Originally posted by: .Anamika.
Religion and culture are definitely different thing but they influence each other greatly. I think because I've been brought up away from India my whole life, my culture and religion have become intertwined in some ways. And I guess I'm more of a spiritual person that likes to question everything and decide things for myself rather than just following a set of rigid rules. But I still find learning about religions very interesting!
Both of these are moving so fast! I can't keep up. I'll check it out though! :)
Yes. You're right. Culture does influence a lot of people including Muslims.
There are A LOT of Muslims who follow culture instead of religion.
& I just wanna point out that Islam is not a set of rigid rules & codes. Islam is a way of life.
In Islam, Allah doesn't want us to follow his religion blindly. He tells us many times in the Quran to reflect. Allah has also given us free will to do whatever we want.
In effect whatever good fortune betide you is endowed with grace from the bounty of Providence, and whatever misfortune befalls you is the consequence of your own doings. ( Surah Nisa 4:79 )
Here is a beautiful hadith by Prophet Muhammad:
"Religion is very easy and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way. So you should not be extremists, but try to be near to perfection and receive the good tidings that you will be rewarded." [Bukhari, Volume 1, Book 2, Number 38]