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Offline Reader Questions

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Democracy or Not?
« on: January 21, 2013, 03:02:56 AM »
Dear Brother Joseph, Peace!
 
6:116 Now if thou pay heed unto the majority of those [who live] on earth, they will but lead thee astray from the path of God: they follow but [other people's] conjectures, and they themselves do nothing but guess.
 
The above verse is used by many Islamists to reject democracy and popular opinion. Recently a Saudi cleric gave a fatwa against elections. How does that square with:
 
42:38 and who respond to [the call of] their Sustainer and are constant in prayer; and whose rule [in all matters of common concern] is consultation among themselves; and who spend on others out of what We provide for them as sustenance; and
 
3:159 And it was by God's grace that thou [O Prophet] didst deal gently with thy followers: for if thou hadst been harsh and hard of heart, they would indeed have broken away from thee. Pardon them, then, and pray that they be forgiven. And take counsel with them in all matters of public concern; then, when thou hast decided upon a course of action, place thy trust in God: for, verily, God loves those who place their trust in Him.
What, in your opinion is the proper context of this verse and can this verse be used to reject democracy?

Thanks.

Offline Joseph Islam

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Re: Democracy or Not?
« Reply #1 on: January 21, 2013, 03:04:56 AM »
May peace be with you.

Please note the context of verse 6:116 and the preceding verse 6:114 which talks about seeking other than God for judge. Hence verse 6:116 leans towards matters of religion. (i.e. Those that follow the majority in matters of religion). That in my humble view is the main purport.

Verses 42:38 and 3:159 that you have cited relate to mutual consultations such as with regards matters of public / governmental or administrative concern.

I hope that helps, God willing.
Joseph
'During times of universal deceit, telling the truth becomes a revolutionary act' 
George Orwell