Statement on Orlando Shooting

Statement on Orlando Shooting

In light of the tragic incident in Orlando last night, I would like to offer my utmost, sincere condolences to the friends and families of those massacred. I am saddened and disturbed by this act of brutal violence against innocent people.

The killing of innocent life is never justified by religion. I reflect on the following verse in relation to those who kill innocent life, 5:32 reads “…it is as if he had slain mankind entirely…”
The perpetrator of this shooting has directly violated this holy commandment and displayed a complete disregard for the sanctity of human life and divine values.

Since the shooting in Orlando, I have been receiving death threats and disturbing messages in relation to a slanderous news story about me that that completely misrepresents my statements and beliefs. This “news story” is currently being spread on the internet as being connected to the sentiments of the Orlando shooter. Such a connection is impossible, because had the shooter listened to my lecture, he would have clearly heard me condemn hate and violence multiple times and endorse compassion towards all humankind.

I invite my friends to help in supporting the humanitarian needs of the families of the victims of the shooting during such a period and share with their grief. This is an Islamic value in all cases where people are being oppressed – whoever they are! I pray for the unity and strength of the Florida community in the face of such atrocities and may we not let such a terrorist act compromise the people’s harmony with one another.
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