Ramadan Plan 2015

 Download Ramadan plan 2015 in PDF

Ramadan Plan 2015Malta Ramadan Plan 2015 . For further information contact: amjmalta@gmail.com

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Ahmadiyya Serving elderly in Gozo

Ahmadiyya Malta in GozoOn Saturday, The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta visited Sant Anna Ward and the Geriatrics ward at the Gozo General Hospital, to show solidarity, with the elderly residents, he said.

The Minister for Gozo Dr Anton Refalo, and Laiq Ahmed Atif, President Ahmadiyya Community Malta, together, distributed fruit hampers to the residents.

Dr. Refalo and Mr. Atif discussed further cooperation for the wellbeing of the residents. Dr. Refalo said that the Gozo Ministry gives great attention towards caring the elderly people and the staff at the residence is very dedicated.

Mr. Atif explained that, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat pays a great importance to serving mankind and looking after the old and the elderly. This activity of the Ahmadiyya Community is a clear manifestation of its love and care for the elderly people of the society.

Find More info: The Sunday Times GozoNews.ComFacebookTwitter

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Ahmadiyya donation to Dar Vincenzo Bugeja

Ahmadiyya President Visited Dar Kav. Vincenzo Bugeja

Laiq Ahmed Atif president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta visited Dar Kav. Vincenzo Bugeja, Zebbug, a home for the intellectually disabled youth, and distributed fruit hampers.

 The President of the Dar Vincenzo Bugeja and Mr. Kenneth Cremona, a volunteer and coordinator, accompanied Mr. Atif while meeting with the  youth. 

Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat pays a great importance to serving mankind and looking after those in need. This activity of the Ahmadiyya Community is a clear manifestation of its love and care for the humanity.

The Community believes that serving mankind is a way to win the pleasure of God the Almighty.

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Ahmadiyya Malta Peace Symposium 2015

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Gozo first interfaith seminar

Posted in Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, Ahmadiyya: The True Islam, Harmony, Inter-religious dialogue, Interfaith, Interfaith dialogue, Islam means Peace, Jihad, Love for all - Hatred for none, www.ahmadija.org.mt | Tagged , | Leave a comment

The Holy Quran and Isis

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Moment of silence observance at Peace Symposium

A moment of silence observance at the 7th Ahmadiyya National Peace Symposium 2015, in respect of our hundreds of immigrant brothers and sisters whom we sadly lost at the sea. Her Excellency, the President of Malta, speakers and the audience joined together for a moment of silence. 

Peace_Symposium_2015_02

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Gozo interfaith collaborative seminar

How did JESUS & MUHAMMAD   bring peace to the world?

The Gozo Diocese and the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community organised an interfaith collaborative seminar, first of its kind – unique – and inclusive, on Saturday April 25, 2015, at the Good Shepherd Centre, Victoria, Gozo. The theme of the discussion was “How did Jesus and Muhammad (peace be on them) bring peace to the world?”. Dr. Alfred Grech and Imam Ibrahim Ahmad Noonan delivered their talks and answered the questions of the audience. 

IMG_Gozo_01 IMG_Gozo_02 IMG_Gozo_03 IMG_Gozo_04

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THE PRESIDENT OF MALTA ADDRESSES THE ANNUAL PEACE SYMPOSIUM

The President of Malta Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca addressed the Annual Peace Symposium organised by Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta.

The President spoke about the tragedies we all witnessed in recent days whereby hundreds of migrants lost their lives at sea. The President noted that a holistic approach needs to be adopted and that due attention needs to be given to the situation of the thousands of people that at this very moment are risking their lives to reach European shores.

The President described how migrants are fleeing their countries because they are forced to do so noting that some are fleeing conflicts; some are fleeing famine or persecution; some are fleeing abject poverty and others are fleeing because their lives and that of their loved ones are in danger. In doing so people are dying unnecessarily because the international community has the capacity to act and save lives.

The President recalled the title of the Peace Symposium and that freedom and peace is what migrants want. She encouraged those present to refrain from turning their backs on this reality and to advocate for a comprehensive approach from the international community and for a response based on empathy and understanding.

The President noted that we have to strive for an international community and policies that welcomes migrants in a safe and human way also acknowledging the added value migrants bring rather than opting for policies that continue to turn the Mediterranean into a cemetery.

The President concluded by saying that this loss of lives can be stopped. FIND MORE DETAILS: 

Source:gov.mt, Reference Number: pr150880, Press Release Issue Date: Apr 25, 2015pr150880c

pr150880a pr150880b pr150880d pr150880e 

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H.E. President of Malta addressed Ahmadiyya Peace Symposium 2015

L-immigranti qed iffitxu l-libertà u l-paċi – Marie Louise Coleiro Preca

L-immigranti li qed jaħarbu minn pajjiżhom qedgħin iffitxu il-paċi u l-libertá. Hekk stqarret il-President ta’ Malta Marie Louise Coleiro Preca waqt li ndirizzat is-simpożju anwali tal-paċi. 

Waqt dan is-simpożju organizzat minn Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, il-President tkellment dwar it-traġedji li seħħew dan l-aħħar. Hi stqarret li hemm bżonn li naddottaw azzjoni holistika biex insalvaw l-ħajja ta’ dawk kollha li qed jaqsmu l-Mediterran.

Dawn qed jitilqu minn pajjiżna għaliex m’għandhomx għażla, huma qed iffitxu ħajja aħjar, qed iffitxu il-paċi u libertá stqarret Coleiro Preca.

Hi appellat lil dawk preżenti sabiex ma jagħtux daharhom lejn ir-realtà iżda jifhmu s-sitwazzjoni tal-immigranti irregolari. Find More:

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Gozo interfaith collaborative seminar taking place in Victoria

Gozo interfaith collaborative seminar taking place in VictoriaSource/Credit: GozoNews, April 25, 2015

The Gozo Diocese and Ahmadiyya Muslim Community are holding an An interfaith collaborative seminar, with the Theme: Religious Founders’ Day – How did Jesus and Muhammad bring peace to the world?

The public are invited to join in this event for a brief journey into the lives of Jesus and Muhammad, in order to understand and learn from them.

At the beginning of the seminar a gesture of solidarity and respect will be shown at the sad loss of the immigrants at sea, by prayers and standing up for a moment in their respect.

The seminar is taking place this evening, Saturday, between 7.30pm and 9.30pm at The Good Shepherd Centre, Sir Paul Bofa Street, Tac-Cawla, Victoria, Gozo

The Keynote Speakers will be Imam Ibrahim Noonan Representing Islam and Dr Alfred Grech Representing Christianity. Original Post here:

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Together against hatred

by Laiq Ahmed Atif

This is a very crucial juncture in the history of mankind and the issues of hatred, extremism and religious animosity need to be addressed and discussed because, in the final analysis, they are among the main contributors to international, racial and social clashes.

In recent months, the world has witnessed a horrific shape of hatred and extremism spread by Isis, the effects of which are not only limited to Arab countries but are being felt across the world.

The West has also started to realise and acknowledge that this is a war that is actually directly affecting it as well. Yet, this too is being underestimated; the truth is that this is a war against the entire world.

Isis is trying to inflame and incite fear and hatred, practising the worse form of violence and extremism and increasing committing vicious atrocities.

The situation is extremely alarming and has now become a cause of major concern for world leaders because the agenda and objectives of Isis and their so-called Caliph are utterly horrific and barbaric.

It is said that they want to take revenge on the world, conquer territories and nations, forcefully convert the entire world to their ideology and make sharia law (according to their understanding) applicable to each person in every land.

They are punishing and killing people as they please and taking many as captives.

Isis is heavily armed with sophisticated weapons, systems and artillery. Indeed, it is not inconceivable that they could eventually even acquire nuclear armaments too.

In brief, the desperate state of affairs brought about by Isis really seems to be leading us down a path to something that would be much bigger and even more devastating.

Is the world ready to let this extremism and hatred spread and ruin its peace and serenity? If not, are people of the world ready to fight back? Can we win this battle?

I believe that, yes, through collective and selfless efforts we can win this battle and, yes, together we can conquer hatred. Together we have the power to defeat the most hateful acts.

We need to be wary of those who seek to split us apart and spread hatred by attempting to blame peaceful Muslims or the Islamic faith for what these terrorists are doing. Islam should not be associated with their barbaric acts and we have to understand that their aim is not to spread Islam or peace in the world. Their sole purpose is to gain power and spread fear and hatred.

I think there is both a short-term and a long-term way to counter this problem.

There is need to make a distinction between the countries where Isis has spread and Isis itself. The Isis issue should be addressed separately and dealt with collectively.

It is important to target the root cause and not only the outcome of this hatred

The Libyan issue could also be treated separately and it is important to give peace another chance there as well as finding a political solution through dialogue and diplomacy. This would be beneficial both to Libya and to the entire region.

With regard to Isis, it is essential that something is urgently done to stop funds reaching it. It should also be resolved that no country would provide or sell them weapons to its elements and if any State breaches this condition it would face the consequences.

Secondly, the narrative of the people of the region needs to be changed and they should be given adequate information to be able to understand what this is all about.

It should be taken very seriously and we must ensure that this is not a war between religion and secularism, between Islam and West or between Muslims and Christians. This is a battle between good and bad, between supporters of humanity and enemies of humanity and between love and hatred.

Thirdly, the affected and neighbouring Arab and African countries should play their role and the Arab League must also use its influence and abilities at this time of real crisis.

Rather than western countries intervening to remove Isis, the United Nations should send a peacekeeping force to the region. This should consist of only Arab soldiers not to make it appear like some kind of western invasion or a sign of imperialism. A similar suggestion had been made by then Israeli President, Shimon Peres, with regard to the Syrian crisis a few years ago.

