In the mid-seventh century into the middle of the eighth century, Islam spread from Mecca and Medina to cover half of the world. During this time, as the Arabs conquered an area they did not force the population to change religion. They protected the churches and temples of the conquered nations and allowed the people to worship as they pleased.

They did this because they had great faith. Their belief was Islam and the power of the religion and the Koran would overcome other religions peacefully. They had faith — they believed.

People like the minister and organizations like FPI are people who do not believe Islam is an attractive religion. They believe no one will become a Muslim without coercion or force. They are bad, unbelieving Muslims. They are also wrong.

I am not a Muslim but I believe that real believers will have the strong faith that allows others to worship as they feel. They are not afraid, as are the FPI, that Islam is weak and unattractive. They believe in Islam.

Real Muslims will allow neither the FPI nor the religious affairs minister to besmirch their religion by persecuting others. In this instance, the minister wishes to punish the victims of violence and to reward the perpetrators of violence and unlawful actions. He is both faithless and cowardly to take this action.

I know and love Indonesia, and I know too that the real Indonesians and the real Muslims will not let a bunch of thugs take over their religion and country.

Clyde Wickiser
Pamulang

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