[June 8, 2017] United Kingdom Imams have refused to perform funeral rites for the three Muslims who perpetrated the London terror attacks this past weekend. For those unfamiliar with the Islamic faith, this refusal is unprecedented. Furthermore, a number of Imams have publically called for other religious leaders to join them.
“If you choose the path of terror, your life will be empty, your life will be brief, and your soul will be fully condemned.” – U.S. President Donald Trump
A person’s actions are not seen as an excuse for an Imam to refuse tradition. Such acts would condemn those involved with terror in the eyes of every Muslim. Such a step underscores the warning made by President Trump and bolters a growing worldwide acknowledgment that terrorism, especially targeted at the innocent, will be resisted at every level in every society.
The position taken by the UK Imams takes great courage, both moral and physical courage, because they have taken the first-ever steps to religiously and symbolically denounce Islamic terror. Such a move means that they’re condemning their souls. Many say it is about time such a public reaction occur and one that must be done if there is a winnable war on terrorism.
Muhammad Habibur-Rahman, London Muslim Centre Chairman, said in a statement meant to be heard by all but directed at the dead terrorists, “Your misguidance will lead you to destruction, and God willing you will utterly fail in your evil aims.” It appears that the war on the ideology of extremist Islam has begun.
None of us should take this lightly. Is it the beginning of the end of Muslim terror? As we look back to this time at some point in the future, will it be seen as such a new beginning or not? That is what the leadership by those like Habibur-Rahman will ultimately determine. The three men who conducted their attacks in London certainly knew that their violence during the season of Ramadan would carry a particular message but perhaps not the one they intended.
Ramadan is a time dedicated to prayer, charity, and the cultivation of good character. That is what the message of the Imams is saying.
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