The Error of Political Islam

Kathir, Vol. 4, p. 98), meaning “defame it”—to criticize the Quran and its proclaimer. Based on Ibn Abbas’s interpretation, there are two ways to express opposition to someone. One is critique, and the other is defamation. Critique involves rejection based on clear proof, whereas defamation entails levelling accusations and indulging in slander. Critique is an Islamic approach that allows everyone the right to analyse someone’s ideas based on evidence. But defamation is entirely an un-Islamic approach, one that the Quran associates with disbelievers. Those engaged in defamation campaigns should reflect to whose footsteps they are following with such behaviour. —Wahiduddin October 6, 1986 Preface to the Second Edition