Fourthly, it is important to target the root cause and not only the outcome of this hatred. The real long-term solution is to replace the guns and the weapons by pens and books in the entire region and, particularly, in Isis-affected areas, because education is key for the peaceful and prosperous existence of any nation.

Fifthly, moderate and peace-loving political and religious leaders should stand up and guide their people. Their voices should be given weight, as President Barak Obama said: “The world must continue to lift up the voices of Muslim clerics and scholars who teach the true peaceful nature of Islam.”

Lastly, the prayers and unity of us all against every kind of hatred and extremism is crucial. Let’s pray to Almighty God to help us make the world a better place and to conquer extremism and hatred. Read Original Post:

amjmalta@gmail.com Laiq Ahmed Atif is president of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta

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Interfaith worship center in Gozo

Ahmadi Muslim leader hopes Gozo church-mosque-synagogue project not an image-building exercise

The House of One’s design incorporates a church, a mosque, and a synagogue circling a central meeting place to be used for inter-faith discussion. 

Source/Credit: MaltaToday, Tim Diacono, 22 April 2015

Archbishop Charles Scicluna has welcomed a project to construct a church, a mosque and a synagogue under one roof in Gozo. 

In a brief statement to MaltaToday, Scicluna said that his views echoed those of Gozo bishop Mario Grech, who had described the project as an “interesting” one in the context of a globalised world with a growing level of cultural and religious overlap and dialogue.

Earlier this month, Sunday newspaper Illum revealed the Ministry for Gozo’s plans to construct this place of worship on the outskirts of Xewkija, close to the Gozo Stadium. The newspaper also revealed the early plans for the building, designed by architect Richard England, designer of places of worship such as the Millennium Chapel in Paceville and the Church of St Francis in Qawra. 

“Catholics, Muslims, and Jews are all brothers since we all recognise the same God,” Grech said. “As Catholics, we respect all religions, but Islam and Judaism in particular.

“We are living in a society in which, for some reason or other, people appear to have grown fed up of religion. It is clear that some of these people have mistaken understandings of God, while others have a great thirst for God in the hope of finding answers to their profound questions.

“One can only hope that this proposed place of worship can somehow help people fill up their existential vacuums.”

The idea behind a church-mosque-synagogue is not the first of its kind, with a similar project in Berlin, the ‘House of One’, expected to open its doors next year.

The House of One’s design incorporates a church, a mosque, and a synagogue circling a central meeting place to be used for inter-faith discussion. 

Laiq Ahmed Atif, president of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, believes that the Gozitan version should take it a step or two further. 

“I hope that it will be a fully inclusive project that brings all religious communities on board, and not just main strands of Islam, Christianity, and Judaism,” he told MaltaToday. “If it proves to be a truly inclusive project, then I think it will bear wonderful fruit.

“If there is true conviction towards promoting inclusivity behind this project, then I’ll consider it a very positive step and will fully support it. I don’t believe in image-building, but rather in doing something because you have a clear conviction in it.” 

He pointed out that the concept of people of different faiths praying under one roof is by no means alien to Islam. 

“The life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad is filled with examples of how he always advocated freedom of religion and worship. To give one example, when a delegation of Christians from the city of Najran came to visit Medina, the Holy Prophet happily gave them permission to worship in his own Mosque, in their own way and to give worship not towards the Kaaba but to worship in a westerly direction as was their method.” 

“Prayer is common in all three religions,” he said. “Rather than fighting amongst us, why don’t we create a place of worship for all? I’m very hopeful that this project will help create an atmosphere of mutual respect and harmony.” Read original post:

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Peace Symposium 2015

Peace Symposium 2015

SPEAKERS OF THE SYMPOSIUMSpeakers Peace Conference 2015

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Religious Founders’ Seminar in Gozo

GOZO - Religious Founders' Seminar

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L-Isis, l-iskjavitù u l-Iżlam!

L-Isis, l-iskjavitù u l-Iżlam! TorċaCredit: It-Torċa, Il-Ħadd 29 ta’ Marzu 2015, minn: Laiq Ahmed Atif

L-organizzazzjoni estremista magħrufa bħala ISIS qed taħtaf nies bħala skjavi. Il-mexxej tagħha jgħid li jrid jagħmel lill-Musulmani s-sidien tad-dinja kollha u lil dawk li mhumiex Musulmani jagħmilhom skjavi jew ikunu l-‘propjetà’ tal-Musulmani. Jemmen li għandhom jitneħħew id-drittijiet tan-nisa li jappartjenu għal reliġjonijiet jew setet oħra; li dawn jitrażżnu u jsiru konkubini (skjavi) u jġagħluhom isiru n-nisa tagħhom.

L-ewwel u qabel kollox, l-Iżlam ma jippermittix gwerra offensiva f’isem ir-reliġjon. F’Kapitlu 22, versi 40-41, tal-Koran Imqaddes, Alla jistqarr li l-permess għal gwerra difensiva ngħata l-għaliex kieku l-Musulmani ma ddefendewx lilhom infushom meta kienu attakkati, il-paċi fid-dinja kollha kienet tkun f’periklu kbir.

Fid-dawl ta’ dan kollu, tistgħu taslu biex tifhmu kemm huma kompletament żbaljati l-hekk imsejħa Musulmani tal-lum meta jsostnu li huwa permissibbli li jinqatlu dawk li mhumiex Musulmani, li jitteħdulhom artijiethom jew li jinqabdu priġunieri. Ir-realtà hija li l-Iżlam huwa dak it-twemmin li jiggarantixxi d-dritt ta’ kull individwu li jgħix fil-libertà u l-ħelsien. U l-Iżlam huwa dik ir-reliġjon li ggarantiet id-dritt ta’ kull individwu li jgħix fil-paċi u fl-armonija, tkun xi tkun il-fidi jew l-isfond ta’ ħajja tiegħu.

L-Iżlam jitkellem ċar u tond dwar ir-regoli ta’ gwerra. F’Kapitlu 5, vers 9, Alla jgħallem lill-Musulmani biex dawn jaġixxu b’onestà u b’ġustizzja, anke fi stat ta’ gwerra. Alla jgħid li l-ostilità ta’ nazzjon jew poplu qatt ma għandha twassal Musulman biex jaġixxi b’mod inġust għax dak imur kontra l-onestà.

F’Kapitlu 8, vers 68, Alla jgħid li mhux sewwa li jinżammu priġunieri jekk ma jkunx hemm stat ta’ gwerra l-għaliex jekk jiġri hekk mela dan ikun qed isir biss minħabba l-ġid u l-poter u mhux għall-imħabba ta’ Alla. Għaldaqstant, dan juri biċ-ċar li fi żmien ta’ paċi mhuwiex aċċettabbli li jinżammu nies priġunieri, iżda llum qed naraw lil dawn l-hekk imsejħa ‘Iżlamisti’ li qed jaħtfu bil-forza għadd kbir ta’ nies innoċenti u fl-istess waqt qed iġagħlu nisa bla difiża biex ikunu l-konkubini tagħhom.

F’Kapitlu 47, vers 5 tal-Koran Imqaddes, Alla s-Setgħani stqarr li l-priġunieri tal-gwerra għandhom jinħelsu mat-tmiem tal-gwerra nnifisha. F’dan il-vers, Alla jkompli jgħid li dawn għandhom jinħelsu għal somma ta’ flus jew ikun ferm aħjar jekk jinħelsu bħala att ta’ ħniena jew bħala favur. Għaldaqstant, meta tispiċċa l-gwerra l-priġunieri għandhom jinħelsu u dan japplika kemm għall-irġiel kif ukoll għan-nisa. Dwar il-ħlas ta’ flus biex jinħeles priġunier, f’Kapitlu 24, vers 34, il-Koran isostni li jekk persuna ma tkunx tiflaħ tħallas biex jinħeles priġunier mela wieħed għandu jaċċetta l-ħlas bin-nifs u jillibera lil dik il-persuna.

Dan l-aħħar, fil-midja rajna wkoll li l-Isis ħatfu xi nies u biex eventwalment qatluhom, kiesaħ u biered. Irrid ngħmilha ċara, li skont it-tagħlim Iżlamiku l-priġunier tal-gwerra ma jistax jiġi maqtul, aħseb u ara, dawk mhux involuti fl-ebda gwerra li ġew maqtula mill-Isis b’dal-mod għall-ebda ġustifikazzjoni. Dak kollu li għamlu ma’ dawk in-nies li ġew maħtufa minnhom, huwa kompletament kontra t-tagħlim Iżlamiku. Barra minn hekk, l-Iżlam jgħid li l-Musulmani għandhom jagħmlu ġustizzja mal-priġunieri u juru ħniena lejhom.

L-Iżlam ta rispett kbir lill-ilsira u fetaħ il-bibien sabiex wieħed ikun jista’ jikseb il-ħelsien u biex jipproteġi l-libertà ladarba dan jintlaħaq. Il-Profeta Muħammad mill-bidu nett enfasizza li l-ilsira jiġu ttrattati bl-imħabba u l-ħniena, u biex jiġu mogħtija l-ħelsien. L-Iżlam jgħid li meta xi ħadd jagħti l-libertà lil xi skjav dan huwa għemil għani. Il-Koran jgħid:

“U wrejnieh iż-żewġ triqat (dik it-tajba u l-oħra l-ħażina). Aħjar għalih kieku tela’ l-iebsa (tal-għemejjel tajba). U x’inhu li jgħarrfek x’inhi t-telgħa l-iebsa? (Hija) il-ħelsien ta’ lsir, ….” (90:11-14)

Il-Qaddis Profeta Muħammad kien dejjem ħerqan dwar il-kondizzjoni tal-iskjavi, u kien jgħid:

“L-ilsira huma ħutkom. Jekk xi ħadd minnkom għandu xi lsir, allura għandu jagħtih l-istess l-ikel li jiekol hu, u l-istess libsa li jilbes hu. Tagħtuhomx ix-xogħol l-iebes, u għandkom dejjem tgħinuhom f’xogħolhom.”

