The Struggle for Islam's Soul

(New Statesman-UK/Toronto Star) Ziauddin Sardar - It is true that the vast majority of Muslims abhor violence and terrorism, and that the Qur'an and various schools of Islamic law forbid the killing of innocent civilians. It is true, as the vast majority of Muslims believe, that the main message of Islam is peace. Nevertheless, it is false to assume the Qur'an or Islamic law cannot be used to justify barbaric acts. The terrorists are a product of a specific mindset that has deep roots in Islamic history. They are nourished by an Islamic tradition that is intrinsically inhuman and violent in its rhetoric, thought, and practice. They are provided solace and spiritual comfort by scholars who use the Qur'an and Islamic law to justify their actions and fan the hatred.


2005-07-29 00:00:00

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