Archive for the ‘Random Links’ Category
Random Links 384 on #Allah in Malaysia
Right to go to court over “Allah”
I know some of my Muslim friends who have no issue with our use of the term “Allah”, have issues with the Roman Catholic Church taking this it to the courts. But this article would shed some light on this.
The defender of citizen rights in a democracy is the judiciary. Indeed, the function of an independent, impartial and competent judiciary is to arbitrate between citizens and the state.
This, in part, is what separation of powers means in a democracy. If our political leaders are tempted to compromise our liberties for the sake of their own gains, the courts should be there to hold them in check.
Hence, this is my response to those who say the Herald shouldn’t have gone to court: Where, then, should they have gone to seek recourse over a Home Ministry decision to deny them their rights? The Catholic Church in Malaysia already tried the backdoor route for more than 20 years, where they depended on the indulgence of the prime minister to resolve the issue. In the end, that method did not ensure their rights were protected.
So, what are these critics really arguing for when they say the Herald should not have gone to court? It seems that these critics expect the Christian community, as the minority in Malaysia, to abandon their constitutional rights and accept the home minister’s decision. Indeed, there are some who say that Catholics should give up their right to "Allah" for the sake of harmony since there are some Muslims who oppose it vehemently.
Government won’t drop ‘Allah’ appeal
The same extended hand for dialogue slaps you in the face again! This was a chance to demonstrate leadership, sadly another missed opportunity.
Non-Muslim can use ‘Allah’ in three states, FTs
From 1Malaysia to 2Malaysias, and now to 3Malaysias.
Random Links 383 on #Allah in Malaysia
Four reasons for controversial ‘Allah’ ruling
Everyone who’s serious about engaging in this issue MUST read this. And if possible the 57-page judgment too. Here’s an excerpt:
On why the Home Minister’s ban is illegal
“The Applicant submits the 1st Respondent has failed to take into account one or more of the relevant considerations…
1. The word “Allah” is the correct Bahasa Malaysia word for “God” and in the Bahasa Malaysia translation of the Bible, “God” is translated as “Allah” and “Lord” is translated as “Tuhan”;
2. For 15 centuries, Christians and Muslims in Arabic-speaking countries have been using the word “Allah” in reference to the One God. The Catholic Church in Malaysia and Indonesia and the greater majority of other Christian denominations hold that “Allah” is the legitimate word for “God” in Bahasa Malaysia;
3. The Malay language has been the lingua franca of many Catholic believers for several centuries especially those living in Melaka and Penang and their descendants in Peninsular Malaysia have practised a culture of speaking and praying in the Malay language;
4. The word “God” has been translated as “Allah” in the “Istilah Agama Kristian Bahasa Inggeris ke Bahasa Malaysia” first published by the Catholic Bishops Conference of Malaysia in 1989;
5. The Malay-Latin dictionary published in 1631 had translated “Deus” (the Latin word for God) as “Alla” as the Malay translation;
6. The Christian usage of the word “Allah” predates Islam being the name of God in the old Arabic Bible as well as in the modern Arabic Bible used by Christians in Egypt, Lebanon, Iraq, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei and other places in Asia, Africa, etc;
7. In Bahasa Malaysia and Bahasa Indonesia, the word “Allah” has been used continuously in the printed edition of the Matthew’s Gospel in Malaysia in 1629, in the first complete Malay Bible in 1733 and in the second complete Malay Bible in 1879 until today in the Perjanjian Baru and the Alkitab;
8. Munshi Abdullah who is considered the father of modern Malay literature had translated the Gospels into Malay in 1852 and he translated the word “God” as “Allah”;
Kit Siang demands government withdraw ‘Allah’ appeal
This would show the sincerity of the Government, if not it’s hard to believe all this renewed zeal for interfaith dialogue.
The DAP advisor asserted that it was the government’s prerogative to demonstrate its sincerity in starting the inter-faith dialogue.
“The government must walk the talk when it comes to this matter. They say they are sincere in this dialogue, but they have never invited any parties for a roundtable to address this issue,” said Lim.
Yesterday Muhyiddin reminded all parties not to undermine the peace and harmony enjoyed by the nation at the moment, in reference to the ongoing furore over the “Allah” issue.
“We will not politicise the issue because this is not a political issue. This is about peace and harmony in the country. We should defend it at all cost. We should not be careless or adopt a lackadaisical attitude,” he said.
I suspect many will feel the same way Tony does in this post.
Did I fathom the day I would say this? To be honest, no, not before March 2008 anyway. So here’s 3 cheers to Mujahid, 3 cheers to PAS for changing the face of Malaysian politics, for championing reason and defeating over-zealous parochialism.
