Read Libby
Purves's guide to religion and thought
A British teacher faces a jail sentence in Sudan for insulting Islam by
letting her class of seven-year-olds name a teddy bear Muhammad as part of a
school project.
Gillian Gibbons, 54, from Liverpool, has been accused of blasphemy — an
offence punishable by 40 lashes under Sharia — and could be imprisoned for
up to six months.
She had asked the children to pick their favourite name for the new class
mascot, which she was using to aid lessons about animals and their habitats.
In a class vote, the pupils rejected her own suggestion of “Faris”, with 20
out of 23 deciding to call the cuddly toy Muhammad — also the name of one of
the class’s most popular boys.
Ms Gibbons had left Liverpool for Sudan in July, after leaving her job as a
primary school deputy head in the city. An experienced traveller whose
MySpace entry talks of her passion for learning about other cultures, she
took up the challenge of a new job in Khartoum after the break-up last year
of her 33-year marriage.
Yesterday she was in isolation in a cell in Khartoum, and colleagues and the
consular authorities were desperately trying to negotiate her release.
Unity High School, the British school where she taught the children of
Sudanese professionals, expatriates and oil workers, stood empty, amid fears
of adverse reactions from Islamic extremists.
Robert Boulos, the school’s director, said that on Sunday police had barged
into the school grounds, where Ms Gibbons was living. “We tried to reason
with them but we felt they were coming under strong pressure from Islamic
courts,” he said in his study lined with sepia photographs of the school’s
colonial heyday.
“There were men with big beards asking where she was and saying they wanted to
kill her."
A similar crowd gathered at the police station where she is being held.
Mr Boulos said the school would remain shut until January to protect the
safety of staff and children. “This was a completely innocent mistake,"
he said. “Ms Gibbons would have never wanted to insult Islam.”
He said that a seven-year-old girl took the teddy into class in September. It
was dressed in old clothes and was sent home each weekend with different
pupils who were asked to keep a diary of its activities.
Each entry was collected in a book with a picture of the bear on the cover,
next to the message “My name is Muhammad”, although the bear was not marked
or labelled with the name in any way.
Islamic law forbids images of the Prophet Muhammad, lest they give rise to
idolatry.
It is understood that Sudanese police have now seized the book and had asked
to interview the toy’s seven-year-old owner.
The extreme circumstances of the case have led colleagues to believe that the
British teacher may have been caught up in a personal vendetta.The bear’s
name was chosen within weeks of Ms Gibbons’s arrival in September, but
objections were raised only last week.
The Sudanese Media Centre — closely associated with the Sudanese Government —
reported that the teacher could be prosecuted under Article 125 of criminal
law, which covers “faith and religions” legislation. It also stated that the
Briton’s actions had “met with wide condemnation by guardians of the
students”.
However, colleagues of Ms Gibbons told The Times that no such complaints had
been received by any of the children’s parents. They pointed to a
disgruntled fellow teacher as the possible source of the complaint. The
woman, understood to be a member of a well-known, conservative family, is
believed to have a grudge against Unity High School, set up 100 years ago by
a Christian bishop.
Bishop Ezikiel Kondo, chairman of the school council, said: “It’s a kind of
blackmail.”
One Sudanese woman whose seven-year-old son had hosted the bear for a weekend,
said: “I didn’t complain and neither did any other of the other parents.
Anyway she didn’t name the bear — it was the class. Really we think she is a
good teacher.”
Another colleague told The Times: “I think the complaint came internally. The
police are suggesting maybe it was from another member of staff.”
She added that Ms Gibbons was still awaiting to be charged formally. “A lot of
staff have been in to see her. She is upset but fine.”
Yesterday staff at Unity huddled together in the shade of the courtyard,
discussing whether religious leaders would call their faithful on to the
streets in anti-Western protests.
Press agencies reported that young men had started to gather outside the
police station where she was being questioned.
Officials from the British Embassy visited the teacher in police custody
yesterday. “She was clearly shaken up but otherwise well,” one said.
In the Liverpool suburb of Aigburth, where Ms Gibbons lived until her divorce,
residents waited to hear her fate. Peter Sorensen, a former neighbour ,
said: “We all thought it was a tremendously brave move for her to go to
Africa at her age. It seems that she wanted a new challenge and she was
planning to stay there for two years.
“Gillian was a very nice person and wouldn’t harm a fly.”
Her ex-husband, Peter, a local headmaster, and their children, John, 25, and
Jessica, 27, declined to comment, for fear of jeopardising
negotiations.However, Mr Sorensen said that friends and relatives were
extremely worried about the conditions under which Ms Gibbons was being
held, he said.
Ms Gibbons had worked in primary schools in and around Liverpool as a supply
teacher and then as a literacy adviser for the city council.
Response is ‘unusually harsh’
–– Gillian Gibbons, who taught at Unity High School in Khartoum, right, was
arrested for supposedly “insulting the Prophet Muhammad”, a violation of
Article 125 of the Sudanese criminal law that covers insults against faith
and religion
–– There is no specific, or explicit, ban in the Koran on images of Allah or
the Prophet Muhammad – be they carved, painted or drawn
–– However, chapter 42, verse 11 of the Koran does say: “[Allah is] the
originator of the heavens and the earth . . . [There is] nothing like a
likeness of Him”
–– The fear is that images could give rise to idolatry, but experts said that
in this case the response in Sudan, which has been governed by strict Sharia
(Islamic law) since 1983, has been unusually harsh
Come on people, let's remember the great Sudanese joke, as reported in this august news organ on May 4, 2007; click to the article on Rose The Goat 'Wife' who commanded a dowry of 15,000 Sudanese dinars http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/africa/article1744570.ece
People? Goats? Teddy Bears? What next for the poor Sudanese to die laughing at? Just hope Gillian Gibbons still has a sense of humour when she gets home.
