I am atheist, but it seems to me that any Muslim who reads these comments must feel like their religion is being completely misunderstood and that he or she, as a result, is not accepted in western society. Not all Muslims are extremist. To blame Islam for the actions of a few extremists is just wrong. To say that logic, compassion, tolerance, and civil liberties are foreign ideas to the Islamic world is like saying Muslims are not human.

I personally feel that my civil and religious liberties are a lot more threatened by Christians than Muslims. Those saying that we in the west must fight against Islam are preaching the same message that people believing in radical Islam are preaching against us.

What we need in this world is more acceptance. The welcoming and rejoicing in diversity, cultures and religions. As the Prophet Muhammad said, "Even as the fingers of the two hands are equal to one another, no one has any right, nor any preference to claim over another. You are brothers."

Margaret K, San Francisco, CA

I am Indonesian I was born in 1958. I also know Islam from my Moslem teacher. I remember very well he taught me Islam of full of tolarance, compasion and logic. He challenged us the pupils ( I was in my secondary school) to get out of Islam if we didn't believe it and study other religions. He said he was very sure We would returned to Islam. Now I am grown up having compared some religions and read the Holy Qur'an and the history of Muhammad SAW (my prophet, the good example for all mankind, very compassionate, very tolerant, never fight unless you fight against him. I am confident islam is very tolerant and the right path to happy life here and herefater. A moslem is taught only to defense himself if attacked. So read Holy Qur'an and the history of our Prophet Muhammad SAW (Peace be upon him) your self and a first-hand lesson, and I hope you are all right-guided by Allah SWT, the Al-mighty God, the Sole Owner of the earth and universe and everything between them.

M Thonthonthowi Djauhari, Bogor, Indonesia

S. Shaikh, from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is incorrect the Grand Mufti of Egypt, Dr. Ali Gomaa. Dr Gomaa, Egypt's highest religious authority, stated to the Washington Post last June that apostasy "should not" be punished by death, After many people expressed their approval for a death sentence, he retracted in a confused matter and his stance is still today unclear. On the surface, he wanted to reassure the West by using ambiguous wording, like the one that goes: "Apostasy is to be punished when it represents fitna or when it threatens the foundations of society."

Nilofer:
The death penalty for apostasy is applied in Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, Sudan, Nigeria, Mauritania, Iran, Afghanistan and shortly in Pakistan. It is illegal to change one’s religion in Malaysia. The death penalty is being recommended in Egypt in the Hegazi case where Mr. Hegazi converted to Christianity.

Regarding the “Fasting growing religion” and “Lots of people turning to Islam” comments
1. It is true that Islam has the highest birthrates - this is because the Islamic countries are the poorest, most illiterate countries in the world and poverty is generally associated with high birthrates. The question that must be asked is why they are poor and illiterate.
2. Regarding “lots of people turning to Islam” - more people are turning away, they simply don’t publish it as they like staying alive. Secondly Evangelical Christianity has the highest number of conversions of any religion in the world (even taking place in Islamic countries such as Turkey, Iran and Afghanistan).

Jim, Dublin, Ireland

I am a practising Muslim and I understand that Islam tells us that we have an agreement with the leaders of this land to obey the laws of the land.

Abdul Majeed, Bradford,

Several people have written to offer alternative translations and quotations from the Koran. Some insist it only demands the murder of an ex-Muslim who plots or commits treason against the Caliphate in time of war. Others insist it provides a more general licence to murder any ex-Muslim.

All of these quotations read like the work of men. None of them say anything which clearly exceeds the local perspective of a medieval Arabian human mind. Their ambiguity, their openness to disputation, doesn't sit well with the idea that they are the final and definitive instructions to humanity from a celestial super-being.

Georges, London, UK

It seems reasonable to think that all people should be free to follow or not follow a religion, according to their own free choice.

And yet a reasonable desire like this is considered controversial - to the point where people who think this way must fear for their lives.

All the best to this young man, and all who fight for the right to either choose Islam or not, without penalty.

