Muslims
In an article slanted against the so-called “Muslim fundamentalists” of Algeria, reporter Kim Murphy steps into the realm of scornful slander and ridicule of Islam and all Muslims when she describes a Muslim leader as having the “forehead bruise” from “head-thumping prayer” (Dec. 26). The mark on the forehead of many Muslims who pray regularly is not a bruise and the Muslim prayer does not consist of head thumping.
Muslims prostate in prayer, placing their forehead on the prayer rug as a sign of giving themselves up to God. A mark on the forehead often appears from rubbing against the rug.
It’s time for the media to stop bashing and misrepresenting Islam and Muslims. Factual representation and understanding are needed now more than ever. Let’s hope The Times will make a better effort.
IHSAN BAGBY
Director, Islamic Resource Institute
Tustin
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