Religion’s role in extremism

Re “There’s no .44-caliber Koran,” Opinion, April 29

Ian Buruma notes a frequently omitted Passover prayer “ask[ing] God to bring down his wrath on the Gentiles who ‘don’t know him.’ ” Buruma himself warns against ignoring context, but his quick mention of an obscure prayer may give a false and dangerous impression of a holiday that celebrates liberty and compassion for all people.

At the countless seders I’ve attended, the most prominent reference to Gentiles has been the expression of sorrow regarding the plagues suffered by the Egyptians, including the very rulers who enslaved the Jews. By making a cryptic reference minus any context, Buruma more likely inflames than informs those who know little of Passover.

JOHN O’DONNELL

Vienna, Va.

*

Buruma says, “Just as Jews, during some traditional Passover feasts, ask God to bring down his wrath on the Gentiles who ‘don’t know him’ and many Christians believe that hell awaits those who don’t subscribe to their faith, Muslims are led to believe that killing the enemies of Islam can be justified.” Just as? I find it amazing that Buruma doesn’t understand the difference between wishing or believing that nonbelievers will be punished by God and killing them.

LARRY HAU

Lombard, Ill.

*

I commend Buruma in highlighting that all faiths condemn unrepentant disbelievers to hell. Buruma agrees that suicide terrorism is not because of Islamic fundamentalism but because of political opposition to Western occupation.

The Koran categorically forbids killing civilians. Aggression is prohibited, and only defensive wars are permitted. Extremist religious leaders and ignorant followers are found in all faiths. For peace, both Israel and the U.S. must end their occupations.

MOHAMED KHODR

Winchester, Va.