2 women equal one man...

[Goodsoulette]

I have been reading up a bit on Islam and a bit to do with sharia law, only so I feel I can better defend my muslim friends when they are getting a verbal battering behind their backs.
The adultery and rape bit has stumped me a bit. Basically both have to be witnessed (unless confessed to) by 4 male witnesses or 8 female witnesses (because 2 women equal one man).

Can someone tell me why this? Who decided that?

I understand where the decision on the number of men came from but why twice as many women.

I really, really do not want this thread to turn into another anti-Muslim thread. I am just curious.

[Goodsoulette]

Hmmmm....well I know many a christian that doesnt follow the bible literally,as many muslims interpret the Qu'ran as they see it.

I think the key phrase in those sentences were "but do not attack them first!"

You can see what you want to see in anything. Peaceful muslims will view the book as peaceful and enlightening. Aggressive Muslims with issues will use it as an excuse to act like a nutjob. I worked for a Bengali muslim family in my teens, they had a restaurant and were kind and so very caring, I wouldnt say they were strict muslims but since 9/11 after living in this country for many years, in a small town in Somerset, the racism they were subject too forced them topack their bags and leave. I like to think that I will still always be able to take everyone no matter of sex, colour or beliefs on an individual basis.

[RATTER15]

Goodsoulette, the trouble with this is that it is the religion that is at fault not so much the followers, to be a true Muslim you must follow these practices, but thankfully not all people born into this religion follow the Koran to the letter.

Very much like Christians don't follow the Bible to the letter.

I remember when I was in a Monastery in Greece as a visitor I saw the most disgusting sight of a row of monks stoning a dog that had wandered into their grounds it was truly sickening!!!

[RATTER15]

With regard your question, You can defend the individuals concerned but very difficult to defend their religion as the bombers etc are the true followers!!

You can still love the believers I just hate the Muslim faith not the followers!!

I'm no lover of Christianity either but I have many Christian friends!!