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SANDY — Thousands of Utah Muslims are observing their holy month of Ramadan. As in recent years, they are concerned that other Americans may wonder about their loyalties.
This year, The Utah Islamic Center in Sandy has again welcomed two young Islamic scholars from England. They talked with KSL about the difference between Islam and terrorism
Muhammed Rubel Miah has, at age 24, memorized the Koran, Islam's Holy book. From Manchester, he hopes one day to become an imam, the leader of a mosque. He said he looks at the young terrorists, who claim to be of his faith, and claims they are not.
"Terrorism in Islam is forbidden," he said. "Allah doesn't accept terrorists. "The prophet Mohammed never accepted any terrorism and this is not part of our religion. For those who might have this mentality, then they are diluted, they have been misguided."
Likewise, Askir Miah, already an imam in London, accepted an invitation to return to Utah for Ramadan and bring his gift of recitation. He has not, he said, been looked at as if he might be a terrorist.
"After 9/11 maybe they would look at us a different way, especially if you dress this way," he said. "But, no, they are actually really friendly."
These two scholars believe education is the answer to helping the young people of their faith reject the ideas of those who wish to destroy life.
"Maybe in our or in the next generation, they will be more educated because Islam doesn't teach us to go and bomb a place," said Askir Miah. "This is totally wrong."
"I believe that one day, if Allah wills, that I can serve my people in Manchester to take the youth away from the bad.," said Mohammed Rubel.
In the meantime, they travel the world, with as they believe, the words of Allah.
