Daring the Human Monkeys
Thank God for America; I am free and fearless. However, some 25 years ago, I had a fatwa hanging over my head. I challenged them to issue it, saying, “Go ahead, make my day. I will ensure that the word ‘fatwa’ is banned in America.” They could not believe my bold challenge, so they backed off like the monkeys in the video link below.
During my radio show in early 2000, I expressed my wishes by saying “peace to Buddha” and “peace to Muhammad,” as their birthdays fell in the same week. One of my listeners, a Muslim who regularly tuned in to my Pluralism Radio Show, took issue with this. He, along with an Imam and a few others, approached me and demanded that I retract my statements on the show, asserting that Islam does not permit saying peace to Buddha, and insisted that I apologize. I refused to comply with their request. Instead, I asked them what the Prophet is referred to in the Quran. Unbeknownst to them, they responded that he was “Rahmatul Aalameen,” meaning “mercy to humanity.” I explained that the Prophet’s mission was to promote peace and that he would say peace to everyone. I wish a happy birthday and peace to every great Prophet or Avatar who has restored righteousness in the world.
Monkeys and the Psychology of Courage
Monkeys taught me how to be daring. In my hometown, Yelahanka, a suburb of Bangalore, where I grew up, monkeys were everywhere, always stealing things from children. I learned from my brother-in-law how to deal with the monkeys. He was a daredevil; he would grab the monkeys by their arms, swirl around, and throw them far away, causing the other monkeys to run without looking back. His daughter, my niece, used to catch the monkeys and throw them when they came through the bus window. She was a little girl then, but was like her father. My family members know how to deal with real monkeys and those humans who act like monkeys. I have several stories to share.
Monkeys are the best psychologists; when confronted, they often lead to a standoff. If you even think about taking a step back, they will read it in your eyes and pounce on you. On the other hand, if you stare them down and project confidence as if you might attack, they will back off, as did the fatwa guys.
Progressive Islam at the World Muslim Congress
At www.WorldMuslimCongress.org, our slogan is, “If it is not common sense, then it is not Islam.” Fortunately, I have many scholars and imams who share this perspective; however, some have attacked me, arguing that it is a matter of faith rather than common sense.
Islam aims to restore righteousness and create harmony for all people, animals, and the environment. Progressive Islam is not about ruling others; there is no compulsion in matters of faith. It is not about governance but guidance.
If we back down from the threats of some of our fellow Muslims, they win; we must have the courage to stand up to them. We should never forget Imam Hussain’s courage; he is a Muslim hero for standing up for righteousness.
Advocacy Through Interfaith Marriages
As someone who officiates interfaith marriages, I have faced threats from many. I have completed 538 (as of July 8) interfaith marriages between individuals of different faiths, races, and ethnicities, primarily between Muslims and others, except for a few who honestly studied Islam and wanted to convert. All my writings are spread out across our websites: World Muslim Congress, Center for Pluralism, and Interfaith Marriages.
Muhammad (pbuh) and the Essence of Progressive Islam
Islam is a progressive religion, and the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was a transformative figure who changed the beliefs and cultural aspects of his society by standing up to his opponents. He promoted the oneness of the universe and worked to unite divided communities to achieve peace and tranquility. Similarly, I will not allow anyone to prevent me from advocating for the progressiveness of Islam. Some scholars have misinterpreted certain verses in the Quran and hadiths, contributing to Islamophobia. I have written extensively about these issues in publications such as the Huffington Post, The Dallas Morning News, my book American Muslim Agenda, and several other outlets.
The Quran and the Role of Mercy
The Quran is a book of guidance from a merciful and kind God. The man who conveyed this wisdom was a mercy to humanity and the entire universe, known as the Rahmatul Aalameen. As advocates of peace, we must also be a source of mercy to our fellow humans.
Good changes come when we dare. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) authorized every Muslim when he said, “I am leaving this book to you, yes, for you to read, understand, and follow.”
Public Education and the Mission Ahead
Insha’Allah, I will soon begin discussing this subject in detail in the form of reels. Islam is an open religion; it is indeed a public religion, open to anyone who subscribes to the idea that there is a Creator or causer of the universe, and He spreads out everything for our benefit. We are accountable for our actions, and no one goes scot free. Ultimately, the purpose of religion is to foster cohesive societies where every individual feels secure regardless of their faith, race, or ethnicity.
Support for Muslims for Progressive Values
I support Muslims for Progressive Values at https://www.mpvusa.org/. Ani Zonneveld, the President of the group, dares to stand up and present inclusive Islam for consideration. We are open to differences and accept each other. It is the progressiveness of Islam. Islam is not frozen; it is a dynamic faith that adapts to new developments in culture and societies.
Watch the Monkey Video
Enjoy this short Monkey video clip: Watch on Facebook
References and Articles
- Who is a Muslim? What is Islam?
- A Lamp That Connects Hearts – Dr. Ghouse’s Journey
- Background of Dr. Mike Mohamed Ghouse
- Mr. Pluralist of America – Indian Panorama
About Dr. Mike Mohamed Ghouse
Dr. Ghouse is an Interfaith Wedding Officiant for InterfaithMarriages.org and a Muslim Wedding Officiant. He is a Muslim, pluralist, activist, speaker, author, and social scientist. He is the President and founder of the Center for Pluralism and director of the World Muslim Congress. More on Google.
FAQs on Progressive Islam
Q1: What is Progressive Islam?
A movement within Islam focused on inclusivity, interfaith respect, social reform, and aligning faith with modern values.
Q2: Does Progressive Islam promote interfaith marriage?
Yes, with respect and without compulsion for conversion, as Dr. Ghouse exemplifies.
Q3: Is Progressive Islam scripturally valid?
It is rooted in the Quran’s principles of mercy, justice, and reasoning.
Q4: How does Progressive Islam handle tradition?
It respects tradition while reevaluating misinterpreted practices.
Q5: Who leads this movement today?
Voices like Dr. Mike Ghouse and Ani Zonneveld are prominent advocates.
Q6: Is Progressive Islam accepted worldwide?
It’s growing globally, despite opposition from conservative scholars.