Renowned Turkish Muslim scholar Fethullah Gulen wrote a much-needed and appreciated article on the recent violence that’s plagued some Muslim countries after a provocative film produced by a shadowy figure has been published on Youtube. The piece that appeared on Financial Times on September 27 reflects upon the unbefitting response from the Muslims as well as questioning the aims and intentions of those who produced and made such inflammatory work public. Gulen draws attention to how violent attacks on innocents and foreign diplomats (who enjoy absolute immunity and respect under Islamic tradition) clash with Islam’s theology and encourages a more civilized, non-violent response to hate speech and attacks on Muslim values. This article is especially important coming from a figure with intellectual authority.
Muslims pray each day: “O Lord! Keep us on the straight path.” It is a prayer to help us move away from the extremes and maintain balance in our lives. We must neither be hostage to our reactionary instincts, nor must we remain completely silent in the face of the systematic defamation of our values and beliefs. This balance has been upset by the violent response to the insults targeting the legacy of beloved Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him). The violent response was wrong and strayed from the straight path.
