Page 108 - Islam Denounces Terrorism
P. 108

106            Islam Denounces Terrorism




                                  An example to guide us in this matter is the com-
                                 mand given by God to the Prophet Moses (pbuh)
                               and Aaron (pbuh) to go to the Pharaoh and speak
                             gently to him:

                             Go to Pharaoh; he has overstepped the bounds. But
                            speak to him with gentle words so that hopefully he will
                          pay heed or show some fear. (Qur'an, 20:43-44)

                             Pharaoh was one of the most cruel and rebellious
                        unbelievers of his time. He was a despot who denied God
                        and ignorantly worshipped idols; moreover, he subjected
                         believers (the Israelites of the time) to terrible cruelties and
                         murder. But God commanded His prophets to go to such

                         a hostile man and speak to him gently.
                              You will notice that the way shown by God was the
                         way of friendly dialogue, not the way of conflict with

                         sharp words, angry slogans and agitated protests.

                         Some examples of speaking pleasant

                         words in the Qur'an

                          There are a few other examples to show Muslims how to
               behave in the dialogue between the Prophet Jethro (pbuh) and
            the deniers. This dialogue is related in the Qur'an in this way:

                 And to Madyan their brother Jethro. He said, "My
                 people, worship God! You have no deity apart
                 from Him. Do not give short measure and short
                 weight. I see you prospering and I fear for you
                 the punishment of an all-encompassing Day.

                 My people! Give full measure and full weight
                 with justice; do not diminish people's goods;
                 and do not go about the earth, corrupting it.
                 What endures with God is better for you if
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