Written and collected by Zia H Shah MD, Chief Editor of the Muslim Times

The divisive language that Putin is using that you can find and hear in the CNN video linked below is common place in wartimes. I am reminded of a quote of President George W. Bush, “Either you are with us or with the terrorists.” This may actually be the only language of war.

It may have some partial justification in war times when national security is at stake and every one is scared for his or her life.

So, I am not going to examine it today from the perspective of psychology or ‘Just and Defensive war.’ A preemptive war may actually be a war crime as I heard today on CNN that targeting civilians is a war crime. It came as an epiphany for me today, as I had never heard it before. But, I certainly support it, as my fundamental belief is, “Every human life is precious and sacred and killing an innocent life is like triggering a genocide.” (Al Quran 5:32)

The reason why I bring this out is that such rhetoric should never be used in peace time to divide brother against brother or sect against sect among the Muslims.

Please watch the said video in CNN

Suggested reading to understand divisive politicians and religious leaders

Kripkean Dogmatism: The Best Metaphor to Understand Religious and Political Debates

Refuting Islamophobia and Tribalism of the Muslim Sects: Demystifying ‘the Other’ by Harris Zafar

What is a war crime, and could Putin be prosecuted over Ukraine?

A Gem, A Quranic Verse: Is the Ukrainian Blood Holier Than the Middle Eastern?

Clare Daly an Irish MEP: Afghani Blood is As Holy As Ukranian

Joel Osteen’s Video: Enlarging the Circle of Love

How the Ukraine war is dividing Orthodox Christians

Suggested reading for living in the image of the Loving and the Most Merciful God

Thirty Plus Quotes from the Poet of Love

Two Hundred Verses about Compassionate Living in the Quran

A Message of Compassion and Love from the Holy Bible

True Fasting: A Message of Compassion and Love from the Old Testament

Abou Ben Adhem, A Compassionate Man

‘Love Hormone,’ How it works in Hospitality?

‘Love Hormone’ Oxytocin May Enhance Feelings Of Spirituality

I am a Jew, a Catholic, a Christian and a Muslim; I am Zia H Shah