It will be interesting how this article will add to the debate. But Prof. Faruqi has a point that emotions are part and parcel of the equation. That will be essential especially going beyond this impasse perceived due to reactions to the High Court judgment. Unfortunately, the Home ministry and the current reactions from the Government did not and does not consider Prof. Faruqi’s quote from Jesse Jackson applied to themselves. The Ball is in their courts.
Fair and moderate solutions will require leadership and sacrifice. As the Rev Jesse Jackson said “leaders of substance do not follow opinion polls; they mould opinion, not with guns or power of position but with the power of their souls”.
Random Links 382 on #Allah in Malaysia
Two latest Comments I read on Facebook
The reason why the churches went to court is seek the reason WHY the word is banned without even a dialogue by the KDN. If you search through the news, KDN just issued and banned the usage after it was lifted in 2003. It’s being used as a political ploy to ‘rile’ folks like you and me. It’s a set-up, don’t play into their hands.
Allah – Issue of faith and law. Sh alQardawi, Wahbah Zuhaili, Sh Taha, Maulana Ihsan – affirmed the view that "Allah" may be used by non Muslims ( particularly Jews and Christians). This view must transcend narrow political considerations
‘Welcome to 1Malaysia, 2Bibles’
The buzz of opinions continues.
Allah debate: Jury is still out
But perhaps the verdict for many who are able to see through the politics of it all, is very clear.
‘Allah’ issue splits Malay community
Noteworthy point.
As Azmi noted, the fault line in the Malay community has always been along political loyalties, rather than theological differences. In other words, most Malays think alike on religious issues.
But the debate changed after opposition Islamic party PAS issued a statement that there was no prohibition on Christians using ‘Allah’.
Since then, there has been hardly any PAS dissent. It could be party discipline – or it could be, as Azmi believes, the result of information provided to party members.
“The reasoned views will be found in places like Harakah (PAS’ newspaper), and so it’ll be PAS supporters getting the information,” he said. “Malay opinion can be shifted if there’s debate, but the problem is that this is now too limited.”
WCC expresses solidarity with churches under attack in Malaysia
Thank you, World Council of Churches (WCC)
In a 13 January solidarity letter to the churches in Malaysia, the World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit expressed deep concern and profound sorrow about recent attacks against church buildings in the country following a controversy over the right of Christians to use the term "Allah" to refer to God.
The controversy "generated by a small sector of Muslims" in the country is "very disturbing", Tveit said, especially as "Christians in majority Muslim countries all over the world, including [Malaysia's] neighbouring country Indonesia, have used the word ‘Allah’ for God for centuries".
Tveit expressed hope that "immediate action" is taken "by both the government and civil society to resolve the conflict, in order to avoid renewed hostilities and escalation of violence". He also found it heartening that "numerous Islamic organizations and leaders have publicly condemned these wanton acts of a small group of people".
Several church buildings have recently been attacked in Malaysia following a High Court ruling last month allowing non-Muslims to use the word "Allah" to refer to God. Muslim radical groups see this as a Christian subterfuge to win converts from Islam. The government has appealed the High Court decision.
Random Links 380 on #Allah in Malaysia
‘Allah’ row: Dealing with false insecurities
Getting back to the core matter again.
Perhaps this is a message worth repeating, to assuage the obviously palpable fears. This is an important move in ensuring harmony amongst all religions.
Some have argued that the Muslim God is entirely different from the Christian God, and indeed religious scholars have debated this with vastly varying thoughts on the subject.
However, it must be reiterated that the present case is not so much a theological issue as it is one of defending a community’s right to practise its faith, in its natural language of use.
Who does Allah belong to? Mixed views at forum
For me, forums like this is one of the ingredients needed to go forward. The people led the way (especially the younger ones), now will the leaders follow? I was present at the forum and was refreshed to witness the healthy diversity.
Scholars and Islamic experts have agreed to disagree on whether or not it is appropriate for the word ‘Allah’ to be used by non-Muslims as a direct translation for the word God.
East Malaysian Christians say will continue using ‘Allah’
One of the redemptive parts of this season is the increased visibility of East Malaysians!
When asked what they thought of isolated suggestions from a few Christian laymen to stop using the word “Allah” in order to diffuse the escalating tension in the country, Raut said that they would not stop using it because it has been used for a long time.
“I am from Sarawak, of the Lumbayang tribe, and we have been using ‘Allah’ for a long time. It is used in our mother tongue. ‘Tuhan Allah’ is our God.
“He has his right to say what he wants, but he doesn’t speak on behalf of all Christians,” he said, referring to a suggestion from a Sarawakian Christian, which was highlighted by a number of newspapers yesterday.
‘Don’t tell us how to pray,’ Borneo states say
I heard yesterday how “pure” and “holy” the reference to God is to a Muslim. Wouldn’t it be the same for a BM speaking Christian? But the focus in this piece has great value to highlight again the contribution of Sabah and Sarawak to the whole of Malaysia.