Pete, London, UK
In a radio interview, I heard someone say that "in our culture a teddy bear is not a child's toy, it is a fierce wild animal". A teddy bear is a fierce wild animal... yeah right.
Seriously though, it is very sad to read the post from the yr 7 boy at this school - these people who are calling for Ms Gibbons' death are seriously warped, and that is not the fault of their religion but their greed in interpreting it to their own means.
Keith, Kent,
I taught at Unity High School about 6 yrs ago. The whole school system is based on the "British curriculum" and runs as an enclave British school in the middle of the Sahara desert. Any parents sending their children to the school would know they are being educated in this way, with "western" teaching methods and curriculum. The Unity staff and wider school community were the loveliest and friendliest people I've ever met in my overseas travels and their hearts must be breaking this very moment, not to mention the poor children who've lost their teacher in such a horrible way. There is more to this than just crimes against Islam. She is not safe now and the deportation is the best thing to happen to her. She needs to get out ASAP!
Stewart Ross, Toowoomba, Australia
I have heard today about how we 'respect' the islamic faith of Sudan. What exactly is there to 'respect' in this farcical abomination?
If Islam wants to be accepted as anything other than an unjust, violent, abusive and intolerent religion, it needs to first start acting without these prejudices. Events like this do nothing to further the cause of those who truly wish to live in a peaceful world without persecution.
There is a very old saying that fits. Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones. Next time I hear anything about persecution of British Muslims I will think on this story and consider glass houses
Alistair, UK,
this is absolutly crazy this woman let her class vote on the name of the teddy bear and the child who said they should name the bear mohammed wanted this because that was in fact his name
Taylor , unknown , United states of america
Nothing to do with her being female of course! Can they lash and imprison all those men called Mohammed as well? Anything to do with it being originally a Christian school? Don't know if it still is but unlikely if the children's favourite name is Mohammed.
Get her brought home as soon as possible, if she teaches them English they will come and live here and bring their Sharia with them.
Redandover60, Hayes, Middlesex, England
"Islamic law forbids images of the Prophet Muhammad, lest they give rise to idolatry."
(1) This being so, why is it OK for Muslim parents to name their children Mohammed?
(2) And "images"? Presumably Mohammed did not look remotely like a teddy bear?
I have just looked at a picture on the Daily Mail website of a young man receiving these "lashes". Horribly brutal. I have also seen a picture of the teacher involved and I fear that 40 lashes may well kill her.
I also see that the Sudanese police are to "interview" the owner of the teddy bear - a seven year old child.
This is Sharia Law in action. The law that some would see introduced in the West.
My prayers are firmly with the child and also the teacher, to whom the silence of the international community and it's plethora of human rights activists must be truly deafening.
I notice that the Muslim Council of Ireland have remained silent, too. And that speaks volumes also.
Sandra, Galway, Ireland
Will she be the last British teacher to volunteer to teach in the Sudan?
Edmund Burke, Kingston upon Thames, England
Jail and punishment is ABSURD in this case. This was just innocent between a teacher and her students and I think that the Sudanese government is being extremely sensitive in this matter. Jail time? Please!
I don't think it's a crime or belittling Islam and the prophet Muhammed by naming a stuffed animal this.
It's like naming something Jesus, or God... Would anyone hate on that? It's freedom of SPEECH,,although I guess over there they don't have those precious rights.......
Poor woman!
Andrea, College Park,
When is the Teddy-Bear rally outside the Sudanese embassy?
Perhaps if people were aware that the school in question is run by a "Council whose members represent the different Christian denominations found in the city", they might realise why the mullahs are raging.
Malc, York,
Yes, Temilowoe Ofeni, London, I take your point but there is a subtle difference: many people might disagree with the congestion charge, which is the example you use of a pathetic law in this country, but it is very widely indicated - even when you are some miles from entering it. But what are people who would agree that "when in Rome do as the Romans do" supposed to do in countries like Sudan? Not go for fear of treading on the sacred pebble, for example? or leaning against the holy tree? Giving this toy this name might seem like an obvious transgression to you but I doubt it is to most people of the world - and that, I'm sure, includes many Muslims. In short: do we want a sane world where sane people can mix meet and get to know each other or not?
Cirep G Nol, London,
"When in Rome, do what the Romans do." And when in Cleveland, stop by for pork chops and a beer and we'll doodle Mohammad cartoons together. If you can't make it, the missus is welcome to drive over by herself. We'll gate up Allah and Jesus in the bathroom so they don't jump on you and lick you.
Brett, Cleveland, USA
To Bob Jones:
Need I remind you of the UN Declaration of Human Rights:
PREAMBLE
Whereas recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world,
Whereas disregard and contempt for human rights have resulted in barbarous acts which have outraged the conscience of mankind, and the advent of a world in which human beings shall enjoy freedom of speech and belief and freedom from fear and want has been proclaimed as the highest aspiration of the common people,
Article 18.
