It is official. The powerful Muslim Judicial Council (MJC) of South Africa has issued a hukum or judgement, much like a fatwa, calling people like myself and Muhsin murtads, or apostates. The sin of apostasy carries the death penalty in many schools of Islamic jurisprudence. Muhsin has just told me that as he attended Friday prayers at a local mosque in Cape Town, the entire Khutbah (or Friday sermon) was against the film and him, in particular. Muhsin is a hero for so many of us: to sit and listen to a sermon that denounces you is an act of courage that has few parallels. Muhsin sat through the entire sermon and did his prayers, as he always does. I reproduce below the Report from The Voice of the Cape Website posted on the 26th of November, 2007 about the rising controversy in South Africa. I request that you all post comments here so that we can compile them and send them to the MJC and invite those who pass judgment to come and see the film in large numbers when we screen theatrically in South Africa in 2008.
Support for murtad hukum on gay justifiers
Posted on: 26/11/2007 09:13:41
Following a hukum read out on Friday in most Western Cape mosques by the Muslim Judicial Council (MJC), 80% of those polled by VOC agreed that people who justified homosexuality as being acceptable were out of the fold of Islam. 7% agreed to some extent while 13% disagreed with this ruling. The hukum followed after the MJC liaised with other ulema in the country to reach consensus on the issue.
In the statement, the MJC declared that any Muslim who �rejects the clear injunction of Islam on the homosexuality and believes it to be right, acceptable or correct, is regarded as out of the fold of Islam and such a person is decreed to be at murtad (an apostate). In conformity with centuries of unambiguous and clear evidence from the Glorious Quran, the Sunnah and the consensus of the scholars of Islam, the MJC condemns the practise of homosexuality, the inclination towards it and its lifestyle. The meeting unanimously reaffirmed the decision of its Fatwa Committee that the practise of homosexuality is haraam (forbidden and abominable).
The announcement comes after a gay Muslim documentary film,Parvez Sharma's Jihad for love showed earlier this month at the Gay and Lesbian Film Festival drew a wide response. The outrage was irked on especially after VOC raised it on air 10 days ago to question whether films of this nature helped the Muslim community to deal with the repercussions of homosexuality.
It was the second time this year that VOC looked at homosexuality and comes after a debate on VOCs Pichara where the focus was on what the Quran and hadith said on homosexuality. The point that most outraged Muslims was a claim made Imam Muhsin Hendricks of the local gay lobby group, Inner-Circle, one of the gay Muslims featured in the documentary, who said that the traditional texts had to be reinterpreted in terms of homosexuality.
According to the MJC who had distanced itself from the Open Line @ 9 show on 16 November, it had been flooded with complaints from the public after the broadcast. But the broadcast had also provided the ulema body with an opportunity to address the prevalence of homosexuality in its midst. While the South Africa's liberal constitution assured homosexuals the right to exist and even marry, the ulema body said it was still within its right to offer Muslims guidance on the Shariah perspective on the matter.
However, not everyone agreed the hukum. It is a very, very dangerous thing to do to issue a hukum of murtad on someone. We must take care not to cast people with whom we differ from the fold of Islam. We are only now beginning to learn how to debate with dignity, thanks in part to the issues that our media like VOC are raising. If we are not careful, we run the risk of returning to the bad old days when we were too quick to call someone who held different views a mushriq or kafir,� one concerned member of the public said.
But comments have also come from other side of the fence. "I would like to commend VOC as a community radio station for living up to its name - being a platform for debate to the community. Yes, LGBTQ people are a part of this community. I ask of my fellow Muslims what is it that makes them so uncomfortable about this topic that they want to resort to violence and threats. I would also like to know what is so offensive about the documentary that it can evoke this type of a response from my fellow Muslims. I am a gay Muslim woman and have been living this lifestyle for the past 28 years. I have experienced the pain of being a gay Muslim and I have seen the pain of others trying to deal with their sexual orientation homophobia from family, friends and the community.
Believe me, this is not a life anyone would want to choose. I have come to terms with who I am but I have always prayed to be normal, but you know this was not meant for me. I know of people who thought they had a choice; their choice was to hide their sexual persuasion, live a life of deceit. As far as the community is concerned they probably made the right choice. I ask right for who? We are not asking for the world to be gay; we are only asking for our human rights and to be allowed to practice our religion as we are all spiritual beings. Shukran to VOC for starting this debate. I feel as community we can only grow by listening and debating dissenting views. We are not strangers we are your family and sisters and brothers in Islam" she concluded. VOC
Karan Singh from Montreal writes in on FaceBook:
"Hi Parvez,
I was at a screening of your film in Montreal...I just wanted to say what a great effort it was.....it was both courageous and inspiring.
Best with this and all your future efforts.
karan."
CR Davies writes in here:
"Is Islam really so fragile that things like homosexuality and "provocatively" named teddy bears threaten to destroy the religion's very core? Whatever happened to the tradition of debate and reasoned inquiry, not to mention the concept of compassion and the appreciation of all God's creatures? Condemnations fly from every direction, and one could scarcely be blamed nowadays for thinking Islam is the religion of the intolerant. Congratulations, Mr. Sharma, on making a courageous, beautiful, and necessary film. My prayers and support are with you, with Muhsin Hendricks, and with all the subjects in your film, as you chip away at the walls of ignorance, hatred, and bigotry. "
And the last word belongs to Faheem from Cape Town :
"Hello to all and Salam to all Muslim people. I would like to express my disgust in the growth of this sinful and demoralising activity - homosexuality.
