This is with reference to the report “Dozens of Saudi fighters surrender in Syria” (July 7). It is a very encouraging situation. I urge the authorities to release their stories so as to reveal the true faces of demagogues who misled the youngsters in the name of Islam. The situation is very tricky and governments across the Muslim world should prepare a joint strategy to check the activities of some so-called scholars-cum-militants who quote verses from the Qur’an and Hadiths out of their actual contexts to promote their vested interests.

In addition to that, responsible Muslim scholars in collaboration with their respective governments should conduct training programs to dispel the incorrect notions about Islam and the concept of jihad. Jihad is a very broad Islamic concept. The English word for the term jihad is: To strive or struggle. A true Muslim is in a state of war against worldly temptations 24/7. Abstaining from committing sins and crimes is a jihad. Forgiving someone who wrongs you is jihad.

To work for an honest living, to look after one’s family and to help the needy are all part of a great jihad, a person is always engaged in with one’s own active or lower self. This is the gist of the true concept of jihad. Unfortunately, some people have narrowed it down just to spilling blood. We Muslims had long been condemning Al-Qaeda for its brutality. It is really surprising that Al-Qaeda had to distance itself from the monster that is now called the Islamic State. Islam is a religion of love and promotes harmony. There is no compulsion in Islam. These murderers are using the name of Islam to gain power. If the reports are to be believed then the IS members are a vicious and barbaric people. Islam does not sanction such actions. In order to fight this deviant ideology, we must make concerted efforts at all levels.

Lala

Jeddah