Il-Qaddis Profeta Muħammad kien jgħid li “Alla se jaħfer u jsalva mill-infern lil dak il-Musulman li jagħti l-ħelsien u l-libertà lil skjav.” U l-aħħar kliem ta’ ħajtu kienu li l-Musulmani għandhom dejjem iqimu lil Alla, isegwu t-tagħlim ta’ Alla u jittrattaw lill-ilsira bi ħniena u mħabba.

Wara dan it-tagħlim ċar bħal kristall, kif jista’ jkun li l-Isis jiġġustifikaw l-atti barbari tagħhom? L-Iżlam jemmen fid-dinjità umana, fl-imħabba u l-ħniena. Għalhekk, il-Komunità Aħmadija Musulmana tippromovi u tipprattika l-motto tagħha li huwa: “Imħabba għal kulħadd, mibegħda għal ħadd.”

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Malta: Seminar about ‘Islamophobia’

seminar about Islamophobia -01‘Garden of Knowledge Mata Association’ organised a seminar about ‘Islamophobia’, on Friday, March 27, 2015 at the Waterfront Hotel, Sliema.

The event was chaired by Mrs. Faten Osman. Laiq Ahmed Atif, President Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Malta, Prof. Yosanne Vella, Mr Victor Degiovanni Secretary of the Maltese Communist Party and Prof. Deepa Kumar, delivered their talks and highlighted different aspects on Islamophobia and how to tackle it.

seminar about Islamophobia -03The event was well attended and brought together different nationalities, from Libya, Colombia, Sudan, France, Russia, Italy, Germany, Pakistan, Malta, Syria, and Czech Republic. 

Laiq Ahmed Atif spoke about the ‘The Multiple faces of Islamophobia’. He said that fear creates hatred and leads to violence, but through education, understanding, awareness, knowledge and information about each other, and through continuous dialogue the barriers and walls of hatred and fear can be demolished; and bridges of tolerance, love and harmony can be built.

He said that, modern communication technology is fast demolishing national barriers and making this globe into one human family. It is vital that we try to learn about the views and ideologies of other people for the sake of a better and friendlier atmosphere on an international level.seminar about Islamophobia -02

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Seminar about ‘Islamophobia’

Seminar Islamophobia!

For Further Info:  https://www.facebook.com/events/1385835208402922/1386453768341066/

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Inter-religious dialogue

Source: The Times, Friday 6.03.2015, by Laiq Ahmed Atif (amjmalta@gmail.com).

Man is a gregarious animal and communicates with other men. However, it is strange that when it comes to trade and industry, science and education, health and food, freedom and human rights, democracy and politics and, to some extent, concern for the environment, there is a freer acceptance of the unfamiliar but when ideologies and beliefs are involved there is resistance.

Is this because those in charge of such competing ideologies and beliefs do not understand their own ways and, as a result, their own rigidness dictates zero tolerance? Or is it ignorance of the other that breeds suspicion, resentment and even hatred?

Now that man lives in what is known as the global village, is there room for ignorance and the fear of the stranger?

Has the climate changed sufficiently for moderation to prevail and tolerance to flourish?

All the religions believe in peace and common human values. I feel that, to educate people, giving them the necessary awareness and building bridges among people of different faiths is highly essential for the well-being of man. And for the promotion of such common values and grounds, reconciliation and more dialogue is vital.

When analysing the current state of affairs – politically, religiously or geographically – it is clear that strife is increasing rapidly.

I firmly believe that religion is a very positive force for the reformation and well-being of society.

Let me briefly mention how religion can have a say in building bridges among people of different faiths, the promotion of well-being of man and the establishment of a harmonious and tolerant society.

Islam presents a very fundamental principle that cooperation should always be in matters that are good not evil.

All religions of the world must conform to the underlying principle of not permitting the use of force and coercion in any manner as an instrument in resolving inter-sectarian and inter-religious strife. The choice of religion, the freedom to profess, propagate, practise and exercise or to denounce or to cease to believe or change one’s belief must be protected absolutely.

Dialogue between different religions should never be seen as a threat

 All religions must conform to the principle of showing respect and reverence to the founders and holy personages of other faiths. Moreover, people who belonging to different faiths should pay tribute to the nobility and character of the leaders of other faiths.

The dialogue between different religions should never be seen as a threat but as an opportunity of understanding and awareness.

It is the manner of dialogue, which, if wrong, should be condemned and not the dialogue itself. Healthy discussions, sharing of opinions and ideas is essential for the prosperity and progress of society.

Inter-faith conferences should be regularly held and widely encouraged and promoted.

The soul and spirit of such conferences should be to narrow the areas of differences and to enlarge the possibility of agreements.

The speakers should be encouraged to highlight the good points and attractive and distinctive features of their respective faiths without maligning other faiths. Indeed, speakers belonging to one faith should preferably genuinely try to discover the good features of other faiths, speak about them and explain why they are impressed by them.

For example, whenever I say speak of peace, I always quote what Christ said that “Blessed are the peacemakers”.

The publication of books for children and adults to understand the basics of different religions and to promote harmony and tolerance would also be a positive step.

Inviting people of other faiths to religious festivals, exchanging thoughts and sharing greetings on such important occasions would contribute towards bridging the gaps.

Cooperation in all good plans and schemes for the mutual benefit of mankind can also play a vital role in building bridges between people of different faiths.

For instance, philanthropic projects could be undertaken jointly between Christians and Muslims, Hindus and Jews, etc.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim community is working hard to translate the above-mentioned points into action and we therefore invite everybody to join hands in this noble cause of uniting humanity to ensure a better and harmonious society.

Let us extend respect towards all, revere the founders of allreligions and sow the seeds of love and promote understanding between people of different faiths.

May Allah bless this beautiful universe with everlasting peace, harmony and respect for the whole of mankind. Read original post here:

Posted in Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, Ahmadiyya: The True Islam, Inter-religious dialogue, Interfaith, Interfaith dialogue, Laiq Ahmed Atif, The President's Hub, Tolerance | Leave a comment

‘Death to Christians’? No, not at all!

       Source: Malta-Independent, Thursday 5, 2015. Laiq Ahmed Atif (amjmalta@gmail.com)

The Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him said that “the people are the family of God Almighty and Allah loves him the most who treats His family with love and compassion. God will have mercy on those who show compassion, kindness and benevolence to others.”

I think this is the clear message to those who wrote ‘Alla’ in Arabic and the words ‘Death to Christians’ onto the walls in Qrendi. I think whoever has done that, is unfamiliar to the true teachings of Islam or he has done so purposely to inflict fear and hatred amongst Muslims and Christians living here together, in peace and serenity. In any case, we categorically reject this act of baseless vandalism and any such act which sows the seeds of confusion and hatred in the minds of people.

All the world religions, including Islam, believe in the fundamental rights of all the people, irrespective of their faith, colour, creed or nationality. Freedom of faith and right to life is no exception. Freedom is a prerogative of all living things, man being no exception. Liberty is the most cherished fruit of life. Man is the epitome of liberty which is ingrained in him. His very texture is woven with the yarn of liberty.

Islam believes and declares that ‘there should be no compulsion in religion’ (2:257). ‘And say, ‘It is the truth from your Lord; wherefore let him who will, believe, and let him who will, disbelieve. ’ (18:30)

Furthermore, Islam emphasizes that every human being has the full right to live in freedom and dignity and no person, whatsoever, has the right to deprive someone from this right or to take someone’s life. Allah says in the Holy Quran, “… Whosoever killed an innocent human being, it shall be as if he had killed all mankind, and whosoever saves the life of one, it shall be as if he had saved the life of all mankind” (5:33).

In his last address, known as fare-well address of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be on him, he emphasized on this important aspect and said: “Your lives and your possessions have been made immune by God to attacks by one another until the Day of Judgment. God has made the lives, property and honour of every man sacred. To take any man’s life or his property, or attack his honour is unjust and wrong.”

Let me very briefly quote some relevant parts from the Charter of Privileges to the monks of St. Catherine Monastery in Mt. Sinai, granted in 628 by the Prophet Muhammad. He wrote: “This is a message from Muhammad, as a covenant to those who adopt Christianity, near and far, we are with them. Verily I, and my followers defend them, because Christians are my citizens. No compulsion is to be on them. Neither are their judges to be removed from their jobs nor their monks from their monasteries. No one is to destroy a house of their religion, to damage it, or to carry anything from it to the Muslims’ houses. Should anyone take any of these, he would spoil God’s covenant and disobey His Prophet… No one of the Muslims is to disobey the covenant till the Last Day.”

How beautifully he has given the message of harmony and tolerance; and did not let Muslims to attack Christian churches, how then a true Muslim can attack the life of any Christian. It is absolutely out of question, and if someone does so, there can be no justification at all.

Prophet Muhammad gave a golden principle to all Muslims and said: “None of you has faith until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself.” I doubt, however, if the above mentioned graffiti is done by any Muslim, I appeal him to read this golden principle, before suggesting ‘death to others’.

