Islam preaches the middle road approach and has never promoted the extremist approach. If the person has read and understood the Quran and Hadith properly - it would be quite obvious. However - if the person has only read parts of Quran or Hadith - they would never understand it. Again - to understand Quran and Hadith, the person must study History and only then can the person completely understand the concepts and the essence. Not just history.. the more a person has exposed himself or herself to science, philosophy.. etc.. the more the person would be able to comprehend the values better. Unfortunately many of the so called experts are illiterate in other spheres of life..like a frog in a well. And a few others who have a read a litte of this and that - jump about claiming that they have read it all and know it all. As they say.. "some times.. a little knowledge can be more dangerous than NO knowledge"

The sad part is that every tom dick and harry wants and is keen on giving their fatwas and their verdicts.. most of them dont come close to the actual teachings.. but they would argue as if they are the scholars! Not pointing fingers to any one in this thread - but I suggest every one who STATES things about religion - to be sure about what they are saying. If you are speaking your mind out - state that and dont mix religion with it.

No - I am not claiming to be a scholar or a mr. know it all! I just could not resist commenting this.. appologies if I have stepped on any ones feet.. not intentional.

" Life is not a party we hoped for, but while we are here, we might as well dance! "