I have read the interview by Hassan Mirza to yourself Parvez and although this conversation is intelectually and homosexually appetizing to all your gay readers and fans, its definitely not applaud-able to any sensible muslim or non-muslim.
You claim to be the first person to break the walls of silence in defense of gays when the gay issue has not been silent at all. The stench of its gaping hole has long been opposed in the Holy Quran. When you say that you dont have a choice to be muslim, you actually have made a concious choice not to obey Islam publically. Islam means to submit to Allahs laws and will.
Just rememebr that our Prophet muhammad SAW has left for us a complete religion and what you are doing is nothing but distorting and corrupting the minds of many young people who choose to be misguided by you willingly or through their vulnerability.
You should take some time off and really make a conscious decision as to what you really want to happen to you once the two Angels appear in your grave.
Allah is Most Forgiving and he forgives all sins except Shirk (making partners with Him). I dont know if these words wil ever reach your heart but please take not of the following...
If gays assume that Islam has a place for homosexuality then why do the laws of Mahram and non-Mahram apply to women and men relationships? If you have to cover your Auwrah (portion of your body between navel and knees) from other strange women and males, and women in turn have to cover their whole body except hands and face from strange men, then how would these laws apply to gay or lesbian people? If the Quran or hadeeth does not advise us on these issues then who will be brave/ignorant enough to add to the pure wording and guidance from the Quran?
If gay people say that people shouldnt assume that they have anal intercourse, then what is it that they desire in same gender relationships, as all humans have the natural tendencies of carnal desires. So what leads to Haraam is Haraam and inhibiting or encouraging homosexuality will only encourage anal sexual intercourse isnt it? This type of intercourse is strictly forbidden in Islam between unmarried / married heterosexual couples. Needless to say that if this is Haraam for heterosexuals, then what is there left for gay 'muslims' to deny/justify?
You need to make ghusl, and then make Toubah (return to Allah in forgiveness) and say your Kalimah again and start immediately promoting the correct beliefs which Allah has instructed us with.
No man or woman is born gay/lesbian. It is a conscious decision you have made and do not blame Allah for your shortcomings.
Allah knows best. May He guide and protect us from our infallibility."
There is always a difference between how Muslims who see the film respond, and those who condemn the film's very existence without seeing it. Seiraj from Cape Town writes:
"Hello
Saw the film in Johannesburg, what an achievement - Parvez, Sandi, Muhsin and everyone else involved: thankyou for an important film that will divide opinion but generate much-needed debate.
My mom is in Cape Town and would like to see the film. I see I've missed the Out in Africa film festival dates in CT, will the film be shown again soon in CT?
best wishes
Sieraaj"
And then this from Rashid, who I am not sure has seen the film:
Dear "Faheem from Cape Town":
As a gay man, (yes, openly proud, too) I take very strong offense to your statement that being gay is a conscious, morally outrageous decision, and that no one is born gay or lesbian. As if anyone would choose to receive such condemnation as you provide! If you're not gay yourself, how dare you get into the minds of and speak on behalf of those who are? How would you know anything about what it is to be gay? Furthermore, if, as you say so confidently, "Allah knows best," then STOP usurping His authority and making judgments on His behalf. Are you not being blasphemous yourself by assuming His role here on Earth as His designated spokesperson? For shame!
started this blog, 2007. today i am a guggenheim fellow, a much lauded filmmaker and author; creator of 3 world firsts: a jihad for love; a sinner in mecca (films) + 112,000 page book. visit parvezsharma.com but this blog is historically important; a partial on the road record; the world's first ever film on islam and homosexuality; fact = "islam trilogy" = 8 million plus eyeballs; yes, death, defying work, but re-taught me gratitude+ humility; karma backbones = dh; sd; at; hva; pa
30.11.07
29.11.07
Images from the Montreal Awards Ceremony and the Sold Out Screenings and Q and A's
The photographer is Peter Kom
26.11.07
72 Hours, Two Best Documentary Awards
Last night in Montreal- was profound and amazing.
One sold out screening here at Image+Nation Festival. The Festival decides to do a second screening and that sells out as well within minutes. People queue up in large numbers. An Egyptian man, who was almost on the Queen Boat, sobs and says the film is about his life. A young Muslim man finds affirmation in the fact that at fifteen a Sheikh told him he could not be gay and Muslim, and that now in his twenties, watching the film, he finally finds some answers in the faith he had almost rejected. A Malaysian Muslim commits to helping us when we bring the film to Malaysia.
And finally, less than 72 hours after our Best Documentary Award in Sao Paulo, the Jury here in Montreal votes and decides that 'A Jihad for Love' is the Best Documentary at the Festival.
After last night's screening, Rony writes:
"Hi Parvez,
I really was touched by your movie tonight, very well made.
I hope it will inspire the community and start a kind of revolution to change things and help the others who dont have the chance to live in a free country.
So many are in pain and at risk of death, and not much we can do about it, but it takes sometimes a "small" start like that for a big change.
Good luck and hope to see you in Montreal soon.
Rony"
Faheem from South Africa writes again:
Parvez..
I have been working with a few gay people for a couple of months. Them being good people to work does not justify the fact that they still are sinning.
Homosexuality is sinful, and anal sex is Haraam and punishable in Islam.
Regards - Faheem
And then another comment from The Mother City (Cape Town), clearly Ground Zero for the film, atleast in the ten weeks since the film was born.
