Statement of the Fiqh Council of North America on the Day of Remembrance of the Tragic Events of September 11

Statement of the Fiqh Council of North America on the Day of Remembrance of the Tragic Events of September 11, 2001

The Fiqh [juristic] Council of North America reiterates its earlier, repeated, unequivocal and unqualified condemnation of the destruction and violence committed against innocent men and women on September 11, 2001. This condemnation is deeply rooted in true Islamic values based on the Qur'anic instructions which consider the unjust killing of a single person equivalent to the killing of all humanity (Quran, 5:32). It also forbids destruction and mischief on earth (Quran, 28:77,83). This violence is contrary to the authentic universal core message of peace, love, tolerance and mutual co-operation taught by Islam and all of God's Prophets.

The Council expresses its deepest sympathies to the families and friends of those who lost their loved ones in this act of violence, including Muslims victims. It also condemns any subsequent acts of violence and victimization of Muslims or others.

The Council supports bringing the perpetrators of this violence to justice before a competent court of law and in accordance with due process of law.

The Council expresses its appreciation to all those who participated in the rescue operation and those who donated blood and money, both from within the Muslim community and from the broader community.

The Council notes with gratitude the continued support received by the Muslim community from their fellow citizens, especially from the interfaith community in the face of acts of harassment, violence and disregard of their civil rights and those of any American citizen.

The Council calls on their fellow American, on the official, interfaith and public levels to reject and speak up against all divisive voices that seeks to divide the nation along religious lines. Also, against all attempt to use the media to incite hatred against any religious faiths or followers.

May God bring unity, peace and justice to this nation of ours and to all nations of the world.

On behalf of the Fiqh Council of North America,
Dr. Taha Jabir Alalwani, Chairman of the Council

For more information, contact: the Fiqh Council of North America: fiqh@fiqhcouncil.org
=======
Date: August 29, 2002