This is the first of the many series of articles
where we will try to answer and clear out misconceptions about Islam. Whether
by Muslims or non-Muslims. This time, we will address a very hot topic -
terrorism.
Why does Islam promote terrorism?
First, this is a false statement. The general
rule in Islam is that human lives are sacred and are to be protected. This is
stated clearly in the Quran
... whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for
corruption [done] in the land - it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And
whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely... Al-Quran
5-32 (Surah Al-Maidah)
What
about the other verses in the Quran that talks about war and killing?
There are verses which address exceptional cases,
for example - self-defense, criminal punishment and war. It is only in these
extraneous cases is the use of force or even the taking of lives is permitted.
It should not be taken out of context or used outside the situational
constraint.
And even in these situations, Islam has rules -
it has to be justified accordingly, no killing of the innocent, no cutting of
trees, no destruction of public buildings like houses of worship, etc.
Still,
these verses are in the Quran. Directly or indirectly, is not Islam encouraging
violence and terrorism?
Islam does not teach nor condone violence or
terrorism. People who do terrorism or violence are usually driven to it out of
anger, hatred or desperation. Then they will always justify their actions one
way or another, whether due to nationalism, religion or ideology.
These people will resort to anything to suit
their agenda. Ironically, those who spread hatred and Islamophobia are similar to
the terrorists in this regard - taking verses and interpreting it out of
context.
If
Islam really opposes terrorism, why do we hear so much about Muslim Terrorism
in the media?
Take any sample population large enough, you will
have a few bad apples. For example, the estimated number of ISIS members is
about 100,000 while the Muslim population around the world is over 1.6 billion.
Percentage wise, that is less than 0.01%.
Unfortunately, media feeds the Islamophobic
narrative. Positive, mundane news about normal Muslims living their lives in
peace is usually not in the headlines.
Maybe
it is true that not all Muslims are terrorists, but all (or most) terrorists
are Muslims, right?
This argument unfortunately is becoming more
common, inciting even more hatred and Islamophobic sentiment. Unfortunately, it
is not true.
Most Muslims are not terrorists. Most are
peace loving people leading normal lives. While all terrorist come from varied
backgrounds.
Statistically and historically, it can be shown
that terrorism and violence comes from all kinds of groups. And Islam condemns
all of them equally.
Why
are the Muslims not saying anything or doing anything against terrorism if
Islam is truly against it?
This is another untrue accusation. Many Muslims
scholars and Muslims in general have spoken out against terrorism. However,
these are not reported much in the media. And some people make the above
statement perhaps because they do not interact much with the Muslim minority in
their society. Or they have not even looked into it.
Easy question. Have they Googled "Muslims
against terrorism" or "Islam against terrorism"? Do so.
I
still do not feel safe from Muslims. In the name of freedom & security,
should we not monitor and curtail them more?
Realistically speaking, if Islam really taught
violence and evil, the world would be in chaos since about one-fifth of the world
population are Muslims. Statistically speaking, depending on where you are, the
probability of you being harmed by a terrorist attack is much lower than being
involved in an automotive accident or criminal incident.
Fear is necessary. It ensures our survival and
security. But, unjustified fear paralyzes the individual and takes the mind
away from the real danger and priorities. Do not give in to the hatred and propaganda.
Talk to your Muslim friends and neighbors - we are not your enemy.
Lastly,
what can we actually do about terrorism?
Many of the places where extremism arise are
impoverished - torn by war or corruption. If your leaders are involved in
initiating war or corruption, use your power through the process available
(e.g. democracy, voting, free press) to ensure that they know that the people
are against it.
At a societal level, understand that hatred
breeds more hatred. We need to break the cycle. Extend your hand to each other,
try to learn and understand one another better. Perhaps then, together we can
make the world a better place.