Detailed Description
This unique work is a result of multiple engagements and debates in universities, mosques, private gatherings and elsewhere. The author, Asrar Rashid, takes on the more difficult questions taking us through a labyrinth of Kalām, philosophy, logic, epistemology, science, the Qurʾān, Ḥadīth and Sharīʿa. The book covers in depth the proof for God, His divine attributes, the problem of evil, free will and divine knowledge, the most difficult philosophical and scientific objections against Islam, as well as objections to Sharīʿa law, the Qurʾān’s historical preservation, the historicity of the Ḥadīth, slavery, Jihād, women’s rights and a host of other complex issues. This book is a must for all who are learning about Islam, Muslims and non-Muslims, apologists and detractors. Contents 1: Islam and Atheism 2: Epistemology 3: God's Existence 4: On Evil, Theodicy and Philosophical Sundries 5: Islam and Science 6: The Quran, Hadith and Shari'aFrequently Asked Questions
1. What is “Islam Answers Atheism”?
“Islam Answers Atheism” is a book that provides responses to common questions and challenges posed by atheism, from an Islamic perspective. It systematically addresses doubts about God’s existence, religion’s relevance, and critiques of faith that are often raised by atheists or agnostics. Essentially, it’s an apologetics book – meaning it defends Islamic belief in God using reason, scripture, and scholarly arguments.
2. Who authored “Islam Answers Atheism”?
The book is written by Shaykh Asrar Rashid, who is known for engaging in theological debates and discussions. Asrar Rashid has experience debating atheists and secularists, and this book is a product of that expertise. He brings classical Islamic theological insights (Kalam) as well as contemporary philosophical arguments into his responses, making the book both rooted in tradition and aware of modern thought.
3. What topics are covered in this book?
The book covers topics like:
- Existence of God: Logical proofs that the universe has a creator, refuting the idea that everything came by chance.
- Purpose of life: Why we need religion and purpose beyond materialism.
- Morality: Addressing whether you can have objective morals without God, and how Islam provides a framework for ethics.
- Science and Religion: Clearing misconceptions that science has “disproven” God or that faith and science can’t coexist. It might tackle evolution or the Big Bang and show they don’t negate Islamic belief.
- Problem of Evil: A common atheist question is “If God exists, why is there suffering?” The book provides Islamic insights on trials, free will, and divine wisdom behind hardships.
- Qur’an and Prophethood: It may also present evidence why the Qur’an is divine (miracles of the Qur’an) and why Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is a true messenger, as part of establishing faith’s truth against skepticism.
Each chapter likely takes a specific contention of atheists and responds to it thoroughly.
4. Is “Islam Answers Atheism” suitable for someone with no background in philosophy?
Yes, it’s meant for a general readership—especially Muslims who encounter atheist arguments online or in college and feel unsure how to respond. Shaykh Asrar writes in a way to equip everyday Muslims with answers, so he explains the philosophical terms and concepts that come up. While the book does delve into rational arguments, it doesn’t assume the reader already knows them. Of course, it helps if you have an interest in logical reasoning, but the book’s purpose is to simplify these debates and give clear answers that anyone can grasp and remember.
5. How can this book help a Muslim struggling with doubts?
For a Muslim experiencing waswas (whispers of doubt) about faith, “Islam Answers Atheism” can be very reassuring. It essentially tells you: there are solid answers to these tough questions. Reading it can strengthen your conviction by showing that believing in Allah and Islam is not blind faith—there are sound reasons and evidence behind it. Additionally, it prepares you to handle questions friends or classmates might throw at you. Instead of feeling unsettled by a challenge like “Religion is irrational,” you’ll recall points from the book that demonstrate belief in God is actually very rational. In short, it fortifies your faith intellectually and removes the feeling of being on the defensive, because you see that Islam stands on firm logical ground.