Meaning: This quote by Moustapha Akkad, a prominent Syrian-American film director and producer, reflects his personal connection to Islam and his sense of responsibility in representing the religion through his work. Akkad's statement suggests that his motivation to portray Islam truthfully in his films stems from his own identity as a Muslim who has lived in the Western world. In addition to the personal aspect, Akkad also highlights the general lack of understanding about Islam despite its large following, which he found surprising. This quote sheds light on Akkad's dedication to shedding light on Islam and his belief in the importance of accurately representing the religion to a global audience.

Moustapha Akkad's background as a Muslim who lived in the West likely influenced his perspective on the portrayal of Islam in the media and popular culture. As a member of a religious minority in Western societies, he may have felt a heightened sense of responsibility to counter misconceptions and stereotypes about Islam through his work. His personal experiences and interactions within both Muslim and non-Muslim communities may have deepened his understanding of the complexities and nuances of the religion, driving him to present a more authentic and balanced portrayal of Islam in his films.

In addition to his personal connection to Islam, Akkad's quote also highlights his belief in the importance of accurately representing the religion due to its significant global following. With an estimated 1.8 billion adherents, Islam is one of the world's major religions, yet Akkad observed that it remained widely misunderstood. This discrepancy may have fueled his determination to use his platform as a filmmaker to educate and inform audiences about Islam. By acknowledging the lack of knowledge about Islam despite its massive following, Akkad underscores the urgency and significance of his mission to convey the truth about the religion.

Akkad's directorial work often addressed themes related to Islam and the Muslim world. His most renowned film, "The Message" (1976), depicted the early history of Islam and the life of Prophet Muhammad without showing the prophet on screen, in adherence to Islamic traditions. The film aimed to present a respectful and accurate portrayal of Islamic history and values, reflecting Akkad's commitment to representing Islam authentically. Through his films, Akkad sought to bridge the gap in understanding between the Western and Islamic worlds, offering nuanced and humanizing depictions of Muslim characters and narratives.

Furthermore, Akkad's quote resonates with the broader discourse on representation and diversity in media. In an industry where portrayals of Islam and Muslims have often been limited to stereotypes and sensationalized narratives, Akkad's insistence on telling the truth about Islam reflects a push for more authentic and inclusive representations. By assuming the role of a storyteller and filmmaker, Akkad recognized the power of media in shaping perceptions and attitudes, particularly towards marginalized communities. His commitment to portraying Islam truthfully can be seen as a form of cultural activism, challenging prevailing misconceptions and offering a counter-narrative that celebrates the richness and diversity of Islamic traditions and beliefs.

In conclusion, Moustapha Akkad's quote encapsulates his personal and professional dedication to representing Islam truthfully in his work as a filmmaker. His identity as a Muslim who lived in the West, coupled with his observation of the widespread lack of understanding about Islam, fueled his mission to address this gap through his films. By acknowledging the significant global following of Islam and the need for more accurate representations, Akkad underscored the importance of his role in shaping perceptions and promoting intercultural understanding. His commitment to portraying Islam authentically reflects a broader call for diverse and respectful portrayals of marginalized communities in media. Moustapha Akkad's legacy as a filmmaker is intertwined with his advocacy for truthful and nuanced representations of Islam, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and cultural discourse.