Together with freedom of faith and life Islam also instructs Muslims to be kind to the entire mankind. In fact, God says to Muslims in the Holy Quran that, “You are the best people raised for the good of mankind; you enjoin what is good and forbid evil and believe in Allah.” (3:111)

This verse clearly states the reasons for Muslims to be a great nation; these reasons are: (i) Muslims have been raised for the good of others; (ii) they have been raised not for the good of any one people or any one country but for the good of all mankind; (iii) it has been made their duty to enjoin what is good and forbid evil and believe in one God.

After this clear message from God, how can a true Muslim write such evil motivated words of hatred and violence, such as ‘Death to Christians’. And if anyone does so, he does not believe in Islam – in its later and spirit, and such people’s behaviour is condemnable and should never be associated with the true Islam.

The Founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community has elaborated this point very rightly and said:

“A religion which does not inculcate universal compassion is no religion at all. Similarly, a human being without the faculty of compassion is no human at all. Our God has never discriminated between one people and another. The earth created by God provides a common floor for all people alike, and His sun and moon and many stars are a source of radiance and provide many other benefits to all alike. Likewise, all peoples benefit from the elements created by Him, such as air, water, fire and earth, and similarly from other products created by Him like grain, fruit, and healing agents, etc.

These attributes of God teach us the lesson that we, too, should behave magnanimously and kindly towards our fellow human beings and should not be petty of heart and illiberal.” ‘Death to Christians’ No, not at all!

Posted in Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, Ahmadiyya: The True Islam, Holy Prophet Muhammad, Humanity First, Interfaith dialogue, Islam means Peace, Islamophobia!, Serving Mankind, The Holy Quran - A Guidance for all mankind, Tolerance | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Ahmadiyya Muslim community congratulates to new Archbishop

Ahmadiyya congrautlates to ArchbishopAHMADIYYA MUSLIM COMMUNITY CONGRATULATES 

ARCHBISHOP MGR CHARLES J. SCICLUNA AND CATHOLIC CHURCH

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community called on newly-elected Archbishop Charles Scicluna to use his influence to develop tolerance and harmony between people of different faith and ideologies.

“There is a great need to join together upon our common teachings and values,” the Ahmadiyya Community’s President Laiq Ahmed Atif said in a statement. “Rather than division, the world desperately needs unity and compassion.”

Atif congratulated the Roman Catholic Church and its Maltese members following Scicluna’s election and extended their cooperation to him in bringing people together towards peace, reconciliation and mutual understanding.

“In terms of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat, we have always been at the forefront of promoting inter-faith harmony and striving for peace,” Atif said. “We always co-operate with all people and organisations who desire peace and tolerance and will forever continue to do so.” Read More:     The-Times:     Malta-Today:    Russian-Malta: 

Posted in Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, Ahmadiyya: The True Islam, Harmony, Interfaith dialogue | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

President presided over Interfaith Forum

Interfaith-1Addressing an Interfaith Forum attended by religious leaders and other guests, H.E the President, Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, said that the wellbeing of society must include engaging in dialogue, “even when we do not agree with each other, we must at least acknowledge what is being said”. She added that the Foundation’s job was not to create a platform to convert people from one religion to another, but rather to encourage anybody who lived in this country to be respectful and humane towards one another.

Interfaith Forum, Presided over by H.E. Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca. Tuesday 3rd February 2015 at San Anton Palace, Attard. Find Original Post: 

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Il-Koran qatt ma qalilna noqtlu lilna nfusna u lil ħaddieħor

Laiq-AtifSource/Credit: Illum.com.mt, by JEAN PIERRE CASSAR / 25 TA’ JANNAR 2015. Original post:   Interview-Illum-25.1.15

Laiq Ahmed Atif hu l-President tal-Komunità Ahmadiyya Muslim Jammat Malta, li hija t-tielet l-ikbar komunità fid-dinja tal-Musulmani. Miżżewweġ mara waħda u għandu żewġt itfal. Imwieled il-Pakistan imma ilu seba’ snin u nofs jgħix Malta. L-ILLUM xtaqet tindaga iktar fil-komunità Musulmana biex tara eżatt x’inhu t-twemmin tagħhom fl-eku ta’ ħafna attakki fuq ir-reliġjon Musulmani wara l-każi f’Pariġi.

X’inhu l-vera tagħlim tal-Koran?

It-tagħlim huwa li l-Musulmani jemmnu f’alla wieħed u huwa Mohammed li ġab dan it-tagħlim. Aħna nemmnu f’ħames pilastri tal-Iżlam. It-talb ħames darbiet kuljum, is-sawm, il-karità lil dawk li hemm bżonn, il-pellegrinaġġ ta’ Mekka, għalkemm dan mhux obbligatorju għal kulħadd u li niddikjaraw li Alla huwa s-sid tal-univers kollu u li Mohammed huwa l-messaġġier tiegħu. Nemmnu wkoll f’Alla, fil-kotba mqaddsa kollha, fil-profeti, fl-anġli u f’jum il-ħaqq.

F’pajjiżna jiġi mgħallem it-tagħlim tal-Kuran?

Iva, isir tagħlim fil-Moskea tal-Fgura. Jiġu anke għandi biex nagħmlu lezzjonijiet tal-Kuran. Kulħadd jista’ jitgħallem il-Kuran, imma mhux kulħadd jista’ jagħti intepretazzjonijiet tiegħu. Pereżempju marti tafu, però jien nista’ nagħti interpretazzjoni tiegħu.

X’jgħid il-Kuran fuq it-tolleranza u d-diversità?

Il-kelma Iżlam tfisser ‘paċi’. Dan ifisser li l-Iżlam hija reliġjon tolleranti. Il-messaġġ tal-paċi u l-imħabba qiegħed fil-Koran kollu. Il-messaġġ ewlieni huwa l-ħniena, u la darba bniedem huwa ħanin huwa tolleranti ma’ kulħadd, ma jistax ikun li minnu toħroġ il-mibgħeda. L-Iżlam jgħid li ħadd m’għandu juru arroganza ma’ ħaddieħor, lejn l-ebda nazzjon, lejn l-ebda persuna. Ir-reliġjon Iżlamika tgħid li għandek taċċetta lil kulħadd kif inhu, anke dawk ta’ reliġjonijiet oħra, bħala reliġjon ma nemmnux fi statwa u monumenti, iżda dan ma jfissirx li nistgħu mmaqdru r-reliġjon ta’ ħaddieħor.

U fuq l-ugwaljanza bejn is-sessi?

Nemmnu li kull bniedem huwa ugwali u wieħed ma jistax jgħid li hu aħjar mill-ieħor kemm fejn jidħol rispett, dinjità u drittijiet. Fil-Koran hemm li dawk li jagħmlu t-tajjeb huma l-għeżeż ta’ Alla, imma qatt ma ta tifsira ta’ min huma dawn l-għeżież, hi x’inhi r-reliġjon tiegħek jew il-kulur tal-ġilda tiegħek jew iktar u iktar is-sess tiegħek, Alla jħobb lil dawk li jagħmlu t-tajjeb.

Mela allura għala hawn pajjiżi li jħaddnu reliġjon Musulmana u jżommu lil mara f’pożizzjoni baxxa iktar mir-raġel?

Dawn ikunu kulturi partikolari tal-pajjiż. Nista’ ngħid li din hija injoranza jew l-imħuħ magħluqa li ma jistgħux jifhmu l-vera rwol tal-mara. Nieħu eżempju minni, jien mill-Pakistan, hemm ċertu soċjetajiet li ma jħallux il-bniet tagħhom imorru l-iskola biex jistudjaw, imma l-Iżlam jgħid li ‘kull Musulman mara jew raġel għandu d-dmir biex jirċievi edukazzjoni mill-aqwa.’ Mohammed enfasizza ħafna li għandna nagħtu edukazzjoni u għarfien lin-nisa tagħna. Il-persuna li jitgħallem huwa dejjem aħjar minn persuna nieqes mit-tagħlim. Jisħaq li anke jekk hemm għalfejn titbiegħu mill-pajjiż biex tistudjaw, ma fiha xejn ħażin, anzi għandkom tmorru u tagħmlu l-isforzi kollha.

Jien naħseb li dan jiddependi minn injoranza, l-Iżlam huwa favur l-edukazzjoni tat-tfajliet u n-nisa tagħna. Jekk nagħti eżempju mill-komunità tagħna, ir-rata ta’ nisa li għandhom ċertu livell ta’ edukazzjoni huwa ogħla minn dak tal-irġiel. Nisħaq ukoll li għalina m’hemm l-ebda limitu ta’ kemm għandha tistudja mara fir-reliġjon tagħna, tista’ tistudja kemm trid.

Dan l-aħħar smajna ħafna fuq il-liġi tax-Xarija, fejn ħafna bdew jikkundannaw din il-liġi għar-reati li seħħew fi Franza… iżda x’inhi l-vera liġi tax-Xarija?

Il-liġi tax-Xarija huwa l-Kuran. Dak kollu li hemm miktub fuq il-Kuran huwa l-liġi tax-Xarija. Ix-Xarija tfisser it-triq, il-mogħdija li trid taqbad fil-ħajja tiegħek, b’mod speċjali fil-ħajja reliġjuża. Fil-Kuran hemm iktar minn seba’ mitt kmandament. Ħafna persuni għandhom idea żbaljata ta’ dak li hi x-Xarija. Uħud jieħdu biċċa żgħira minnu u jirraġunaw daqslikieku kollha kemm hi kienet ix-Xarija. Ix-Xarija tinkludi d-drittijiet lil kulħadd, anke lil mara, li ma noqtlux, li ma nagħmlu ħażen lil ħadd… u hemm ukoll il-kastigi. L-Iżlam jemmen li jekk wieħed jagħmel ħsara lis-soċjetà ma jistax ikun li s-soċjetà ssofri miegħu, għalhekk ma jistax ikun li jekk persuna waħda tagħmel ħsara lis-soċjetà kollha ma tirċevix kastig.

