Fitna
March 30, 2008
Several Muslim countries are in an uproar right now. Geert Wilders, a Dutch member of Parliament, just released a ten-minute movie called “Fitna” (Arabic for ‘Ordeal’). The movie shows footage of several terrorist attacks spliced with verses from the Quran which encourage violence and Islamic superiority, as well as video of Imams spouting hate speech and violence. Jordanian lawmakers are considered breaking diplomatic ties to the Netherlands, and there have been protests in Pakistan, Iran, and Indonesia, all of whom have requested to speak with their respective ambassadors.
Mr. Wilders, who produced the film under heavy security, has received numerous death threats and requires a security escort at all times. Personally, while I don’t think the film is particularly good, I see nothing deceptive, dishonest, or hateful about it. Therefore, I see no reason why it should be censored, as the Dutch government has attempted to do. Freedom of speech is the bedrock of Western Civilization, and must be protected. However, you are welcome to the view the movie for yourself and make your own determination of whether this qualifies as hate speech, great art, something that looks like it was made by stoned undergrad at USC, or a triumph of free speech.
As a Dutch citizen I’ve seen the move when it came.
There was a lot of discussion about it, but now it seems that people think it not so bad.
Only some Muslims think it is offensive to them, but not blasphemic, because it links Islam with terrorism.
Of course not all Muslims are terrorists or even potential terrorists.
But I didn’t hear a lot of noise from the Muslim community denouncing terror attacks as ‘offensive to Islam’. The movie just portrays news events, it can not be offensive.
What is offensive to Islam is terrorists acts committed in the name of Islam.
Well, I think I would use the word inflammatory. There is stuff in the Bible and in the Koran that can be taken as support for peace and love, and support for brutal violence. This kind of thing doesn’t help but I also wish more Muslims would speak out publicly against terrorism, Maybe more would if President Bush hadn’t alienated most of the world. No one wants to be on his side right now. In addition, there is clearly fear. Violent, crazies run through most religions - Christian and Muslim certainly have had their share. I don’t think it should be censored but it sure isn’t going to help further any kind of positive dialog.
Alan
The understanding of Quran and when the certain verses and chapter revealed and overall meaning of it is important. not just cut and paste one verse, as such this movie fitna does. If you read an-nisa verse 89, then you should read verse 90 too.If you read an-nisa verse 56 you should read verse 55 too..so you get wider view.Study the verse given in the movie..you’ll find the truth.
Wilders’ film isn’t that professionally well done, but it doesn’t need to be. In essence, the film is a ten minute middle finger to Islam, particularly those fanatics who have nothing better to do than be offended by some Dutch lawmaker’s beliefs.
I’m glad he made it, and find it funny that a film so simple and rough around the edges can rile up so many people.
The problem with Fitna is commiting the stereotyping sin which is something silly regardless the faith or race. Moreover, I do believe that the case of ‘Freedom of Speech’ has been abused.