering mutual respect, empathy, and cooperation. This can involve not only reading religious texts but also engaging in open-minded conversations, seeking out diverse perspectives, and challenging stereotypes and misconceptions.

Ultimately, addressing Islamophobia and promoting religious tolerance requires a multifaceted approach that involves education, dialogue, and efforts to build bridges of understanding between individuals and communities.

The anti-Islamic people wouldn't have hate our religion that much if they would just read the whole Qu'ran and try to understand what's actually in it. Do you guys agree?

 In my experience, people who make statements like these don’t quite mean these exact words. The term “try to understand” is used to suggest that if they truly tried, they would came to the same conclusion as me; and those that did not, they did not truly try to understand it. What most people actually mean is that, “The anti-Islamic people wouldn't have hated our religion that much, if they would just read the whole Qur’an, and perceived the text in the exact manner as I do”. It is easy to see that this form of argument is built upon a logical fallacy.

Note that this is hardly unique to Muslims or Islam alone. Though I would be lying if I said that such a mindset is not common within many Muslim-majority nations. I have seen the same in people (especially preachers) from various religious: Muslims, Christians, Hindus, and others. Its not just related to religious people or topics regarding religion either. The common factor in my experience seems to be people who have spent most of their time living in an ideological bubble with similar minded people (same religion in this case) for extended periods of time; which means minimal interaction with people of other different religions or opinions. This results in the same ideas being regurgitated and validated within this echo chamber, without any exposure to a counter-opinion, till they are perceived as the universal truth.

For example, a Muslim surrounds and isolates himself in a community of Muslims; the people in this echo chamber constantly talk to each other of how reading the Quran will make anyone see the light of Islam; every person that the man has talked to (having been Muslims) has vouched that reading the Quran proves Islam as the undeniable truth; when this man talks to a non-Muslim, who does not see any evidence within the Quran that proves Islam as the absolute truth, the man does not understand how this is possible; after all, everyone that he had previously talked to swore this to have been the case. People who have spent their entire lives living among similar-minded people (especially in terms of religion) sometimes have difficulty understanding this diversity in opinion or perspective. That is also why many of these people, when they debate or discuss these topics with a person of different opinion, often quickly fall apart.

Now, coming back to the point of the logical fallacy that lies in this type of mind-set. Some Muslims seem to believe that reading the Quran can make anyone see the light of Islam, but this isn’t how it works in real. If a person doesn’t believe in Islam, reading the Quran doesn’t mean anything to them. It is simply a book. A slow and difficult read at that. To a non-Muslim, reading the Quran would probably be like reading the Silmarillion; though with less stories; and a greater focus on morality, hell, heaven, end of the world, etc. They would not see within it the evidence that serves to prove Islam as the truth. Nor would they perceive it the way a Muslim might.

The assumption that just because a person criticizes Islam (or something related to it) means that they have never read the Quran or studied Islam is untrue. That isn’t to say that there aren’t a lot of people who criticize Islam or Muslims, without knowing the first thing about it. However, there are also many among them who have studied Islam in detail, read the Quran and Hadith, and so forth. Many of the great debaters on religion have gone through religious texts from multiple religions (including the Quran - with translation and tafsir). People who are interested in comparative religious studies also do so. In my experience, quite a few ex-Muslims (who become atheists/agnostics) have a preceding religious phase, where they study Islam in great detail in an attempt to strengthen their faith. Yet, they may still criticize aspects of Islam, despite having a great deal of knowledge on Islam, including having read the Quran.

Conversely, just because a person is an extremely enthusiastic Muslim does not mean that they have read the Quran (in terms of translation and tafsir) or studied Islam in great detail. I have come across countless Muslims who have never gone through the translation and tafsir of the Quran themselves. This holds especially true in highly religiously conservative countries with low literacy rates (Pakistan, Afghanistan, etc.). I would actually attribute this to be one of the main causative factors behind the Mullah culture in these regions.

