Continued from Ishmael and Islam

When we observe the current moves of Islam carefully, we can indeed notice how it consolidates itself and how concerted efforts are made to strengthen its position in many countries, and not only in those which were traditionally Islamic. Muslims double their population biologically twice as fast as non-Muslims do. This promotes migration and we can observe how in recent times much of the economy of Africa, but also of Europe, America, Australia and Asia is going into Muslim hands. Whoever controls the economy has also a strong influence on government, the media and education.

In many 'Third World' countries, Muslims often build very impressive mosques, even in areas with a very small number of their own persuasion. Schools are added, and free education, in contrast to most Government schools, is offered. This is extremely lucrative, and many parents cannot resist such temptation. In addition philanthropic help is offered to people in drought-stricken areas. Employment is offered, but to Muslims only. This will raise the pragmatic question, "why not become a Muslim?"

Together, all this begins to present an impact on the population, nominal Christians not excepted. The charity displayed, together with the sincerity which can easily be gauged in many Muslims, plus the social and material benefits are convincing. And who can blame the people - unless they have a goodly grounding in the Word of God, the Bible, and have founded convictions to possess the Truth when accepting and following our Lord Jesus Christ.

Let us understand some other words:
· MUHAMMAD (like Ahmad) = The Praised One
· ISLAM = Submission (to Allah)
· MUSLIM = Someone who submits to Allah

Most Arabic words can be related to a root word, which consists of three letters. Original Arabic script does not show vowels, but only consonants. To show this we write the vowels in small letters and the consonants in capitals.

Note the root letters for Islam in Arabic: S L M

iSLaM

muSLiM

SaLaaM (peace)

A Muslim man is allowed to marry up to four wives (excluding concubines).

Marry women of your choice, two, or three, or four. But if ye fear that ye shall not be able to deal justly (with them), then only one, or (a captive) that your right hands possess, that will be more suitable, to prevent you from doing injustice. -Surah 4:3

Muhammad had lived 25 years in marriage with his first wife Khadija. After her death, which roughly coincided with the Hijra to Medina, he married about thirteen wives. All except Ayesha were widows or divorcees.