Please take note that my post does not reflect the views of the entirety of the muslim population. Equally, the views of the majority is neither reflected by the opinions of these random so called "clerics" so evident these days whose purpose is to only make good TV and newspaper headlines. Please note that I am (supposedly!) a scientist by trade and not much of a debator. There are other far more qualified than me who will be able to give a more concise viewpoint on the rather important matter.
This is not an apologetic post, and I'm not going to sugarcoat anything but tell it as it is for many of us.
I have to also make it clear that some the media these days clearly don't portray the majority in an totally impartial manner. It's always worrying when we have these "intellectual" debates on TV concerning issues in Islam (be it about women, bombings, cartoons), and often the case, the side "representing" Islam either comes from:
1) An extremist guy (with or without the hook) from what the majority of the muslim community consider to be radical groups (Al Muhajaroun or Hizb-ut-Tahrir anyone?). Trust me, I've had many bumping in with these guys at uni and round my local area - and they are certainly not representative of the majority.
2) A complete random who doesn't have a clue about what he is talking about. For example, Radio five today had a minor discussion between Evan Harris (a major player in the Secular society) up against some guy who used to present a Pop show on Radio 1 or something.
There are many intellectual and sophisticated islamic speakers around whom I've had the pleasure of meeting and attending debates with. Its a shame that they are not controversial enough to come on TV.
Anyway, to this issue about the cartoons....
Religion is an incredibly complex subject and one that cannot be summed up in one post (or in a thesis paper, or a book, or anything for that matter tbh). Religion has a different effect to people (as would any ideology). To us, living in this relatively cushty lifestyle, we find it difficult to test our faith/beliefs in times of sheer hardship. Yet for many around the world (e.g. Africa, the sufferers of the Tsunami, Pakistan Earthquake, Palestine, The Holocaust), Religion is perhaps their only explanation/hope to the pain and suffering in the world. Naturally, some people will be more passionate about their beliefs more than others.
The portrayal of Prophet Muhammad (or any other prophet such as Moses, Jesus, Abraham etc..) is strictly prohibited - to prevent idolisation of false images. Muslims are commanded to only worship God and no human, animal, object. Prophet Muhammad is highly regarded by many - he was the perfect muslim and the example to the muslims in terms of character and piousness. His lifestory is an example of us muslims to follow.
Many feel so close to Muhammad that their love for him and the other prophets is beyond description. It can be difficult to explain this concept to anyone who hasn't been in the same state to highly regard of someone. This is where we get a clash of cultures/ideologies. The depiction of Prophet Muhammad can be seen worse as publicly humilating our mother/father/brother/sister/son/daughter. Such is the strength of the love of the prophet by the muslims. Again, this can be a difficult concept to accept by many - which I cannot blame them for. When you consider how his teachings have helped those who follow him in their life problems, you can perhaps imagine why we feel so strong for him.
However, we are living in times of multiculturism and freedom of speech (which has provided its share of benefits and downfalls some may argue). The Muslim population, as well as any other ideology/religion have no right to prevent the freedom of discussion/speech on certain areas within our beliefs. Hence, the aftershocks of this event - particularly the taking of hostages and other (somewhat) overreactions - are highly disregarded by the unheard majority.
However, the question comes as to how far can the freedom of speech be used? Can we use the freedom of speech to justify the attack on other religions/ideologies?
Surely, living in a multifaith society (many consider secularism as a faith itself), we should all respect the intricacies of the other faiths. Read closely to the teachings of Islam, and you will find that - contrary to popular belief - the attack and incitement of other religions is forbidden.
I will leave the end of my somewhat extensive post open to further discussion as I am interested to what has to be said - I, and many others maybe, will be more than happy to discuss the issues/questions if you have any.
I will however bring to attention the shockingly offensive first post. To depict the entire muslim population (or "sad fuckers" as the poster remarkably points out) as bombers and murderers is extremely shortsighted. If you do wish to contribute, at least step away from the heap of tabloid trash and do your research properly on the teachings and discussions by proper unbiased writers (or debators) who portray the beliefs of the majority. I'm more than open to attacks on Islam as long as they can be supported by concise readings and discussions. To put it bluntly, it is almost like saying that the teachings of the BNP and the National Front is cheered on by the entirety of the UK.