I would divide the people who criticize Islam (or certain aspects of it) and Muslims into two broad groups.

The first being the blind Islamophobes, who have no interest in talking or understanding anything about Islam at all. They hate Islam and Muslims and will continue to do so; Quran or no will make no difference. Even if they did read the Quran, it would only be used to cherry pick verses without context to serve as justification of their pre-existing hatred of Islam and Muslims. There really isn’t anything that one can do about these people.

The second group are those people that are more willing to engage or participate in a discussion. These people are at least willing to be open-minded to see things from a different perspective. In my experience, the criticism of Islam or Muslims that comes from this group has less to do with the text of the Quran or Hadith, as it is common for religious texts to have multiple interpretations. Their criticism or dislike comes as a consequence of the words, behaviour, and actions of the Muslims themselves as a whole. Hard to blame them. People’s perception of religion (or other ideas) comes from looking at the people that follow that religion. In the real world, religion is essentially what the people (especially scholars or esteemed figures) who follow that religion say it is. That is where I would say the blame comes back to the Muslim community worldwide. It is no secret that there are many Muslim-majority nations that are plagued by many issues; some religion-based and others that are multi-factorial. We are talking about extremism and terrorism, women’s rights issues, poor treatment of religious minorities, blasphemy and apostasy laws, hypocritical attitude when it comes to Muslim and non-Muslim minority rights, and so forth.

People (who don’t believe in Islam) around the world see the way that these Muslims behave and therefore perceive that to be the definition of Islam. It is up to the Muslims to bring forth change in themselves, if they wish to change the manner in which people around the world perceive them and Islam as a whole.

When people around the world, who are not Muslims, see images like these regularly from multiple Muslim-majority countries; they are hardly going to perceive Islam in a very positive manner; Quran or no Quran. Especially considering that these same Muslims themselves would be first to cry persecution if similar laws were applied against them in countries that have a non-Muslim majority. The sad part is that this is little more than Islamic chauvinism or supremacism at its peak. The majority of the Muslims in Pakistan, including the blasphemy-obsessed Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), are followers of the Hanafi Madhab or “School of Islamic jurisprudence”. The Hanafi law generally does not allow a death penalty for blasphemy, when it comes to non-Muslims and women. The punishment is limited to canning or imprisonment (that is if they refuse to repent). Yet, these people came up with a different interpretation to maintain their blasphemy law.

What are some of the greatest stories in history?

 I have 2.

1: When Charles DeGaul became President of France, he pulled the country out of NATO and then asked President Johnson (I think it was Johnson at least) to pull all US troops out of France to which he replied "does that include the ones buried in Normandy?"

2: During the cold war, the leader of Yugoslavia, Tito, was getting aid from the east and the west. Stalin didn't like that so he sent an assassin, he was stopped so Stalin sent another assassin and that one was stopped so after a while Tito got annoyed by all the assassins so he sent a letter to Stalin saying "stop sending people to kill me. If you do not stop sending killers I will send one to Moscow and I won't have to send a second."

Has there been any Muslim protests for the massacre of 1,300 and beheading babies?

Yes, there have been protests in Sydney, London, Toronto, New York, Berlin and probably others. All in support of the massacre and child killings.

Look it up on YouTube, before even Israel retaliated on Monday they were out in force screaming “Gas the Jews, F*** the Jews, Kill the Jews”….. I actually am not making this up; find the video of them screaming it. And thousands of them.

The Lovely Black Lives Matter changed their slogan temporarily to a Jihadist in a Parachute and saying we stand with Gaza. This signifies how they murdered the 260 children at the Peace concert in Israel.

If someone said as a future prediction that in October 2023 there would be street protests in all the major western cities of people in their thousands screaming Gas the Jews. Nobody would believe you and you’d call them trolls and say the Nazis lost the war you Anti-Semitic waste of space.

But this is what we now have all because we let Islam immigrate to our shores.

