Literalism is the domain of the stupid: http://akramsrazor.typepad.com/islam_america/2006/06/literalism_and_.html

I have to note how in some ways this is another example of the robotic literalism of many contemporary Muslim intellectuals in action. As the Taliban did in Bamiyan, these thugs are taking the most superficial but eminently literal interpretation of the relevant sources in Islamic tradition and applying it to the letter. … Mecca did not have a multitude of mosques and temples–the Haram Al-Sharif was the center of Meccan religion–for one to choose from when practicing one’s religion. The idols in the Kaaba that the Prophet smashed did not represent an ancient, respected religious tradition that some scholars have even categorized as Ahl al-Kitab like Hinduism. The devotees of the Meccan idols weren’t a weak and downtrodden minority that the Muslims as the dominant community had an obligation to protect and treat with honor, either.

But such petty details don’t matter when literalism is prized above all else and where legitimate differences of opinion concerning complex issues are tarred as kneejerk rationalism or rebellion against God’s message. … If you object as a Muslim to these outrageous actions, remember that the cult of literalism is ultimately what fuels these problems by dumbing us down to the point where it seems intellectually respectable to, in the name of Tawhid , sack the houses of worship of peaceful neighbors and fellow citizens. Now the Quran makes it clear that violence is permissible only in self-defense and implies unmistakably that all houses of worship are sacred, to the extent that one could argue the Quran enjoins jihad to protect churches and synagogues.

As the saying on the cigarette packet says – Literalism is bad for your health. Call me a snake-oil guru if you wish, at least I’m not joining the cult of the stupid.

Prayopavesa is very different from what most people mean by suicide: * itï¿œs non-violent and uses natural means; * itï¿œs only used when itï¿œs the right time for this life to end – when this body has served its purpose and become a burden;

The above sounds like grounds for Assisted Suicide ??? !! I think only Oregon passed assisted suicide law and it is quite controvertial all over the US from what I have heared.

Can anyone put Vinay’s quotes in “context”? “Out of context” is a usual refrain from apologists and appears too banal as it is not followed by “proper context.”

Dude, read up! Do I have teacher stamped on my forehead? Its obvious that internet warriors everywhere use quotations selectively to justify their hatred. Its not unusual. I’ve seen literature sent around by Sikh and Muslim websites and lists that make stupid ignorant generalisations about Hindus. Unless you know something properly you are in no position to pass judgement.

All these angry religious fanatics who go around quoting verses from their own texts, they are the same – using religion as a political football. This is not a reply from an apologist since I have a known track record of openly insulting religious bigots (incl. Muslim ones, search ‘sunny hundal’). It is an obvious and known fact that every single religious text has its own context and history. They are not documents without cultural baggage. Hence if you want to make up your mind, do some reading. Don’t just find and use random rubbish to justify your prejudice. Or you will get dissed.