Dutch MP Proposes Ban on Qu’ran

A couple of days ago, I was flipping channels when I came across a story on BBC News that frustrated me- and made me a little angry.

According to BBC, a Dutch MP proposed to ban the Qu’ran in the Netherlands. He compared the Qu’ran to “Mein Kamph,” a book written by Adolf Hitler, the leader of fascist Germany during World War II.

The UK Reuters website reported that MP Geertz Wilder said, “Ban this wretched book just like Mein Kamph is banned. Send a signal… to Islamists that the Koran can never, ever be used in our country as an excuse or inspiration for violence.”

I couldn’t believe my eyes and ears after watching the story. I couldn’t believe that elected politicians could be so ignorant.

I am aware of the stereotypes broadcasted by news media about Muslims being evil, turban-wearing terrorists – but that is not who I am. So, as a Muslim, I feel it is my responsibility to give people like MP Wilder an education.

To me, the Qu’ran is far from “an excuse or inspiration for violence.”

If MP Wilder read the Qu’ran, he would know that the Qu’ran like other religious books provides guidance, encourages peace and good will, and helps people lead fulfilling spiritual lives. It also brings hope and healing.

Religious texts make up a substantial part of South Asian literature. They are the pieces of a mosaic that encourage the diversity of languages, colours and ideas – especially in India.

It is sad that a few terrorists have been able to manipulate Islam to feed their own interests. But war, bombs and violence is not what Islam is to me, or the majority of Muslims.

I am glad that the Dutch government is not supporting Wilder’s preposterous and racist views.  In fact, I believe MP Wilder’s statements ironically coincide with Hitler’s plan to eradicate the Jewish people. MP Wilder has publicly spoken out about banning headscarves/ burqa’s worn by Muslim women and preventing Muslims from immigrating to the Netherlands as well.

I appreciate being able to live in a country that encourages religious freedom. I am fortunate that I am able to cover my head, read my Qu’ran and attend mosque – without fear. I hope MP Wilder realizes that his remarks are not only ignorant, but hurtful to many Muslims. It is time that we learn from history and move forward with open minds and open books.

Comments

[sherry]

o wow...what is happening here!, I am right behind you!..this is terrible how could someone say that!

[Nazia]

Awesome blog - Tasneem. It is unfortunate that there are such ignorant people in the world, and even more unfortunate that those targeted have to continue to defend their own religion.

PS: I am halfway through 'Girls of Riyadh' and can't put that book down! Thanks for the recommendation!

[Preet]

Dear Tasneem,
I can see where you are coming from with your outrage at such comments. As a Sikh, comments having to do with any man wearing a turban being identified as a threat/terrorist is indignifying and ignorant.
Having recently read a biography, entitled 'Infidel', by Ms. Ayan Hirsi Magan Ali, who used to be a Dutch politician, I can sort of see where such comments are coming from.
Around the late 1990s and early 2000 timeframe, a lot of changes took place in the Netherlands in accordance to women's rights from minority groups and access to religious (mainly Islamist) schools. As a result of an uncovering of some staggering data on the realities of Muslim women living in the Netherlands, a lot of changes have taken place. Some for the good, and in this case, for the bad.
Thought I would share that tidbit of information with you. If you haven't already, you should take a look at 'Infidel' - a very though provoking read!