Remember when Brenton Tarrant went and shot up that mosque? Everyone the whole world over had to show solidarity with Muslims the whole world over. Mosques had security stepped in every major city in response.

The police were posting messages saying anyone on social media showing support for what Brenton Tarrant did, they’d be arrested. And they were, people were arrested for social media posts showing support for Brenton Tarrant.

Yet look at these bastards. On the streets in the thousands on every major city screaming Gas the Jews. The police are there around them not arresting any of them. They are being recorded and shown on the news. Still no arrests at all of anyone at these events.

The sheer prejudice of low expectations on display in the West towards Muslims. It's like “ah they’re Muslims they cannot help themselves all being evil anti-Semites wishing death on Jews”.

When Psalm 22:16 says "For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet" is this referring to the crucifixion of Jesus?

Christian theologians have drawn on the parallel and assumed that Psalm 22:16 must be a reference to the crucifixion of Jesus, but those words are not in the Masoretic Hebrew text of Psalm 22:16, which states:

For dogs have surrounded me; a band of evildoers has encompassed me, like a lion, my hands and feet.

This was mistranslated in the Greek Septuagint, although there is no evidence that the mistranslation was intentional:

For many dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked doers has beset me round: they dug my hands and my feet.

Christian theologians say the word ‘dug’ can be understood as meaning ‘pierced’, giving a preferred English translation of

For many dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked doers has beset me round: they pierced my hands and my feet.

The Septuagint version does not really refer to the crucifixion of Jesus but is sufficiently close that the inference has been drawn.

 

 

 

What happened to the actress Ashley Judd in the Congo rainforest?

 She was hiking in the Democratic Republic of the Congo before dawn, while doing research bonobos.

She didn’t have proper lighting to guide her and slipped and fell after her ankle got caught on roots and it fractured her tibia and leg in several places. The total rescue took 55 hours, and she was carried out in a hammock. Her right leg had no pulse and nearly needed to be amputated.

It’s a good example of why it’s important to carry proper communication equipment with you when out in the wilderness. If there is no cell phone signal, that still isn’t an excuse. There are satellite phones you can carry with you. This also includes traveling alone on a boat somewhere.

If you don’t, you will realize just how big this planet is, and how alone you’ll suddenly feel. Be safe.

What is the funniest joke you've been told that you still think about to this day?

A penguin is driving through Arizona when his AC quits on him. Being desert conditions and him being, well a penguin, he needs to have it fixed before he can continue. He pulls into the next auto repair place.

“I can take a look at it,” the mechanic says, “but not for like an hour. I need to finish this job first.” The penguin is increasingly uncomfortable in the hot garage and asks where there's a place with AC he can wait in. Preferably for free. The mechanic directs him across the street to the supermarket.

The penguin hot tails it across the road and sure enough the place is cooler but he's an overheated penguin so he wanders the aisles looking for the coolest spot. Standing in front of the ice cream freezer is good but, he thinks, what really looks like heaven is being inside the freezer. He looks around, the coast is clear, and he opens the door, climbs in and snuggles deep amongst the frozen quarts of Hagen Daz.

He also hasn't eaten in a while and the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough looks so good. He can't resist pulling off the lid and dipping his beak in. Before he knows it, he finishes the whole quart. Fat, cold and happy, he dozes off.

He wakes up confused when someone lets the freezer door slam. Seeing it's been almost two hours, he sneaks back out of the freezer and goes back to the garage.

The mechanic has his head under the penguin's hood when he gets there. The penguin asks, “Can you see the trouble?” The mechanic looks at the penguin and says, “Looks like you blew a seal.”

The penguin looks shocked for a moment and then wipes around his beak. “Oh no,” he says, “That’s just ice cream.”

 

What are the most disturbing facts about Ancient Sparta that most people do not know?

