With ISIS dominating headlines and confusing Muslims and non-Muslims alike, it is essential to understand that this group represents the exact opposite of what Islam teaches. A journalist and documentary filmmaker who spent nearly two years on the ground in Syria and Libya, and who studied Islam extensively in Egypt, provides clear evidence from the Quran, the Sunnah, and scholarly consensus that ISIS is a misguided, deviant group whose characteristics were prophesied by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) over 1,400 years ago.
The Khawarij: A Prophecy Fulfilled
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned his Ummah about a group that would recite the Quran without it passing their throats — meaning they would quote scripture without understanding it. These are the Khawarij, and every deviant group that has emerged since, including ISIS, shares their fundamental characteristics: taking texts out of context, ignoring scholarly understanding, and reacting with violence instead of wisdom.
“Anyone can quote scripture out of context to justify havoc. Someone could quote Jesus saying ‘I came not to bring peace but a sword’ — and a Christian would say ‘you’re quoting that out of context.’ That’s exactly what ISIS does with the Quran.”
What Islam Actually Teaches About Violence and Mercy
- Islam says love all mankind — The Prophet (peace be upon him) said no one truly believes until he loves for humanity what he loves for himself
- No innocent blood — Killing an innocent person is one of the greatest sins in Islam, and no Muslim wants that on their account on the Day of Judgment
- The Prophet freed enemies who later accepted Islam — The story of Thumamah, a staunch enemy captured as a prisoner of war, who was treated with mercy, set free, and then returned voluntarily to accept Islam
- Dawah, not destruction — The prophetic method is to educate, connect with people, and share the purpose of life through compassion, not isolationism and violence
“Look at what happened when the Prophet (peace be upon him) let his enemy go free. This man came back and accepted Islam. From this kind act of mercy, look — he wasn’t beheaded. He was given dawah, and he accepted Islam. Isn’t that fabulous?”
The Muslim’s Responsibility
When Muslims are out in their communities — contributing to society, connecting with neighbors, sharing the message of Islam through beautiful character — they never end up wanting innocent blood on their hands. It is isolation, ignorance, and listening to hate-mongering preachers that warp minds. Every Muslim’s obligation is to call people to peace: peace with the Creator, peace within themselves, and peace with all of humanity. That is the deen, and that is what separates true Islam from every deviant group that claims to act in its name.