Everyone has the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion; this right includes freedom to change his religion or belief, and freedom, either alone or in community with others and in public or private, to manifest his religion or belief in teaching, practice, worship and observance.
Article 19.
Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression
http://www.un.org/Overview/rights.htm
Justin, Athens, GA, USA
Mikael Lahore says that when in Rome, do as Romans do.
If only his Islamic brothers would “bear†that in mind when in Western countries such as Britain, France and Denmark rather than trying to impose their Islamic beliefs on the indigenous population.
Liam Foster, Gravesend, Kent, UK
The Sudanese embassy in London say that in their country the bear is seen as 'fierce + dangerous' - reminds one of a religion... possibly one whose founder was a polygamist, who practiced child marriage and sanctioned war to further his aims?
adam, London,
I am a RE teacher in the UK and am very aware of the lengths that British teachers will go to in order to ensure racial and religious tolerance in the class room. I am shocked that this poor teacher, who clearly did not intend any harm in her actions, is being accused of blasphemy. Yes, it is offensive towards Muslims to create an image of the prophet Muhammad; however, Gillian did not 'create' this image and it was the students who chose to call it, Muhammad. What I would like to know, is if it is so offensive towards the Muslim faith to do such a thing, then why are so many Muslim men called Muhammad, after the prophet! It seems absurd to even suggest such harsh punishments, for what was simply, a teacher doing her job and a very big mis -understanding. It is also quite worrying to think about the impact this will have towards the British view of Islam, in a country that has given birth to the term, 'Islamaphobia'. I stand in complete support of Gillian and hope she will be released without charge very soon.
rachel, london,
It seems to me that Islamic law works on the principle that the end justifies the means.
'The end' (the spread of Islam and honour of Allah) justifies 'the means' (e.g. suppression of criticism, if necessary by force).
Unless it is questioned whether Allah agrees with this principle, such persecution will continue indefinitely.
James, Romford, UK
What was she doing there? Why would anyone in their right mind want to live under sharia law?
Do the sudanese people actually want to live under islamic law, i know they have no choice in the matter but do they actually want to?
kim, london,
Obey the law of the land.... it is also just as pathetic that I pay £50 48hrs after missing the congestion charge... £50 could go a long way in Sudan and not the daylight robbery of Ken Livingstone = lashing of the poor man = abuse of personal finances = psychological damage to me mind = 100 lashes of the horse whip...same difference... I still have to pay or the bailiffs come round and bully me (more pyschological pain).. So if she has broken the law, she will have to pay. This should go out to all Brits, your laws are just as silly and pathetic to the foreigner...
Temilowoe Ofeni, London, UK
The koran is very abiguous on this matter. However, if indeed therre can be no one like the Profet, them maybe even children should not be calle Mohammad. Shal we flog all their parents?
It seem that in come countries people will see evil in enithing westerners say or do. And waht is most crazy is that we go out there and hlep them.
MN, Berkshire,
I think the people who made the previous postings should rethink what they are saying. In Sudan which is a Muslim country it is illegal to call an object Mohamed as it is taking their spiritual leader in vain. This is the law of the land in that country.
In Britain it is not allowed although will cause offense to many which means you can do this in Britain but not in Sudan.
The teacher should have known better and if in doubt should have referred the matter to Islamic local management.
joseph Kellie, Edinburgh, Scotland
It's a bear faced cheek - everyone in this country should rename their teddies 'Muhammad' in an act of soft toy defiance against these idiots!
Either that or a simple solution to the 'War on Terror' - parachute 50,000 teddies into Afghanistan all labelled Muhammad and watch the Taliban self implode with rage...
Richard, Bromley, UK
maybe check in on them in another 100000 years and see if evolution has been kind enough to bless them with some intelligence and reason ... no wait did I say 100000 ... I missed a few 0's.
blacksheep, London,
i think that the media have taken their opputunity here.
The article clearly gives a quote from a parent stating that no complaints where made by any parents. A ''disgruntled fellow teacher '' is said to have had a grudge against the Christian set up school.
The first article which was on this page yesterday, before being editted ,said-
'' Bishop Ezekiel Kondo, chairman of the school council, told The Times that the school was in dispute with authorities over taxes, and suggested that Ms Gibbons, who arrived in Khartoum in August, may have been caught up in that ''
sudan is a country in which there has been decades of fighting e.g. dafur 2003. The infrastructure is in ruin and the government is in debt. The policing and justice system can not possibly be expected to be perfect.
''hmm -- a teddy bear named Muhammed sounds interesting''
Judging by the 90 or so responses,on have your say, yesterday. People have fallen idyllically into the hands of the media.
sheraz , Birmingham , UK
I shall be very surprised if the UK Government does anything to help the unfortunate Ms Gibbons. They are unable to stand up for the British in their own country never mind abroad.
Gary, Birmingham,
Shouldn't all those muslims called mohammed be stoning themselves?
Kilgallon, London,
To Mikael Khan, Lahore, Islamic Republic of Pakistan:
Several people have already named their Teddy Bears "Jesus" and I use "christ" as an explative (i.e. a swear word) on a daily basis without restraint.
"Jesus christ" can also be used as a phrase of exasperation and disbelief, as in, "Oh jesus christ. I can't believe those imbeciles arrested a teacher for naming a teddy bear 'muhammad.'"