As Sabah leader Tan Sri Bernard Dompok pointed out, they worship in Bahasa Malaysia as its the national language and Bibles are in that language because it is not feasible to print or translate it to their various dialects.
More importantly, “Allah” is their word for God, the same as for the Malays, who borrowed it from the Arabs.
Semantics aside, the people in Borneo do not see the fuss or problem over the name of God.
The Muslims in Sarawak, Jack (who asked that only his first name be used) reasoned, were not just tolerant of other faiths. They have accepted non-Muslims as a daily fact of life the same way parents accept that their children have different personalities.
A government servant, he had earlier said he hoped the spate of attacks against churches in the peninsula would not spill over into Sarawak.
Though he was upset over the broken windows of the Anglican Good Shepherd Church in Lutong, Miri, Jack’s faith in Sarawak’s Muslims has not been shaken.
“I hugely believe that this is an isolated case, and most Sarawakian Muslims and also Sarawakians are surprised that such an incident could happen at all in Sarawak,” said Jack. Many of the people interviewed for this article asked that their names be changed due to the volatility of the topic.
It is this renowned bond between the non-Muslims and Muslims of Sarawak and Sabah that has often been held up by peninsula politicians as the ultimate model of race-relations.
Sabah JP chief ‘recants’ on Allah compromise
Opps . but then his comments have been used to muddy the discussion.
Parti Bersatu Rakyat Sabah (PBRS) president Joseph Kurup (left) questioned the need for Malakun to muddy the waters on the Allah issue with negative comments.
"Malakun has no capacity to advise Christians on the Allah issue even if he spoke as the CJPM president," said the federal deputy natural resources and environment minister. "This matter is before the court. It should be left to the court to decide."
Herald editor: We’ve not backpedaled on ‘Allah’
I wish the Home Ministry will back down to demonstrate genuineness in resolving the issue, especially, through all this “inter-faith” dialogue talk. The fact is the public forum yesterday proved that it can be done. And it was well done without their involvement anyway! On another note, there seems to be a lot of twisted reporting going on especially in the Bahasa Malaysia main stream papers. Or lack of proper in depth reporting overall. Why is that so?
The priest told Malaysiakini this when asked to clarify a report which appeared in Malay dailyBerita Harian today under the heading: ‘Herald agrees to stop using Allah’ whereas a sub-heading read: ‘Publisher realises responsibility to safeguard peace’.
"What I said was twisted… what I said is not something new, the decision was made when the AG (Attorney-General Abdul Gani Patail) filed the stay application," said Andrew.
Random Links 379 on #churcharson in Malaysia
Anwar meets Christians to defuse tension
It was an important gathering. The Lutheran Bishop Philip Lok did well as a host and later moderator of the dialogue. Now, we await for the invitation from the PM.
The dialogue, attended by about 100 members of the Christian community from various denominations, was hosted by Bishop Phillip Lok from the Lutheran Church.
Speaking to reporters before the start of the closed-door dialogue, Anwar urged the Muslims to honour the pledge made the second Islamic Caliph to defend the rights of the Christians.
He also slammed the police for not seriously protecting the places of worship.
“The Caliph Umar, who visited the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in 638 AD, was careful to ensure that the Muslims respect the sanctity of Christian places of worship,” said Anwar, reading from a prepared statement.
“What, then, of our own police’s hesitation to offer an assurance of safety and security for Malaysian churches,” he added.
Anwar reiterated his stand that the Umno-controlled Utusan Malaysia should be made responsible for the attacks.
“Much of the blame for the recent attacks can be placed at the doorstep of the Umno-led BN ruling party,” he said.
121 NGOs join hands to condemn church attacks
Here’s the report which is linked to yesterday’s Solidarity picture.
Sivin Kit of The Micah Mandate (TMM)
I believe I can speak on the behalf of the Christians in expressing gratitude, and we are very touched by the outpouring of concern from all quarters, especially our Muslim friends.It is a painful experience for everyone and a lot of fear has been generated in the past one day because of what had happened.
In many ways, through conversation with different people, we see that… these are not acts by people with a right mind and a right vision of the kind of society that each and everyone of us envisioned.
But I believe that we cannot stop at mere sympathy although we appreciate the compassion shown – we need to move forward with courage and resolve.
This is a time for us to redeem whatever messy situation we are in and to turn it around in an meaningful engagement, and on the ground, we know that there are people who are willing to engage, but the question is whether we can get the environment and the encouragement to do so.
Zaid Kamaruddin, president of Jamaah Islah Malaysia (JIM)
Even though you do not see many Muslim organisations on this list, I know for sure that those organisations that deal with the specific issue of ‘Allah’ would draw a red line which is not to be crossed.The incidents that have taken place, the attempted arson, is something that has shocked the Muslim community as well.