Hi Mr Sharma
I truly commend you for the beautiful film you have made.I am fortunate to live in Cape Town which does protect the rights of our gay and lesbian citizens.I know many gay muslim men and it is quite sad to see how they are treated by misguided members of their muslim brother and sisters.At the end of day, we are children of God and from what i know, Islam is a religion of peace and love so the hatred directed at the gay community is alarming. We are not here to judge anybody irrespective of creed, race or sexual orientation.
One sold out screening here at Image+Nation Festival. The Festival decides to do a second screening and that sells out as well within minutes. People queue up in large numbers. An Egyptian man, who was almost on the Queen Boat, sobs and says the film is about his life. A young Muslim man finds affirmation in the fact that at fifteen a Sheikh told him he could not be gay and Muslim, and that now in his twenties, watching the film, he finally finds some answers in the faith he had almost rejected. A Malaysian Muslim commits to helping us when we bring the film to Malaysia.
And finally, less than 72 hours after our Best Documentary Award in Sao Paulo, the Jury here in Montreal votes and decides that 'A Jihad for Love' is the Best Documentary at the Festival.
After last night's screening, Rony writes:
"Hi Parvez,
I really was touched by your movie tonight, very well made.
I hope it will inspire the community and start a kind of revolution to change things and help the others who dont have the chance to live in a free country.
So many are in pain and at risk of death, and not much we can do about it, but it takes sometimes a "small" start like that for a big change.
Good luck and hope to see you in Montreal soon.
Rony"
Faheem from South Africa writes again:
Parvez..
I have been working with a few gay people for a couple of months. Them being good people to work does not justify the fact that they still are sinning.
Homosexuality is sinful, and anal sex is Haraam and punishable in Islam.
Regards - Faheem
And then another comment from The Mother City (Cape Town), clearly Ground Zero for the film, atleast in the ten weeks since the film was born.
Hi Mr Sharma
I truly commend you for the beautiful film you have made.I am fortunate to live in Cape Town which does protect the rights of our gay and lesbian citizens.I know many gay muslim men and it is quite sad to see how they are treated by misguided members of their muslim brother and sisters.At the end of day, we are children of God and from what i know, Islam is a religion of peace and love so the hatred directed at the gay community is alarming. We are not here to judge anybody irrespective of creed, race or sexual orientation.
24.11.07
Montreal Tomorrow, Some More Comments
Our 5 pm screening in Montreal tomorrow is sold out, so an additional one has been added at 7 and hopefully many of you can make it.
Here is how the festival describes the film and you can buy tickets here
A Jihad for Love
Parvez Sharma | USA/ UK/ FR/ GER/ AU | 2007 | video | 81 min | multilingual | s-t.a_en
“If the One above forgives you, then the world has no right to judge you.” Parvez Sharma’s A Jihad of Love is the first full-length documentary about devout gay and lesbian Muslims. From the Cairo 52 trial to the relatively liberal Islamic Republic of Turkey, he explodes myths and stereotypes about Islam perpetuated by a Western media focused on fundamentalists. Sharma challenges historically-driven interpretations of the stories of Lut, Gomorrah and Sodom, and clarifies the meaning of the frequently misinterpreted word jihad. From a lesbian couple living in Paris to a gay father and imam in South Africa, Sharma depicts Islam’s diversity and richness, and the moving struggles of our courageous Muslim LGBT brothers and sisters worldwide. Produced by Sandi Dubowski (Trembling Before G-D), Sharma’s astonishing debut was 6 years in the making and shot in 9 languages and 12 countries. A haunting, timely documentary that resonates with our current preoccupations with accommodements raisonnables and Islamophobia, Sharma’s film perhaps represents his own jihad ul-nafs. Sharma reminds us that Islam means submission unto a law of mercy, and that there is no substitute for love, be it that of a same-sex partner – or Allah. – BP
sunday 25 nov_17:00 | PGM67 | J.A. de Seve
Également dans ce programme : Aly M
Meanwhile, this from Mr Fahim Jackson who I assume is in South Africa:
"Hello to all and Salam to all Muslim people. I would like to express my disgust in the growth of this sinful and demoralising activity - homosexuality.
I have read the interview by Hassan Mirza to yourself Parvez and although this conversation is intelectually and homosexually appetizing to all your gay readers and fans, its definitely not applaud-able to any sensible muslim or non-muslim.
You claim to be the first person to break the walls of silence in defense of gays when the gay issue has not been silent at all. The stench of its gaping hole has long been opposed in the Holy Quran. When you say that you dont have a choice to be muslim, you actually have made a concious choice not to obey Islam publically. Islam means to submit to Allahs laws and will.
Just rememebr that our Prophet muhammad SAW has left for us a complete religion and what you are doing is nothing but distorting and corrupting the minds of many young people who choose to be misguided by you willingly or through their vulnerability.
You should take some time off and really make a conscious decision as to what you really want to happen to you once the two Angels appear in your grave.
Allah is Most Forgiving and he forgives all sins except Shirk (making partners with Him). I dont know if these words wil ever reach your heart but please take not of the following...
If gays assume that Islam has a place for homosexuality then why do the laws of Mahram and non-Mahram apply to women and men relationships? If you have to cover your Auwrah (portion of your body between navel and knees) from other strange women and males, and women in turn have to cover their whole body except hands and face from strange men, then how would these laws apply to gay or lesbian people? If the Quran or hadeeth does not advise us on these issues then who will be brave/ignorant enough to add to the pure wording and guidance from the Quran?
