I do not agree with Krim Tabbas' letter ("Learn the Quran," Letter of the Day, Sept. 5) that there is an "anti-Islamic hysteria sweeping our nation."
The New York Ground Zero mosque issue has awakened Americans to the insensitivity of a specific group of Muslims to the horrific tragedy of 9/11. From the standpoint of our country, this awakening has been positive. Americans need to understand Islam, particularly its political aspirations, which are not normally addressed under its religious mantel. Indeed, if any condemnation needs to be handed out, it should be Muslims urging their fellow Muslims to be more considerate and respectful of their fellow Americans.
I agree that Americans should learn more about the Quran. It is not an easy book to understand because of the "doctrine of abrogation," meaning that one verse can be completely abrogated by another. Thus, the reader needs guidance as to when abrogation applies.
On the other hand, it specifically attacks the Trinity of the Bible and changes the stories of Jesus' birth and his mother, Mary. Additionally, when Tabbas refers to the "One Eternal Living God," he is referring to Allah, not the Lord of the Bible.
As described in their respective texts, the character and nature of the Lord of the Bible and Allah of the Quran are not the same.
Yes, education is required. We need to understand faith differences so that any deception is removed from our conclusions.
LUKE LLOYD
Sun City Center
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