In line with our recent discussion about the overlap in Christian and Muslim theology about God, let’s talk about t he chaos that has erupted in response to the burning of a Quran by a pastor in Florida. There is a lot of rhetoric on the airwaves about the incident and speculation about what motivated Pastor Terry Jones. In this video CNN’s Fareed Zakaria offers a sober and insightful understanding of the incident noting that the violence in Afghanistan is about politics just as much as religion.
Many, including Secretary of Defense Gates, asked Jones to refrain from burning the Quran because the action would put innocent lives in danger. He obviously did not listen and instead exercised his First Amendment right to burn the book while others paid the price.
What’s your take on the pastor’s actions? Here’s mine: It’s relatively easy to burn a Quran in rural Florida, Pastor Jones. Next time you feel the need to “stand up for the truth” consider traveling to the Middle East first. Then you can own the consequences rather than expect someone else to.
