Enhancing cross-cultural understanding through debunking misconceptions about the Prophet Muhammad PBBUH

Abstract EN

Despite being the most nobble person, the Prophet Muhammad PBBUH faced the worst kinds of insult and ridicule.

many published books, in the West, have played a pivotal role in perpetuating the groundless stereotypes that demonize Islam.

in addition to the scornful description of the Prophet Muhammad PBBUH in multifarious texts and books, alternative means of blasphemy, like cartoons and caricatures, have been used to taint the reputation of the Prophet Muhammad PBBUH who is a paragon of virtues.

the misrepresentation of the Prophet PBBUH is shrouded in the so-called freedom of expression, but the latter is used to the extreme to vent their islamophobia and discrimination.

it evinces some Westerners' disrespect for others' religions and value systems.

in fact, insulting the prophet PBBUH and defaming the sacred in an extremely violent and painful act, and it is likely to widen the chasm between “us” and “them” and result in a tragic civilizational clash.

the misrepresentation of the Prophet PBBUH in (neo) orientalist discourse and in libelous and blasphemous drawings and cartoons stems partly from non-muslims' ignorance of the reality of the Prophet Muhammad PBBUH.

hence, this paper aspires to correct misconceptions and misperceptions about the Prophet Muhammad PBBUH to enhance civilizational dialogue and cement peaceful co-existence.