Perspective: Prayers, Charity, and the Rule of Law

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Islam gives rules about the use of force in case of self-defense and if the leaders of a state must use force to punish aggression or to establish the freedom of conscience.

Ahmadiyya Times | News Watch | US Desk
Source/Credit: Redmond Patch
By Aisha | December 23, 2015

We have nurtured peace with prayer, charity, and the cross-examination of using force.

Since December 2nd people have dealt with the attack through prayer, alms, and support for law enforcement. These approaches concur with the true teachings of Islam. Evacuated workers held hands and prayed in the San Bernadino Golf Course across the street from Inland regional Center. Bishop Barnes urged people to pray for unity and healing. On Dec. 5 at the mosque in Monroe the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community members and guests prayed for the victims, their families, and the USA. People of all persuasions have observed moments of prayer across our shocked and mournful nation. Thoughts and prayers are good, but not enough.

The San Bernadino United Relief Fund is a trustworthy way to send money for the grieving survivors. The county joined with their local United Way charity to organize the outpouring of sympathy. At the Arrowhead United Way website it states, “All donations received will go to the San Bernadino United Relief Fund as Arrowhead United Way will NOT be deducting an administration or any other fees. Donations will be used to address the needs of families, victims, and others affected by the December 2nd shooting.” Check it out via http://www.sbcounty.gov/ Prayers and charity soothe hearts but it was the cooperation of people and police that apprehended the killers.

Massive details have been shared about people setting aside their daily routines, including Muslims, to help police reestablish peace in the face of danger and uncertainty.  Meanwhile, the media has also been flooded with questions and comments about Islam. Some have asked, “Does the religion of Islam promote violence?” It is true crimes done by Muslims in the name of Allah defame this beautiful religion but Islam is not dangerous.  The press release of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community USA states, “We applaud President Obama’s call to root out extremist ideology by partnering with American Muslims.” Their international spiritual leader, Masroor Ahmad, campaigns for Muslims everywhere to self-reform to the peaceful teachings of Islam via MTA.TV live. In the media, the World Post published an article which my friend in Redmond told me about. On Dec. 12th Khasif N. Chaudhry analyzed the positive difference his fellow Pakistani immigrants could make if they focus their protests on the human rights violations in Pakistan.  Like the people in lock-down during the manhunt or the school children missing classes in Los Angeles, most Muslims are striving hard for peace.

Here are just a couple ways Islamic scriptures promote peace. Over 25 times the Quran warns against creating disorder. The Quran clearly states in verse 257 of Chapter 2, “There should be no compulsion in religion. Surely, right has become distinct from wrong.” Thus, if a Muslim even disrupts a Christmas party it’s a disgrace to the religion of Islam. Furthermore, Islam gives rules about the use of force in case of self-defense and if the leaders of a state must use force to punish aggression or to establish the freedom of conscience. Some people point to the veiling of women as an example of Islam’s misuse of force. Any force used in this way is a misunderstanding of true Islam. Within the context of promoting sexual purity among believers the Quran addresses both men and women to guard their glance, and in addition it advises believing women to cover their beauty when going out of their home. At the mosque in Monroe men and women observe these teachings according to  their own conscience. Such voluntary acts of modesty are based on Love for God as part of a religion that should never be forced on those who dobelieve. A Merciful God has sent teachings for overcoming societal ills locally and around the world but there is no compulsion in religion. Being at peace with oneself and others cannot be forced upon the human heart. Good people of all types fell moved to nurture peace with prayer, charity, and the compassionate use of force.



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