The western outrage is that the teacher didn't do anything of consequence. Insulting a "prophet", or any "deity" for that matter, does not rise to the level of an offense anywhere in the world except in third world countries adhering to Islam. Sudan's action is counter to all concepts for free thought and expression. Western Enlightenment holds the basic concepts of freedom of thought, speech, and conscious to be far more important than religion and they are inalienable, that is, such rights are so fundamental that no government has any authority to take them away.
Scott, Durham, NC, USA
When in Rome, do what the Romans do. Hence, when you are in Islamic state try not do anything against the norms or religous practice. It is sad to hear the fate of Ms Gibbons but I personally feel that an honest mistak can be pardoned by a public apology and educating the children why such an act was reprimanded. Harsh actions are taken to prohibit the acceleration of such practices in future. Would anyone allow for a teddy bear called Jesus or Christ for that matter. Its agreeing to disagree. Conclusively, I believe when you are in someone elses backyard learn how they live and respect what they live for. Its the only way to harmoniously be of mutual benefit.
Mikael Khan, Lahore, Islamic Republic of Pakistan
My children (who came from England last year) attend the school, all the parents I know are very supportive of the school which maintains a positive and multi-cultural environment and has been encouraging Muslim children to learn about Islam and celebrate all Muslim events. Many international schools in Khartoum can’t be bothered to deliver the subject.
The local media have twisted the facts and delivered the news as if all parents are complaining. This is a lie only one person has complained. I am very angry because they are trying to say wrong things and be unjust in our names.
I find the accusations unfair, the school staff is very open-minded and approachable and the person who filed the complaints should have the decency to approach them first, Unless the whole scenario has a hidden agenda.
Rihab Mohamed, Khartoum, Sudan
They have their laws. Respect them. Some of the laws Western countries impose seem ridiculous to visitors from afar, yet when in the West, they must respect our laws. Laws governing freedom of expression do not come attached when visiting foreign jurisdictions; and, neither do Western mores.
Bob Jones, Durango, Colorado
You may want to consider what the Sudanese public were told about the incident: I had a look at a number of Sudanese internet forums and I had a word with a couple of friends in Sudan (I'm Sudanese by the way!). No one in Sudan actually knows what happened in detail. They suspect that there is more into the story but they just don't know! There are a number of independant newspapers in Sudan but no newspaper, apart from those controlled by government, is usually allowed to cover these kinds of stories!!!
Hafiz , Leicester, UK
I am a year 7, British-born, Muslim student in Unity High. I am completely and utterly disgusted. Mrs. Gillian is extremely caring and she wouldn’t do anything to insult anyone or any religion on purpose. If a teddy can’t be called Muhammad then kids shouldn’t be called Muhammad either. If Mrs. Gillian gets punished, then every parent of a child called Muhammad should be punished too! As a Muslim, I don’t see what’s wrong.
The name was chosen because it was popular like how James is in England. Not because anyone meant it as an insult to any human being or religion.
All students I know are extremely annoyed and worried that the school will be shut down forever. We were meant to have tests after next week, and when we get back in school we will have missed a whole month of education, which could damage our grades.
The school and its teachers/students (especially Mrs. Gillian) have done noting wrong to deserve this harsh treatment. I think Unity High is the best school in Sudane.
Basil Anwar, Khartoum, Sudan
It makes us very sad to hear such stories in due course of time. Such a very good teacher as Ms. Gibbs is under so much strain and mental agony inside a jail for doing nothing of the sort to be punished. Although it seems to be a personal vendetta by a fellow teacher. How can any body be so cautious as not to do any thing that might defame the religious sentiment unknowingly is out of my understanding. This teacher Ms Gibbons did not do anything; but the students have affectionately suggested this name for the teddy on the name of their brightest boy in the class. We give our parrot the name "Krishna" and "Rama" for uttering these names again and again we be free from earthly life. At last my hope is that Ms Gibbons should be free after it is proved that She did not actually do anything, but the students out of affection towards the friend and the bear had named it so. Is there anything like "Excuse" or "Pardon" ? Thanks to Libby Purves for the report, though sad.
SATYANARAYAN MOHAPATRA, CUTTACK, ORISSA/INDIA
I THINK this tr is a kind of good teachers.they are supposed to let go of her but send her back to her country.
shahd, khartoum, sudan
Surely naming a person who has an opinion and can therefore bring the name into disrepute is far worse than giving that name to an inanimate object. Perhaps a Muslim could explain to us why this is allowed.
But children won't regard a teddy as an inanimate object and are treating it like a friend and someone who has feelings and will care about its name. Ms Gibbons' accusors were children once, presumably. At what point in their lives do these Sudanese officials lose that ability to understand what human sentiment is about?
Clearly Ms Gibbons hasn't worked for the BBC, otherwise she would have rigged the vote and be home for Christmas. Instead she sounds like a caring and honest woman who is loved by her pupils and I can only hope that our government stands up to Sudan's to secure her release.
Dummymummy, Guildford, UK
The case against Ms Gibbons is preposterous. Reading some of the postings I have been very shocked by the hatred out there. As a moderate muslim i echo the sentiments of the MCB, as does every muslim i know! Whatever our faith we should all be working together to support Mrs Gibbons and her family, and i pray that she is released and exonerated soon.
Naima, London, UK
I am waiting for some words of criticism from our Archie Rowan. Perhaps even a tut, tut?