L-Iżlam ma jridx li jagħti l-kastig lil bniedem, jemmen fir-riformazzjoni u fil-maħfra. Infatti fil-Koran jgħidlek li l-ewwel għandek taħdem iktar fuq ir-riforma tal-bniedem, imbagħad jekk xejn ma jbiddel lil persuna, imbagħad hemm għandek il-kastig. Pereżempju jgħid ikollok kanċer f’sieqek, u jekk taqta’ sieqek tista’ ssalva, tabib tajjeb għandu jgħidlek biex taqtagħha minħabba li jekk tneħħiha se tibqa’ ħaj.

Aħna nirraġunaw bl-istess mod, jekk persuna se jibqa f’vizzju ta’ xi ħaġa, ngħidu aħna s-serq, il-liġi tagħna tgħid li għandha tinqatagħlhom idu biex b’hekk dan jitbiegħed minn dan id-dnub. Jekk naqtgħu l-id ikunu wkoll qed inwaqqfuh milli jaqla’ l-ħobża ta’ kuljum, allura għandha żewġ tifsiriet. Din hija wara kollox bħal ħabs, li int qed twaqqaf persuna milli jkompli jgħix u li jaħdem u jaqla’ l-għixien. Għal darb’oħra nisħaq li l-ewwel ikun hemm il-parir u r-riformazzjoni, wara jasal il-kastig.

Hemm Musulmani stess li ma jifhmux il-liġi tax-Xarija. Hemm pajjiżi li qed jiżbaljaw bħal m’huma s-Sawdi Arabja, is-Sudan, l-Afganistan eċċ, li qed jieħdu biss biċċa mil-liġi u japplikawha u mhux qed jidħlu fil-profond. Hemm tifsira wara kull liġi u għandna nifhmu sew dak li qed jintqal, għax inkella jaf jidhru ridikoli jew ħorox.

Xi tgħidli dwar il-poligamija?

Il-poligamija fl-Iżlam hija permessa, imma mhux obbligatorju. L-Iżlam jgħid li jekk wieħed irid jiżżewweġ iktar minn mara waħda għandu jitrattahom l-istess u jekk ma jagħmilx dan m’għandux dritt li jkompli jiżżewweġ. Dan iseħħ minħabba li kull raġel għandu d-dritt ikollu t-tfal. Koppja tkun trid tfal, imma jekk ma jinqabadx minn mill-ewwel mara mela allura għandu permess li jiżżewweġ mara oħra ġaladarba jittratta n-nisa tiegħu ndaqs.

Fl-istess ħin aħna nirraġunaw dan minħabba li fit-Tieni Gwerra Dinjija kienu nqatlu ħafna rġiel u kien hawn ħafna nisa. B’hekk nemmnu li raġel seta’ jkollu iktar minn mara waħda għax ikun ħela li mara ma tużax l-imħabba tagħha, kulħadd għandu l-imħabba ġewwa fih. La Alla tana l-imħabba għandna nużawha. Pereżempju fil-każ tiegħi, qatt ma ħassejt il-bżonn li jkolli iktar minn mara waħda, jien miżżewweġ u għandi żewġt itfal u qatt ma kelli l-ħajra li jkolli mara oħra.

…u dwar l-omosesswalità?

L-Iżlam ma jaqbilx. Alla ħalaq mara għal raġel u raġel għal mara. Hemm ħafna raġunijiet, fosthom minħabba l-prokreazzjoni. Jekk kulħadd isir omosesswali ma jkunx hemm il-kontwinazzjoni u l-prokreazzjoni. Hemm pajjiżi li mbagħad imorru fl-estrem, li joqtlu lill-persuni omosesswali, l-Iżlam ma jaqbilx ma’ dan lanqas, hija biss kultura tal-pajjiż. Jgħid li m’għandhomx jiġu kkastigati jew emarġinati, għandna nuru rispett imma l-Iżlam ma jaqbilx. Il-maħfra jew l-kastig huwa f’idejn Alla fl-aħħar mill-aħħar. Għandna wkoll inżommu f’moħħna li billi wieħed iħoss xi ħaġa m’għandniex insegwu dejjem dak li nħossu. Jekk inħoss xi ħaġa jien dan ma sarx id-dritt tiegħi. Wara kollox tul is-snin kollha kellna diversi messaġġiera mingħand Alla u ħadd ma ħabbar dan it-tagħlim. Tul is-snin dejjem tgħallimna li l-imħabba għandha tkun bejn raġel u mara.

U xi tgħid dwar il-vanità?

L-Iżlam jgħid li Alla huwa ġmiel u jħobb is-sbuħija. Pereżempju m’għandna xejn kontra l-fatt li n-nisa jagħmlu l-make up. Fuq il-fatt tat-tpinġija, l-Iżlam ma jgħid xejn, imma wieħed irid iżomm f’moħħu li din hija marka permanenti fuq il-ġisem. Wara kollox din hija għażla ta’ persuni, jien bħala persuna ma naqbilx.

U dwar l-alkoħol…

Il-Kuran huwa totalment kontra l-konsum tal-alkoħol. Il-Koran jgħid li hemm ħafna vantaġġi fl-alkoħol imma l-iżvantaġġi huma ferm ikbar. Pereżempju l-inċidenti tat-traffiku li jiġu kkawżati minn konsum tal-alkoħol. Meta wieħed ikun fis-sakra jispiċċa jitlef id-dinjità tiegħu u ma jkunx jaf x’qed jagħmel. Mhux l-ewwel darba tispiċċa tisma’ b’każijiet ta’ persuni li abbużaw minn uliedhom għax kienu fis-sakra. Dawn huma affarijiet li la darba l-persuna jerġa’ jiġi konxju, dawn ħa jibqgħu fuq il-kuxjenza tal-bniedem. B’hekk jekk bniedem iżomm bogħod mill-alkoħol, iżomm ’il bogħod minn vizzji, żbalji u affarijiet li jiddispjaċih li jkun għamel. Wara kollox illum il-ġurnata qed nirrealizzaw li l-alkoħol huwa wkoll tip ta’ droga u fid-dinja tal-Punent hemm ħafna problemi personali u soċjali li bdew mill-alkoħol.

X’jingħad dwar l-infern fir-reliġjon Iżlamika?

L-infern qiegħed hemm għal min jgħix ħajja ħażina. Imma aħna mbagħad nemmnu li wara ċertu żmien dawn imorru l-ġenna. Nemmnu li wara ċertu żmien ta’ riformazzjoni kulħadd jitla’ l-ġenna. Nemmnu li iva, il-ġenna hija dejjiema, imma l-infern mhuwiex.

L-attakki li kien hemm fi Franza dan l-aħħar tefgħu dawl ikrah fuq ir-reliġjon Musulmana… xi tgħid dwar dan?

Aħna diġà kkundannajna dawn l-atti. Kienu atti barbari u atroċi u qatt ma nistgħu nappoġġjawhom. L-Iżlam ma jagħti l-ebda dritt li persuna joqtol lil ħaddieħor. Alla ma jħobbx lil dawk li jeqirdu l-paċi, b’hekk aħna nikkundannaw kull tip ta’ terroriżmu. Dan ma kienx bażi ta’ din il-vjolenza. L-Iżlam ma jagħtix dritt għall-ebda vjolenza. L-Iżlam huwa kompletament kontra l-vjolenza.

Wara kollox, sitwazzjoni bħal din għandha tiftħilna għajnejna u naraw dan kollu minn fejn hu ġej. Għandna nfittxu u naraw fejn jiġi promoss dan l-estremiżmu. Għandna nsibu l-għeruq u noħonquhom għax dawn l-affarijiet m’għandhomx jibqgħu jsiru. Hemm ħtieġa biex nirrevedu l-politiki kontra l-estremiżmu u t-terroriżmu. Huwa dmir tal-mexxejja reliġjużi u politiċi li għandhom ibiddlu n-narattiva tal-poplu tagħhom. Jekk jien bħala mexxej nara l-ħażen u ma nagħmel xejn biex nirranġah, jien ukoll responsabbli u kompliċi f’dak il-ħażen.

U xi tgħid ir-reliġjon tal-Iżlam dwar dawk li jisplodu lilhom infushom f’isem Alla?

Dan huwa wkoll dnub kbir. Fil-Quran hemm miktub “La toqtlux lilkom infuskom, Alla tabilħaqq huwa ħanin magħkom u min jagħmel hekk b’aggressjoni u inġustizzja se naħarqu fin-nar.” Jgħid ukoll “La toqtlux ir-ruħ li Alla qaddes, Alla jagħti l-ħajja u l-mewt u lejh tridu treġġgħuha lura.” Ħadd m’għandu dritt li jneħħi ħajtu.

Jiġifieri mhux vera li jekk wieħed joqtol lilu nnifsu jsib il-verġni jistennewh fil-ġenna?

Le. Dawn huma ideat żbaljati. Dan huma tgħawwiġ tal-fatti u interpretazzjonijiet ħżiena. Dawn huma punti li joħorġu minn estremisti. Meta l-mexxejja jagħtu tagħlim żbaljat, se jħallsu quddiem Alla għal dak li qed jagħmlu. Dawn huma nies li qed jiġu immanipulati u qed ikomplu jrawmu lil ħaddieħor bħalhom.

