Eye on Extremism: True Muslims don't use violence, try to silence their enemies

The prophet whom they defended in those cartoons never once allowed any of his companions to silence his enemies. His proper reaction to disrespect and vitriol was always to turn away. The Quran dislikes "unseemly speech."
 

Photo: Reuters, Lars Vilks, Swedish cartoonist

Ahmadiyya Times | News Staff | Letters
Source & Credit: USA Today | May 18, 2010
By Maham Khan | Holt, MI

In his opinion column "Real Muslims don't allow censorship," Harris Zafar rightly denounced the behavior of some Muslims who attacked cartoonist Lars Vilks, stating that their actions were not within the teachings of Islam (USATODAY.com, Friday).

Such radicalized attitudes are only increasing rather than decreasing among the youth in many Muslim communities.

Their passion for their faith is being used by certain religious clerics to further jihadist policies against the West.


These young Muslim minds need to be reminded that Islam does not teach violence or intolerance.

The prophet whom they defended in those cartoons never once allowed any of his companions to silence his enemies.

His proper reaction to disrespect and vitriol was always to turn away. The Quran dislikes "unseemly speech."

A Muslim should defend his faith and honor but only with appropriate behavior. Retorting with likewise insults or physical disobedience nullifies Islam's teaching.

The Muslims who act unwisely in situations like these stand only to add insult to injury.

Read original letter here: True Muslims don't use violence, try to silence their enemies