No, I expect that is too much to ask! Too busy criticising the US and British Raj.
jwilliams, Birmingham, UK
Chuck:
You’re an idiot. The children named the bear and regardless of this fact, no one should be prosecuted for a misunderstanding. I am a "liberal" and adamantly opposed to racial profiling or other oppressive activities, but stories such as this infuriate me. Religion (yes I mean all of them) is out of control. I wonder how many needless atrocities, wars, and senseless partisanship could be avoided if religion were not involved.
Ryan, Alexandria, VA
The fundamental problem Sudan faces is that Sharia is not a legitimate form of a modern legal code which protects fundamental and inalienable human rights. The United Nations should be adopt a resolutoin declaring Sharia an affront to Humanity and a violation of fundamental human rights, and proscribe its practice among UN nations. Any nation practicing Sharia should be thrown out of the UN and face the possibilites of economic sanctions.
Justin, Athens, GA, USA
The fundamental problem Sudan faces is that Sharia is not a legitimate form of a modern legal code which adequately protects fundamental, inalienable human rights. The United Nations should adopt a resolution declaring Sharia an affront to Humanity and a de facto violation of fundamental human rights. It then should issue a resolution condemning the practice of Sharia among UN member nations and call for its proscription. Any nation later found continuing to practice Sharia, in any form at any governmental level, should be suspended from participation in the UN and face the possibility of economic sanctions and trade embargoes.
Yes, INCLUDING Saudia Arabia.
Justin, Athens, GA, USA
A teacher is jailed for her willingness to teach. A teacher? And yet, I believe it is not the prophet who has been disgraced, but the teddy bear itself. It is the teddy bear who is caught in the battle of what? The law? The law that clearly states there must be no insulting of the prophet, when in fact, a child in that very same class had the same name. Interrogation for a name? A Name, which brings to mind, what does the simple word exemplify? The prophet is quintessential, but should his name be any less valuable if another being shares it? I believe this attack on the teacher shows who we are: a name that is valueless
Sarah, San Francisco, California
I sincerely hope we do not give aid to Sudan and if we do it should be withdrawn.Charities should withdraw also.It is wolly headed and sentimental to think that a country that harbours such backward thinking can ever use our help.Helping hands will only be bitten.And yes as someone said earlier where are our gunboats.? Get our people out and let Sudan develop at its own pace which will probably be very very slowly .They want to stay primitive and we should let them.
Frances , Tunbridge Wells, Kent
Please people, not all muslims are barbaric , we are peace lovin people we are only being wrongly portrayed.
i know its wrong to name a teddy bear after the prophet but
Muhammed is still a name it could be used for other people.
I am sure they didnt mean any disrespect they just didnt know.
The Sudanese authority should have given the teacher a strict warning and thats it.
Islam does not support injustice and cruelty.
sauda, Abuja, Nigeria
The actions of the islamic court in this case is a blackeye to both islam and to justice as a whole. In this case a women who has had nothing to do with naming this bear has been punished. The children have chosen the name possibly out of a great respect for there religion?. It is dis-heartening to read that parents of the children have not had the courage to come out against this decision. This case would suggest that the members of the islamic court may not be suitable for the positions they hold.
Paul, London,
Yeah it's blatently not just about the teddy...wonder what she's got caught up in?
kate, manchester,
the name came from the children, who's parents should have taught them not to use the name in such a way, so why blame the teacher who didnt know.
Karen , birmingham ,
We have to stop pandering to extreme religions like Islam & Catholicism which love getting all worked up and offended over the smallest thing. They are in competition for the title of MOPEs - Most Offended People Ever.
Scott, London,
Why cant Muslim's learn to Laugh...and stop being so uptight?
Simon, Newcastle,
We have much bigger problems in Sudan!!!
100's are dying everyday in Darfur and other parts of Sudan...
Pleaseee...instead of having this teacher jailed ...why nothing is happening to the war criminals in Darfur, who murdered, rapped and displaced thousands of innocent people...and before that all the sufferening for years in southern Sudan..
For the love of Prophet Mohamed and Islam I request the Sudanese people to focus on what is important for our country that seems we will be losing with these never ending conflict...
Nada , Stockholm, Sweden
I think its very stupid and unitelligent of the Sudanease people to react in the way that they have. Name the teddy something else!
Fatima, Dublin, Ireland
In case people havent heard the Muslim Council of Britain has called upon the Sudanese government to intervene in the case of the arrested schoolteacher, Ms Gillian Gibbons, with a view to ensuring that she is released without delay. Quote: "This is a very unfortunate incident and Ms Gibbons should never have been arrested in the first place. It is obvious that no malice was intended," said Dr Muhammad Abdul Bari, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Britain.
Reading some of the postings it is very important that this unfortunate incident is not misunderstood, or misconstrued to represent the views of the majority of muslims and islam. Whatever our race or faith we should all be working together to support Mrs Gibbons and her family, and urging the goverment for her speedy release.
Ali, London, UK
I could care less about offending "local culture" in these circumstances. When something is wrong, it's just wrong. There are moral truths in this world, and worrying about calling a Teddy Bear, or your dog for that matter, "Muhammad" is just plain ridiculous. As a host country, if you take offense at something, you have a responsibility to keep your mouth shut. until your visitor has left. Muslims should learn that.
