The Qur’an is the holy scripture that was revealed, verse by verse, to the Prophet of Islam (pbuh). It is a unique compilation including human rights, wisdom and guidance on day to day activities, and scientific facts. The Arabic verses radiate with poetic elegance, and literary perfection. Unfortunately, the verses of this book have been taken out of their original context, misinterpreted and portrayed as negative and “barbaric” in today’s mainstream media. It is worthwhile to read and reflect upon the contents of this unique book through first-hand and reliable sources, to attain an unbiased perspective of Islam and the teachings within the Qur’an.
While indeed justice requires to be served, especially when innocent lives have been sacrificed to the pyre of fascism, let us be cautious as we assess blame, or else we could stand to play directly in those hands we abhor most of all – those of Daesh, this plague which claimed itself of Islam.
Considering the fact that “Armed moderates” are practically non-existent in Syria, France announced in 2012 that it was delivering “lethal weapons” to Syrian rebels. French Arms deals were also with Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Qatar; states at the forefront of supporting Salafi networks.
Political commentator and media activist Waqar Rizvi has discussed why Ayat. Khamenei’s letter is written for the western youth and what is not said in that.
I sat with that book, the Bible and the Quran, and checked each reference the book made. I would read something in the book and say to myself, “The Bible doesn’t say that!” Then I would look it up and sure enough, it was there.
Violent extremism is probably the most critical challenge that is not only menacing our region, but in fact the entire world, where threats recognize no borders. It is a grave threat that has already ravaged Iraq and Syria and cast gloom over the region’s horizons. Its global reach and stated worldwide ambitions make it clear that it has major implications for the geopolitical and security environment, not only in our immediate neighborhood, but also in many other parts of the world.
“…Khamenei has long said his animosity is directed not at the American people but at their government. In keeping with that notion, he says his new letter isn’t addressed to Western leaders, whom he accuses of intentionally distorting the truth, but to young people who may still have open minds…”
“…Ayatollah Khamenei said he was writing to young people in Europe and North America because they were the future of their nations….”
“…The open letter ends on a note of hope — perhaps foreshadowing the end of decades of ‘clash of civlizations’ scholarship on Islam and the West…”
“…In the 900-word letter, Khamenei set out certain requests for those reading the letter. “Study and research the incentives behind this widespread tarnishing of the image of Islam”, he said, encourage them to try to gain a first hand knowledge of Islam, rather than accepting his own or any other reading of the religion…”