If gay people say that people shouldnt assume that they have anal intercourse, then what is it that they desire in same gender relationships, as all humans have the natural tendencies of carnal desires. So what leads to Haraam is Haraam and inhibiting or encouraging homosexuality will only encourage anal sexual intercourse isnt it? This type of intercourse is strictly forbidden in Islam between unmarried / married heterosexual couples. Needless to say that if this is Haraam for heterosexuals, then what is there left for gay 'muslims' to deny/justify?
You need to make ghusl, and then make Toubah (return to Allah in forgiveness) and say your Kalimah again and start immediately promoting the correct beliefs which Allah has instructed us with.
No man or woman is born gay/lesbian. It is a conscious decision you have made and do not blame Allah for your shortcomings.
Allah knows best. May He guide and protect us from our infallibility. "
My response to Brother Faheem:
How can we meet Inshaallah and give you the opportunity to see the film?
Here is how the festival describes the film and you can buy tickets here
A Jihad for Love
Parvez Sharma | USA/ UK/ FR/ GER/ AU | 2007 | video | 81 min | multilingual | s-t.a_en
“If the One above forgives you, then the world has no right to judge you.” Parvez Sharma’s A Jihad of Love is the first full-length documentary about devout gay and lesbian Muslims. From the Cairo 52 trial to the relatively liberal Islamic Republic of Turkey, he explodes myths and stereotypes about Islam perpetuated by a Western media focused on fundamentalists. Sharma challenges historically-driven interpretations of the stories of Lut, Gomorrah and Sodom, and clarifies the meaning of the frequently misinterpreted word jihad. From a lesbian couple living in Paris to a gay father and imam in South Africa, Sharma depicts Islam’s diversity and richness, and the moving struggles of our courageous Muslim LGBT brothers and sisters worldwide. Produced by Sandi Dubowski (Trembling Before G-D), Sharma’s astonishing debut was 6 years in the making and shot in 9 languages and 12 countries. A haunting, timely documentary that resonates with our current preoccupations with accommodements raisonnables and Islamophobia, Sharma’s film perhaps represents his own jihad ul-nafs. Sharma reminds us that Islam means submission unto a law of mercy, and that there is no substitute for love, be it that of a same-sex partner – or Allah. – BP
sunday 25 nov_17:00 | PGM67 | J.A. de Seve
Également dans ce programme : Aly M
Meanwhile, this from Mr Fahim Jackson who I assume is in South Africa:
"Hello to all and Salam to all Muslim people. I would like to express my disgust in the growth of this sinful and demoralising activity - homosexuality.
I have read the interview by Hassan Mirza to yourself Parvez and although this conversation is intelectually and homosexually appetizing to all your gay readers and fans, its definitely not applaud-able to any sensible muslim or non-muslim.
You claim to be the first person to break the walls of silence in defense of gays when the gay issue has not been silent at all. The stench of its gaping hole has long been opposed in the Holy Quran. When you say that you dont have a choice to be muslim, you actually have made a concious choice not to obey Islam publically. Islam means to submit to Allahs laws and will.
Just rememebr that our Prophet muhammad SAW has left for us a complete religion and what you are doing is nothing but distorting and corrupting the minds of many young people who choose to be misguided by you willingly or through their vulnerability.
You should take some time off and really make a conscious decision as to what you really want to happen to you once the two Angels appear in your grave.
Allah is Most Forgiving and he forgives all sins except Shirk (making partners with Him). I dont know if these words wil ever reach your heart but please take not of the following...
If gays assume that Islam has a place for homosexuality then why do the laws of Mahram and non-Mahram apply to women and men relationships? If you have to cover your Auwrah (portion of your body between navel and knees) from other strange women and males, and women in turn have to cover their whole body except hands and face from strange men, then how would these laws apply to gay or lesbian people? If the Quran or hadeeth does not advise us on these issues then who will be brave/ignorant enough to add to the pure wording and guidance from the Quran?
If gay people say that people shouldnt assume that they have anal intercourse, then what is it that they desire in same gender relationships, as all humans have the natural tendencies of carnal desires. So what leads to Haraam is Haraam and inhibiting or encouraging homosexuality will only encourage anal sexual intercourse isnt it? This type of intercourse is strictly forbidden in Islam between unmarried / married heterosexual couples. Needless to say that if this is Haraam for heterosexuals, then what is there left for gay 'muslims' to deny/justify?
You need to make ghusl, and then make Toubah (return to Allah in forgiveness) and say your Kalimah again and start immediately promoting the correct beliefs which Allah has instructed us with.
No man or woman is born gay/lesbian. It is a conscious decision you have made and do not blame Allah for your shortcomings.
Allah knows best. May He guide and protect us from our infallibility. "
My response to Brother Faheem:
How can we meet Inshaallah and give you the opportunity to see the film?
23.11.07
Best Documentary Award
A Jihad for Love was awarded the Best Documentary and People's Jury Award last night, here in So Paulo at the MIX BRASIL Festival. We will be adding pictures soon.
20.11.07
The Hour Cover, International Herald Tribune and some more love
We are here in Sao Paulo. First screening tonight.
Meanwhile, The Hour in Montreal has done a COVER Feature on the film here
And The International Herald Tribune is running a story here.
