MAKKAH: The Imam of the Grand Mosque in Makkah on Friday termed US pastor’s threat to burn copies of the Holy Quran as an act of terrorism. He said that it would also create ill will among communities.
Delivering his Eid sermon, Sheikh Saleh Bin-Humaid also called the move an act of aggression against Islam, its followers and its sanctity.
He said the Holy Qur’an is an eternal miracle as Muslims during the past 14 centuries have been linked with the Holy Book.
Bin-Humaid, who is chairman of the Supreme Judiciary Council, however urged Muslims to establish better relations with other communities and cultures.
The imam said God has promised to protect the Holy Qur’an until the Day of Judgment. He also reiterated Muslims’ continued faith in other prophets and divine books such as the Bible and the Torah.
“Do not argue with the People of the Book except in the best manner,” the imam asked Muslims,
“We call for more solid relations, greater understanding, mutual respect and cooperation between peoples,” the imam said, stressing the importance of interfaith dialogue.
“It’s from this holy city, the capital of Islam and Muslims, the interfaith dialogue conference set off in order to build bridges of dialogue and understanding and peaceful coexistence and reject all forms of terrorism and fanaticism,” Bin-Humaid said.
The imam described Islam as a religion of truth, moderation and tolerance. Agencies
