Freedom of Speech or Freedom of Insult
Millions and millions of Muslims were shocked and outraged by the 12 cartoons that were first published in a Danish chronicle. Their justification behind publishing such cartoons that offended Prophet Muhammad was Freedom of Speech.
When was Freedom of Speech a means to insult or offend? How can we call it 'Freedom of Speech' when it hurts the feelings of human beings all over the world?
The cartoonist who drew these cartoons has a personal problem that he should deal with by himself, or even with the help of others.
That is the problem of ignorance. Ignorance of the true message of Islam, ignorance of whom the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) really was.
If he (the cartoonist or others) would spend few time reading the noble Quran and the authentic teachings of Prophet Muhammad, I think he would not even have the intention to draw such cartoons.
He obviously judged Islam by the actions of some Muslims. Like every other community, there are few 'bad apples' and it is unfortunate that the media sometimes focuses on them.
The British philosopher, Thomas Carlyle, wrote: "It is a great shame for anyone to listen to the accusation that Islam is a lie and that Muhammad was a fabricator and a deceiver. We saw that he remained steadfast upon his principles, with firm determination; kind and generous, compassionate, pious, virtuous, with real manhood, hardworking and sincere. Besides all these qualities, he was lenient with others, tolerant, kind, cheerful and praiseworthy ..."
Prophet Muhammad was the final messenger to the universe, he was sent as a mercy "And We have sent you (O Muhammad) not but as a mercy for the "Alamin" (mankind, jinns and all that exists) [Quran 21:107].
He came with the same message and principles that his predecessors (prophets such as Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Jesus, peace be upon them) came with. That is the message of devotion, submission, and obedience to the Lord of the universe (Islam).
Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) came with several proofs and miracles to show that he is truthful. One of his miracles, actually the miracle of the miracles and the immortal proof, is the Quran. It is the only revealed book whose text stands pure and uncorrupted after more than 1,400 years.
This proof carries its own evidence proving its divine authorship. I personally advise you to read and study the book from any angle you wish, scrutinise it, and most important of all, see if it calls its followers to 'terrorism' or not.
If you are still in doubt, why not accept the challenge : "Do they not then meditate on the Quran? And if it were from any other than Allah, they would have found in it many a discrepancy." [Quran 4:82]
"Freedom of speech is vital part of out liberties" (Robin, London). That's absolutely true, but as with other rights, with certain limitations.
What is the meaning of diverse communities living together in peace and harmony when we don't respect each other and consider other's faith? "And do not abuse those whom they call upon besides Allah, lest exceeding the limits they should abuse Allah out of ignorance." [Quran 6:108]