Name Withheld, Chicago, IL, IL/USA

I am American. I love my country and believe God has used it mightily to defeat faciest regimes in the past (Japan and Germany). I am also a Jew who converted to Chritianity at 25-years of age. Freedom of choice and religion has a special place in my heart and I am glad to read Muslims who affirm it. I am also glad to read Muslim's who oppose land grabbing and war as these people must also be Zionists. There has never been a more legitimate and just political claim to soverignty over any territory than Israel has over the ground it currently occupies. The Jews were viciously expelled from their territory in 70 AD occupation of any land by Islam. The Jews were then promised a sovereign state in 1921 by Great Britain which at that time was the legitimate authority. This decision was then ratified when the United Nations recognized the sovereign nation in 1948. All land which Muslims claim authority over now were obtained through conquest. These are historical facts.

Name Withheld, Toledo, USA

people are correct to say that islam today is like 1930 nazis. but they do not see the bigger picture. both are radicalised by extreme injustice. if the tables were turned around and christians were in the poor countries being raped then you would have the same outcome. history is repeating itself and many more will die until men realise injustice creates war and war is non-productive it is destructive for us all.

chad, cardiff,

"the problem with the majority of these comments is you view Islam through your European eyes, the religion teaches people from birth to think differently than us; logic, compassion, tolerance, and civil liberties are all foreign ideas to the Islamic world"

Which is exactly why we in the west must fight Islam with every fiber of our being. I'm American, and I can live with the religiosty of the country because no one is forced to adopt or abandon a faith.

Tony, Rittman, OH

If Islam is truly from God, You dont need human element to terrorize people in to submission. God gives opportunity for everyone in this world to find him. In contrast Jesus taught that just because you are born into the family of a christian you dont automatically become a christian. Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." (John 3:3)and do not suppose that you can say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham for our father'; for I say to you that from these stones God is able to raise up children to Abraham. (Mathew 3:9) We see that it is choice before men, either to choose God or reject him. No human to control your personal decision.

jose, Toronto, Canada

You only have to look at the arguments from Muslims here to see the problem.
Many do not know the book they swear by, many others are in denial of it's contents, & many more just do not accept apostacy .
These brave young men have my deepest admiration, if I lived in Holland I would offer them shelter should they need it, which I fear they will.
If they can get large numbers of apostates together they will be safer .
Intelligent people can see how Islam cannot be right when it crushes all the joys available to us, from music to art , for women to simply walk, [ fully clothed ] on the beach with the wind in her hair , WITHOUT GUILT , is the most natural thing in Gods world.
This is forbidden in Islam, a woman cannot be feminine, jump for joy, be natural, laugh.
This is forbidden outside the home in Islam.
The excruciating clock watching of constant prayers is ridiculous in today's world & archaic.
We will be watching these young people, I say thank -you for this good news

Maggie Millington, Brittany , France

If Islam is truly from God, You dont need human element to terrorize people in to submission. God gives opportunity for everyone in this world to find him.
In contrast Jesus taught that just because you are born into the family of a christian you dont automatically become a christian.
Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." (John 3:3)

and do not suppose that you can say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham for our father'; for I say to you that from these stones God is able to raise up children to Abraham. (Mathew 3:9)
We see that it is choice before men, either to choose God or reject him. No human to control your personal decision.

jose, Toronto, Canada

Islamic fascism is rising.... But stories like ehsan's give me hope. Hope in the fact that there are former/moderate muslims that are standing up against the radicals in their midst. The only people that are capable of reforming islam is muslims. We in the west can provide security, shelter, and material for which moderates can use to spread their message. But in the end only muslims can initiate and complete an islamic reformation.

Richard, Winnipeg, Canada

I agree with Chris except about Christians being brainwashed about believing in God. Who cares about that? If the kids later reject it, there is no reprisal of death.

Dead on about pussyfooting around Muslim sensibilites.

