Al-Qaida Is Not Islam: A Reminder on Religious Tolerance

It’s all too rare for us to have a true moment of national unity. We had one Sunday at the news that Osama bin Laden, the terrorist leader of al-Qaida, had been killed.

Midway through President Obama’s remarks about the operation, he said, “We must also reaffirm that the U.S. is not, and never will be, at war with Islam.”

It amazes me that in our pluralistic community there are still people hostile toward Islam. Not long ago, a fellow sailor told me that he considered Muslims to be “devil worshippers.”

I've had several Muslim friends over the years, from Iran, Pakistan and, yes, the U.S. They have been both secular and religious, drinkers and teetotalers.

As with any religious text, the Quran can be quoted out of context. My personal copy was given to me by a former student from Iran. It’s a beautiful bound volume in green with gold lettering, in both Arabic and English.  

The opening bears mentioning here: “Glory to God, Most High, full of Grace and Mercy.” The verse goes on to say how God created man, giving him “understanding” and “spiritual insight.” It's hardly a clarion call for intolerance. Yet this was the text that Florida fundamentalist pastor Terry Jones burned—an insult to anybody who believes in God.

The next time you pass the beautiful King Fahad Mosque on Washington Boulevard remember that inside are fellow Angelenos praying to God in their own constitutionally protected way.

No, Mr. President, the war was never against Islam. Thanks for reminding us.