U l-opinjoni tiegħek f’isem l-Iżlam dwar l-ISIS…

Dawn qed ipenġu lilhom infushom li huma s-suċċessjoni tal-Iżlam. Iżda dan mhux minnu. Jien stess ktibt dwar l-ISIS. Il-punti huma kollha żbaljati. Huwa joqtlu, l-Iżlam iħabbar il-paċi. Kulma jagħmlu huma jikkuntradixxi t-tagħlim Iżlamiku b’mod speċjali fejn tidħol l-ubbidjenza lejn l-awtoritajiet, ir-rovina tal-paċi fost l-oħrajn. Wieħed irid iżomm f’moħħu li l-ISIS ilhom jiffurmaw. Illum il-ġurnata jingħad li l-ISIS hija l-iktar organizzazzjoni terroristika l-iktar sinjura fid-dinja, iżda minn fejn qed jiġu dawn il-flus? Kultant nattakkaw il-messaġġier, imma ma nsibux l-għeruq u dik hija l-problema. Billi qtilna lil Osama bin Laden ma fissirx li ħlisna mit-terroriżmu, ma nistgħux nibqgħu nħarsu biss lejn il-prodott t’issa, imma naraw kemm ilu u fejn dan qiegħed jinħema.             Continue Reading: 

Posted in Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, Ahmadiyya: The True Islam, Interfaith dialogue, Islam stands for peace!, Loyalty, Serving Mankind, Tolerance, Women's Rights | Leave a comment

Passion for serving humanity – Humanity First Conference

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (aba)

The World Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, the Fifth Khalifa (Caliph), His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad delivered the keynote address at the International Conference of the charity Humanity First on Saturday 24 January 2015. The 2-day conference, held at the Baitul Futuh Mosque in London, was attended by 130 delegates from 15 countries around the world.

During the keynote address, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said that serving humanity was a basic teaching of Islam and that the work of Humanity First was motivated by this very teaching. He said that the charity’s very name outlined its mission and objective – to consider and value the needs of others above one’s own needs. His Holiness began his address by quoting from the writings of the Founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, His Holiness, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (peace be upon him) who said:

“There are only two complete parts of faith. One is to love God and the other is to love mankind to such a degree that you consider the suffering and the trials and tribulations of others as your own and that you pray for them.”

Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said that Ahmadi Muslims were motivated only by a desire to please God Almighty and that they sought His help for their humanitarian and charitable activities. Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

“Ahmadi Muslims bow down in sincere prayer praying that Allah enables them to serve with a true spirit of sympathy, compassion and love for mankind. They seek Allah’s Help to develop a truly selfless spirit whereby they consider the pain and desperation of others as their own pain and desperation. They pray that they are able to remove the tribulations and suffering of other people.”

His Holiness said that the Promised Messiah (peace be upon him) had repeatedly counselled the members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community towards serving mankind. Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

Remember the Promised Messiah (as) taught his followers that one type of Waqf – that is devoting one’s life for the sake of Allah – is to serve God’s Creation and show love towards them. This requires true selflessness and love for others.”

“Serving humanity requires that a person does not rest until he has solved the problems of others and takes the weight of their burdens onto his own shoulders. It requires that a person’s heart is consumed by a love for others, whereby he cares not for his own comfort – but rather he cares only for the comfort of others. It requires that a person is ever-ready to personally absorb all forms of distress for the sake of others and to consider the pain and of others as though it is his own pain. It requires that a person is ready to bear personal suffering or anxiety so that others can live in peace and contentment.”

The very basis and purpose with which Humanity First was named – was that ‘first of all humanity’ – and one’s own pleasure and comfort is secondary. Thus, every person associated with Humanity First – whether they are part of its executive body or whether they are workers or volunteers – should understand this philosophy and this spirit.”

His Holiness concluded by saying that the key to the success of Humanity First was prayer. He said that history bore witness to the fact that Allah the Almighty had blessed the work ofHumanity First. Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad said:

Every member of Humanity First should remember that it is through prayer and prayer alone that his or her efforts will be blessed. All positive results are due to Allah’s blessings… This is the very reason that our efforts are continually blessed and Insha’Allah will always continue to be. Certainly, the scale of the work being done by Humanity First far exceeds the funds that it has available.”

Concluding, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad prayed:

“May Allah enable Humanity First to go from strength to strength and enable all of you to work with that spirit of sincerity and love for humanity, which the Promised Messiah (as) inculcated and taught.”

Posted in Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, Ahmadiyya: The True Islam, Caliphate - Khilafat, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Human Rights, Humanitarian Work - Serving Mankind, Humanity First, Jihad, Serving Mankind | Leave a comment

Sanctity of life, freedom of speech, common good, tolerance & harmony

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NEWS.MT Discusses Jihad, freedom of faith and speech

Posted in Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, Ahmadiyya: The True Islam, Holy Prophet Muhammad, Human Rights, Humanity First, Interfaith dialogue, Islam stands for peace!, Islamophobia!, Jesus, Jihad, Laiq Ahmed Atif, Love for all - Hatred for none | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

King Abdullah condolences

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community offers its condolences to the people of Saudi Arabia upon the passing of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Abdullah bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud on 23 January 2015. Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him shall we return. (Holy Quran, Chapter 2, 157)

May Allah the Almighty grant Saudi Arabia’s new monarch, King Salman bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud the ability to serve his people in the very best way and to conduct all of his duties with wisdom and according to the true and peaceful teachings of Islam.

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Fundamentalism, intolerance & freedom of speech

Posted in Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, Ahmadiyya: The True Islam, Harmony, Holy Prophet Muhammad, Interfaith dialogue, Islam stands for peace!, Islamophobia!, Jihad, Love for all - Hatred for none, Tolerance | Tagged | Leave a comment

Response to the Paris attacks

Response to the #Parisattacks, meaning of #Jihad & Islamic view point on #Terrorism
NewsBook on RTK-Radio.

Posted in Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, Ahmadiyya: The True Islam, Holy Prophet Muhammad, Interfaith dialogue, Islam, Islam stands for peace!, Islamophobia!, Jesus, Jihad, Laiq Ahmed Atif | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Il-Blasfemija u l-Iżlam

Il-Blasfemija u l-IzlamSource: It-Torca, 18 ta’ Jannar 2015, (Laiq Ahmed Atif) 

It-tolleranza, l-armonija, l-imħabba, l-unur, u r-rispett lejn oħrajn huma valuri sodi u tajba ħafna. Dawn il-valuri huma l-bażi ta’ soċjetà armonjuża. Sfortunatament naraw li hemm nies li ma jurux imħabba, affezzjoni u rispett reċiproku. Xi drabi naraw li dan in-nuqqas ta’ rispett jidher ukoll kontra personaġġi reliġjużi ta’ reliġjonijiet differenti. Minħabba dan, hemm nies li jieħdu l-liġi f’idejhom u jgħidu li dawk li ma jirrespettawx lin-nies reliġjużi għandhom jiġu kkastigati, u hemm li jemmnu li l-kastig tal-blasfemija huwa l-piena tal-mewt.

Kull sena naraw kif xi nies jiġu akkużati b’dawn l-allegazzjonijiet ta’ blasfemija u naraw kif xi wħud minnhom saħansitra anke jiġu attakkati u maqtula. Dawn l-inċidenti jseħħu l-aktar f’pajjiżi bħas-Sudan, l-Iran, is-Sirja u l-Pakistan fost l-oħrajn.

Riċenti, folla kbira ta’ nies inġabru u sawtu koppja Nisranija għax skonthom, dil-koppja  ħarqet xi paġni mill-Koran, u fl-aħħar ramewhom fi brick kiln u ħarquhom fin-nar. Fl-2010, Asia Bibi, mara Nisranija u omm ta’ ħamest itfal ġiet akkużata bl-akkużi ta’ blasfemija u ngħtatat is-sentenza tal-mewt. F’Lulju rajna li fil-Guġranwala, fil-Pakistan, folla kbira ta’ nies attakkat id-djar ta’ membri tal-Komunità Ahmadija Musulmana u qatlu erba’ persuni inkluż tlett itfal, waqt li omm tqila tilfet li wildha f’ġufha b’konsegwenza tal-attakk.

Dawn huma ftit minn ħafna inċidenti sfortunati li seħħew dan l-aħħar. Jien nikkundana dawn inċidenti kollha u kull inċident simili. Meta wieħed janalizza dawn l-inċidenti jsib li ħafna drabi dawn l-akkużi jkunu foloz, għajr għal vendetta personali. Nappella lill-awtoritajiet biex dawk ħatja mill-qtil, jidhru quddiem il-ġustizzja sabiex jiġu kkastigati għall-atti barbari tagħhom.

Inħoss li dan huwa wkoll id-dmir tiegħi biex nispjega x’jgħid l-Iżlam dwar il-blasfemija u kif irreaġixxa l-Qaddis Profeta Muħammad (paċi tkun miegħu) għal atti ta’ blasfemija li seħħu fuqu.

Fil-qosor, m’hemmx kastig uman fl-Iżlam għal min jidgħi. L-ebda kastig ma jinsab fil-Koran Imqaddes, jew f’xi waħda mit-tradizzjonijiet tal-Qaddis Profeta Muħammad. L-Iżlam jippromwovi r-rispett kbir għar-reliġjonijiet kollha u għall-Fundaturi, għall-Kotba, għad-drawwiet u għat-tradizzjonijiet reliġjużi tagħhom. L-Iżlam jippromwovi l-armonija, it-tolleranza u l-ħbiberija fost is-segwaċi tar-reliġjonijiet differenti f’ġieħ il-paċi fis-soċjetà u ma jsemmi l-ebda kastig għal min jidgħi minkejja l-fatt ta’ offiża li tista’ tweġġa’ lil dawk li jemmnu.