Richard, Shaw AFB, USA

My growing understanding of Islam would seem to suggest that a lot of Muslims and almost all non-Muslims don't know the first thing about Islam. Is it not correct that the doctrines of abrogation (a later Koranic verse cancelling out earlier verses that contradict it) and the overall objective of establishing islamic states wherever possible nare absolutely basic foundations of Islam? According to these doctrines, the verses referring to religious tolerance are cancelled out by later ones and the fundamental objective of islam is to gain political ascendancy, not just "souls". I would love to see more Mr Jami's who really represent basic humanity in contradiction to what orthodox islams calls for. I have absolute confidence that the majority of muslims are just as good or bad as anyone else. To turn away from the bald doctrines of the faith must be hard. In fact it requires apostacy. The problem, such as it is, is surely Islam and not muslims. Good luck and God bless to Mr Rami&co

T, Paris, France

The article says Ayaan Hirsi Ali "eventually left for an academic career in the United States." That does not correctly represent her departure from the Netherlands. She was hounded out of government and under constant death threats, living in hiding with bodyguards in order to go out in public. She also felt guilt that her presence was exposing her friends and associates to reaction from Muslim extremists after the murder of Theo Van Gogh on the streets. Read The Infidel by Hirsi Ali for a truer picture of her leaving the Netherlands.

Mari, Indianapolis, IN

I'm truly amazed at how blind the so-called religious are to the evil of their own supposed faiths. This state of denial is cause for serious concern.

J Green, Stockport,

I didn't even read the whole essay, but I can say for sure that I have had many similar experiences with Islam.
True intelligence is being true to yourself and admitting what you might know don't know and can never know. That is the problem with all religion they explain the whole universe as if they know twhat they are talking abiut irrefutably, that is ridiculous, you can choose to believe what you grew up learning but the truly spiritual will go on their own journey genuinely not knowing where it might lead them, and I'm sorry to say that all people who subscribe to any religian or ideology 100% are just taking the easy option so thy won't have to deal with the fact that they nor anyone can be truly sure about what is going on and the truth behind the universe, you know I am right PEACE.

Anser Mateen, london, uk

Also, Ayaan Hirsi-Ali didn't leave to "pursue a teaching career in the US." She left because the authorities refused to offer her any more protection from numerous death threats from Muslims. She went to London, and the same thing happened, and then she came to the US.

It is bravery - not political ambition or publicity seeking - that is making these young people stand up. The same people who stabbed Theo Van Gogh and protest with signs reading "Behead those who insult Islam" will respond to people like Jami. This is courage. Good for them.

Ella Lackey, Tulsa, USA

The qoutation from the holy Quran is the wrong translation. Also, I am proud to be a muslim who condemns terrorism and want to see a peaceful world.

Shamsheer, NY, NY

People of the world, let us start a global movement that frees muslims from Islam if they so choose to leave it. In all the other religions, you can choose to leave without any fear of death or punishment but only Islam has a fatwa hanging over apostates even if they have the temerity to consider leaving Islam.

Yang, Shanghai, China

The article refers to incidents in which Muslim "apostates" in Europe have been attacked or threatened with death. Where are the police and prosecutors when this is taking place?

As should be obvious, but apparently isn't, Muslim citizens of democratic states are free to choose their own faith or worldview. If threats are being used to keep Muslims in religious conformity, whether in Holland, or the UK, or the USA, that should be a police matter.

I hope that the official guardians of diversity and tolerance in our countries will give this matter the attention it deserves.

Matt, Northampton, Massachusetts, USA

I think Mr. Ehsan Jami is a brave (a little naive maybe, but then so was Jesus)...I'll probably get flack for comparing the two...so what; young man and I wish him great sucess in promoting and generating freedom of religion from within an intolerant religion. We've had the crusades, witch hunts ect. all in the name of Religion..he has a long journey ahead of him and I hope he has better "Karma" then his predesessors before him. May Allah be with him all the way!

Heidi , Austin, Tx-USA

I'm not a moslem, but I can truthfully say those references to the Qu'ran are incorrect!

