The coincidence of views between Islamologists and Islamic “fundamentalists” is apparent, not real, and the reformers’ accusations of complicity in reaction arise from a failure to distinguish between descriptive and prescriptive statements. The scholarly student of slam – especially if he is not Muslim – studies Islam as a historical phenomenon, as a civilisation with a long and distinguished record of achievement. The evidence he uses is that provided by Muslims – what they have said, written and done in the course of centuries. That is, he is concerned with the past and with the ways it can be used to understand the present. It is not his task or his right to change the present or to try and shape the future. This task is for the Muslim – his right, his duty, his exclusive privilege.
Originally Posted by tequila
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