Il-Koran Imqaddes isemmi li din il-kwistjoni tal-blasfemija mhix xi fenomenu ġdid, u juri b’mod ċar li l-profeti u l-messaġġiera kollha ta’ Alla kienu ppersegwitati, imweġġgħin, abbużati, redikolati u mżebilħa mhux biss matul ħajjithom iżda wkoll wara mewthom. “Jaħasra l-qaddejja! Ma jiġix għalihom Messaġġier li ma jiddiħkux bih.” (Il-Koran, 36:31)

Naturalment wieħed jistaqsi: X’kienet ir-reazzjoni tal-profeti quddiem il-blasfemija? Fil-Koran Imqaddes Alla jgħid li: “Tabilħaqq kien hemm Messaġġiera qablek li ġew miċħuda; iżda minkejja li kienu miċħuda u ppersegwitati huma wrew paċenzja, sa ma ġiethom l-għajnuna tagħna. M’hemm xejn li jista’ jbiddel il-Kliem ta’ Alla.” (Il-Koran, 6:35)

Din il-blasfemija saret ukoll kontra l-Qaddis Profeta Muħammad. Kien ukoll ittorturat fiżikament, ippersegwitat u mżeblaħ. Kien hemm mara li kienet twaddablu ż-żibel ta’ kuljum kull meta kien ikun fi triqtu lejn il-moskea biex jitlob. Meta mar il-belt ta’ Taif biex jgħaddilhom il-messaġġ ta’ Alla, kien imħaġġar minn vagabondi u xxellerati, u ġrew warajh it-tfal tat-triq u ssuttawh sakemm iċ-ċangaturi tal-art saru ħomor b’demmu. U fuq l-art tal-battalja ta’ Uħud il-Profeta Muħammad kien ferut serjament. In-nies ta’ Mekka ta’ spiss waddbu ż-żibel lejn il-Profeta Muħammad. Darba minnhom meta kien qed jitlob fil-Kaaba, tefgħu l-imsaren ta’ ġemel fuq dahru.   

Is-segwaċi tiegħu kienu ppersegwitati severament u l-art tal-Arabja djieqet u saret saffokanti. Tħallew barra fix-xemx tisreġ, tqiegħed ħaġar jaħraq fuq sidirhom, tkaxkru mat-toroq bħal karkassi ta’ annimali mejta u mobbli oħra, kienu bbojkottjati soċjalment u mġiegħla jgħixu f’wied għal tliet snin mill-iktar twal u iebsa. Kienu mċaħħda mil-libertà, mill-propjetà u minn ħwejjiġhom. L-iġsma tagħhom tqattgħu u tferrxu ma’ kullimkien; il-fwied taz-ziju tal-Profeta saħansitra ġie mittiekel. Nisa tqal kienu mitfugħa minn fuq l-iġmla.

Il-Koran Imqaddes jiddikjara: “Tabilħaqq, dawk li jċanfru lil Alla u ’l-Messaġġier Tiegħu – Alla jisħethom f’din id-dinja u fl-Oħra, u ħejja kastig għalihom li jbaxxihom.” (Il-Koran, 33:58)

Kemm jispjega b’mod ċar il-Koran li Alla biss għandu l-awtorità li jikkastiga lil dawk li jidgħu kontra Alla u l-Profeti Tiegħu. Alla ma ppermetta lil ħadd, lanqas lill-Profeta Muħammad biex jikkastiga lil dawn in-nies.

Sfortunatament, ħafna nies madwar id-dinja, inkluż ħafna Musulmani,  jemmnu li l-blasfemija hi att li għandu jiġi kkastigat fid-dinja, u li l-Musulmani għandhom id-dmir li jikkastigaw liż-żeblieħa u lill-blasfemi. Jemmnu li jekk xi ħadd jitkellem kontra Alla, il-Profeta  Muħammad, il-Koran u l-Iżlam għandu jiġi kkastigat bil-piena tal-mewt.

Iżda, ir-realtà hi kompletament differenti minn dawn il-kunċetti, u l-Iżlam ma jitkellem imkien dwar kastigi ta’ din id-dinja diretti lejn il-blasfemija. L-ebda mewt jew kastig ieħor. Anke, il-Profeta Muħammad għamilha assolutament ċara li m’hemm l-ebda kastig ta’ din id-dinja għall-blasfemija u li din il-kwistjoni hi f’idejn Alla biss. U f’ħajtu kollha qatt ma ta l-ebda kastig li għamel blasfemija miegħu, barra dan, ħafrilhom u wera mħabba u simpatija lejhom.

Ħafer lil dawk li ttorturawh fil-belt ta’ Taif, ħafer lil Ħinda li ċarrtet sider zijuh, lil Ħabbar li qatel numru ta’ Musulmani inkluż il-qtil ta’ bintu; ħafer ukoll lil dawk li poġġewlu l-imsaren ta’ ġemel fuq dahru meta kien qiegħed jitlob. Ma kkastigax lanqas lill-mara Lhudija li tefgħetlu l-valenu fil-laħam biex toqtlu, fost l-oħrajn.

Dan kienet ir-reazzjoni u t-tweġiba tal-Qaddis Profeta Muħammad lejn dawk li kienu jużaw, b’mod aħrax, il-blasfemija fil-konfront tiegħu. Hu kien raġel ta’ ħniena kbira, bniedem ta’ prinċipju u bniedem li għex ħajja msejsa fuq il-verità u xejn inqas mill-verità. It-tagħlim tal-Koran u l-ħajja tal-Profeta Muħammad iwaqqgħu l-ideat żbaljati u n-nuqqas kollu ta’ ftehim li hemm fuq jekk il-blasfemija għandhiex tkun ikkastigata jew le mill-bniedem jew mill-istat; u tħalli l-awtorità kollha f’idejn Alla u din hi realtà suprema u kmandament ta’ Alla, u nemmen li “m’hemm xejn li jista’ jbiddel il-Kliem ta’ Alla”.

Posted in Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, Ahmadiyya: The True Islam, Harmony, Holy Prophet Muhammad, Interfaith dialogue, Jihad | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Islam upholds freedom of speech

Source: The Times, Wednesday, January 14, 2015, by Laiq Ahmed Atif

Like every sane and rational person, Muslims around the world are shocked and deeply hurt by the Paris attacks which left so many dead and injured. It is even more painful that this attack was done in the name of Prophet Muhammad – the messenger of peace – and Islam, the religion of peace and reconciliation.

Islam teaches tolerance, love for others, respect, mutual understanding and kindness. We stand united against these terrorists.

The worldwide leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, has also categorically condemned the attacks and prayed for peace in the world.

Speaking during his weekly Friday sermon, delivered in London, he said: “The perpetrators of this brutal attack may seek to justify their acts in the name of Islam and its Holy Founder Muhammad (peace be upon him) but their acts have no relation whatsoever to the true teachings of Islam. Nowhere does Islam permit taking the law into one’s own hands or to injure or murder anyone. Yet these so-called Muslims and Muslim groups still do not abstain from such cruelties and atrocities.”

The attacks have ignited a debate about freedom of speech and many are questioning whether Islam upholds the value of freedom of expression.

Freedom of speech and expression is vital to the spread of any message as well as to restore the dignity of man. In fact, it is impossible for a religion like Islam to deny freedom of speech and expression.

On the contrary, Islam upholds this principle in a great manner, as the Holy Quran declares: “Have they taken gods besides Him! Say, ‘Bring forth your proof’”(21:25). “We shall draw from every people a witness and we shall say to them, ‘Bring your proof’” (28:76). “Or have you a clear authority? Then provide your Book if you are truthful” (37:157-128).

I have just presented a few examples where it is abundantly clear that Islam not only upholds the value of freedom of expression but also says that people should speak and present their arguments to support their claim, without any fear and hesitation, but with decency and civility.

“The perpetrators of this brutal attack may seek to justify their acts in the name of Islam and its Holy Founder Muhammad (peace be upon him) but their acts have no relation whatsoever to the true teachings of Islam”

Islam champions the cause of liberty and freedom of expression, but not in a manner as to cause disorder, chaos and indiscriminate vengeance causing suffering to the innocent. “And God does not like disorder” (2:206) is the message of Islam.

Islam, like every other religion, emphasises the role of balanced freedom in a spirit of give and take. The concept of absolute freedom is hollow, weird and unreal in the context of society. Sometimes, the concept of freedom is so misconceived and misapplied that the beauty of the cherished principle of freedom of speech gets transformed into the ugliness of freedom to abuse, hurl insults and to blaspheme. I think it is rightly said that “your freedom ends where my nose begins”.

Thus, it is highly essential and critical to make a distinction between protecting free speech and promoting moral and wise speech. The promotion of respect and dignity is as essential as the protection of freedom of speech. Both are core values of a prosperous and harmonious society, and must go alongside each other, without compromising any of these.

This is why the Holy Quran – while championing free speech for all people – prescribes that Muslims hold themselves to a higher standard and says: “And good and evil are not alike. Repel evil with that which is best” (41:35); “Call… with wisdom and goodly exhortation, and argue with them in a way that is best” (16:126). Muslims are also commanded to respect the religious sentiments of others. The Quran states: “And abuse not those whom they call upon beside Allah, lest they, out of spite, abuse Allah in their ignorance” (6:109).

During the last few centuries, in subcontinental India, there was a split between Muslims and Hindus on the issue of cows. The founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community presented a feasible solution and said that, for the establishment of peace and harmony, Muslims could stop slaughtering and eating the meat of cows because it is considered holy by the Hindus. He said, “Remember if we are permitted to eat something, it does not follow that we have to eat it. Everything permissible is not obligatory.”