It is not apostates that are being referred to but traitors at a time of war.

Islam as far as monotheistic relgions go, is by far the most tolerable of all. In Islam you do _not_ need to be a moslem to go to Heaven, forced conversion/missionary work is non-existent as it is in Christianity, so respect for other religions is ensured in Islam.

Qu'ran 2:256:
Let there be no compulsion in religion: Truth stands out clear from Error: whoever rejects evil and believes in God hath grasped the most trustworthy hand- hold, that never breaks. And God heareth and knoweth all things.

Please read any Qu'rannic verses from a proper source rather than an article that is clearly intended to cause mistrust and disinformation between religious faiths.

Mike Manners, Los Angeles, California

Maybe the passages quoted here from the Koran are not correct? - as some muslims in this debate seem to claim, but the point is that imams, mullahs etc. around the world quote them just the same. Their message is in fact that any apostate should be killed - so why get so upset about some non-muslims apparently getting them wrong?

Is it not time that muslims confronted their dogmatic and inhuman leaders and demanded a sensible and humane interpretation of their faith?

Marie, Copenhagen,

We are going to see more of this until we address this in the open at a time where everyone can care and discuss.

If that can't happen, we have no future together and it will be primative and like the crusades.

We must open a dialog with these people. And I am afraid to say it, but Fred may do it. You heard it here first.

Name Withheld, Brisbane, Austrailia

It would be interesting to hear from Islamic scholars what the real Islamic position on this is. Is this really what the Koran says? There always seem to be debate about what the Koran does or does not say on many issues, for example suitable dress for women. Are other interpretations available? Is the Koran is meant to be the ‘word’ of god or merely the prophet’s interpretation of the word of god? If it is the latter then there must be a valid debate on whether the prophet got it right. If it is the former then clearly ‘god’ is a rather nasty piece of work. It is unfortunate that Islam does not have a single central authority equivalent to the Pope. There is no one who can say ‘this is what this means’ or who can say that modern times require a new interpretation of ancient values. Islam seems to be trapped in a timewarp and in the mercy of those extremists who shout loudest or who are prepared to be the most violent. Moderate muslims must stand and be counted if Islam is to progress.

Kevin, Kent,

"As a muslim I compare the attacks and the growing intolerance towards muslims, like the growth of anti-semitism in Nazi Germany in the 1930s.

Mo, bolton, UK"

I think you'll find the Jews weren't responsible for massacring innocent civilians i.e. 9/11 or mounting random terror attacks across the globe. Therefore to draw a parallel with the Jews in nazi-Germany and muslims today is farsical. (The Jews did not deserve intolerance - until muslims begin controlling their radicalist elements- they will suffer intolerance)

Name Withheld, London,

Enlightened people like Jami are a tiny minority in the islamic world and I don't believe they will prevent the clash between the islamic and non-islamic world. It is inevitable and one should prepare for it. The past and present tells me that it is wishful thinking on my part to hope that islam will become as tolerent as other faiths.

Name Withheld, Paris , France

It's funny... you see this time and time again. Someone grabs a small excerpt from a larger context and misuses it. The very next verse after 88 and 89, surah 4: 90. 4:90 Except those who join a group between whom and you there is a treaty (of peace), or those who approach you with hearts restraining them from fighting you as well as fighting their own people. If Allah had pleased, He could have given them power over you, and they would have fought you: Therefore if they withdraw from you but fight you not, and (instead) send you (Guarantees of) peace, then Allah Hath opened no way for you (to war against them). Pretty self explanatory I think.

