Islamic sensitivity and tolerance: ultimate oxymorons!

Submitted by Dr RJP (United States), Feb 8, 2006 at 23:52

The riots and death threats that are emanating out of the fundamentalist Muslim world over the publishing of cartoons about Mohammed should give pause to everyone who cherishes Western freedoms. These threats amount to a gun being placed to the head of Democracy by Muslims who demand that we abrogate our freedom of expression. What is not at issue here is whether these cartoons were insensitive or provocative (which they were), but the idea that we live in a culture where free speech about religious topics is both tolerated and encouraged, while free speech about religious topics in Muslim countries is both banned and punishable.

The Muslims who are rioting complain that we do not understand them, but sadly we understand them all too well. It is they who do not understand our culture and our freedoms. President Bush and many Muslims call Islam a "religion of peace," but the word, "Islam," means "submission," and that submission is often achieved through intimidation, persecution, fear, torture, and murder. President Bush says that America is not at war with Islam, but Islam is at war with itself. Fundamentalist Muslims are waging a "holy war" to turn the entire world into a Muslim one under Shar'ia law. Consequently, they have divided the world into two parts: those who follow their religious laws, and those who do not. For those who do not, they see only two possible choices: either conversion or death.

Can you imagine some Christians reacting the way some Muslim have done if someone were to publish a cartoon of Jesus? Better yet, what about Jews who are the targets of the most vile and disgusting cartoons ever drawn -- cartoons appear daily in newspapers throughout the Arab world and depict Jews as apes, pigs, snakes, rats, and all sorts of vermin? Jewish holy men (Rabbis) are shown eating the blood of Arab children or using it to make Matzoh (the infamous "Blood libel"). Jewish people are always shown as having long, hooked noses and Jewish leaders are always drawn to look like Hitler. Can you imagine Jews firebombing a mosque in protest? Can you imagine Jews threatening the kill the cartoonists? Jews certainly have every reason to complain about these cartoons, but the Arab world could care less about their complaints. So, do not talk to me about being insensitive or intolerant, Mr. Muslim!

Being tolerant and sensitive to the beliefs of others is one thing, but fundamentalist Muslims want special treatment shown to them above and beyond what others are due. If they do not get that favoritism, then they will demand it through intimidation. Our freedoms are under attack, and are in danger of being lost thanks to the "politically correct" who wish to appease a group that cannot be appeased except by our destruction. You may disagree with me and I respect your right to do so. That is the beauty of America. But, don't tell me that I lack the right to disagree with you.

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