Quote:
Originally Posted by Ray
Sine he has not been to Turkey, maybe you should tell us.
I am aware that Turkey is a very progressive country where Islam is not the be all and end all of existence.
However, it is also reported in the media that Turkey is in the process of "rediscovering" Islam.
How far is this correct?
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Islam cannot be rediscovered! Islam has always been an important and integral part of ones life in Turkey. But, what is important is that the Turks can never be radicalised! The Turkish interpretation of Islam (which has been the primary voice of Islam for over 600 years under the Imperial Ottoman Caliphate) is totally different to the Islam practiced for example in Iran or Saudi Arabia. As mentioned in my earlier posts, the majority of the Turks belong to the Sunni-Hanafi School of Islam (they also have a major influence from Sufism). We are more aware of Islams teachings, and know that it is a unifying factor in our lives. We also know too well that Islam cannot be used as a vehicle to justify personal ambitions. The educational level in Turkey is also much higher when compared with other Islamic countries and hence you cannot convince anyone that if they blow themselves up they will be given 12virgin girls in the after life! We know too when that the Koran preaches Peace and tollerance just like any other religion! We also know that some circles distort such religious texts in a bid to achieve personal objectives.
For Example, If there is even the slightest hint that some radical groups are trying to infiltrate Turkey, the Turkish public are the first ones to ostracize these individuals. The Turks and Turkey does not and will not welcome radical "muslims".