As such, if they intended to provoke us or to polarise the society or to drive a wedge between the adherents of different religions, I think we must stand together and show them that they will not succeed.
This is a very trying moment for our community, as Malaysians, and I know that while the Muslim community quietly detest the High Court decision, there is no avenue other than to go all the way to the final stage, and we have to accept whatever decision delivered at the end of the judicial process.
Haris Mohd Ibrahim of Saya Anak Bangsa Malaysia
We saw in August last year how an issue of a temple relocation in Shah Alam was turned into a Hindu-Muslim divide.We see again in December when the High Court decides on constitutional issues – which were taken to the proper forum for determination – again turned into an issue which plainly has in its agenda the division of our people.
We advocate and push for an agenda to change the minds and the hearts of this nation to come around and see that in truth we are one people in this country.
Now, if we understand the decision of the High Court and the statements in the public space, there has been a sinister attempt to turn this into a race issue.
In reality, if we go to the ground, Malaysians by far and large get on well with each other, but the agenda of a certain quarter is being facilitated by the mainstream media, which carried a very slanted reporting of these issues.
It is the responsibility of every Malaysian, who understand that falsehood is being fed to the masses, to make an effort from our part – individually or collectively – to try to diffuse and neutralise the lies which are being told to the rakyat.
Ambiga Sreenevasan, former chairperson of Bar Council
This is, in fact, the second provocative act against religious belief or institution. We recall there were such acts of intimidation against the Bar when we tried to organise a forum to discuss issues pertaining to marriage and conversion.What is encouraging is, in these occasions, Malaysians have risen to condemn these acts – not our politicians – and the public has not fallen for it one bit.
It is time we sent the message that we are tired of groups of people who are trying to upset the harmony of our country by exploiting what they term as sensitive issues. The minute they term them sensitive, they legitimise responses, excessive responses, giving way for people to react in any way they want.
We are not against the freedom of expression, we are not against the freedom of assembly. Yesterday, we saw people gathered at the mosques and peaceably communicated their thoughts on the court judgment.
Court judgments are not above criticism – I would like to make it clear, as some people say that it is sub-judice, which is not true, provided that you do not make personal attacks against the judge. What is not acceptable is the violence perpetrated on the churches. We are not against legitimate expression of views.
It is also not acceptable to put the judiciary in fear of physical violence or outbreak of violence as a result of their decisions. My concern now is that, I hope, the judiciary can decided this case without fear or regard to any intimidation. That is how it must be.
Torched churches … reaping what is sown
My first impression was . Is the first paragraph a threat?
Churches are now being torched, four at last count. I believe more churches will be torched, stoned, graffitied, sullied, picketed, etc, for as long as the use of the word “Allah” by the Catholic church issue is not resolved to the satisfaction of Muslims in this country.
Hard hitting piece not just towards the outside, but more precisely back to us on the inside!
when we take no interest in the affairs of our country, in our countrymen; when we remain mute and paralyzed in the face of injustice and manifestation of evil; when we fold our arms and pretend helplessness; when we devote our life to the temple of entertainment and self-indulgence; we are responsible.
We are responsible because we let them into our lives and letting them govern us. We are responsible when we vote them in or couldn’t be bothered to vote them out. As much as our present leaders are to blame on a political, societal and operational level, we are equally blameworthy on a spiritual and morally culpable level. The truth is we, as citizens, have failed ourselves and our country as surely as we have appointed leaders destined to disappoint and fail us and our country; men like the Prime Minister and the Home Minister.
Church attacks prompt conciliatory moves
Reconciliation is the way to go, but of course, based on the South African model it’s Truth and Reconciliation.
Political analyst Mohd Agus Yusoff of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia believes that Malaysian Muslims are by and large a moderate lot.
In that context, the church attacks should be seen as isolated cases, he said.
He added that some good could come out of the fire bombings if the shock of the violence served to focus minds and efforts on forging better ties between races and religions.
Law lecturer Azmi Sharom, who is pro-opposition, believes that more could be done.
Like Dr Ooi, he hopes to see a greater response from the silent majority of moderate Muslims.
Such wisdom is needed for times like this. Now with some determination to move this forward would be even better!
And in spite of the inflammatory rhetoric at the protests after Friday prayers this week, it is clear we all want a peaceful resolution to the present strife. In Shah Alam, one speaker at a rally urged listeners to “bakar gereja” – and met with stunned silence from the protesters. Nobody wants violence – nobody but a few thugs.
We cannot let these thugs shake our faith in the natural process of coming to an understanding. Now, more than ever, is a chance for us to come together and say no to those who want to see our country and all we have worked for for over fifty years go up in flames. Our leaders who have visited the attacked churches are participating in a process of dialogue and understanding – a process that must continue, regardless of thugs who want to put a stop to it.
