Let not religious distinction keep us from helping others, says scholar

Prominent Turkish scholar Mustafa Akyol urged against allowing religious differences to hinder our efforts to aid others, stating that this approach is both ethical and practical. Akyol emphasized that protecting members of different faiths is not only morally justified, but also wise, as the safety of a religious group today could be the vulnerability of another group tomorrow, regardless of location.

He made these remarks in response to the growing polarization between Muslim and non-Muslim communities, particularly after a Catholic from Michigan intervened to defend Muslim interests when faced with a Christian nationalist rally. Akyol highlighted the Pew Research Center's 2023 report indicating that 192 countries and territories currently faced some form of religious harassment, a significant increase from 2007.

While Akyol did not oppose the intersection of religion and politics, he cautioned that when politics is used to incite hatred, discrimination, and violence against people of other faiths, it takes a dangerous turn. Akyol praised Christians who have stood up against this rising tide of hatred, citing examples such as the Michigan Catholic deacon and Pope Leo XIV.

He appealed to Muslims to reciprocate by championing oppressed minorities around the world, particularly in Muslim-majority countries where hate campaigns against non-Muslims are on the rise. Akyol referred to the Quran's teachings, stressing the importance of upholding universal standards of justice and fairness, even if it means standing up for adversaries.

He also pointed out that the Quran encourages kindness and fairness towards those who have not harmed us, including during times of war.