Dr M: Muslims must have good understanding of Al-Quran, not merely be able to recite it

SEREMBAN: Some Muslims who did not understand the true teachings of the Al-Quran have resorted to commit acts that are prohibited in the faith, such as killing others, says Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

Muslims must have a good understanding of Al Quran and not merely be able to recite it, added the Prime Minister.

“Only two days ago we were shocked by the merciless killings of 49 of our fellow Muslims, while praying in two mosques in Christchurch.  

“This was an act committed by a terrorist who sought revenge for the killings of non-Muslims by Muslims.  

“Muslims who migrate to non-Muslim countries have also killed people and they want to be jihadists, when it is clearly stated in the Quran that such an act is forbidden,” he said when officially opening the six-day National Al Quran Reciting competition here on Sunday (March 17).  

Dr Mahathir said innocent people are usually the victims when hate crimes are committed.  

“The 49 people praying in the churches were innocent people who had nothing to do with violence.  

“This has now angered Muslims and we will want to seek revenge.  

“But when people become revengeful, the killings will not stop,” he said, adding that violence only begets violence.