islam just might replace sendero luminoso for fixated reading material...

thought one:
The Muslim Satan-figure, Iblis, fell from heaven and "became a disbeliever" for refusing to bow to Adam.

~http://www.slate.com/id/2132353/?nav=navoa
Sura 2, ayat 34
~Sura 7, ayat 11

thought two:
Iblis was not created an angel, but a jinn, which are sort of mischevious fire-beings created at the same time as angels. Because of his merit, Iblis was brought up from his fellow jinn to be taught in heaven, where he began "preaching to the angels," until the above thought occurred.

(however, the above explanation is not definite doctrine and is debated)

http://web.uvic.ca/~rpn/files/iblis.html
http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-9041896

thought three:
Iblis is not considered Allah's enemy, because Allah is supreme and the source of everything within his creation, both good and evil. rather, Iblis (or al-Shaitan) is considered the enemy of humanity, seeking to turn them from the right way. Allah, as the ruler over both good and evil, is the only one who can deliver his people from "the evils of his universe."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iblis

thought four:
All these very interesting tidbits aside, Islam has a very definite appeal... the differentness (especially in an American context), the controversy, the comprehensive application, the rigor of the religion... it's not without its charms.

but... it lacks one thing.

namely, the Person of the Lord God as revealed through Scripture. Whatever approximation thereof Allah is meant to be, he (as presented in the Qur'an and internet sources on Islam) IS NOT the same as my Father.

I'm not familiar with the character of "Isa," but to try to separate the GOD-ness from Christ's personality is to create a whole nother being.

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly of heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

So, if I were looking for an intense religion, a fascinating form of spirituality, a way to stand out from the sick American masses, I might give Islam a shot.

But i'm not... I was found by a Father, and loved by a Savior, and filled with a Holy Spirit... all who are God!... and I seek only a kingdom come, and righteousness to live therein.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isa