The problem with Islam is exactly that is followers can interpret the writings any way they want. This makes it highly useful for those who choose to use an ideology of violence, as it justifies it.
There is no “pope” of Islam to identify the “true faith” – but rather a document of “infinite” interpretations. In Islam in many cultures, anyone can proclaim himself an interpreter and issue “holy” orders
Historically, followers of Islam have been very war-like, in the name of spreading Islam. Even the Christian crusades started as an attempt to roll back an Islamic conquest (by war). Today’s Jihad is not new – it is a continuation of a war of conquest that paused only while the European powers were too strong to be defeated, and instead conquered (out of colonialism, not religion) Muslim lands.
Of the major religions in modern times, Islam has generated by far the most conflict and oppression. There is a “ring of fire” around the lands of Islam, as Islamists attack the infidels there. From Thailand to Indonesia to Africa to the Middle East, we see this.
Today, the more extreme (Islamist or Salafist) interpretations are spreading rapidly among Muslims, especially young people most prone to violence. Many use this to their advantage – from the nihilist Al Qaeda to the apocalyptic Iranian president and his (perhaps more earthly minded) Ayatollah superiors.
A deafening silence comes from the Muslim world. Where is the condemnation of even the worst atrocities of jihadists by Muslims. How can we believe that moderate Muslims exist or are of any importance under these circumstances? That silence is more eloquent than any intellectual interpretation of the Koran.
The processor is to be commended for speaking out against the jihadists.
