Arabic was the closest thing to Hebrew that was available so I'm taking an introductory arabic class right now. It's hilarious and difficult trying to learn, but someday I hope to read an original rendering of the Quran. The real meaning of this post, though, is not to discuss my academic endeavors and failures but rather the Quran and mosques and the recent upheaval they've elicited. Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf wants to build a mosque in close proximity to Ground Zero and Pastor Terry Jones wants to burn a Quran. (news of the cancellation came just a few minutes ago but that won't stop me from continuing) Thousands of people protest both with fervor. I wonder if anybody found themselves in both of those opposition parties.
The bigotry and intolerance of some is quite shocking, and the fact that Pastor Jones made a self-appointment as representative does not make him the only one. Quran burning is so asinine that at first I thought it was proposed merely in satirical jest of the anti-muslim sentiment of some Americans. Suspicion of the true motive still exists. Upon closer examination, however, is suggesting the incineration of things held sacred by millions that much different then opposing the building of a sacred edifice of a peaceful people? Have some drawn an imaginary line, seen only by them, in the zone of unacceptance, past which is just too far? Just as overzealous, irreverent pastors don't represent the body of christianity; neither does the extremist, terrorist camp of islam represent the whole.
Whether or not Pastor Jones, who ironically leads the peace-connoting Dove World Outreach Center, intended to he has taught me an important lesson. Tolerance is timeless and love is always required. At times when it seems like there is justification for a violent or negative reaction, more likely than not we're simply missing the mark. Certainly, at times, there is no room for tolerance: when lives or morals stand to be lost. A mosque poses no threat to either of those.
"We claim the privilege of worshiping Almighty God according to the dictates of our own conscience, and allow all men the same privilege, let them worship how, where, or what they may (Articles of Faith, Joseph Smith).
3 comments:
Whoa! How about posting after a year and a half?! Good job though. Totally agree. I know that most people making the arguments against the mosque are acknowledging the right to build it, but are insisting it is insensitive and hurtful. That may be the case, and it seems it would be wise to consider, but I don't want governments and public or media outrage (for whatever reason) determining the LDS Church's ability to build temples and chapels on private property in accordance with proper ordinance and procedure, so I don't think we ought to participate in this rhetoric in regards to other faiths unless the project poses a serious threat to human life, safety, or social order. Pastor Jones is clearly a dingleberry, who is relishing his 5 minutes, or days, of fame.
Amen!
I totally agree! And, it would be interesting to read the Quran, let me know when you can.
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