Posted: 03/06/08

Archbishop and Islam

Kerby Anderson

March 7, 2008

            Each year the percentage of Muslims in Europe increases. The impact of this Muslim population in Europe is significant. Some countries already have what are often called "no-go zones" where Christians dare not enter.

            One poignant illustration of Muslim influence in Europe surfaced in the comments by Dr. Rowan Williams, the archbishop of Canterbury. In a recent BBC interview, he suggested that there is a place in British society for Islamic Sharia Law.

He acknowledged that the "UK has to face up to the fact that some of its citizens do not relate to the British legal system." Then he called for "a constructive accommodation with some aspects of Muslim law." He believes that British Muslims should not have to choose between "the stark alternatives of cultural loyalty or state loyalty." So he believes that the government should provide a parallel legal system.

He did later acknowledge that he had spoken "clumsily" and with "misleading choice of words." But the force of his argument is significant. The British government better start making even more concessions to the growing Muslim population in their midst. In fact, one British government report recommended that Muslim husbands with multiple wives should be allowed to claim extra welfare benefits.

He pointed out that British law does sometimes permit certain matters to be settled by Jewish religious courts. But these courts have very limited jurisdiction (usually on matters of religious practice) and are subordinate to the national courts.

Islamic Sharia Law demands complete compliance in all areas of law, not just religious areas. It applies to political, economic, social, and legal aspects. By definition, it cannot be subordinate to any other jurisdiction.

Once again we can see the impact of multiculturalism in Europe, and the desire for appeasement and accommodation. Hopefully political and religious leaders in this country won't make the same mistake. I'm Kerby Anderson, and that's my point of view.

By Kerby Anderson Click here for bio and archived articles