Reply #239: I have to ask... [View All]

[Marrah_G]

Your answers have all been well thought out and frankly if all Muslim countries behaved as you describe Islam it would be a beautiful thing. Unfortunately, as with all religions, it has been molded to fit the culture of the ones in power. It seems the rigidity tends to lessen as cultures change.

As you stated in an earlier thread even the Christians "Mary", a jew, had her head covered. This was the culture of the land at that time. It has far more to do with the culture of the time and less to do with religion. There was a terrific History channel piece on the birth of Jesus and the culture of the time.

With that said I have to ask this:

A) In Western culture covering the face is not seen in a positive light, male or female, and in some places it is even illegal.

B) In some Muslim cultures covering the face by female is seen in a positive light, sometimes even mandated by law.

Should we not respect the culture of the countries we live and work in?

Would I not be harmed or even killed in some countries if I were to take a teaching position and walk into class not only in my western style clothes but also with my hair and face exposed?

Why is it expected for certain cultures to accept "Others" and have that same respect reciprocated?

Blessings,

Marrah