It should not take an attack on a mosque or a temple to get other Malaysians to visit these houses of worship, and try to better understand the patchwork of faiths which makes up our national heritage. There is nothing wrong with talking about our faith with Malaysians from other backgrounds; the aftermath of these attacks has made that clearer than ever. Out of the ashes of this sickening sectarian violence, we can build a better Malaysia.
Random Links 348 on #Allah
Advice To Blogs On Issue Over Use Of Word "Allah" By Herald
The fact is that this is a good chance for genuine interfaith conversations whether in forums or between friends. The next link has the announcement. I think I’m trying to model (albeit I admit my bias) a positive approach.
Malaysian Christians ? Chinese & Indians Only
Important stats and important upcoming forum.
Allah: Siapa yang Punya?
Organised by Free Public Forum and Persatuan Mahasiswa Islam Universiti MalayaPanelists
- YB Khalid Samad
- Member of Parliament for Shah Alam- Most Reverend Archbishop Tan Sri Murphy Pakiam
- Roman Catholic Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur- Dr. Asri Zainal Abidin
- Former Mufti of Perlis- Dr. Mohd Farid Mohd Shahran
- Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization, International Islamic UniversityMonday, 11 January 2010
7:45pm – 10:30pmKuala Lumpur & Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall (KLSCAH)
Jln Maharajalela
50150 Kuala Lumpur
Translating the Names of God: Recent experience from Indonesia and Malaysia
Why It is Not Possible to Substitute Allah with Tuhan in Bible Translation
Two important links above which is very informative and educational.
Orang Kristian tidak pernah berniat mengancam kesucian agama Islam – Siong Tet
It is not about attacking Islam or confusing Muslims.
Use of the term ‘Allah’: Who is threatening whom? – Dr Lim Teck Ghee
it’s more than the use of the term, it’s also the ethics of the media.
Below is an example of what Utusan has been feeding the Malay public.
From Utusan Malaysia, Jan 3, 2010, starting from the banner splashed across its front page and items filling up pages two, four and five, the paper ran headlines and opinions ranging from ‘Court does not respect sensitivities of Muslims’; to inexplicably calling for the civil case to be heard in Syariah Court; to appealing for Muslim unity; suggesting that the Religious Department act as intervener in the court process; and beseeching intervention by the Council of Rulers.
The tally of 16 news articles does not include other lengthy op-eds in the middle pages about the mission to defend Islam, including one by Dr Mohd Ridhuan Tee Abdullah.
The flagship Utusan editorial by Awang Selamat invoked Perak Mufti Harussani Zakaria’s claim that “all these happened due to the weaknesses and disunity of Muslims”.
Playing Cassandra, Awang Selamat proclaimed that the Malay “discord and foolhardiness in politics, has pushed Islam to the corner”, and added “It is embarrassing that Islamic parties cannot unite in ensuring the survival of Islam”. He laid the blame at the door of “certain liberal-thinking leaders in PAS, like Khalid Samad, who is a great supporter of the use of the term ‘Allah’ by other religions”.
In what is probably the single most fear-mongering statement made by a newspaperman, Awang Selamat made the absolutely ridiculous claim that “status quo Islam di Malaysia boleh berubah bila-bila masa kerana angkara pemimpin Islam sendiri” (the status quo of Islam in Malaysia can change at any time because of Muslim leaders themselves).
Random Links 347 on #Allah
I will quickly compile this series of links so we can hear the various voices on the reaction to the recent High Court judgment. More personal reflections on the matter later.
Love and intellect in absentia – Ustaz Maszlee Malik & Dr Musa Mohd Nordin
It is unfortunate that things went to the courts. And one may agree or disagree with this course of action. But I hope my Muslim friends can at least understand why the Herald was pushed to the corner by the Home Ministry (which used religious sensitivity and confusion as their reasoning). Having said that, if this episode can draw us out to better ways of creating a climate of understanding, then all parties can contribute for the better.
. We are cognisant of the various interpretations of the authentic texts, historical and cultural context of the usage of the word Allah. It would be imperative to nonetheless make mention of the jurisdiction of two of the most outstanding contemporary scholars in the Muslim world, namely Sheikh Dr. Yusuf al-Qaradawi and Sheikh Dr. Wahbah Az- Zuhaili – who recently visited Malaysia – concerning this issue.
Without any hesitation they concurred unequivocally that the usage of the word Allah has never been the monopoly of the Islamic creed. It is a terminology shared with the adherents of the Abrahamic faith. Islam identifies itself with the People of the Book as the “Abrahamic family” within the Semitic Tradition (Hanifiyyah), the tradition of Abraham who is recognised as the father of the three Semitic religions.
