The Blessed Model of the Holy Prophet Muhammad and the Caricatures — Page 32
sa ± _________________________________________________________________ blessings, those who have not incurred displeasure, and those who have not gone astray. (Surah Al-Fatihah, 1:1-7) − − ± I had meant to continue, in the last Friday Sermon, the subject of the previous two sermons. However, in light of the disgraceful and vulgar action of some Western newspapers, which sent shockwaves of indignation throughout the Muslim world, and the ensuing reaction, I felt it necessary to speak concerning it. This was so that Ahmad s could also be ™ ± ¿ informed as to what our attitudes should be in such circumstances. Although, by the Grace of God, they do know this, but a reminder is needed that the world may also know the correct way for a Muslim to respond in these circumstances. Injuring the sentiments of others is neither democracy, nor freedom of conscience We tell the world that any kind of vulgar expression about any sacred person of any religion does not constitute freedom in any way at all. You apparently champion democracy and freedom of expression, but play with the sentiments of others; this is neither democracy nor freedom of expression. Everything has a limit and some code of conduct. Just as there are codes of conduct in all professions, there is also a code of conduct in journalism. Just as no matter what kind of government there is, it has its rules and regulations. Freedom of expression certainly does not mean that sentiments are trifled with, or are caused to be hurt. If this is 32