The Montreal Gazette is running a story here
And Planet Out's Hassan Mirza interviews me here
Update:
Both screenings in Sao Paulo were very well received and yes, packed with audiences again, who in that very Brazilian way, asked long and thoughtful questions.
More comments have been coming in and as always, I post them below:
"thereis nothing unusual in being Gay Muslim and ARAB. there are plenty of evils like murder, INCEST, rape, homosexuality, pornography etc many many evils are existing among muslims as well as non-muslims. KORAN deplores and condemns these evils. surely you will meet many propagaters of SATAN under the garb of human rights and civil liberties but if you believe in hell and heaven in the life hereafter then what will you do to protect yourself from ALLAH's wrath. IN CASE IF YOU DO NOT BELIEVE IN LIFE HEREAFTER THEN nothing to worry about. KORAN is not for non-muslims, ex-muslims like salman rushdie or imposter muslims "
"This is an insane initiative to try and incorporate homosexuality into Islam. Dont you read the Quran? If you decide to interperate the pure and flawless Quran according to your own beliefs..then u only ask Allahs curse twofold. You talk about Jihad,but did u make Ijtihad over the matter. You wil find that no place exists in Islam for Ijtihad on matters which are explicitly clear in the Quran. May Allah guide u to accept Islam as it came to us."
Meanwhile, The Hour in Montreal has done a COVER Feature on the film here
And The International Herald Tribune is running a story here.
The Montreal Gazette is running a story here
And Planet Out's Hassan Mirza interviews me here
Update:
Both screenings in Sao Paulo were very well received and yes, packed with audiences again, who in that very Brazilian way, asked long and thoughtful questions.
More comments have been coming in and as always, I post them below:
"thereis nothing unusual in being Gay Muslim and ARAB. there are plenty of evils like murder, INCEST, rape, homosexuality, pornography etc many many evils are existing among muslims as well as non-muslims. KORAN deplores and condemns these evils. surely you will meet many propagaters of SATAN under the garb of human rights and civil liberties but if you believe in hell and heaven in the life hereafter then what will you do to protect yourself from ALLAH's wrath. IN CASE IF YOU DO NOT BELIEVE IN LIFE HEREAFTER THEN nothing to worry about. KORAN is not for non-muslims, ex-muslims like salman rushdie or imposter muslims "
"This is an insane initiative to try and incorporate homosexuality into Islam. Dont you read the Quran? If you decide to interperate the pure and flawless Quran according to your own beliefs..then u only ask Allahs curse twofold. You talk about Jihad,but did u make Ijtihad over the matter. You wil find that no place exists in Islam for Ijtihad on matters which are explicitly clear in the Quran. May Allah guide u to accept Islam as it came to us."
18.11.07
MJC Protests and The Nation Feature
The MJC has sent a fax of protest over our Friday featured interview on The Voice of the Cape here in Cape Town.
Meanwhile this radio station has been asking its listeners this on the front page of their website, which gets more than a million hits.
"VOC came in for flack from the MJC and some callers who believed discussing whether or not documentaries like the gay film Jihad for Love helped Muslims deal with homosexuality was creating a platform for something most Muslims would never accept. Do you believe VOC should not be covering controversial issues like homosexuality and the two Eids?"
The results are surprising.
Yesterday we finished our South Africa tour, only for the moment. Yet again, we had a packed audience and a very special guest in our Q&A: Imam Muhsin Hendricks' daughter, who joined him on stage to thunderous applause.
Also, in the US, "The Nation" has this feature on the film.
Please go to The Nation's website to comment.
AND YES, PLEASE GO TO THE VOICE OF THE CAPE TO VOTE IN LARGE NUMBERS.
MEANWHILE WE HAVE TWO MORE COMMENTS:
"this is Cape Town and I anticipated that the MJC would have some rather vitriolic comments about you, Muhsin and the film.Not to worry, we are all so proud of you"
AND THEN THIS:
"Yes u are right! This is Cape Town and the sunni Muslims here wil not and never tolerate this kind of propogation. We are all disgusted that Muslims are openly proud of their sins. Do not try to make us feel guilty for not accepting satanic behaviour. If a gay/homosexual man gives R1000000 in charity,it doesnt justify the fact that he is sinning. If he fasts all his life,and doesnt control his sexual orientation then he is living a lie. So please dont try to impress the gay community by doing this 'brave' act of expressing these sinful ways in the name of Islam. Impress Allah instead! And uphold his Name in the face of false impression. Be the man that you are and fight your inner Satan. Not even satan is gay! Im saying this out of concern.. Allah guide us all to the 'STRAIGHT' path. Aameen!"
FINALLY THIS AMAZING EMAIL FROM SOMEONE WHO ACTUALLY SAW THE FILM ; ) LAST NIGHT:
"Good-day Parvez,
I just came out of the packed Cinema in The Waterfront, Cape Town and can truly say I am taken in by the movie even me not being Muslim. I cannot really say I have experienced the same things that these courageous men and women have, and can only fear the outcome within their own country should they have remained there.
I am very concerned vis-à-vis the things revealed to us within the movie, and yes, you are right when you continually confirm that we must and should be lucky to live in a country that brings hope and remains to encourage those who feel threatened currently, despite the many problems we face daily.
I read with discontent the responses on other sites, others opinions and reactions of the documentary, yet them not really aware of the issues facing these man and women. I’m sure we echo the same sentiments as gays(GLBTI), when I say, to be normal is to be who you are truly comfortable with internally, and so the struggle would continue whether you are gay or straight, the battles don’t end because you define yourself as heterosexual? What the Imam’s daughter said tonight is true, whether you are black, white or dyslectic (as she put it), we accept the person in that form as they are (given to us by Gods Love), and so why is it so hard to accept someone who’s gay?
