Murder expressly forbidden in Quran
I was saddened to hear the news of the gruesome shooting in Orlando on Sunday morning. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families and everyone affected by this senseless tragedy.
As a Muslim, I feel that I must speak out to condemn this act and all like it. Though the name of Islam was invoked by the perpetrator, it should be made clear that acts such as these are not condoned in Islam. Murder is expressly forbidden in Quranic verses 5:33, 17:34, and 25:69.
As an American, my hope is that this country forgoes another opportunity to attack and demonize a minority group, and instead decides to work in a more peaceful way, restricting ownership of assault rifles and deadly weapons.
I understand the need to protect ourselves, but the anti-Muslim rhetoric that has pervaded society today is nothing more than incendiary, and only intensifies violent feelings.
Aaron Gage
Naperville