THE ‘ERA OF FREEDOM’

THE ‘ERA OF FREEDOM’ idea of sentencing a writer to death for his words is just as offensive to modern Western sensibilities as the notion of Christ being romantically involved with Mary Magdalene or the Prophet occasionally listening to Satan is to traditional Christian or Muslim beliefs. The statement made by Edward Mortimer, as quoted above, is entirely accurate. The uproar caused by ignorant Muslims in the case of Salman Rushdie is indeed the reason behind the strong reaction from the West. However, it is incorrect to label the Western attitude in this matter as anti-Islamic or a conspiracy against Islam. While it is not of any benefit to label such issues as “antiIslamic” on the part of the West, the harm that arises from such public outcry is certain. Engaging in anti-West activities will only breed hatred and a desire for revenge in the hearts of the Muslims. To effectively communicate the peaceful message of Islam, a state of normalcy and goodwill between the communicator and the audience is essential. Unfortunately, these harmful activities have resulted in animosity between Muslims and people from other nations rather than fostering goodwill. Although the concept of absolute freedom may initially seem contradictory to Islam, a deeper examination reveals that it is favourable to Islam. This is because the modern revolution that prioritizes freedom has, for the first time in human history, created a global environment where the doors for introducing Islam to people have been widely opened. Freedom generates opportunities; therefore, the