Originally published in Arizona Daily Star
By Aamir Quraishy
The 72 mass graves ISIS has left in its path are a terrifying sight to see. Even more terrible is hearing stories of survivors. The hearts, prayers and love of all Muslims and all humans go out to them.
As a Muslim that loves the sanctity of American freedom and safety, it truly tears my hearts to see so many people around the world who do not have the certainty they will be alive tomorrow. It is even more deplorable that the people who violate this sanctity call themselves Muslims. It is clear that the ‘I’ in ‘ISIS’ stands for nothing but ignorance.
The prophet Mohammad (peace be upon him) forbade the killing of innocents under any circumstances. In the Quran it says, “Whosoever kills an innocent person, it shall be as if he has killed all humanity, and whoever saves a life, shall be as if he saved all mankind.” [Quran 5:32] He taught that during wars only those who were directly engaged in the war could be fought. The way ISIS conducts itself is nothing short of monstrous.
Even more so, it denies the closure of those who have lost their loved ones. IS ignores the fundamental meaning of Islam: Peace!
