Shock at Boston Bombings from a Muslim Woman's Perspective

Shocked and dumbfounded, I turned the news on to see for myself the terrible bombings at the Boston Marathon.  As news unfolded, it was apparent that the suspects had been disillusioned and used Islam as a vehicle for their ‘Jihad’ agenda, and I was stunned to see their hijab clad mother at a press conference.  Bad news for Islam.

As a Muslim mother, in this scenario, I see two very troubled young men struggling with their identities, and ultimately sinning against their country and mankind.  If they were taught the teachings of the true peaceful Islam, like I have they would definitely not become killers.

Despite terrorists using Islam for their ‘Jihad’ agenda, I am teaching my children to keep strong on the right path, to serve humanity and that loyalty to one’s homeland is a part of the Islamic teaching.  As members of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, we believe that there is no conflict between being a Muslim and an American.  Our Community has launched several campaigns, including, ‘Muslims for Loyalty’, ‘Muslims for Life’ and ‘Muslims for Peace’ along with several interfaith dialogues all across the nation. Through these campaigns we Ahmadi Muslims are educating both Muslims and non-Muslims about the true teachings of Islam and the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be on him).

That Islam is a peaceful religion was demonstrated by the Prophet  when he walked back to Mecca after years of exile and pardoned a whole city that had driven out Muslims from its every corner.   Now Muslims need not wage war, but should remain steadfast and peaceful.