He also instructed Muslims to treat Hindus with respect and let decent behaviour be their second nature, and that they refrain from all such measures that might cause them pain.

I think the time has ripened and this should be a decisive moment for having healthy discussions and reaching conclusions about the limits and codes of free speech. It would be ideal if governments made sure that people’s religious sentiments were not hurt, as this leads to chaos and conflict, and that no one be allowed to take the law into their own hands and injure or kill people.

I don’t see it as a restriction or sanction on free speech, but a step forward for fostering the values of respect, tolerance, harmony, bridging the gaps and a move for the establishment of a peaceful and harmonious society – the fruits of which will be cherished by all mankind.  (amjmalta@gmail.com)  FIND MORE IN THE TIMES:

Posted in Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, Ahmadiyya: The True Islam, Harmony, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Holy Prophet Muhammad, Interfaith dialogue, Islam, Jihad, Laiq Ahmed Atif, Tolerance | Tagged , , , , , , | Leave a comment

It-terroriżmu mhux reliġjon

Dawn il-kapijiet għad iridu jidhru quddiem alla u jħallsu ta’ dak li għamlu, it-terroriżmu mhux reliġjon

Illum: Il-President tal-Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat fil-programm Reporter fuq TVM

Mistqosi dwar l-Islam li suppost hi reliġjon bażata fuq il-paċi mill-preżentatur Saviour Balzan, Laiq Ahmed Atif qal, “Jihad ma tfissirx li toqtol, iżda battalja interna. It-terroristi huma terroristi. It-terroriżmu mhux reliġjon. Hemm bżonn aktar djalogu bejn ir-reliġjonijiet, fejn għandna inxerrdu imħabba u mhux mibegħda.”

Mitlub jikkumenta dwar il-karikaturi dwar Mohammed jekk offendewhx hu qal, “Fejn narahom naqleb l-istazzjon, iżda Mohammed qatt ma ħema vjolenza. Fil-fatt hu qal li jekk xi ħadd jattakkak bil-pinna għandek tirritalja bil-pinna.”

Dwar għaliex ċerti Iżlamiċi jirritaljaw bi vjolenza, Atif qal li hemm diversi raġunijiet li jwasslu biex in-nies jirritaljaw b’dan il-mod. “Hemm in-nuqqas ta’ edukazzjoni, in-nuqqas ta’ xogħol, fristrazzjoni u anke l-‘brain washing’ ta’ ċertu kapijiet. Ħafna minnhom huma ġejjin mill-faqar, orfni u jdaħħlulhom f’moħħhom li triq waħda għandhom biex isibu ħajja aħjar li jagħmlu dawk l-atti. Huma jiġu mwegħda l-ġenna. Fuq min għandha tintefa l-ħtija fuq dawn l-imsejkna jew fuq il-kapijiet tagħhom? Dawn il-kapijiet għad iridu jidhru quddiem alla u jħallsu ta’ dak li għamlu.”

Il-Musulmani għandhom dritt li ma jiġux offiżi qal l-leader musulman, “Il-liberta tal-espressjoni hi dritt, iżda l-umanita għandha dritt ukoll. L-Iżlam jgħid li dak kollu li wieħed jagħmel irid isir b’diċenza. Iva dawk li pinġew il-karikaturi għandhom dritt jagħmlu dan, iżda anke l-musulmani għandhom dritt. Dritt li ma jiġux offiżi.”

Atif qal li hu ma jaf bl-ebda immam f’Malta li qed jippriedka tagħlim inflammatorju fost il-musulmani li hawn Malta. “Anzi l-kontra, kull musulman għandu jintegra u jobdi l-liġijiet tal-pajjiż fejn ikun qed jgħix. L-imħabba lejn artek hi parti mill-fidi musulmana. Jekk ngħix Malta irrid inħobb lil Malta. Jekk jien musulman ħażin nagħmel li rrid, iżda jekk jien musulman tajjeb inħobb l-art li ngħix fiha.” Find More in Illum:

Posted in Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, Ahmadiyya: The True Islam, Islam, Jihad | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Good Muslims love the country they live in

Love of one's country is a part of faithGood Muslims love the country they live in – Laiq Ahmed Atif

Source: MaltaToday, 14 January 2015.

The appalling murder of French cartoonists from the satirical publication Charlie Hebdo at the hands of Islamic extremists last week was the topic of debate on the latest edition of TV discussion programme Reporter.

Programme host Saviour Balzon asked Laiq Ahmed Atif, President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Malta, about Islam being a religion of peace, confronting him in particular with the fact that there are many who interpret passages from the Koran which advocate violence in a literal sense.

“Jihad is not about killing, it is an internal struggle. Terrorists are terrorists. Terrorism is not a religion” explained Atif. “We need more dialogue between religions, which should spread love not hate”.

Philosopher Joe Friggieri said his initial reaction to the Paris killings was one of shock. “It was cold blooded murder and no further descriptions are necessary.

“This attack was not only on the journalists themselves, but also on free journalism and freedom of expression”.

This, he said, led to the historic reaction by the French who demonstrated that they would not tolerate this manner of intolerance.

“Islamic militancy represents a minority, not the majority of Muslims. However it must be said that in the majority of Muslim countries they do not enjoy the freedom of expression and liberties that we have here. “

Friggieri described the participation of French Muslims in the protests after the shootings as a statement saying that they identify themselves as French first and foremost and Muslims second.

Balzan quizzed panel guest and cartoonist Ġorġ Mallia on cartoons that offend. “Are there limits on cartoon satire?” he asked.

Satire and offence must be judged in the context of culture, answered the cartoonist. As an example, he said that in Malta the reaction to provocative art is conditioned by the Church and that, at least in his experience, Malta wasn’t ready. “In fact I had attempted to broach this subject in the past but the reaction was very negative.”

Mallia described offence as central to the very nature of the cartoon as an art form. “It offends. The French are very liberal in the cultural sense– they wanted to test the limit of freedom of expression with these cartoons”.

Asked if the cartoons of the prophet Mohammed offended him, Atif said that they did. “I switch channels if I see them, but Mohammed, peace be upon him, did not endorse violence. In fact he had said that if someone attacks you with the pen, you must retaliate with the pen.”

Broadcaster and historian Charles Xuereb described the reaction to the attacks as unprecedented.  “The reaction is shocking, even in the context of the libertarian culture of Paris. You saw three million Parisians marching for liberty yesterday”

He did not think that the caricatures by Charlie Hebdo were the cause of the violence, citing France’s history with Algeria – the attackers’ country of origin – global terrorism and the fact that France is a symbol of liberty as more realistic factors. “They wanted to attack the birthplace, the symbol of liberty.”

Balzan pointed out that in the past months and years there have been a number of atrocities carried out by Islamic militants; Pakistan saw massacres of children, violence between Sunni and Shia all over the Middle East and asked the panel whether calling Islam a peaceful religion could be described as hypocrisy.

Friggieri commentet that he would often try to embrace the point of view that Islam is a religion of peace, “but when you see the atrocities and the punishments of Sharia law you ask yourself whether this is true”.

“What happened in Paris was that the atrocities did not take place in a faraway foreign land, governed by those laws, where we would say ‘what a shame’. It happened in the centre of Europe – and it shocks. Will it happen again? The majority of the 150 million French Muslims are not this way inclined.”

He laid the blame at the feet of those Muslim preachers who “need to learn that the West views religion the same way as any other philosophy – open to discussion and criticism and not on a pedestal.”

Xuereb disagreed, saying that the Algerian connection cannot be ignored. “While it is no longer a colonising power, the history between France with Algeria is not a happy one,” he said, mentioning the 1961 massacre of 75 Algerians whose bodies were thrown in the Seine, which resulted in the reprisal killings of eight French nationals.

Balzan pointed out that in Algeria hundreds of journalists have been murdered without a whisper of protest by the West.

Cartoonist Gorg Mallia dismissed the religious aspect entirely, saying that terrorists are simply criminals looking for a justification to murder. “They are also doing a lot of damage by allowing the far right to gain a fingerhold in Europe”.

Atif, asked what his opinion of the factors that drive people to perform these acts, said there are many reasons. “There is a lack of education, a lack of employment, frustration. There is also brainwashing by leaders. Many poor people, orphans, are brainwashed into thinking that this is the only way they can better themselves. They expect paradise, but the point is where does the blame lie? On the children or on the leaders? The leaders will have to appear before God and give an account for their actions.”

Muslims have a right to not be offended, said the local Muslim leader. “Freedom of expression is a right, but humankind also has rights. Islam says everything one does should be done with decency – yes the cartoonists have a right, but so do Muslims. A right not be offended.“

Mallia believes the central issue is protection of power, however. “We are talking about power, the Imams are looking for material power and are sending people to be cannon fodder. The Imams never ask their children to be suicide bombers.”

“The pen is also a powerful weapon,” added the cartoonist.

Friggieri said there is already a danger that the Maltese, who “do not like immigrants much already”, will begin to view all immigrants as terrorists, also pointing out however that “there is no guarantee that what that happened in Paris will not happen here”.

“The only weapon is vigilance.”

Atif said that he was not aware of any instances of Imams spreading inflammatory teaching amongst the Maltese Muslim community. To the contrary, Atif said, every Muslim should integrate and obey the laws of the land they live in. “The love of your country is part of your faith. If I live in Malta I should love Malta. If I am a bad Muslim, I can do what I want, but if I am a good Muslim, I will love the country I live in”.

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