Sectarian Violence Is Haram: Lebanon’s Sunni Scholars

Sunni scholars and associations in Lebanon said sectarian violence and killings are Haram (forbidden according to religious laws).

In a meeting with Sheikh Aiman Al-Rifaei, the Mufti of Baalbek, they condemned sectarian violence in the city and said bringing back peace and solidarity to the city is a religious and ethical obligation.

They underlined the significance of religious sermons in promoting unity and solidarity among Muslims and preventing sectarian violence.

Issuing a statement, the participants in the meeting stressed that differences of opinion can never be an excuse for Takfir (considering one’s fellow Muslim as infidel).

They also said everyone must emphasize the need for brotherly relations between Sunni and Shi Muslims as well as between Muslims and Christians.

The Sunni scholars underscored that it is only the enemy that will benefit from fomenting discord and disunity.

They also stressed that personal differences should not be misused and turned into sectarian disputes.

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