Islam means peace, not war

They wage wars against their leaders and rulers. They believe it is a lawful Jihad and for them it means cruelty, killing innocent people and brutality.

They possess a little knowledge about Jihad. Jihad means tolerance, love, justice, compassion, sympathy and the rights of people at all times.

Certain governments are failing to protect their citizens which makes the rebels rise in violent opposition. There is a breakdown in society in Muslim countries that fail to live peacefully and believe in violent destruction.

A number of Muslim terrorist groups commit atrocities and export them abroad.

In the past year terrorist attacks were committed in Paris, Brussels, Orlando and now Manchester where innocent people have been slaughtered mercilessly.

Muslims have an obligation to pray for peace for other people regardless of their religion.

Prophet Muhammad warned us that it was necessary to desire for others whatever we desire for ourselves. If we want peace, security, love, respect and comfort for ourselves we must wish it for non-Muslims.

Let us remember that Islam means peace and not war.

AHAMAD KHAYYAM Curepe