The entire world should have no tolerance or patience for represive evil societies which desire to live in the dark ages and repress their citizens on so-called "religious" grounds. Muslims revere the Ka'ba in Mecca. How is that for idolotry?!
Scott, Durham. NC, USA
If islam is peace, then lets have war. I have lost count of the people-including those in the media who use the name of God ie Jesus Christ, as a curse word. Do we do anything? no. Should we react? no. God tells us, vengeance is mine saith the Lord, let's leave it to Him.
No mere prophet is worth such an overreaction.
This is the personification of evil. Evil breeds after its own kind unless we stop it, it's coming to a location near us. I suggest as a nation we get on our knees and pray for mercy and justice for this woman and all who suffer under teh sun of injustice. If we fail to do so, then come the last day, we won't have our sorrows to seek. What a nation of fools we are. God help us all.
eve hunter-scott, edinburgh, scotland
"Let's face it, they and all their kind"
Who? Muslims? You could say the same about Christians: in certain countries/cultures. And it's the same for Muslims: in certain countries/cultures.
Star, Lancaster,
I feel that the Muslim world should consider taking action directly against the central figure in this worrying case. what would the punishment be for 'impersonating the profit' and is the Teddy old enough to take responsibility? I have a small fluffy rabbit called Jesus who is prepared to act as his defence lawyer.
Craig, Kingsbridge, Devon
Where are all our gunboats these days?
Michael Spring, London,
Although I am sad for her ordeal, she should have been more sensitive to the culture where she is working. In a culture that reveres these people, you don't call animals or teddy bears by these names. A westerner might find that strange but this is the local culture and westerners need to learn to respect it, even in these "little things"
Chuck, New jersey, USA
Joshua Roberts of Birmingham must mean the Jewish faith is being undermined, since at the time of Leviticus there was no such thing existing as the Christian Faith. As for the nameing oj a Teddy Bear Toy , how can anyone see this as blasphemous. All I see is the outrageous vindictive and cruel attitudes of muslim clerics in action once again.
Dauddeg, Cardiff, WALES
Let's face it, they and all their kind, believe that a woman's place is in the family home; they do not approve of them being anything other that an unpaid 'slave' to do their every wim, at their beck and call 24/7, with no rights or free speech. A woman as a doctor, teacher or anything else is a 'sin' against their so called 'god'. C'mon England wake up, this could happen here if we don't speak up for ourselves and our Christian beliefs soon.
Claudette Evans, Bournemouth, Dorset
Would these "bearded men" who "arrested" Ms Gibbons be some of the people saved from starvation by our donations (and probably Ms Gibbons' donations, too) in the 1980s- Live Aid, etc.? There's an irony....
Also, why are they not arresting all those Sudanese parents who call their sons "Mohammed"?
V Witherspoon, York, UK
I don't know why everyone keeps calling this is 'an innnocent mistake.' Its no mistake at all. She did NOT commit any kind of mistake. Muhammed is just a name, and Muslims even name their sons with this name.
Had Ms Gibbons either herself or allowed the children to call the teddy 'Prophet Muhammed' then it would be classed as a depiction of Muhammed. She did NOT use the word Prophet before the name.
Can't anyone see that this extreme Islamic Sharia Law is taking away basic commen sense from people! These extremists are trying to put the fear of God into non-Muslims if they even dare utter a word about anything Islamic. This is brainwashing by force, and its about time the rest of the world stands up and says NO to this kind of behaviour!
Nicky, Birmingham, England
Absolutely ridiculous! How about the parents of the boy named Muhammad? Why don't they attack them and throw them in jail? In fact... Isn't Muhammad one of the most common names in the Islamic world? Maybe they should punish all families who names their children Muhammad. Would it not be considered blasphemy to think that your son is as great as the Prophet Muhammad himself? :)
Fundamentalists are showing their true colors in every country these days and I am afraid that the majority of the moderate world better take a stand before it's to late.
John, Portland, OR
The world has gone completely mad if naming a stuffed bear can cause such a reaction - where will this obsession end? I completely respect all religions but this is taking religion to the extreme - If a government is willing to enforce such out of date laws then you can begin to understand where the extremists are being recruited and how easy/normalised it is for them to despise the west. Brain washing in a nutshell!
Andrew, Belfast,
Now this is precisely when the nation might expect Sir Iqbal or Abdul Bari to leap up and loudly declare that lashing a woman is wrong under any circumstances, and that calling teddy 'mohammed' cannot be a crime.
Where are the moderate muslim voices we are told so often are there, but never speak....? Speak now - or your religion really is consigned to the rubbish heap of moral history? Can Islam reform itself?
Jake, Witney, UK
Seems like this is yet again a hasty case of misunderstanding - similar to an incident that happened many moons ago now in South Africa when the Book Censoring Board censored a book called "Black Beauty", clearly before they had read it, as this wonderful children's story is all about a beautiful black horse.
I do hope that everyone will quickly see their misunderstanding - apologize to Ms Gibbons - and allow the children to go on enjoying her teaching abilities.
Miranda, London, UK
Whether its right or wrong it should have been pretty obvious that calling a teddy bear 'mohammed' was going to cause offence. It would be thought pretty insensitive for a teacher to do it in England let alone in a muslim country. If she didn't realise then she should have been better briefed. No she shouldn't get flogged but perhaps she shouldn't be working there.
CR, Berkshire,
To Joshua Robert...
Has it never occurred to you that the message of Christianity is carried in the New Testament, and not the Old?
