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In the West, for at least two generations, moral relativism has ruled. Absolute truth is thought not to exist, except in science. In the speeches of recent US Presidents, "God" has been effectively relegated to vaguely blessing America, but is certainly not allowed to press too far His existence, nature or claims. Yet this situation is unsatisfying to an ever-growing minority. Secularism is losing its charm. "Fundamentalist" Christianity (but not its rationalistic or ritualistic brands) is making a comeback. More exotic religions too, are offering their wares in our supermarket of lifestyles. Muslims are very active in propagating their religion in Europe and North America; a not inconsiderable trickle of Westerners have been turning to Islam. A large number of programmes relating to Islam, some co-produced by Muslim organisations, have appeared in recent years on national and regional television. Several large book-selling chains now stock the Qur'an and other material on Islam. The situation following the “Nine Eleven” attacks in New York and Washington, and more recently, the “Seven Seven” suicide attacks in London, have sadly resulted in Muslims in the West suffering personal violence and sharp criticism. But it has also given them media opportunity to claim that true Islam is a religion of peace. Secular Westerners may have found this confusing, to say the least. It seems therefore a good idea to look carefully at the Qur’an, the very foundation stone of this faith. We should understand it as fully and with as little prejudice as we can. By examining its historical and religious context too, we might be better prepared for some opinion on the claim of Muslims (and the Book's own claim), that it is the final Word of God. The Qur'an A Closer Look is available as a free e-book by downloading each of the parts linked to below. The book is in PDF format and can either be read online (by left-clicking the link) or saved to your own PC and viewed later or printed (by right-clicking and selecting 'save as...'). While you are free to distribute this e-book as you please, either in whole or in part, the author retains the copyright of the works and by downloading the files you agree not to edit the works in anyway and always ensure that any such distributions contain a link back to the source. Download Now:
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