. We would hasten to add that it is politically incorrect and outrageously insensitive for “The Herald” proponents to force the issue to the courts. But that is the intrinsic problem, the myopia of our Catholic friends, their intentions and modus operandi now becoming increasingly suspicious and questionable.
In their blind enthusiasm to preach the word of Allah, our Catholic friends have lost sight of the bigger picture and design of Allah, which has always been founded on the language of love, knowledge and infinite wisdom. Instead, they chose to opt for man-made laws as the arbiter, a profane legal solution to their holy crusade.
It begs the question that if Allah is really another name for the Lord or God as devoutly believed by the Catholics, then should it not be officially promulgated by the highest of their religious hierarchy, namely the Pope in the Vatican. This is after all not a new issue.
Marina Mahathir: ‘Allah’ uproar just ‘knee-jerk reactions’
Marina’s blog post Confident People Do Not Get Confused is worth reading even as a a model for self-reflection for any faith persuasion.
When asked on what she thought of the online battle over the issue, Marina said that it was very easy to misuse social networking services to aggravate the situation.
“Someone should complain to the Facebook administration and mark the page as offensive… the comments posted by people who wrote on my blog are that of urban people, most likely the same type of people who dragged the cow’s head in Shah Alam,” she said, in reference to the now-infamous incident in Shah Alam where 70-odd protestors dragged a severed cow’s head to the State Secretariat in retaliation towards the Selangor government’s relocation of a Hindu temple to a predominantly Muslim-majority area.
As an afterthought, Marina said that she was dismayed to see how the new year has turned out as she lamented how some Muslims were not progressing and that their mentality still remained the same.
“It is now the 21st century. What is the 21st century Muslim like? Different, or same as how we were in the past?
“Sadly, the way we are looking at things right now, I’d say we are the same.”
PAS backs use of Allah by Christians
I think moving towards this position is helpful as many might “abuse” the whole incident not considering the even bigger picture of true national security.
In a statement made after the meeting, Hadi warned, however, that the word “Allah” should not be abused to confuse the public.
“PAS would like to state that based on Islamic principles, the use of the word Allah by the people of the Abrahamic faiths such as Christianity and Judaism, is acceptable,” said Hadi in a written statement which was read out by Information Chief Idris Ahmad.
“However, the word Allah must not be misused or abused so as not to affect racial and religious harmony in the country,” he added.
Hadi also urged all parties not to politicise the matter for political mileage.
“PAS strongly objects to any aggressive and provocative approach that can lead to tension in society,” he added.
Dr Asri says Muslims should not object if ‘Allah’ is used to refer to God
The matter of conversion and how one propagates one’s religion is a relevant issue. In the explanation of one’s belief – Yes to transparency, No to manipulation.
. Influential Islamic scholar Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin stepped into the “Allah” controversy today by pointing out that Muslims should not protest against non-Muslims using the word “Allah” to describe God.
“Man should refer to the one true God as Allah. This proves the teachings of Islam in referring to God as Allah. Therefore all of mankind regardless of their religion should say that Allah has created the world, that Allah tells us to do good and so on.
“These words are the truth. It is not appropriate for a Muslim to protest when he hears a non-Muslim says such things,” he wrote in a posting on his blog today.
. However, he pointed out that non-Muslims should not be allowed to use the word “Allah” to propagate in such a way which insults Islam, such as to joke or to tease the name of God.
“Non-Muslims should also not manipulate the teachings of Islam by using the word Allah as bait. Action must be taken against such provocative acts,” he said, adding that using the word “Allah” in polite and respectful conversation between Muslims and non-Muslims was also acceptable.
Mohd Asri’s comments come after Father Lawrence Andrew, the priest who edits the Catholic paper, Herald, reassured Malaysians that the church was not on any campaign to convert Muslims.
“There are allegations we’re trying to convert Muslims. We’re not doing that,” Lawrence told The Malaysian Insider in a phone interview this afternoon.
“You cannot use the word ‘Allah’ anyhow. We have to use it accordingly,” he stressed and repeated his earlier explanation from Dec 31, just after the High Court ruled that the Catholic church had a constitutional right to publish the word “Allah” and overturned the home minister’s ban.
Perak Umno wings protest ‘Allah’ ruling, asks for royal intervention
This incident can be redeemed as an opportunity for interfaith understanding. That’s where even if there is “confusion” all parties can engage in a educational process. All would benefit.
Perak Umno Youth chief Maslim Sham Razman told a joint press conference at the party headquarters here this evening that this was the “one time” that all Muslims and Malays should stand united in protecting what was rightfully theirs.
“We should all come together, regardless of the differences in our political beliefs because this affects us all.
“We need to protect the word ‘Allah’ from being used by others wrongfully,” he said.
He added that the general fear was that by allowing other religions to use the word ‘Allah’ as a Malay translation to their reference of God, confusion would occur amongst the young Muslims.