Brian, Southampton, UK
How many followers of Islam, enjoying the freedom of expression in western society will condemn this action? Very few I fear. Are they too afraid of what their religious leaders would say?
Vive la liberté.
Patrick Diskin, Grand Champ, France
Without appearing flippant, may I suggest this lady was foolish naming a teddy bear after the Prophet. Waugh's hero in "Brideshead Revisited" was able to call his bear Aloysius, but then Catholic saints do not carry the credo of moslems in England!
Anne Wotana Kaye, London, Wngland
You can only blaspheme God. Are they saying Mohammed is God?........if so, this is blasphemy and their punishment must be measure for measure. Bring all our citizens home.
kate brennan, cheadle, uk
These extremist countries are living in the stone age. Its about time they opened up to alternative ways of thinking, in both religion and law. Their laws are based on a book, not on common sense or precedent, and that is why their country is falling apart.
It's times like this when I'm glad to be British. We may moan about some things, but at least we don't have to put up with this crap.
Andrew, Manchester, UK
im disgusted with these morons who call themselves muslims, i suppose as usula the actions of this kangaroo sudanese shariah court will impact a millions of decent muslim people. they should do the right thing and let this good woman go free.
amjad hussain, birmingham, england
If that's the kind of treatment you get when you go to work in those countries to help the people, I wouldn't bother.
And a lot of people don't.
I wouldn't set foot in a Muslim country for ANY reason.
Melanie, Liverpool,
I think this is absolutely ridiculous, the poor lady must be petrified! The government needs to step in and sort this out because it is an absolute Joke, after all it was the kids who named the bear not Ms Gibbons. I really hope this gets sorted out ASAP.
James, Oxford, England
Time we locked up a few people for insulting a much loved American president by naming toy bears Teddy!
mike gee, bournemouth, uk
Don't be surprised if the same penalties are being imposed in the UK in ten years time.
Mike Poulsen, Reading, Berkshire
For goodness sake how could she possibly have known in a school that is both for Christians and Muslims that the prophet 's name should not be used in this way. As Muslims we are also taught to forgive and this teacher should be forgiven, apologised to and released and not used as a scapegoat for these funda"mentalists". Don't start all this any excuse for a confrontation crap its such a waste and so negative.
Iman Djemaa, London, UK
I have some Sudanese friends who are very nice people.Last night I spoke to them about this incident and they are ashamed and embarassed by their countries actions to the point of being in tears.
The next time there is a crisis in Sudan and the charities come asking for money do you really think English people will be interested in helping them after this fiasco.
Gordon Brown, for once in your life, work for your money and get this English person out and safely back home
Mike Jones, Farnborough, Hampshire
This teacher should have congratulated for liking profits name,
you punish criminals-not for praising the lord I thought !!!!!!!!!!!!
Lord help us from this kind of evil :Cllr Ken Tiwari(Oxford UK)
Cllr Ken Tiwari, Oxford , United Kingdom
I am absoutly horrified that this poor woman who thought she was going to do some good in the world has been subjected to this.
It is perhaps easy to see why people are reluctant to help others if this is the treatment and reward that they receive.
It is incredibly difficult to find ongoing sympathy with this sort of behaviour, and it saddens me to think that children, and others most in need of help will miss out because of the ignorance and small-mindedness of these people.
Laura , West Sussex, England
Blasphemy
----the Old Testament, Leviticus 24:16 ---
" 'Whoever curses his God shall bear his sin. 16 He who blasphemes the name of Yahweh, he shall surely be put to death; all the congregation shall certainly stone him: the foreigner as well as the native-born, when he blasphemes the Name, shall be put to death. '''=
christianity is being diluted in this politically run world.
Joshua Robert, Birmingham , UK
Why are all parents who call their son Muhammad not in prison under the same rules??
Fred Smith, Frankfurt, Germany
Fairbloodydinkum has a very rosy view of 'those in power in the UK' if he thinks any of them will 'stand behind this lady'. Half the Foreign office will have rung in sick today in case anyone asks them to stand up to a Muslim country. We don't do that here, unless America has gone in first. They'll stay home preparing factsheets on 'cultural awareness'.
eric campbell, harrogate , uk
Leave the inocent teacher free. Names are common in all things. That does not mean an abuse to Islam. Names should not be connected to religion, everythings are created by Allah/God.
Ali B. Waya, Juba, South Sudan
Based on this lovely balanced interpretation aren't the 1000's of mortals named Muhammed also blasphemous?
What about the 20 wicked 7 year olds who chose the name what happens to them? I guess there lesson for the day was "God is great"
Andrew Morrison, London,
So much for the "PEACE LOVING RELIGION", the children named the bear, not Ms Gibbons, I wondered what effect this will have on these children in the future and the young boy Mohammed. Ms Gibbons hope your home soon.
Lynden.Hall, Kettering, Northants
If you go to live and work in the mad end of the world what do you expect?
John Ledbury, Kings Lynn, England
My God, ISLAM!
Its like a worldwide cancer.
I find it quite upsetting seeing an obviously nice, decent , gentle 54 year old lady being treated like this. Have these people no conscience, intelligence or humanity? "Big bearded men threatening to kill her" just about sums it up.
