Islam and Human Rights — Page 210
Isl am and Hum an R ights 210 popular elections, have a tendency to incite the worst passions of the masses, and at such times recourse may be had to all sorts of devices to bring discredit upon unpopular institu tions and individuals, especially the political or religious dissenter. All this is regrettable and cannot be remedied by being merely swept under the carpet. The evil must be recognized, faced and striven against. Fortunately, Muslim society has the remedy to hand. Difference or dissent, sincerely and honestly held, is no evil. The Prophet said:‘’Honest difference of opinion among my people should be accounted a blessing”. 82 The Quran is clear and emphatic: “There shall be no compulsion in religion. Surely, guidance has become dis tinct from error” (2:257). Even more clearly has it been announced: “The Truth is from your Lord; wherefore let him who will, believe and let him who will disbelieve” (18:30). ·”And who is more truthful in his word than Allah?” (4:88). The conclusion of our discourse is: “All worthiness of praise belongs to Allah, the Lord of the worlds” (10:11). 82 As-Sayuti.