Name Withheld, Chicago, IL

Allah is merciful,
but his children mis- interept what the Qu'ran says.
If the Qu'ran says kill the non- believer it doesn't mean kill yourself or other innocent people just to make a point.
killing, raping, drinking, smoking, having no faith in God is all wrong.
in my opinion, i think that some people just get to obbessed with there religion.
if you want paradise you have to do good things as well not just killing someone who has lost there faith in Islam- violence is wrong no matter what faith or religion you are.

alisha, usa,

More reason to not read religious texts written, edited, and distributed by human beings. I believe in G_d, not religion... If I listen, he has given me the heart, the mind, and the soul to know right from wrong. It all stems from the 10 commandments. Common sense rules for living a good life. G_d is here right now, listen to him, and do not fear... If all the Korans, Torahs, and every version of the bible were destroyed, he would still be here, still talking softly (at most times) to all of us. It is up to each of us to hear him, to do the right thing. I bless my muslim brothers and sisters with the courage and heart to stand up for what they know is right. That will bring you the heaven you seek, the one a blessed man would truly seek, right here on earth. Stand strong and proud. That trumps a multitude of "virgins" any day... You will not be renouncing your true faith, but giving birth to your true faith.

JB Verre, Phoenix,, Arizona

i am so happy to hear this even if it's only a few that want to renounce islam. it is a start and i believe that more will follow .i cannot believe or understand a religon that approves of hatred and killing as much as the koran does. i tried to read about mohamed but the book i read(i cannot remember the name)it had so much debauchery, that i could not go on . there is hope yet for the people to believe in something that does not condone evil.may god have mercy on us all.

sillylilly, hanford, california

As everybody is probably aware the Christians kill, the Jews kill and every other religion on Earth bar one or two kill. It's not just Muslims who kill. There have been terrorists from each faith throughout history and blame has always been apportioned elsewhere. In the Crusades all sides were killing and terrorism was rife. In the Middle East all sides kill and all sides use terrorism. In the former Yugaslavia all sides killed and all sides used terrorism. This is what war is all about. With regard to anyone wanting to leave a religion they are free to do so and an understanding is reached between the parties. All religions do that as well. Fanatics are in all religions and have been throughout history.

abda, bournemouth,

Bahai, an independent religion born 200 years ago in Iran had thousands of followers killed for apostasy, it was a peaceful religion that recognized all religions as part of a mechanism to create a global society. Muslims, jews, christians who drop out, should all take refuge in the logic that all religion is one and all those crazy fanatics who uphold barbaric laws of dominion over universal laws of compassion will dwindle in numbers the more they are ignored.

jaleh , san jose, costa rica

Islam is a faith and not a political outlook. For all those who use examples of Islam in places where human rights are abused there are many examples of countries where Islam is practiced peacefully. Such as Senegal where every Chrismas the muslims rally around to help their Christian borthers and sisters celebrate. Islam was as much about war and destruction as people argue it and not Christian states would have been the perpetrators of the greatest wars the world has even see such as the two world wars as well as the slave trade and the money it made for the European churches.

Linda, London, England

Sura 4:90 "Except those who join a group, between you and whom there is a treaty (of peace), or those who approach you with their hearts restraining from fighting you as well as fighting their own people. Had Allâh willed, indeed He would have given them power over you, and they would have fought you. So if they withdraw from you, and fight not against you, and offer you peace, then Allâh has opened no way for you against them".

Amin, K Lumpur,

In the great Dutch tradition of challenging the orthodoxies (and hypocrisies) of religion...more power to his elbow.

Maybe he can help us to address 'honour' killings in this country next. Bullying tactics - and worse - should not be tolerated from any religion. Laws should always be secular.

David, Manchester, UK

Good news, all we need now are the other 1.4 billion to follow suit,how long do you think.

peter reddington, Leeds, W Yorks

Good on Ehsan Jami. Anyone who does not agree that someone should have the freedom to leave a religion without being murdered has no place in the west and should leave for a country that better mirrors their beliefs at the earliest opportunity. I won't be holding my breath though.

Dan, Hampton, UK

Terrible, isn't it? Everywhere, people are brainwashed. In the middle east, your "born Islam". And in America, parents can brainwash their children whatever religion they wish. More and more, the conflicts are building between extreme Islam and extreme Christianity. I hope that people can see the connection of releasing people from Islam, as they can with Christianity and all religions, even the lack of religion. Everyone is born with a choice, to be Christian, Atheist, Jewish, Islam, whatever they wish to believe in. What is depressing the how it is forced on children everywhere, and people in America can't see the connection.

