Acts of terrorism are not confined to Muslims alone. Terrorists come from every religion. But the media often uses the term Islamic terrorists or Islamic terrorism, implying terrorism is associated with Islam. It is our duty as American Muslims to present the true picture of Islam, which is that Islam does not teach terrorism under any circumstances. It forbids killing of innocent civilians. The holy Book of Islam, the Quran, says: "If anyone murders an innocent person ... it will be as if he had murdered the whole of humanity."

So, who are the Muslims who commit such heinous acts in the name of Islam? It is obvious from the above injunction of the Quran that they do not followtrue Islam. Therefore, they must be driven not by Islam but some other desire (such as hate or revenge) to commit acts of terrorism. Muslims around the world greet (or are supposed to greet) each other, and others, using the Arabic words, "Assalamu ‘Alaikum" which means: "peace beunto you." There is no doubt that some Muslims, while using such a benevolent greeting, carry malevolent intentions in their hearts. The holy Book of Islam,the Quran, condemns such people by saying: "Why do you say that which you do not practice?" Such Muslims, therefore, do not represent Islam. Islam hasnothing to do with those who commit acts of terrorism. Therefore, it is wise to differentiate Muslims and Islam. Just as acts of terrorism committed by Christians cannot be attributed to Christianity, acts of terrorism committed by Muslims must not be attributed to Islam or its teachings.

There is a popular feeling in the West, and justifiably so, that Islam is a very oppressive and retrogressive religion. But this is based on a wrong perception of Islam, unfortunately, due to the practice of Islam by some countries. Do these countries practice Islam as they profess they do? The Quran, (unequivocallyand unconditionally) says: "There is no compulsion in religion." However, we see all kinds of compulsion in these countries. People in these countries are deprived of most of their basic human rights. They are afraid to express opinions in public against the government's practice of Islam for fear of persecution. How can these countries claim to be practicing Islam when they violate its basic principle of compassion and tolerance? They practice "Rajm" (stoning to death) for adultery, although there is no such thing in the Quran. Their rulers invoke God's compassion, mercy and forgiveness. But theyshow very little or none at all themselves.