Source: reflector.com

The recent attack upon the satirical magazine, Charlie Hebdo, in Paris is absolutely atrocious. These acts are committed by radicals that do not represent true Islam.

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community categorically condemns these terrible acts and our prayers and condolences go out to the families of the victims.

The Promised Messiah and founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad said: “Think of the preparations that the opponents of Islam are now making. They are not lining up armies. They are publishing magazines and books. We also should, therefore, pick up our pen and answer their attacks with magazines and books.”

Muslims should respond to criticisms against Islam and prophet Muhammad with arguments and reasoning and by the power of the pen. With that in mind, critics and satirists must be mindful of the sentiments of Muslims and not use their freedom of speech irresponsibly. Muslims have a deep love for prophet Muhammad and it is wrong for satirists to willfully arouse their feelings and sentiments.

To be clear, however, the attack in Paris is totally un-Islamic and must be condemned by all who claim to follow the peaceful religion of Islam.”

RIZWAN DARD

Raleigh