“We do not mean to insult those of the other religions or stop them from practicing their religions freely. We just feel that our religion and the word ‘Allah’ should not be insulted or have its holiness outraged in this manner,” he said.
MCA lauds ‘Allah’ ruling, says no confusion
The first BN component party to make a statement, and it’s obvious it’s different from UMNO.
On the court judgment, he said it was a matter of law in upholding the rights of Malaysians under the Federal Constitution and should be seen as just that.
“Conditions for the renewal of The Herald’s permit clearly state that the word “Terhad” must be affixed at the top of the masthead and the publication must only be sold within church grounds. These conditions are already being met.
“The court’s decision should not be stirred into a religious debate nor politicised as a racial/religious issue. MCA lauds the High Court for its bold and rational judgement. Our party calls upon all groups to respect the way of life of Bumiputera Christians and Sikh Malaysians, and not remove their constitutional rights,” Gan said
Random Links 346 on #Newbigin (Updated)
Interesting fact about Bonhoeffer and Newbigin both of whom have inspired me tremendously!
Though only three years apart in age, Dietrich Bonhoeffer (Feb 4, 1906 – Apr 9, 1945) and Lesslie Newbigin (Dec 8, 1909 – Jan 30, 1998) never did to my knowledge meet one another though the 27 year old Bonhoeffer was in London pastoring a German congregation from 1933-1935 while the 24 year old Newbigin was training for the ministry in Cambridge. Both were very involved in ecumenical affairs and international relationships but Bonhoeffer was active in the 1930’s with the World Alliance, Life and Work, and Faith and Order; and Newbigin was primarily involved in the 1950’s and 60’s in the International Missionary Council, World Council of Churches, and Faith and Order. Though both were highly effective in the international sphere, both ended their lives more optimistic about the local church and somewhat disappointed in the theological compromises of the large ecumenical organizations.
I agree with Vinoth Ramachandra .
Jesus rebuked the church leaders of his day for honouring prophets by building monuments to them but not paying attention to what they actually said. The best way to honour Newbigin is, surely, to pick up and read some of his essays and books.
Interesting insight from one who “had the privilege of working with Lesslie during the last few years of his life.”
The thing that struck me most forcefully about Lesslie when I first began to work with him was his tremendous energy. In the years following his ‘retirement’, he was successively a lecturer in missiology, pastor of an inner-city church, moderator of his denomination and the inspiration for an international movement whose aim is nothing less than a radical revitalization of mission to Western culture. On top of all that, he maintained a busy schedule of national and international speaking engagements and wrote prolifically on missiology.
Many people (including many Christians) who achieve positions of prominence or influence are only too conscious of their own importance – not so, Lesslie. For me he epitomized intellectual humility. He was always very open about the dependence of his ideas on others, always willing to listen seriously to criticism, always ready to encourage younger men and women who were struggling with aspects of the relationship between the gospel and our culture.
A less obvious personal characteristic – but one that became clear as one got to know him – was his gentle sense of humour. At times this could be slightly self-deprecating, e.g. when he commented that old ecumenists are only really at home in airport departure lounges. Or he could be gently ironical. However, his favourite form of humour was the limerick; he admitted that he used to relieve the boredom of ecclesiastical committee meetings by writing limericks about his colleagues.
The energy, humility and sense of humour together serve to obscure another important characteristic, namely, his courage. His autobiography gives scant mention to an accident during his first term in India. That accident led to ten operations on his leg, the very real prospect of amputation and more than a year spent on crutches. When I knew him, half a century later, he was still suffering the after-effects. However, he could say ‘God did indeed turn that accident into a source of manifold blessing for which I cannot cease to give thanks’ (Unfinished Agenda, p. 44). Towards the end of his life he also had to cope with failing eyesight. I think many of those who read his final works would be surprised to discover that by the time he wrote them he was no longer able to read. His humour and his courage come together in a typical remark: ‘You don’t have to be able to see to use a typewriter!’
The Missionary Who Wouldn’t Retire
one more. . with a great line.
As we tell the Jesus story, we draw people to him as a person worthy of allegiance rather than as a proposition to be evaluated.
Random Links 345 on #Copenhagen2009
COP15 United Nations Climate Change Conference Copenhagen 2009
Official site.
Good Intro
“D is for DENIERS, those who deny that climate change is happening. They’ve become increasingly vocal, seizing on every opportunity to debunk the scientific consensus – such as the e-mails hacked from the University of East Anglia Climate Research Unit’s e-mails.
Botanist David Bellamy, who used to believe that climate change was the biggest threat facing humanity, now claims that it’s “a completely natural thing” related to sun spots. Or Lord (Nigel) Lawson, former British chancellor of the exchequer, who insists that it is not such a threat and efforts to stop it are both wrong-headed and dangerous. Or right-wing columnist Christopher Booker, who claims that “not a single item on the list of apocalyptic predictions we have been fed for so long” had turned out to be true.
