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  1. When we say about one thing that it is part of another thing, it ultimately means that the other thing is the origin and source of this thing. In this context, religion is definitely a source and culture is a part of it. The reason why religion takes precedence is the fact that it is a doctrine andRead more

    When we say about one thing that it is part of another thing, it ultimately means that the other thing is the origin and source of this thing. In this context, religion is definitely a source and culture is a part of it.

    The reason why religion takes precedence is the fact that it is a doctrine and complete guidance for mankind in their individual and collective spheres of life.

    Allah swt says in Quran:

    لقد أنزلنا إليكم كتابا فيه ذكركم لعلكم تعقلون

    (We have sent down to you a Book that mentions you -with all respects-. Do you not understand?)

    Culture is the name of traditions and customs that a society possesses based on their worldview and the way they looks at things.

    So in this scenario, it is evident that Culture is part of Religion, not the contrary. having said that religion has nothing to do with many practices that reflect culture, because religion considers human beings as intellectual beings and gives them space to use this faculty to take care of many matters on their own, Religion only sufficed with mentioning the general and principle rulings and restrictions they should abide by them in their polarities.

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  1. Yes both of them could shape each other. but on the other hand, if the source of religion i.e. the religious scripture is secure and well guarded and there is no evidence of any variation or modification in it then it is impossible to conceive that the culture or any other human practice, tradition,Read more

    Yes both of them could shape each other. but on the other hand, if the source of religion i.e. the religious scripture is secure and well guarded and there is no evidence of any variation or modification in it then it is impossible to conceive that the culture or any other human practice, tradition, or custom can mold or shape it whatsoever, rather it dictates the culture and shape it accordingly.

    So since the Quran says: إنا نحن نزلنا الذكر وإنا له لحافظون meaning: (We have sent down this reminder and we indeed guard it)

    and there is no textual and practical proof so far of modification in the Quran.

    so that means its directions and rulings are safe, sound, and secured, and subsequently it deserves to be dogmatic over the culture and society and a source of light and guidance for them.

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  1. Asma Issa
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    Asma Issa Islamic Scholar Certified in Quranic and Hadith studies

    Hinduism is both a religion and a culture. It is one of the oldest existing religions, dating back to about 1500 BCE, and it has deeply-rooted cultural traditions that have been followed for centuries. The Hindu scripture known as the Vedas are worship by followers, which form the core beliefs of thRead more

    Hinduism is both a religion and a culture. It is one of the oldest existing religions, dating back to about 1500 BCE, and it has deeply-rooted cultural traditions that have been followed for centuries. The Hindu scripture known as the Vedas are worship by followers, which form the core beliefs of the religion. Additionally, religious ceremonies and rituals are an important part of Hindu culture.

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