THE PEW FORUM RESEARCH REPORT
23 AUG 2012
This report presents significant
findings about Muslim beliefs, attitudes and practices world-wide after a painstaking
and apparently scientifically conducted study.
The ones I deduced are:
a. People of South Eastern
Europe [and Turkey] feel far less religious than elsewhere. This also reflects
from the times they pray, observe fast, entertain sectarian and prosufi thoughts
b. In general, the poorer
the nations, the stronger the belief and vice versa [barring South Eastern
Europe which believes less and South East Asia – Malaysia, Indonesia – that
believes more]
c. Not more than 15% of
the believing Muslims, even in South Eastern Europe, discount God’s unity or Muhammed’s
prophet-hood. In other words at least 85% hold these to be non-negotiable.
d. Surprisingly the liberal
Middle Eastern countries like Lebanon, Egypt, Tunisia, Iraq and Palestinian
Territories are far less religious than their neighbourhoods, specially Central
Africa and East Asia. They also allow multiple interpretations of Islam more
easily.
e. The young believe far
less than the elderly in general. But in Lebanon, PLO, Tuisia there is the
widest age disparity between the young and the old with regard to religiosity.
f. Around half the Iraqis,
Palestinians, and Moroccans do not regard the Shiites as Muslims
g. Although most of Africans
are devout believers 25%- 35% in DR Congo, Uganda, Chad, Kenya.. do not regard Quran
as God’s word.
h. An overwhelming majority
of Muslims – particularly in South Asia, Middle East, North Africa – believes
Angels exist. This population also – understandably – accepts Fate.
i. Around 30% South Eastern
European Muslims do not believe in Angels or Fate and 30%-50% do not regard Islam
as very important to their existence. They are also less personally engaged but
may observe some rituals.
j. Surprisingly more
people observe fast, than offer regular prayers.
k. Around half of Central
Asians do not fast. I recommend this report to everyone desirous of studying the
evolving Muslim perceptions and practices.
Courtesy: http://www.pewforum.org/Muslim/the-worldsmuslims-
unity-and-diversity-executive-summary.aspx
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