Dr Rateb Jneid, President of Muslims Australia, Australian Federation of Islamic Councils (whose head office is in Zetland), extends his gratitude to all the wonderful people around the globe and especially from New Zealand and Australia for their support in this time of grief.
Dr Jneid says that, while it is hard to come to terms with this tragic situation, it is heartening to see world-wide support for the Muslim community. The messages of solidarity, the memorials and emotional tributes received have been extraordinary, clearly showing that humanity can unite and negate evil.
The view of Islam is clear. God says in the Quran:“O people, We have created you from a male and a female and made you into races and tribes so that you may know each other. Surely the most honoured of you in the sight of God is the one who is the most righteous of you” (49:13).
There is no reason why these God-given diversities should create barriers or cause animosity among human beings. They can enable better relationship.
All faiths advocate the seeking of truth, and faith speaks to faith in a process of acceptance, tolerance, compassion, justice and humility. And when we talk about differences we must be generous and patient, always bearing in mind that we are all God’s creation, and to God we shall return.
Though work remains to be done, I hope that together we can bring the changes necessary to combat evil and rid the world of the insidious plague of terrorism.
Once again, thank you all for your support in this difficult time.
