It is tremendous news that an Islamic Group is organising a summer camp for young Muslims with the specific aim of combating violence, terrorism and extremism.
The event is planned to be held over three days at Warwick University in Coventry during which time those who are attending will receive specific teaching on how to counter the arguments put forward by those Islamic elements who are attempting to radicalise Muslim youth.
Basis of Teaching at the Camp
The teaching is to be based on a book written by Dr Muhammad Tahir ul-Qadri – a Muslim cleric who is totally opposed to the jihadist teachings that encourage young Muslims to take part in terrorist activities including suicide bombings aimed at civilian populations.
Dr Muhammad Tahir ul-Qadri is quoted as saying:
“I feel it is my duty to save the younger generation from radicalisation and wave of terroristic recruitment in the West”
Undoubtedly there have been many similar attempts in the past to combat extremist teachings but for the most part they do not receive much prominence in the media and therefore few people learn about them. Such initiatives as this are truly welcome as much as anything because they have managed to capture the attention of the media and therefore are brought to the notice of the wider public.
Christian teaching on peaceful co-existence
There are many differences between the doctrines and beliefs of Christians as against Muslim teachings. However when it comes to living peaceably with other people we couldn’t agree more with Dr Qadri.
It’s interesting that when the apostle Paul wrote his letter to the church in the city of Rome, he encouraged them to live at peace with the following words:
“If someone has done you wrong, do not repay him with a wrong. Try to do what everyone considers to be good. Do everything possible on your part to live in peace with everybody.” (Romans 12:17-18)
Paul was not alone in teaching this. The apostle Peter expressed much the same idea in the words:
“Do not pay back evil with evil or cursing with cursing; instead, pay back with a blessing, because a blessing is what God promised to give you when he called you. As the scripture says, “If you want to enjoy life and wish to see good times, you must keep from speaking evil and stop telling lies. You must turn away from evil and do good; you must strive for peace with all your heart.” (1 Peter 3:9-11)
So whilst we may not agree with others about all kinds of issues, that is really no reason to resort to antagonistic behaviour, whether that be violence or takes any other form. In fact, we should strive to live peaceably with others even when they are doing everything they can to oppose us.