The documentary endeavors to open the can that has expired and been placed in storage. It reveals to us that awareness of the subject will spark debate and will lead to greater understanding and acceptance in the end.
The documentary being 8 weeks old since its debut in Toronto has still got many paths to venture, and by tonight’s response, I’m sure the road will become easier and smoother as it progresses to fulfill its desire for unity and acceptance within the broader Muslim community.
I feel honored to have watched it and can applaud you on a job well done and pray that your mission may be a success as you continue on your journey ahead.
Many thanks for a well informed and great documentary with brilliant answers that followed through the Q&A.
Regards
Thurlo"
Meanwhile this radio station has been asking its listeners this on the front page of their website, which gets more than a million hits.
"VOC came in for flack from the MJC and some callers who believed discussing whether or not documentaries like the gay film Jihad for Love helped Muslims deal with homosexuality was creating a platform for something most Muslims would never accept. Do you believe VOC should not be covering controversial issues like homosexuality and the two Eids?"
The results are surprising.
Yesterday we finished our South Africa tour, only for the moment. Yet again, we had a packed audience and a very special guest in our Q&A: Imam Muhsin Hendricks' daughter, who joined him on stage to thunderous applause.
Also, in the US, "The Nation" has this feature on the film.
Please go to The Nation's website to comment.
AND YES, PLEASE GO TO THE VOICE OF THE CAPE TO VOTE IN LARGE NUMBERS.
MEANWHILE WE HAVE TWO MORE COMMENTS:
"this is Cape Town and I anticipated that the MJC would have some rather vitriolic comments about you, Muhsin and the film.Not to worry, we are all so proud of you"
AND THEN THIS:
"Yes u are right! This is Cape Town and the sunni Muslims here wil not and never tolerate this kind of propogation. We are all disgusted that Muslims are openly proud of their sins. Do not try to make us feel guilty for not accepting satanic behaviour. If a gay/homosexual man gives R1000000 in charity,it doesnt justify the fact that he is sinning. If he fasts all his life,and doesnt control his sexual orientation then he is living a lie. So please dont try to impress the gay community by doing this 'brave' act of expressing these sinful ways in the name of Islam. Impress Allah instead! And uphold his Name in the face of false impression. Be the man that you are and fight your inner Satan. Not even satan is gay! Im saying this out of concern.. Allah guide us all to the 'STRAIGHT' path. Aameen!"
FINALLY THIS AMAZING EMAIL FROM SOMEONE WHO ACTUALLY SAW THE FILM ; ) LAST NIGHT:
"Good-day Parvez,
I just came out of the packed Cinema in The Waterfront, Cape Town and can truly say I am taken in by the movie even me not being Muslim. I cannot really say I have experienced the same things that these courageous men and women have, and can only fear the outcome within their own country should they have remained there.
I am very concerned vis-à-vis the things revealed to us within the movie, and yes, you are right when you continually confirm that we must and should be lucky to live in a country that brings hope and remains to encourage those who feel threatened currently, despite the many problems we face daily.
I read with discontent the responses on other sites, others opinions and reactions of the documentary, yet them not really aware of the issues facing these man and women. I’m sure we echo the same sentiments as gays(GLBTI), when I say, to be normal is to be who you are truly comfortable with internally, and so the struggle would continue whether you are gay or straight, the battles don’t end because you define yourself as heterosexual? What the Imam’s daughter said tonight is true, whether you are black, white or dyslectic (as she put it), we accept the person in that form as they are (given to us by Gods Love), and so why is it so hard to accept someone who’s gay?
The documentary endeavors to open the can that has expired and been placed in storage. It reveals to us that awareness of the subject will spark debate and will lead to greater understanding and acceptance in the end.
The documentary being 8 weeks old since its debut in Toronto has still got many paths to venture, and by tonight’s response, I’m sure the road will become easier and smoother as it progresses to fulfill its desire for unity and acceptance within the broader Muslim community.
I feel honored to have watched it and can applaud you on a job well done and pray that your mission may be a success as you continue on your journey ahead.
Many thanks for a well informed and great documentary with brilliant answers that followed through the Q&A.
Regards
Thurlo"
16.11.07
MJC Attacks Voice of the Cape for interviewing us
Muhsin and I were on the remarkable Muslim radio station in Cape Town-the Voice of the Cape today. Mufti AK Hoosen was interviewed as was Rushdy Sears of the Islamic Social Welfare Association. South Africa's MJC (Muslim Judicial Council) has criticized the station for interviewing us. A detailed report will follow. Meanwhile for more information go here
And yes comments have been pouring in as the second screening in Cape Town gets underway tomorrow to a packed audience again. I reproduce just some of the love below.
