Page 377 - Islam and Far Eastern Religions

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hroughout this book we have examined super-
stitious Far Eastern religions from various per-
spectives and demonstrated that expecting sal-
vation from idols as they suggest, or seeking to
solve problems through heretical rituals is a
grave error with examples from the Qur’an.
That being said, there is an important fact that needs to be pointed
out alongside with the criticisms we have offered; it is stated in the

Qur’an that “compulsion is not acceptable in religion” (Surat al-
Baqara, 256) and that everyone has freedom of choice. According to
Islam, every individual is free to choose his religion and belief. No
doubt, followers of these superstitious religions have the right to
believe as they choose, and Islamic societies must respect this right.
However, Islam requires of all Muslims that they point out
their errors to people who are on the wrong path and invite them to
righteousness. Superstitious Eastern religions have been criticized
in this book in light of this religious obligation, and the followers of
these superstitious religions have been invited sincerely to question
their perverse beliefs and to reflect on “what the truth” actually is.
Our purpose is to approach such people amicably, to show them
the heretical aspects of their religions, and thus enable them to see
the reality of the true religion called Islam and, Allah willing, to

help them find salvation.