alternatehistory.com

I want this thread to be distinct from my thread in post-1900 history - it is about something different and I want an earlier POD here.

The point is, Sunni Islam in it's predominant form is not only incompatible with humanistic values, but also unimaginably resistant towards any kind of reform. So what kind of "reform" do I want? Well, the main points are:
1. Getting rid of the emphasis on violent Jihad, together with rabid obsession with martyrdom in battle that pretty much characterizes Islam up to this day - or at least mitigating the Jihadi drive to the point that allows a peaceful coexistence with non-Muslims most of the time
2. Abolishing or mitigating the harsh hudud punishments - death penalty for apostasy and adultery, chopping off hand for theft, lashing people for drinking alcohol and so on so forth.
3. Making women equal to men.
4. Abolishing legal differences between Muslims and non-Muslims
5. Abolishing the concept of Caliphate as the sole legal political authority.

I. The point of divergence is in the so called "Islamic Golden Age" - between 9th and 12th century. The postulates listed above do not have to be implemented at the same time. But you know - the goal is to create a much more "fluid" religion, one that can successfully progress with changing times and be consistent with humanistic values - much like Roman Catholicism. It does not matter how it's done - it may be done through reforming the Orthodox Islam or by creating some ultra heterodox sect or something else.
2. What historical events should evolve for such a liberal sect to become predominant through much of Arab World at least?
Top