Climate change denial is at its most hysterical in the US, where many on the right see the UNFCCC as a conspiracy by leftists and foreigners to impose a “world government” on freethinking Americans.
This is all grist-to-the-mill for powerful vested interests in the oil and coal industries, who held sway in the Bush White House, where independent reports on climate change were “doctored” to minimise its dangers. In 2007, it was revealed that the American Enterprise Institute – which has received funding from Exxon-Mobil – had offered sceptics in the scientific community a fee of $10,000 each to debunk the Fourth Assessment Report of the UN’s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate (IPCC).”
I love the PNG save Bali Climate talk video!
“Weary and angered by the US negotiators’ objection to the Bali Action Plan on the last day of the conference, Kevin Conrad told the world’s superpower: "We ask for your leadership. But if for some reason you’re not willing to lead, leave it to the rest of us. Please get out of the way." As a result, the US negotiators backed down within minutes and agreed to "join the consensus".”
5 Things to Watch for at the Copenhagen Climate-Change Conference
let’s see what will happen!
Copenhagen: The Science Is Settled; The Policy And Politics Aren’t
that’s true for so many others areas too . 
What to expect from Copenhagen
I like Operation Noah’s sub-title motto – “Science-informed, Faith-motivated, Hope-driven.”
Dr Rowan Williams says climate crisis a chance to become human again
What will the humans do? (WWHD?)
"When we believe in transformation at the local and personal level, we are laying the sure foundations for change at the national and international level.
"If I ask what’s the point of my undertaking a modest amount of recycling my rubbish or scaling down my air travel, the answer is not that this will unquestionably save the world within six months, but in the first place it’s a step towards liberation from a cycle of behaviour that is keeping me, indeed most of us, in a dangerous state – dangerous, that is, to our human dignity and self-respect."
Environment Service at Westminster Central Hall, London, 5th December 2009 [10Mb]
Good News for ALL creation .
Random Links 344 on #Theology
Liberation Theology is Alive and Well
Good stuff my a fellow Lutheran. Liberation Theology is one resource amongst many I’ve grown to appreciate critically and creatively.
“. Liberation theology is spiritually grounded on – and gets its motivation from – the life changing encounter with Christ as liberator and with our neighbours in need. Their suffering is not a result of fate but of systemic injustices and oppression, which can be overcome by transformative action.
If we look at our reality today, we are reminded that poverty has by no means been overcome in the world yet. On the contrary, the recent international financial crisis, produced by unrestrained capitalist forces governed by greed and private and corporate interests, has increased the number of the poor – or rather, the impoverished – in the world by hundreds of millions.
. As a contextual approach, aimed at critically reflecting on the praxis of God’s people, liberation theology was never intended to become a static, dogmatic theoretical construction. Its intention was not to highlight a neglected theological theme, but rather to propose a newway of doing theology. It naturally underwent changes over the decades. At the outset it focused on the living conditions of the poor, later on it incorporated other issues, like indigenous peoples, racism, gender inequalities and ecology.
Nowadays liberation theology deals as well with the interpretation of cultures and with anthropological questions, for example the temptation of power. The goal of striving towards a more just society where there is "room for all" persists, yet the way of achieving it has shifted towards civil society action.”
THE EMERGENCE OF CANONICAL THEISM
Reading William Abraham’s spiritual and theological journey is extremely helpful to understand the motivation and vision of “Canonical Theism”.
“The value of such testimony lies in this: canonical theism is not one more speculative effort in systematic theology; it is an attempt to find an expression of the faith that nourishes the soul and that provides shape and motivation for lively involvement in the life and ministry of the church. There is merit, then, in providing a more personal take on the issues at stake. While every element within canonical theism is subject to appropriate intellectual analysis, reflection, and rigorous criticism, these intellectual practices are intimately joined to a robust commitment to the kingdom of God in the church and the world. So speaking openly and personally about such matters may help illuminate what is at stake.”
WISDOM FROM THE MARGINS: SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY AND THE MISSIOLOGICAL IMAGINATION
In recent years, I’ve grown to appreciate the voices from the margins. Hopefully, I’ve grown wiser in the process.
“A theology that is attentive to the church’s mission will be one that attentive not just to the “usual” sources–Scripture, obviously, the patristic witness, Aquinas, Barth, church teaching, contemporary European and American theologians, etc.–but to sources “beyond the boundaries” as well.
Since a sensitivity to mission includes a sensitivity to the church’s catholicity (the mark of the church that Robert Schreiter argues is the particular mark for our times)[54] systematic theology will pay particular attention to the voices of Christians from other local churches around the world.”
Okay . looks like Three is enough for today, Five would be fantastic and was the standard previously. 
