AN ISLAMIC religious movement advocating peace, tolerance, love and understanding will be coming to Gisborne to exhibit the Muslim holy scripture, the Quran.

Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at describes itself as a revival movement within Islam that works to restore the faith to its true, non-violent form.

The sect, whose motto is “love for all and hatred for none”, claims tens of millions of members living in 209 countries.

The New Zealand chapter, based in Auckland, has given exhibitions and seminars across the North Island. It will be their first visit to Gisborne.

Organisers say they hope the first rays of sunshine Gisborne enjoys will help shed the truth on Islam.

“There are a lot of negative stereotypes projected in the media,” Imam Shafiq ur Rehman said.

“We want to put the book before the people and show there is nothing that supports violence and terrorism.”

Free and open to all

The exhibition is free and open to members of all faiths and atheists. It will feature a display of about 50 translations of the Holy Quran in various world languages along with a series of placards carrying key teachings on fundamental and topical issues. There will also be short seminars discussing whether the Quran condones or condemns terrorism.

Organisers say they want the public to know that the true nature of Islam is to spread peace and tolerance.

“The one fundamental principle of Islam is that there is no compulsion in the matters of religion,” Mr Rehman said.

“We promote freedom of conscience, freedom of expression, and freedom of faith.”

The New Zealand branch of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at was established in 1987 and has close to 500 members. It has published the te reo translation of the Quran and owns the largest purpose-built mosque in New Zealand.

The upcoming Quran exhibition takes place on Saturday, November 5 and will be held at the hall of NZ Chinese Association on 75 Disraeli Street. The Quran will be open for public viewing from 9.30am to 4.30pm. Seminars discussing the Quran and terrorism will be held throughout the day.