The way this thread has evolved perfectly encapsulates the two distinct types of Muslims I've encountered during my time in Qatar; some in person, most online.
Firstly, there are those who are happy to discuss their religion with me, answer my questions and help me to gain a better understanding of the underlying foundation of the country I'm living in. At no point do these people try to convert me to Islam, and at no point do they insult or belittle me for being an atheist. On the contrary, many are interested to learn about my reasons for being an atheist and about how I lead my life.
Then there are those who seem more inclined to preach about, rather than discuss, Islam. They seem unable to comprehend the idea of someone not being a Muslim, and are too narrow minded to even contemplate trying to understand and accept that not everyone follows the same path as them. Unsurprisingly this attitude results in them being rude and insulting to others.
To those of you in the first group, I say thanks. To those in the latter, I say go and take a look at how you're supposed to behave towards others, whatever their beliefs.
The way this thread has evolved perfectly encapsulates the two distinct types of Muslims I've encountered during my time in Qatar; some in person, most online.
Firstly, there are those who are happy to discuss their religion with me, answer my questions and help me to gain a better understanding of the underlying foundation of the country I'm living in. At no point do these people try to convert me to Islam, and at no point do they insult or belittle me for being an atheist. On the contrary, many are interested to learn about my reasons for being an atheist and about how I lead my life.
Then there are those who seem more inclined to preach about, rather than discuss, Islam. They seem unable to comprehend the idea of someone not being a Muslim, and are too narrow minded to even contemplate trying to understand and accept that not everyone follows the same path as them. Unsurprisingly this attitude results in them being rude and insulting to others.
To those of you in the first group, I say thanks. To those in the latter, I say go and take a look at how you're supposed to behave towards others, whatever their beliefs.