Islam is a religion of peace

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I am writing with reference to the column by Michael Abrahams titled ‘Is Islam a religion of peace?’ published on Monday, November 2. Islam is indeed a religion of peace because Muslims never go to other people’s country and commit the atrocities we see being done to Muslims, people’s land, resources and their prophet Muhammad being verbally abused and ridiculed. Muslims respect all the prophets and are awaiting the return of Jesus (peace be on him). We don’t disrespect other religions either.

What is being done to our prophet is direct provocation with the intent for backlash. Imagine Muslims disrespecting Jesus or any other religion’s prophet. What would be the result? Yes, Muslims are intolerant to what Allah (God) forbids, and so are other God-revering people. Yes, we do flog, cut off hands and implement the death penalty according to Sharia laws. But these are brought before the court of law with evidence and witnesses and are not done indiscriminately. Just like the courts in every country, there are strong rules in executing these punishments, not just at the whims and fancies of the courts, and should be applied as a last resort after careful and thorough deliberation, and is supposed to be a deterrent to corruption and vices.

There are other countries which have instituted death penalties. Prophet Muhammad was a prophet, warrior, peacemaker, husband and a father, just like other prophets in other religions, and they also constantly had to fight against people who were fighting against them. But Prophet Muhammad and the other prophets were never the aggressors because God sends His prophets to preach/teach peace, righteousness and justice, which people with evil intent challenge.

Islam is not a religion that is forced upon anyone, and any Muslim leader who tries to force their people to the religion is going against the laws of God. If someone wants to be an atheist he/she should not be killed but be given freedom to live elsewhere where he/she is comfortable, because the laws of any land should be obeyed or anarchy and chaos will prevail. Peace cannot be attained and I am sure such persons would not be happy living in a country ruled by religion. Allah (God) gives everyone choice, people are free to choose whatever, but my choice should not infringe or be forced on others. If that is done, then I should not expect intolerance from others.

RAUSHANAH MUWWAKKIL