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This picture should be shocking. That’s because in the Old and New Testaments, a martyr is one who, without actively seeking death, is killed in the name of his or her religious faith or convictions. This child knows he is going to die, and commits himself willingly; he is not a martyr. I can think of nothing worse than using a child in this manner.
Islamic martyrs are traditionally those who die in the struggle between Dar al Islam (the portion of the world under Muslim rule) and Dar al Harb (the portion of the world that isn’t). However, in recent years Islamic extremists have resorted to suicide bombings as a method of conducting this war. It is important for us, and exponentially more so for them, to understand what the Qur’an says about suicide. [WARNING: Direct quotes from the Qur'an follow]
O ye who believe!…do not kill yourselves, for truly Allah has been to you Most Merciful. If any do that in rancor and injustice, soon shall We cast him into the Fire…
-Qur’an (4:29-30)
Clearly, suicide is not condoned, and furthermore, modern day suicide bombers who target innocent civilians are killing themselves because of “rancor and injustice;” bitterness against the United States coupled with attacks against those who have done no wrong.
And fight in the way of Allah those who fight you. But do not transgress limits. Truly Allah loves not the transgressors.
-Qur’an, Surah Al-Baqarah (2:190)
The targeted murder of civilians, like the acts of September 11th, “transgresses limits.” This is what the vast majority of Muslims believe, and indeed, what the religion teaches. It is important to note that suicide bombers are not following the teachings of their God, merely a misinterpreted version.
If we are to truly be members of a world community, we must understand the beliefs of our neighbors. This is why I think its important for us to separate terrorists from Muslims. We will never gain the respect of the Islamic world without attempting to bridge the gap. We should all know that the predominant theme in the Qur’an is forgiveness and peace, and that Allah seeks this in his followers. It is only by working together that we will put an end to the culture of suicide bombing. I never want to see a picture like the one above again.
O ye who believe! Remain steadfast for Allah, bearing witness to justice. Do not allow your hatred for others make you swerve to wrongdoing and turn you away from justice. Be just; that is closer to true piety.
-Qur’an, Surah al-Maidah (5:8)