His holiness goofed

Pope’s vitriolic comments about Islam did no good

OMAR RAMLAWI

A heavy debate is in progress, whether a universal right such as freedom of speech is absolute or there are limits; lately the Pope of the Catholic Ccurch demonstrated that are none.

In a recent speech in Germany, Pope Benedict XVI quoted a 14th century Christian Byzantine emperor, who said that Prophet Muhammad had brought the world only “evil and inhuman” things: “Show me just what Mohammed brought that was new, and there you will fi nd things only evil and inhuman, such as his command to spread by the sword the faith he preached.”

Clergy around the world insist that the Pope has every right to speak and discuss the issues he thinks are relevant and important for his followers consisting of a billion Catholics. While questioning the concept of holy war, the Pope managed to stir up Muslim emotion around the globe.

Such a statement may cause more damage than benefi t, especially on a delicate issue such as the highly revered Islamic prophet and above all in light of the current fi erce Middle East situation. Peace has been elusive in the region: from the Israeli-Palestinian confl ict to the illegitimate invasion of Lebanon, the ongoing Iraqi civil war — most Muslims regard these as the main reason for abhorrence towards western governments.

As I read the domestic newspapers form my home country, Jordan, I noticed both Muslims and Christians were against the Pope’s speech, as it touches the Prophet, who to Arabs, is a taboo subject; same applies to Jesus son of Mary, Abraham and all the holy prophets, who possess great respect in our hearts. Early in 2006, a Danish newspaper published a series of cartoons portraying the Prophet Muhammad. Th ese led to huge demonstrations and violence. One would think an honorable wise man such as the pope would learn from that experience, which ironically he has condemned.

Lately, during a speech about homeland security, George W. Bush mentioned that “this nation [the U.S.] is at war with Islamic fascists.” Historically, fascism ripened in western Europe, having no correlation with Islam. Germany and Italy are particulary noted for their detestable 20th century regimes, which were responsible for the First and Second World Wars. Th e racial cleansing and genocide that occurred in Bosnia, Kosovo and Rwanda are other examples.

Religious confl ict shouldn’t be tampered with. Th e Pope dragged politics into the realm of faith, rather than emphasizing moderation and positive dialogue; such rash comments can only lead to an increase in extremism and hold back the way of peace and global development. Th e leader of the Vatican state should be aware that he is not only a reference to a billion Catholic believers; the pope is an international icon and on him lay huge responsibilities.

I am a huge supporter of freedom, and would defend freedom of expression with my own life as it is guaranteed in our envious democratic system. Within Islam, freedom of expression is highly appreciated as prophets taught. Historically, Prophet Muhammad spread his word with reason, logic and moderation; there lay the pearls of Islam, the fastestgrowing religion in the world, of over a billion followers.

Th e Pope emphasized that he was only repeating a quotation, yet he crossed a line. Freedoms are not absolute; they are limited to each person. Th e moment a person’s freedom aff ects other people negatively, he is crossing the line into being plain rude. Th e Pope’s recitation showed no consideration to other human feelings; it was highly disrespectful and brings bad memories of the dark ages. Th e consequences of such speech can be dangerous and might negatively eff ect cultural and human development.

An apology from the Vatican is not the remedy; the solution lies in comprehending the impact the Pope has left in the minds of billions of Muslims and Christians. See, ideologies are fi xed in every human heart, whether you are an atheist or a believer. Helmut Schmidt, former German chancellor, says "the shallowness of political leaders in West and the East, may lead to the outbreak of the clash of civilizations.” I would prefer the rebuilding of bridges between the civilizations, by respecting cultures and religious sensitivity.

Omar Ramlawi is a third-year student of economics at the University of Manitoba.