A good thing about America is that people can say and do anything within legal limits. But of course we know that this good thing can be used to do bad things. This Sept. 11, a small denomination in Gainsville Florida, intends to burn a book that is regarded as holy by another group of people.
The Dove World Outreach Center’s website lists “Ten Reasons to Burn a Koran.” The site explains “We are using this act to warn about the teaching and ideology of Islam, which we do hate as it is hateful. We do not hate any people, however. We love, as God loves, all the people in the world and we want them to come to a knowledge of the truth. To warn of danger and harm is a loving act.”
Lt. Gen. William Caldwell, commander of the NATO Training Mission in Afghanistan told CNN "It's their Holy Book, so when somebody says that they're going to destroy that and cause a desecration to something that's very sacred to them, it's already stirred up a lot of discussion and concern amongst the people." General David Petraeus, the U.S. and NATO commander in Afghanistan, has warned that the action could trigger retaliation against U.S. forces serving in Afghanistan.
This threat fuels much of the media response to this planned action, but at least 16 other churches in Gainsville are instead focused on showing respect toward the Quran and tolerance for different religions. The will read scripture from the Quran during their services on Sunday, Sept 12. Rev. Larry Reimer of the United Church of Gainesville says, “I’m not trying to make this a national or international event, but I feel that those who understand that allowing [the Qur'an burning] to pass silently by allows Dove Outreach to win in the fight against tolerance and religious compassion will stand up and share scripture from the Qur’an.”
“If they can burn it, then we can read it,” said Reimer.
To discuss Quran burning or reading, click on the “Comment” link at the bottom of the Blast.
If you'd like to receive the weekly “Democracy Blast” via email, click here.