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In the world today, it is imperative that Muslims and non-Muslims alike understand Islam. Most people hear words like "Islam", "Iraqi War", and "Terrorism" daily. Open up a newspaper, watch a segment of the news, or simply chat with your neighbor, and you are almost guaranteed to hear something that relates to Islam. Suddenly, the entire world is interested in Islam, and the reasons are saddening.

The unfortunate reality is that Islamic terrorism has become the new face of Islam to a large part of the world. Every night, Islam enters into millions of households with the help of television news reports. With graphic images of Islamic terrorists, hostages, bombings, murder, and frightening scenes from the war in Iraq, it is only natural that many viewers are confused and somewhat afraid of Islam. Suddenly our peaceful religion is being represented by violent thugs, and not by the faithful Muslims who truly follow Islam. But what is Islam, and why is it important that others try to understand the Islamic faith?

The word "Islam" means a "commitment to submit and surrender to God." Muslims believe that there is no God, but Allah and Muhammad is His messenger. Muslims follow only God's word and worship only God. Muslims, Christians, and Jews all follow the same Almighty Supreme Being that is God. We believe in submission to God's will and peace. We try to uphold moral values as well as respect, tolerance, and patience.

Islam is the world's fastest growing religion. It ranks second only to Christianity in followers. Census reports claim that 1.2 billion people worldwide are Muslims, and the rate of those converting to Islam is sky-rocketing. With 1 in 5 people claiming to be Muslim, it is essential that those who are non-Muslim have at least a slight comprehension of the faith.

Real Muslims- those who truly follow Islam- need to convey the message of Islam to those who do not follow the faith. It is our responsibility to invite all non-believers to understand Islam. Regardless of how cynical, hostile or misguided the listener may be, Muslims need to combat Islamophobia by aiding those who may be confused about Islam and Muslims. By simply sharing one's love of Islam, we may be able to bridge the gap between the misunderstood and the misinformed.

Whether one likes it or not, Islam is a part of every person's life. For this reason alone, we should share our knowledge about Islam. Ignorance breeds prejudice, and prejudice breeds violence. Without ignorance, we might be able to cease the hatred and learn something from one another.

Learn more about this author, Franciscan Friars.
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