Musjid Mariam symbolises unity

THE absence of objections to the regular submission of contentious letters by A Elias erroneously creates the impression his views on Islam are representative of Islam and Muslims.

His latest submission: “Transgression of Shariah law” (Sunday Tribune, June 4) compels me to respond as he expresses the opinion of the scribe as divinely ordained fact. More perilously, his letters foment dissonance in our fragile society.

I respect the right of the editor to publish diverse opinions. However, when this generosity is abused and creates discord, it becomes objectionable.

Musjid Mariam in Samora Machel Street Durban manifests the true Islamic spirit of religious tolerance and acceptance as enunciated emphatically in the Qur’an and the Prophetic example.

The mosque (musjid in Arabic) is aptly named in honour of the most noble of women, Mary, chosen by the Almighty to bear the divine messenger Jesus (Esa in Arabic). May the peace and blessings of the Almighty be upon Jesus and his noble mother.

The transition from a church (for over a century) to a musjid (mosque) exemplifies the brotherhood of Muslims and Christians who share with us, and adherents of the Jewish faith, a common religious ancestry in the Prophet Abraham (may the peace and mercy of the Almighty be upon him).

The theme and architecture of the musjid calls on mankind to embrace their brotherhood in the unity of the supreme creator.

The businessman and architect Yusuf Patel should be lauded for a visionary initiative that will advance the social cohesion we so desperately need in our country.

Rather than castigating noble initiatives and using them to sow discord, they need to be embraced and supported to retrace our path to living in peace, harmony, mutual acceptance and understanding. ASLAM ISMAIL

Briardene