Page 36 - Islam Denounces Terrorism

34 Islam Denounces Terrorism

Islam Defends Freedom of Thought
and Expression

Islam is a religion which provides and guarantees freedom of
ideas, thought, expression and life. It prevents tension, disputes, slan-
der and even negative thinking among people. According to Qur'anic

moral values, every person is free to adhere to any belief they wish or
advocate any idea they want - as long as it does not violate the law and
public order nor restrict the freedoms of others. A Muslim who abides

by the Qur'an would not impose any belief or idea upon others, com-
pel people to convert to Islam, or interfere themselves with others' way
of living Islam. In the same way that all types of force and imposition
are determinedly prohibited in Islam, even the slightest ideological
pressure to be put on them is also forbidden:

There is no compulsion in religion. True guidance has become clear-
ly distinct from error. (Qur'an, 2:256)
So remind them! You are only a reminder. You are not in control of
them. (Qur'an, 88:21-22)

Forcing people to believe in a religion or to adopt its forms of
belief is completely contrary to the essence and spirit of Islamic moral-
ity. According to Islam, true faith is only possible with free will and
freedom of conscience. Of course, Muslims can advise and encourage
each other about the features of Qur'anic morality. All believers are

charged with explaining Qur'anic morality to people in the nicest man-
ner possible. They will explain the beauties of religion in the light of
the verse, "Call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and fair admo-
nition..." (Qur'an, 16:125), however, they must also bear in mind the
verse, "You are not responsible for their guidance, but God guides
whoever He wills." (Qur'an, 2:272)

Believers who abide by the Qur'an will never resort to compulsion
to force others to embrace faith, nor any kind of physical or psycho-