Ancient Sparta is often romanticized for its military prowess and discipline, but it also had aspects that may be considered disturbing by modern standards. Here are some lesser-known facts about Ancient Sparta:

Extreme Militarization: Spartan society was heavily militarized, with the state prioritizing military training and service above all else. Boys were taken from their families at a young age to undergo rigorous military training in barracks known as the agoge. This training emphasized discipline, endurance, and combat skills.

Harsh Treatment of Helots: The helots were a servile class in Spartan society, primarily consisting of conquered Messenians. Helots were treated as property of the state and were subjected to harsh treatment and exploitation. Spartans were known to use violence and brutality to keep the helots in line, including the annual ritual of the Krypteia, where young Spartan men were encouraged to kill helots to instil fear.

Eugenics and Selective Breeding: Spartans practiced eugenics to maintain the strength and purity of their warrior population. New-born infants were inspected by state officials, and those deemed unfit or weak were often abandoned or left to die. This practice, known as exposure, was intended to prevent the birth of weak or unhealthy individuals.

Limited Role for Women: While Spartan women enjoyed more rights and freedoms compared to women in other Greek city-states, they were still primarily valued for their ability to produce healthy offspring. Women were expected to be physically fit and healthy to bear strong Spartan children. However, their roles were largely confined to domestic duties and child-rearing.

Rigorous Social Hierarchy: Spartan society was characterized by a rigid social hierarchy, with citizenship and military service as the highest honours. Those who did not meet the criteria for citizenship, including helots and foreigners (metics), had limited rights and opportunities within Spartan society.

While Sparta's military prowess and discipline are often celebrated in historical accounts, it's important to recognize the darker aspects of Spartan society, including the treatment of helots, the practice of eugenics, and the strict social hierarchy. These aspects challenge the idealized image of Sparta and highlight the complexities of ancient societies. 

What are the most disturbing facts about Ancient Sparta that most people do not know?

Ancient Sparta, renowned for its legendary warriors, has a fascinating history filled with intriguing and disturbing facts that often go unnoticed. Here are a few lesser-known aspects of Spartan society that might send shivers down your spine.

Firstly, the Spartan practice of eugenics stands out as one of the most unsettling aspects of their culture. The state actively promoted selective breeding, encouraging only the healthiest and strongest citizens to procreate. Infants deemed weak or deformed were left to perish on Mount Taygetus, a chilling practice known as “exposing” or “discarding” children. This ruthless approach aimed to maintain a strong and powerful Spartan population, resulting in a society obsessed with physical perfection.

Another haunting aspect of Spartan life was their notorious system of military training, the agoge. Boys were taken from their families at the tender age of seven to undergo rigorous training that emphasized obedience, discipline, and endurance. They were subjected to harsh conditions, including limited clothing, minimal food, and frequent beatings. The objective was to mould them into fearless warriors willing to sacrifice everything for the state. This relentless training regime left an indelible mark on the young Spartans, shaping their character and driving them towards a life of war and conquest.

Furthermore, Spartan women had a unique position in ancient Greece, enjoying more freedom and rights compared to their counterparts in other city-states. However, this freedom came at a price. Spartan women were expected to be physically fit and strong, just like the men. They engaged in athletic activities, received education, and even held property. Nevertheless, their primary purpose was to produce healthy and robust offspring for the state. Marriage was seen as a duty, and women faced pressure to conceive children with the best possible genetic qualities. This emphasis on reproduction transformed marital relations into a calculated process, devoid of romantic love or personal choice.

Additionally, Sparta’s military dominance came at the expense of its neighbours. The Spartans, known as the Lacedaemonians, established a brutal regime over the helots, an enslaved population of conquered Messenians. Helots were treated as property and subjected to constant surveillance, forced labour, and even public humiliation. The fear of helot uprisings led to a state-sanctioned practice called the “Krypteia,” wherein young Spartan men were sent on clandestine missions to assassinate potentially rebellious helots. This ruthless suppression of the helots was an integral part of maintaining Sparta’s control and ensuring the stability of their society.

