By John W. Lillpop
Ever since the morning of September 11, 2001, most Americans have been struggling with a basic understanding of the religion and peoples who make up over one billion of earth’s inhabitants.
What is the difference between Muslim and Islam? Is Islam really a religion of peace, or are Muslims suicide bombers and terrorists out to slaughter “infidels” at every opportunity?
When people criticize the Muslim faith as an incubator for terrorists, the rejoinder is often to call such people ignorant, stupid, un-American, and worse.
The key, it is preached, is to look for MODERATION.
Do not judge all Muslims by the behavior of Mohamed Atta, Osama bin Laden, or other killers, we are told.
Look for the Moderate Muslim.
Fair enough. But exactly what is a “Moderate” Muslim?
In my view, a Moderate Muslim is one who earnestly and sincerely believes that:
Israel is a duly constituted state with a fundamental right to exist.
Jews have a fundamental right to live and co-exist.
The attacks of 9/11 were wrong and should be condemned by all peaceful peoples.
Women are universally endowed with the same basic human rights as men, and, as such, deserve dignity, respect and equality.
Public stoning as a form of punishment is a barbaric and inhumane practice from the ancient world, an evil that should be banned in modern, civilized societies.
Muslims are free to observe their faith-- as are Christians, Jews, Buddhists, and all other religions, provided they do not interfere with the practice of any different faith.
Violence and tyranny can never be justified on the basis of religious beliefs.
To Muslims—Got Moderation?
