Hadith lore

The Hadith (sayings of Muhammad) that Harry Sterling references regarding Islam’s stance on apostasy is this: Ibn Abbaas said the Messenger of Allah said, “Whoever changes his (Islamic) religion, kill him.” Al-Bukhary (number 6922).

Here is another Hadith dealing with the same topic: Abd-Allah ibn Masood said the Messenger of Allah said: “It is not permissible to shed the blood of a Muslim who bears witness that there is no god except Allah and that I am the Messenger of Allah, except in one of three cases: a soul (in case of murder); a married person who commits adultery; and one who leaves his religion and separates from the main body of Muslims.” Sahih Al Bukhary number 6484 and Sahih Muslim number 1676.

These Hadith, along with statements in the Qur’an, serve as the basis for sharia law and its treatment of apostates.

Will we continue to believe Islamic spokespeople when they tell us Islam is a religion of peace? I certainly hope not.

Ernie Bunka, Calgary