AUSTRALIAN PREACHER COUNCILS REJECT ISIS CLAIMS AND VIOLENCE
Lakemba, Australia, 22 Dhulqo’dah 1435/15 September 2014 (MINA) – The Australian National Imams Council (ANIC) said its rejection over Islamic State in Iraq dan Syiria known as ISIS violence against humanity, and called for international parties to refrain the claim of Islamic symbols.
“ANIC would like to remind people that the phrase “Islamic State” refers to an era when Muslims were at their peak in civilisation during which everyone – Muslims, Christians and Jews – lived together harmoniously,” the group said in a statement as received by Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA), Monday.
The phrase, it continues, therefore resonates with Muslims around the world. “Sadly a group of criminals have misappropriated the terminology for their own political and violent goals. They have also usurped important Islamic symbols such as the creedal statement that “There is no god but God” and the Prophetic Seal “Muhammad is his Messenger.” There is nothing Islamic about their murderous actions.”
“Since the ISIS group was established we have been very clear about denouncing their lies and betrayal of our faith,” said His Eminence, the Grand Mufti of Australia, Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohammad.
The statement calls on politicians and the media to refrain from using the term “Islamic” when referring to IS or ISIS since it only serves to give credence to their illegitimate claims of religious authority. Similarly, terms such as Islamist, jihadi and jihadist must also be avoided.
It also warns all Muslim Australians not to trust the internet and social media as some material may have dangerous influences on vulnerable minds. Instead Muslims must get proper religious advice from knowledgeable, respected and qualified Imams. ANIC believes that wrong behaviour usually stems from an incorrect understanding. It is therefore imperative in countering extremism that the correct principles of Islam are taught. Imams around Australia have been working tirelessly to educate their respective communities, it said.(T/R04/R03)
Mi’raj Islamic News Agency (MINA)
