Originally published in the New York Daily News
A recent crisis highlights the distance between so-called “Islamic” extremists and the true teachings of Muhammed. In the Charter of Privileges granted to Christians under Muhammed’s leadership, it is clearly stated, “Neither are their judges to be removed from their jobs nor their monks from their monasteries.” Despite this clear injunction, 12 Orthodox nuns are said to have been kidnapped from their convent by opposition Syrian fighters. The Islam I know asks us to protect religious minorities, and the Muhammed I know would be praying for these nuns and vehemently condemning the actions of these extremists.
