Islam Is Not about Fundamentalism
By Tariq A. Al-Maeena
Jeddah , Saudi Arabia
Shortly after the Ford Hood shootings in which the lives of 13 US Army personnel were senselessly wasted by a killing rampage of one of their own, a US radio commentator called me up for my take as an Arab and a Muslim on the incident.
Gary specifically wanted to know if there was any hint of sympathy in the Kingdom for the actions of Major Nidal Hasan, the 39-year-old military psychiatrist responsible for the carnage that included at least 31 injured at the military base in central Texas.
My response was immediate. This was a dastardly act by a psychopath, a person who apparently flipped and let loose.
“But he shouted Allahu Akbar (God is great) before he started firing”, interjected Gary, the implication being that Islam was somewhat connected to the event.
“Whether he did that, Gary, or recited the whole Qur’an or a thousand Hail Mary’s before the shooting spree does not absolve him of the crime in the eyes of God, and there would be no paradise wanting in the hereafter. This was an indiscriminate act of killing, and one made more bizarre by his turning his gun on his own colleagues. Islam clearly forbids the destruction of innocent lives.”
“Rest assured Gary , that we are just as shocked and outraged at these events. Speaking as a Muslim, I can tell you he is not one of our own and to tie Islam to such a horrific act is in itself an offense. Pick up a newspaper today and you’ll read of acts of violence just about anywhere in the world. Whether they are committed by Muslims, Christians, Jews, Buddhists or whatever, they are still acts of crime. And inexcusable at that, regardless of whatever distorted ideology they chose to follow.”
“But Tariq, initial reports coming out point to his having some connections to a radical Imam with connections to Al-Qaeda back in DC.”
“ Gary, Al-Qaeda is not an Islamic organization. Al-Qaeda has indiscriminately killed or injured many, including Muslims, I might add. They are nothing short of being terrorists, full stop! Their ideology is fueled more by the greed for power than any religious affiliation. Granted, the majority of them seem to recite some holy verses before setting off on their murderous activities, but this in no way should cast a shadow on a religion that promotes peace and tolerance.”
“ The Kingdom itself has not escaped unscathed against such acts of terrorism. Al-Qaeda has gunned down scores of Muslims, be they security officers or civilians. Where does Islam factor into all of this?”
“And as for fundamentalism, we are well aware of the dangers they pose to society in general. The Kingdom is actively promoting inter-faith dialogues around the world to lessen the misunderstandings that have taken off in recent times. This is not for cosmetic purpose, but of enhancing understanding between the various faiths. At home, the authorities vigilantly ferret out those with suspected extremist ideologies and lock them up. There is hardly any sympathy or tolerance. The ‘hell, fire, and brimstone variety of preachers that could also be found practicing in the backwoods of Louisiana under different faiths are being re-programmed or else face prison sentences.”
“And while it’s still a little early to tell whether this Major was psychologically or religiously motivated, let me honestly say that I doubt there is a squad of cheerleaders in the Kingdom rah-rahhing him up.”
“And Gary, a little bit of advice before we sign off. Read up a little more on Islam to have a better perspective on this great religion. Only then you will understand that what this Major did had very little to do with the religion as we know and practice it.”
“Islam is not about fundamentalism. It never was and never shall it be.”
(The writer is a Saudi socio/political commentator. He lives in Jeddah , Saudi Arabia and can be reached at talmaeena@gmail.com)
