September 23, 2014
The following is a continuation of Father Ryan’s Sept. 16 post.
CSID believes that failed policies in supporting the democratic aspirations of the Syrian people in the face of brutal dictatorship contributed to the rise and expansion of extremist groups such as “the Islamic State.”
“The signals must be clear: only inclusive democracy coupled with full respect for human rights offers a path forward,” states CSID. “Democratization should not be sacrificed in the name of stability, of economic development or of defending the rights of any particular group at the expense of another.”
The Islamic Society of North America published a brochure about religious extremism and terrorism to clarify some key issues. In it, terrorism is defined as any act of indiscriminate violence that targets innocent people, whether committed by individuals, groups or states.
It reminds followers of its own community that in 2005, Fiqh Council of North America (FCNA), an Islamic juristic body, issued a fatwa (religious ruling) on July 28, 2005, which affirmed its long standing position on this issue, and was unequivocal in its condemnation of terrorism by stating: “Islam strictly condemns religious extremism and the use of violence against innocent lives. There is no justification in Islam for extremism or terrorism.”
Stating that it was issued “following the guidance of our Scripture, the Qur’an, and the teachings of our Prophet Muhammad – peace be upon him,” the religious ruling confirmed the following salient principles: [1] All acts of terrorism, including those targeting the life and property of civilians, whether perpetrated by suicidal or any other form of attacks, are haram (forbidden) in Islam. [2] It is haram for a Muslim to cooperate with any individual or group that is involved in any act of terrorism or prohibited violence.
ISNA’s brochure addresses Muslim responsibilities in counterterrorism and religious extremism by saying “We must take whatever steps we can to combat these scourges.”
These steps, it says, include encouraging every mosque and Islamic education entity across the country to endorse the 2005 fatwa. Educating Muslims, especially leaders and imams, about relevant Islamic teachings, societal concerns and responsive initiatives relating to terrorism and religious extremism. Holding leaders responsible for un-Islamic teaching. Organizing youth outreach programs. Reaching out to our neighbors and interfaith institutions to create better understanding and cooperation.
“In the interest of justice and positive change,” ISNA said, “we also request our neighbors and friends from other faiths to support us in this effort by speaking out against the recent backlash and widespread demonization of Islam and Muslims. Islamophobic statements and actions punish and victimize the entire global community of Muslims for the actions of a few, and hinder our efforts to provide a moderate voice, and promote mutual understanding and peace.”
“The vicious cycle of violence in our interconnected world has to be broken, and we must work together to do so through mutual understanding and constructive dialogue, rather than allowing those who would divide us through hate to achieve their goals,” declares ISNA. “It is the only hope for bringing about real and genuine mutual respect, justice, and peace.”