Since the end of the nineteenth century, the movement for a critical reflection on the foundations and interpretations of Islam has lost momentum, impeded by the predominance of a sclerotic, arabo-centric Islam based on an obsolete worldview and often dismissive of non Arab muslims.
Today, we solemnly call on muslim leaders committed to democracy, whether political and religious authorities or intellectuals/theologians, to convene in France in early 2016 to define the contours of a progressive interpretation of Islam firmly grounded in the 21st century.
.... We must take ISIS's and Boko Haram's claims to be practicing a rigorous Islam seriously: suggesting simply that terrorist acts committed in the name of Islam have nothing to do with Islam is not serious.
The accusations brought against the 'silent majority' of Muslims as a result of the actions of these terrorist groups may be unjust, but they must be addressed. Once and for all, we must let the barbarous murderers who justify their crimes in the name of Islam know: when they attack anyone, they are attacking us Muslims, our faith and values, first and foremost.
.... The time has come to turn the tables on the hijackers and set a new course for Islam in the 21st century. Our future, as peace-loving Muslim democrats, is at stake.
[TOP RATED COMMENT] How interesting this would have been had you allowed, or brought in, even ONE FEMALE VOICE. You do not even mention women in your essay. It's hard to take you seriously when you leave out one of the biggest issues with Islam, with Arabic culture and countries, and open your eyes wide and say these things. There is simply nothing in your little screed for anyone but men like you. Congrats you definitely are Democrats.
[2ND] The above blog seems to be prioritizing what's good for Islam ahead of what's good for the world. When you are willing to give up the part of your being that is Islamic, you will be be able to view the world with clearer eyes.
[3RD] You had me here: "The accusations brought against the 'silent majority' of Muslims as a result of the actions of these terrorist groups may be unjust, but they must be addressed."
and then lost me here: "When they attack anyone, they are attacking us Muslims, our faith and values, first and foremost."
I disagree that Muslim terrorists are "first and foremost" attacking Islam, they are attacking lives, and civilization, not Muslims.
Perhaps it is that "islam before all" including everyone else's life and liberty approach that is holding things back? [The Huffington Post]
