In an era where Islam is constantly associated with violence in the media, this episode tackles the tough questions head-on with Imam Mustafa Zayed, author of “The Lies About Muhammad.” The discussion centers on the beauty of Islamic manners, the explosive growth of Islam in America, and why the very publicity meant to harm Islam has consistently driven more people toward it. Imam Mustafa also addresses how those new to Islam can build their faith without feeling overwhelmed.
Why Islam Keeps Growing Despite Negative Media
According to CNN statistics, over the past 15 years not a single religion or denomination grew in America except Islam, which doubled in size. This was not the result of Muslim marketing campaigns or paid endorsements. Rather, many Americans who heard negative things about Islam in the media decided to investigate for themselves. When they read about Islam directly, without bias or intermediaries, they found a faith that made sense, and they embraced it. Every wave of anti-Islamic hype has been met with a higher ratio of Americans accepting Islam.
Never one time in the past twenty years was there hype against Islam that was not accompanied by a higher ratio of Americans accepting Islam. The more people try to attack this religion, the more people discover its truth.
The Centrality of Good Manners in Islam
- The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said he was sent to perfect good character and manners
- Prayer without understanding and presence of heart is incomplete; the reward comes from what you comprehend, not merely the physical movements
- The Quran is not meant to sit on a shelf gathering dust; it is a living blueprint for the most fulfilling life possible
- The Sunnah (prophetic tradition) exists to explain the Quran through practical example
The Quran is the blueprint for all mankind to live the most fulfilling, satisfying, joyful life on the way to Paradise. There is meaning, logic, sense, spirit, and everything you need for your life within it.
For those new to Islam or considering it, Imam Mustafa offers crucial advice: do not be overwhelmed by looking at the entire package at once. Start by knowing who Allah is, the foundations of pure monotheism, and the basics of prayer. Make a full commitment in your heart to submit to the Creator with no reservation, then strive each day to improve. If you fall short, seek forgiveness and keep building. Allah does not expect perfection; He expects sincerity, effort, and a heart that keeps turning back to Him.
