God Cannot be Monopolized

This is a personal note in response to the tragic events that have been occurring in my home country, Malaysia. Nothing upsets me more than seeing the diversity and respect the citizens of that nation had for each other disintegrate on account of ignorance. 
 
On Dec 31, the Malaysian courts overturned a government ban on the use of the word Allah to denote a Christian God. In response, fractional groups responded by fire-bombing and vandalizing churches. 'Allah' is not an exclusive Muslim God. It is just another word for God in Arabic. If Muslims claim it to be 'their' God, are we then praying to a different God than Christians and Jews?

If Muslims claim the word 'Allah' is rightfully theirs, then they are blissfully ignorant. The word 'Allah' even predates Islam!  

Lastly, the Quran commands Muslims: "And dispute ye not with the People of the Book, except with means better (than mere disputation), unless it be with those of them who inflict wrong (and injury): but say, "We believe in the revelation which has come down to us and in that which came down to you; Our Allah and your Allah is one; and it is to Him we bow (in Islam)." 

As Muslims we have an obligation to stand up for justice and peace. If you are disgusted by these acts of terror, then please speak up. 

Onward and upward,
 
Ani Zonneveld

President, Founder | Muslims for Progressive Values

Editor’s Note: This Message was originally published in the January 2010 issue of the MPV Monthly Newsletter. You may subscribe to the newsletter by clicking on the tab at the bottom-right corner of this page!