Islam enjoins fair treatment of all, including one’s enemies:
However, as will be explained, this belief is mistaken and incorrect according to both the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah-the Practice of the Holy Prophet (saw). But how exactly does Islam teach a Muslim to respond to insults against the Prophet (saw), or for that matter, insults directed at God or anything sacred in Islam? Unfortunately, many Muslims assert that death or other harsh measures are the only possible punishments for those who commit blasphemy. A Muslim may tolerate insults against his parents, relatives or friends, but he cannot endure anyone mocking the Prophet Muhammad (saw). Every true Muslim loves and regards the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw), the Founder of Islam, more than any other human being. Of great concern at the present time is the subject of whether Islam prescribes any punishment for blasphemy. In this matter, justice is not only to be done but must also be seen to be done-actions speak louder than words. The freedom to openly profess, practise and preach one’s religion by all, in particular by minority groups, is what determines the level of religious tolerance of a society. Many consider it morally wrong to hurt the religious sensibilities of others, as it can disturb the peace and harmony of society and disrupt law and order, whilst others believe any form of censorship curtails necessary freedoms. Unfortunately, certain misguided Muslim groups are attributing teachings to Islam that have nothing whatsoever to do with it the media happily relay these stories to the world without considering the fact that such acts are not representative of Islam’s true teachings.Ī person is naturally hurt whenever something he holds sacred is defiled or desecrated.
Seeing people being beaten and murdered for the crime of blasphemy has left a deep impact upon the Western World. Images of certain Muslim groups who adopt harsh punishments against people apparently blaspheming against Islam or turning apostate are displayed horrifically by the Western media. What acts can be deemed ‘irreverent’, how those who carry out such acts should be punished, and what role the law should play in preventing blasphemy are questions that have instigated huge debate and controversy. It is a sensitive issue for many, especially those who have an unshakeable faith in their beliefs, religious leaders, holy book, places of worship and rituals. Blasphemy, derived from the Latin Blasphemia, is generally defined as the exhibition of irreverent behaviour or language towards God, religion or anything held sacred.
0 kommentar(er)
