Does the Qur’an Koran Really Say That?: Truths and Misconceptions About Islam

Islam is one of the largest religions in the world, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood-especially in the West. Particularly since 9/11, critics of Islam have attacked the faith and attributed violence by extremists to its holy book, the Qur'an. This leaves many people with questions about Islam: How could a so-called religion of peace advocate violence? What does Islam truly say about violence, war, and peace? And how much of what the critics and the extremists claim is true?

Does the Qur'an (Koran) Really Say That? attempts to answer such questions by addressing some of the myths, misrepresentations, and misunderstandings often propagated by critics who assert themselves as experts on the faith. Interestingly, this includes extremists who claim to be experts on the faith as well. Author Naqi Elmi offers an analytical and balanced approach in explaining and addressing topics especially related to Islam and issues of peace and violence.

To transcend the many misconceptions about Islam, there must be mutual understanding-for we do not have a clash of civilizations, but rather a clash of perceptions. Therefore, for peaceful coexistence, there is a greater need to understand world religions objectively and to explore common ground so we may promote solidarity and world peace.

Naqi Elmi has been engaged in Islamic studies for over twenty years, including extensive research on the Qur’an. As an active member of his community, he conducts outreach and educational programs for non-Muslims and recent converts to Islam. Elmi is also an author who has written numerous editorials on the common misconceptions of Islam in the media.