"You must realize that you are sinners like all of us.What you are doing or want to do is totally against the law of Allah SWT.The way out of this, as is for all sinners is to follow the prophet SAW as he said when he returned from the Battle of Badr.Akbar Jihad,Jihadunafs.Do u really think that the beloved Rasool of Allah would condone your type of lifestyle.Shaytaan is whisperiing to your heart and you allowing shytaan to take over your heart.So fight the nafs and if you refuse to do so then dont proclaim to be Muslim,or even try to change the words of His prophet SAW,or change the interpretation of the Holy Quran to suit your lifestyles as this will only be to your own downfall. May the curse of Allah and his beloved prophet be upon you if you continue with this lifestyle. "
" ALLAH's Curse on you All...i.e Soddom "
" Salam to all muslim readers and Hi to all others. Bismillah! I begin in the name of Allah. These are my personal opinions/views/concerns etc. Firstly what people need to understand is that as in the case with any faith, you will have those who follow and abide by the laws which are interpreted by the religious leaders, scriptures and prophets. In this case, Islam has many types of believers. We are not placed on this earth to judge, but some way or another we will be judged by th One and Only Creator Allah. If we claim to be Muslim, then we accept whatever our Prophet muhammad (peace be upon Him) has left for us. Any matters of concern which are not clearly understood are to be interpreted by the Appointed Religious Legal Authorities in a specific town, country etc. The majority viewpoint of the religious leaders (Ulama) has to be followed. Muslims are not sweeping things under the carpet by NOT tackling the Gay/homosexual issue. It just remains a sin which needs to be dealt with by the persons who have fallen into this Satanic trap. As in the case with any other known sin in religion, we dont find people going around saying that they are attracted to stealing, have an unnatural urge to cohabit with animals, or tell lies. Its time for all sinners to come out of their trapped closets as they feel they no longer need to be demoralised and disriminated against. So homosexuality is a known sin in the Abrahamic faiths and there is no need for any muslim to redefine the scriptures and accepted beliefs for hundreds/thousands of years. There is no place in this argument for shuffling around the Mercy of Allah in saying that Allah is most forgiving and that he understands His creation and wont punish these transgressors and innovators. Allah will forgive, If the conditions of forgiveness are met by the slave. Admit, repent, succeed! I think all those Muslims who believe correctly should claim to be discriminated against for following the correct information and laws stipulated by Allah (most High). "
And yes comments have been pouring in as the second screening in Cape Town gets underway tomorrow to a packed audience again. I reproduce just some of the love below.
"You must realize that you are sinners like all of us.What you are doing or want to do is totally against the law of Allah SWT.The way out of this, as is for all sinners is to follow the prophet SAW as he said when he returned from the Battle of Badr.Akbar Jihad,Jihadunafs.Do u really think that the beloved Rasool of Allah would condone your type of lifestyle.Shaytaan is whisperiing to your heart and you allowing shytaan to take over your heart.So fight the nafs and if you refuse to do so then dont proclaim to be Muslim,or even try to change the words of His prophet SAW,or change the interpretation of the Holy Quran to suit your lifestyles as this will only be to your own downfall. May the curse of Allah and his beloved prophet be upon you if you continue with this lifestyle. "
" ALLAH's Curse on you All...i.e Soddom "
" Salam to all muslim readers and Hi to all others. Bismillah! I begin in the name of Allah. These are my personal opinions/views/concerns etc. Firstly what people need to understand is that as in the case with any faith, you will have those who follow and abide by the laws which are interpreted by the religious leaders, scriptures and prophets. In this case, Islam has many types of believers. We are not placed on this earth to judge, but some way or another we will be judged by th One and Only Creator Allah. If we claim to be Muslim, then we accept whatever our Prophet muhammad (peace be upon Him) has left for us. Any matters of concern which are not clearly understood are to be interpreted by the Appointed Religious Legal Authorities in a specific town, country etc. The majority viewpoint of the religious leaders (Ulama) has to be followed. Muslims are not sweeping things under the carpet by NOT tackling the Gay/homosexual issue. It just remains a sin which needs to be dealt with by the persons who have fallen into this Satanic trap. As in the case with any other known sin in religion, we dont find people going around saying that they are attracted to stealing, have an unnatural urge to cohabit with animals, or tell lies. Its time for all sinners to come out of their trapped closets as they feel they no longer need to be demoralised and disriminated against. So homosexuality is a known sin in the Abrahamic faiths and there is no need for any muslim to redefine the scriptures and accepted beliefs for hundreds/thousands of years. There is no place in this argument for shuffling around the Mercy of Allah in saying that Allah is most forgiving and that he understands His creation and wont punish these transgressors and innovators. Allah will forgive, If the conditions of forgiveness are met by the slave. Admit, repent, succeed! I think all those Muslims who believe correctly should claim to be discriminated against for following the correct information and laws stipulated by Allah (most High). "
15.11.07
South Africa, Sheffield, Recent Press
I write from the road.
We had two packed screenings in Blighty-The Sheffield Documentary Film Festival. Will write an updated report on that. Britain's, 'The Independent' ran a full page story which can be seen here
Sheffield is an amazing festival but suffers from a lack of audiences off the street-the majority in the theater comprise industry 'types'.
In South Africa, where the faultlines of prejudice and an apartheid that is not quite yet gone, run deep we have had two screenings-in Johannesburg and in Cape Town. Last night's Q and A went on for almost an hour and most of the packed audience stayed with profound questions. This is the Mother City and full of hope for the future. We have already been on the radio with Dr. Eve, on 702 /567 Cape Talk with Redi Direko and with Lisa Chiat of Cape Talk. Muhsin and I do a one hour special on the Muslim station- Voice of the Cape tomorrow morning (SA time) between 9 and 10 am, with live callers.
Janet Smith's article and Interview for 'Tonight' is on here
Filmmaker South Africa is on here
Arja Salafranca writes in the Culture Pages of ' The Sunday Independent'(October 28, 2007)-"...this is surely going to be a highlight of this years festival-astonishing to see in today's world' (if you see a link to this please send it to me).