What are the unknown facts about ants?

 

What happens to an ant when it dies? When the ant dies in the colony, the rest of the Ants will ignore the corpse for up to two days. This is because they don’t realise the Ant is dead. The Ant's corpse will lie there for two days until its corpse starts to decay leaving off a chemical called Oleic acid, which to the other Ants signifies death. Once the other Ants get a smell of death, they take the body of the dead Ant and dump it into a pile of other Ant corpses.

Entomologist Edward Wilson experimented by putting drops of Oleic acid onto a live Ant. Once the other Ants got that smell of death, they attempted to drag the struggling Ant to the Ant graveyard even as he tried to clean the Oleic acid of itself.

https://www.npr.org/sections/krulwich/2009/04/01/102601823/hey-im-dead-the-story-of-the-very-lively-ant

On the Death Rituals of Ants | The Order of the Good Death Building a meaningful, eco-friendly, and equitable end of life

What is the point of life if we are all going to die, no one will remember us, the universe and humankind will one day end, therefore all of our actions in our life are meaningless?

The question of the meaning of life is one of the most profound and deeply personal questions humans grapple with. While there is no single definitive answer that applies to everyone, many philosophical and religious perspectives offer insights into finding meaning and purpose in life, even in the face of mortality and impermanence. Here are some points to consider:

Creating Meaning: Many philosophers argue that the meaning of life is not something inherent or predetermined but rather something that individuals create for themselves through their actions, relationships, and pursuits. This perspective emphasizes the importance of finding fulfilment and satisfaction in the present moment, regardless of the ultimate fate of the universe.

Connections and Relationships: Building meaningful connections with others, fostering relationships, and contributing positively to the lives of those around us can bring deep satisfaction and a sense of purpose. Acts of kindness, compassion, and love can have a lasting impact and provide meaning beyond one's individual lifespan.

Personal Growth and Fulfilment: Engaging in personal growth, pursuing passions and interests, and striving for self-improvement can provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment. Setting meaningful goals, challenging oneself, and overcoming obstacles can give life a sense of direction and meaning.

Contributing to the Greater Good: Making a positive impact on the world, whether through charitable work, activism, creativity, or innovation, can give life a sense of significance and purpose. Many people find meaning in contributing to causes they believe in and working towards a better future for humanity.

Spiritual and Religious Perspectives: For many people, spiritual and religious beliefs provide a framework for understanding the meaning of life and one's place in the universe. These perspectives often emphasize concepts such as divine purpose, moral responsibility, and the eternal significance of the soul.

Ultimately, the search for meaning in life is deeply personal and may involve a combination of philosophical reflection, introspection, and exploration of one's values and beliefs. While mortality and the impermanence of life may evoke feelings of existential uncertainty, many find solace and purpose in the connections they form, the contributions they make, and the pursuit of personal growth and fulfilment.

What are some of the craziest, wildest but definitely true stories from across history?

 

History is replete with fascinating and often unbelievable stories that are indeed true. Here are a few examples:

The Dancing Plague of 1518: In July 1518, in the town of Strasbourg (then part of the Holy Roman Empire), a woman named Frau Troffea began dancing in the streets uncontrollably. Within a month, dozens of people had joined her, and the dancing epidemic had spiralled out of control, with people dancing for days or even weeks without rest. It's still unclear what caused the phenomenon, with theories ranging from mass hysteria to ergot poisoning.

The Great Emu War: In 1932, Australia faced an unusual problem: a large population of emus was wreaking havoc on farmland in Western Australia. The government dispatched soldiers armed with machine guns to cull the emu population, but the emus proved surprisingly resilient and difficult to hit. The "war" ended inconclusively, with the emus emerging victorious.

