By InterFaith Works of Central New York
on June 04, 2016 at 6:00 AM
This feature is coordinated by The Post-Standard/Syracuse.com and InterFaith Works of CNY. Follow this theme and author posted Sunday through Saturday.

Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal
InterFaith Works of Central New York
True Islam believes in unified spiritual leadership to peacefully guide Muslims. This understanding stems directly from the Holy Qur’an and Prophet Muhammad’s example. Indeed, the Qur’an teaches that sectarian violence exists today as a form of punishment from God for refusal to unite under spiritual leadership. The Holy Qur’an implores Muslims to promote peace by remaining united, “Hold fast, all together, by the rope of Allah and be not divided… (3:104) Therefore, True Islam teaches that it is incumbent upon Muslims to remain united as one community, as this is the best protection against violence and discord.
Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal is President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Syracuse chapter. A Radiation Oncologist, he formerly practiced in Auburn. Dr. Iqbal is currently Medical Director of Buffalo Medical Group, Buffalo, New York.