There is a lot of press, a lot of warmth and engaged and large audiences. I will be updating as we prepare for Saturday's screening in Cape Town and get ready to head to Sao Paulo in Brazil.
Meanwhile do also read the comments thread for my Oh! England post-rather interesting, I feel.
We had two packed screenings in Blighty-The Sheffield Documentary Film Festival. Will write an updated report on that. Britain's, 'The Independent' ran a full page story which can be seen here
Sheffield is an amazing festival but suffers from a lack of audiences off the street-the majority in the theater comprise industry 'types'.
In South Africa, where the faultlines of prejudice and an apartheid that is not quite yet gone, run deep we have had two screenings-in Johannesburg and in Cape Town. Last night's Q and A went on for almost an hour and most of the packed audience stayed with profound questions. This is the Mother City and full of hope for the future. We have already been on the radio with Dr. Eve, on 702 /567 Cape Talk with Redi Direko and with Lisa Chiat of Cape Talk. Muhsin and I do a one hour special on the Muslim station- Voice of the Cape tomorrow morning (SA time) between 9 and 10 am, with live callers.
Janet Smith's article and Interview for 'Tonight' is on here
Filmmaker South Africa is on here
Arja Salafranca writes in the Culture Pages of ' The Sunday Independent'(October 28, 2007)-"...this is surely going to be a highlight of this years festival-astonishing to see in today's world' (if you see a link to this please send it to me).
There is a lot of press, a lot of warmth and engaged and large audiences. I will be updating as we prepare for Saturday's screening in Cape Town and get ready to head to Sao Paulo in Brazil.
Meanwhile do also read the comments thread for my Oh! England post-rather interesting, I feel.
From the Mother City
Ryan Jones from last night's screening at the V and A Waterfront, here in Capetown writes:
Dear Mr. Sharma
How are you doing? I trust all is well.
I attended the screening of "A Jihad for Love" at the V&A Waterfront last night. The reason for the mail is just to congratulate you on a film that I must confess touched me very deeply. From opening scene to closing credits my eyes, mind and heart were firmly fixated on the film. The topic was portrayed with much sensitivity and the peoples fervent love for their religion and God was almost tangible.
I myself am not Muslim, but I could also identify with the peoples struggle to come to terms with homosexuality and their love for God. I was also captivated by how the people not only coped with their internal struggle but also external struggles in how they are persecuted. It struck home when one of the cast spoke about how he could not fathom being free when so many are not.
I realised how caught up I became as seeing God as unapproachable and punishing. I have forgotten that God loves and is merciful and it is by His will that I am here and still alive. Just like some of the cast I have asked God to cure me from being gay. Sometimes in my mind I think that if God did not like me he would not have seen it fit for me to be here. But here I am an He has been with me from the start.
I hope that your work continues to touch and bring hope to the lives of many people and will open up a lot of avenues for discourse. Your work is truly a blessing.
Regards
Ryan Jones
Dear Mr. Sharma
How are you doing? I trust all is well.
I attended the screening of "A Jihad for Love" at the V&A Waterfront last night. The reason for the mail is just to congratulate you on a film that I must confess touched me very deeply. From opening scene to closing credits my eyes, mind and heart were firmly fixated on the film. The topic was portrayed with much sensitivity and the peoples fervent love for their religion and God was almost tangible.
I myself am not Muslim, but I could also identify with the peoples struggle to come to terms with homosexuality and their love for God. I was also captivated by how the people not only coped with their internal struggle but also external struggles in how they are persecuted. It struck home when one of the cast spoke about how he could not fathom being free when so many are not.
I realised how caught up I became as seeing God as unapproachable and punishing. I have forgotten that God loves and is merciful and it is by His will that I am here and still alive. Just like some of the cast I have asked God to cure me from being gay. Sometimes in my mind I think that if God did not like me he would not have seen it fit for me to be here. But here I am an He has been with me from the start.
I hope that your work continues to touch and bring hope to the lives of many people and will open up a lot of avenues for discourse. Your work is truly a blessing.
Regards
Ryan Jones
8.11.07
Oh! England
We are here in Sheffield
More to come. Oh! England, gorgeous and decrepit-Britannia, having colonized so many of our souls.Britannia ofcourse has had no choice but to jump head first into the battle for the soul of Islam. The discussions around Islam in Britian today remain at the forefront of how these debates will unfold in years to come.
Come one, come all to the screenings and the link is here
Hassan Mirza of Gay.Com has done an excellent feature on the film and that can be found when you click here-please post your comments to the feature interview and article.
Fascism is alive and well, in the words and actions of the likes of David Horowitz. The ignorance of these people is immense and many lobbies prevent us from correcting their ill informed actions in the United States. For more look here
More to come. Oh! England, gorgeous and decrepit-Britannia, having colonized so many of our souls.Britannia ofcourse has had no choice but to jump head first into the battle for the soul of Islam. The discussions around Islam in Britian today remain at the forefront of how these debates will unfold in years to come.
Come one, come all to the screenings and the link is here
Hassan Mirza of Gay.Com has done an excellent feature on the film and that can be found when you click here-please post your comments to the feature interview and article.
Fascism is alive and well, in the words and actions of the likes of David Horowitz. The ignorance of these people is immense and many lobbies prevent us from correcting their ill informed actions in the United States. For more look here
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