The London Beer Flood: In 1814, a vat containing over 135,000 imperial gallons (about 610,000 litres) of beer ruptured at the Meux and Company Brewery in London. The resulting deluge of beer flooded the streets, destroying buildings and killing at least eight people. The incident was attributed to a combination of structural failure and weak vats.

The Great Molasses Flood: In 1919, a massive storage tank holding over 2 million gallons (about 7.6 million litres) of molasses ruptured in Boston's North End. A wave of molasses over 25 feet (7.6 meters) high swept through the streets at speeds of up to 35 miles per hour (56 kilometres per hour), causing widespread destruction and claiming 21 lives.

Tsutomu Yamaguchi, the Double Atomic Bomb Survivor: Tsutomu Yamaguchi was a Japanese engineer who survived both the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki during World War II. He was in Hiroshima on a business trip when the first bomb was dropped, and despite being injured, he returned to his home in Nagasaki just in time for the second bombing. He lived until 2010 and became a symbol of the horrors of nuclear warfare.

These are just a few examples of the many bizarre and incredible stories that have occurred throughout history. They serve as reminders of the unpredictability and complexity of the human experience.

What are some of the craziest, wildest but definitely true stories from across history?

 Long, a Roman legion formerly under the command of Marcus Crassus was lost in China. Unable to return home, the men were taken prisoner, after which they fought for the Chinese as mercenaries. When their service came to an end, the men were given land in Gansu province. They formed a city of their own named Lijien (also Liqian or Lijian), the word that the Chinese of the day used for legion.

The city is now named Zhelaizhai and has an unusual number of people whose features appear rather Caucasian. This would be because the Roman legionnaires, upon settling in Gansu, took local Chinese wives and had families by them. For centuries they kept rather to themselves and intermarried, preserving their genes. As a result the city still, until now, has a lot of men with the ability to grow thick beards, as well as quite a few people who naturally have dark brown or even blonde hair.

Archaeologists now believe Liqian became present-day Zhelaizhai, China. Excavations in Zhelaizhai unearthed ancient Roman-style fortifications. They also found Roman coins and pottery. Evidence shows that the people of Zhelaizhai had lined the ancient streets with tree trunks. This was a uniquely Roman practice. Also, at least one Roman helmet with Chinese lettering was discovered, all evidence of Roman presence in the area.

Looking at genetic evidence, facial features, physical appearance of the locals as well as the presence of Roman helmets, coins and pottery in the area, it’s hard not believe the story. And hard, also, not to admire just how far Roman legions could make it and still find a way to make strange lands into their home.

Which countries have Christianity as the state religion by constitution?

Countries with Christianity as a state religion marked on blue.

Here is the list of countries that have Christianity as a state religion by constitution:

v  Monaco: Article 9 on the constitution of Monaco stated that the catholic and apostolic religion is the state religion of Monaco.

v  Malta: Article 2 on the Maltese constitution states that the catholic and apostolic religion is the state religion of Malta.

v  Samoa: In 2017, the parliament voted to add the wording of article 1 thereby making Samoa a ‘’Christian nation'’ from a secular one even though when it was secular it had a theoretical constitution in place.

v  Zambia: The constitution of Zambia declares Zambia to be a ‘’Christian nation'’ and on December 29, 1991, Frederick Chiluba two weeks after taking office declared Zambia to be a Christian nation and it wasn't until 1996 that the declaration was officially confirmed on the constitution. Zambia is the only country in sub-Saharan Africa to have this declaration.

v  Denmark: Section on the Danish constitution confirms the church of Denmark as a state establishment.

v  Greece: The Greek constitution declares eastern orthodox Christianity as a state religion and is the only country in the world to have that in place.

v  Costa Rica: Article 75 on the constitution of Costa Rica declares that the catholic and apostolic religion is the state religion of the nation. Costa Rica is the only and non-secular nation in the Americas to have that in-place and they have been debates either to maintain the status quo or officially remove state religion in place.

v  Iceland: The constitution of Iceland confirms Christianity to be a state religion.