Abdul Malik Mujahid

We pray that new Muslim democracies will keep the purpose of Sharia in mind along with the fact that God sent all Prophets to help people stand up to establish justice (Quran 57:25).

According to the CIA World Factbook, an Afghan's life expectancy is merely 45 years.That's 20 to 30 years less than neighboring Pakistan and all other surrounding countries. It is just one result of the ongoing devastation in that country.

This open letter to Anwar Awlaki was written as a response to his promotion of terrorism, in particular the 2008 Fort Hood killings, which he praised. It is an attempt to offer a point-by-point rebuttal. If left unchallenged, it is possible that some other youth who respect him as an Islamic scholar may act on his false theology of anger.

These principles are a part of an Islamic social structure: justice and fairness, upholding the rights of the poor in any society, as well as charity to those in need, extended to all people without any differentiation between a Muslim and a non-Muslim.

Since the events of September 11, 2001, Muslims in this country have been under siege. While at least 700,000 Muslims have been interviewed by law enforcement, the story of what Muslims are going through has not really been quantified.

Allah, the most Merciful of all who have Mercy, understands and knows what is in our hearts even before we feel. But He has still encouraged us to ask Him for anything and everything through Dua or supplication.

Our society is moving toward greater polarization, and more needs to be done to mediate anger and hate in our country. The bloodshed is a stark reminder that we need mercy more than ever as hate, anger, and intolerance rise around the world.