Joe, Manchester,
I think this is unfotunate and can only cast Islam in a negative light. It's barbaric that someone can be arrested for letting kids name a teddy. I think the local aulthorities should instead look at all the murders and genicede that's commited (mainly by muslims) in Sudan, although area's controlled under Shia law tend to be more stable.
On another note, Christians have to put up with radical muslim clerics preching death to non-believers on the streets of London, nothing happens, yet as soon as a non-muslim does something as simple as this in a muslim country, they get linched. It's iditoic laws like ths, that mean I'll never goto a country where they have religion mixed up with the police laws and govenment politics.
Paul, London,
My thoughts are with this poor lady who has been treated so harshly and unfairly. I hope everything is being done to ensure her freedom- punishment free.
Fiona, Newcastle, Australia
we are helping them in the name of the multiculture and they are lashing us in the name of intolerance...why they don`t have the teachers from the saudi arabia?
stojan draskovic, harstad, norway
I really feel sorry for her. I don't get it?? ok, she 'in their countries eyes' made a mistake but it is ok for men to gather outside and threaten to kill her, that's ok?? I really think that you cannot compare these two types of behaviours. She is a teacher who has chosen to go to their country to teach the children and is still most probably learning about the culture, come on guys give her a break. I think if they do anything to this lady, UK need to stick their noses in fast. This is a mistke that anyone of our families can make, our mother, sister, brother ETC.... i really feel sorry for her family and if their courts know better they will appriciate the hard work she is giving to their community rather than hurt this lovely lady. Even the childrens parents are backing her, good for you guys!! Sad the world is coming to this.
Donna, cardiff, UK
Dan i think you got it down to a tee my friend, i can not belive the rubbish they are coming out with.
i will say leave her alone and get her out of there, why should she get the punishment, when the kids made the name up. the parents should of told the kids that it was disallowed and then there would not be a problem.
nothing should be done it is just a name call it jesus i do not care.
James Friend, maidstone,
backward religion, backward country, I have the right to say this as this is a free country thank goodness.
jan, winchester, hants, UK
I think this is unfotunate and can only cast Islam in a negative light. It's barbaric that someone can be arrested for letting kids name a teddy. I think the local aulthorities should instead look at all the murders and genicede that's commited (mainly by muslims) in Sudan, although area's controlled under Shia law tend to be more stable.
On another note, Christians have to put up with radical muslim clerics preching death to non-believers on the streets of London, nothing happens, yet as soon as a non-muslim does something as simple as this in a muslim country, they get linched. It's iditoic laws like ths, that mean I'll never goto a country where they have religion mixed up with the police laws and govenment politics.
Paul, London,
These children chose that name because they loved it, not because they were degrading it. What sort of god would ask for 40 lashes for the teacher of these children? None! This is the work of frightened little men trying to assert their authority. How pathetic. I think the whole world would join me in telling these so called “Muslims†to grow up. Get a life and let others live theirs without your bigoted interference.
Mark Sheppard, Retford,
I am waiting for a comment from the Secretary General of the Muslim Council of britain on this matter. A`deafening silence will not be acceptable.
Let's see!
John Powell, Carddiff, UK
I really dont understand why we as a nation are even interested in either hearing about or experiencing countries like Sudan. Anyone with a brain would realise that the country is run but a bunch of total idiots. It beggers belief. I am off to start a new country where anyone naming jam as jam is flogged to death. Sounds sensible to me.
John, Egremont,
Clearly the Sudanese Judiciary has little contact or experience of the Liverpool mentality.
Big mistake.
Bill Bird, Wallasey, Wirral
I call for the Sudanese Government to free Ms. Gibbons.
Her arrest is unjustifiable, for Ms. Gibbons to be arrested over something like this is insulting for me as a Muslim and a Sudanese person.
The Sudanese Government should be ashamed of themselves for being so pathetic. During the prophet Muhhamed's time he did not care if people insulted him, and it is quite clear that Ms. Gibbons had no such intention.
FREE MS. GIBBONS!
FREE MS. GIBBONS!
FREE MS. GIBBONS!
Ahmed Mulla, Newcastle upon tyne,
This is utterly incredible!
Where does this sort of fanaticism belong in today's world?
Come on Tony, sorry Gordon, do something useful, bring this kind well meaning lady home - earn your money. Now!
Simon Walford, CAMBS, England
As someone else said, it is pathetic. Those Muslims who have brought these charges must be very insecure in their faith!
Dawn , Saffron Walden,
As a former pupil of Ms Gibbons, i would say that this has been a total misunderstanding and Ms Gibbons would never disrespect anyone's religion. She is a very kind and caring teacher. The thoughts of my family and myself are that Ms Gibbons is being treated unfairly.
Our thoughts are with her and her family.
Emily, Huntscross, Liverpool
pathetic!
Dan trembath, Brighton , sussex
what a load of camel crap.....all she did was ask the kids to name their teddy bear...
what if our kids named their teddy's..dolls...
Jesus..mary...joseph...? big deal...i don't see that as blasphemy....means nothing..it's just names..
This poor bloody lady gave her time and dedication to those kids over there...and makes one silly mistake that's ridiculous anyway...
I hope those in power in the UK stands behind this lady and does something about it..
Sudans barbaric laws are from the stone age...they really need to get humanised....bunch of imbeciles..
total disgust... and if i had said this over there...where would i be now?
FairBloodyDinkum, Queensland, Australia: Land of FREEDOM
hmm
Joshua Robert, Birmingham , UK