T

his refers to John Hargreaves’ letter titled “Promote genuine tolerance”, (The Jakarta Post, March 10).

He is very right about the shortcomings in the social, legal and electoral systems of this country. As well as about the intolerance in some Muslim groups, not just in Indonesia, but in most Muslim countries.

But his conclusion is wrong that these ills have something to do with the Koran and the actions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It seems he lacks a thorough study of “original text” and Islamic history or his reasons are merely based on the holy scriptures as translated by bigots and orientalists.

The Holy Koran, categorically, rejects the use of any form of violence in the matter of religion. It says, “‘There is no compulsion in religion’(2:257). Not just this, Islam also gives full freedom of choice and promotes pluralism, “It is the truth from your Lord, therefore let him who will, believe, and let him who will disbelieve”, (18:30).

It was Prophet Muhammad, who had a pluralistic and global mind, when he reached an agreement — the charter of Madina —with Jews and other dwellers of that city, 1,400 years ago. History books recall it as a “charter of freedom of religion and expression”.

Islam honors too, geographical and historical boundaries by making it compulsory for its followers to obey their rulers no matter what the religious background of the people in command, (4: 60). Prophet Muhammad once said, “love of (one’s) country is part of (one’s) belief”.

Moreover it is a fatal mistake to consider the Prophet as a warlord. His actions are very much in accordance with his title, “mercy for all people” (21:108). Factually, it was he and his companions who suffered persecution and faced intolerance. Many Muslims were martyred just because of their belief.

Neither does Islam contradict science and rationality. Holy scripts are the words of Allah and scientific facts are his actions. So, how come these two go against each other?

Fazal-e-Mujeeb
Jakarta