Jadon, Age 14, Raleigh, N.C.

The European Human Rights Laws are supposed to help people who decided to leave Islam. So, why are politicians and human rights lawyers not coming out to support them? Moderate Muslims keep reminding Non-Muslims that Islam is a peaceful religion. So, here is the chance for the moderate Muslims to show support for the apostates. Otherwise, all the descriptions of Islam being peaceful and benign sound hollow.

Carolyn, Surbiton,

Thank you, Ehsan Jami, for your bravery and act of conscience and thanks to all the others who are joining you!! I wish you success in your endeavor. It will not be easy and it is a dangerous talk you have undertaken. May you be blessed in your work!

Chaya, Bat Yam, Israel

It is very easy for someone to say what they have read in this book or that book and create doubts and controversy . Why don't the readers go and check it out themselves what those verses of Koran say. Read the English translation of Koran Surah 4; verses 88, 89 and 90. The meaning is quite different then what is presented here. What is presented here is taken totally out of context.

MB, San Diego, CA

the holy koran does not say to kill apostates, on the contrary it does not prescribe any punishment. the verse quoted from the koran is from a translation that is incorrect, a more appropriate translation is ch 4 v 89 "they long that you should disbelieved so that you may be on the same level; so take not among from them friends until they flee (their homes) in Allah's way. Then if they turn back (to hostility), seize them and kill them wherever you find them, and take no friend or helper among them, ch 4 v 90 " ... also the next verse in the holy koran states that "except those who join a people between whom and you there is an alliance, or who come to you, their hearts shrinking from fighting you or fighting their own people" ... the koran does have many references to apostates but never prescribes a punishment such as ch 5 v 54 " O you who believe, should anyone of you turn back from his religion, then Allah will bring a people who He loves and love Him." ...

Faheem Ahmad, Porter Ranch,

every person has a right to choose what religion they wish to believe in. when you were born- did you choose who your parents are? no.
so nobody should threaten someone just because they are muslim or not.

alisha, usa,

If only we and other Western nations could be brave enough to follow the tried and tested Dutch social model, we would have a much more efficient way of fighting extremism than say with war and arms. Setting an example of values, such as whether or not to choose your own beliefes, and defending that policy rigorously would say alot more than simply accomodating people who believe otherwise. The bottom line is that ignorance can be derivative of religious opression from the day one is born. Freedom of thought is imperative in my mind and no one will be telling me otherwise with their mindless religious fervour. Have no fear people.

JJ, london, essex

well said georges from london...

also this article made my day it is - a pressure group for former muslims is a wonderful way to honestly show the true face of islam without fear of being called racist or islamophbic.
Great

Daniel K888, Melbourne, Australia

It is standard convention in media nowadays to quote texts in such a way that the original meanings become ambiguous. By reading the next verse it says:

"... So, if they hold not war against you and offer you peace, Allah alloweth you no way against them... Sura 4:90

Whoever is killing someone for turning against Islam in our modern day and age (where we are not in constant war with one another) has definitely misunderstood the point of these few verses. Muslim I may be, I definitely stand against them.

Raeez, Jo'Burg,

What these young apostates must have is a REVELATION like the so called prophet Muhammad. !
This is a true test for the Islamists, as it is written in the Koran ,' there is no compulsion in religion. '
However like everything in the Koran it is a confused message, as elsewhere it says the opposite & many times.
Islam constantly calls itself the ' tolerant ' religion, which I translate as being only tolerant towards Muslims, which these young will no longer be .
Why this book is called beautiful is a mystery to me as frequently it comes across as rambling & incoherent.
These young people will never get away happily & will live in fear like so many already do, they know Islam was won by the sword & fear, I really would love to think the attitude has changed in the last 1400 years ,but i have no optimism at all.
Having said all that I am so pleased to hear of intelligent Muslims who can see through the dogma & lies they have been indoctrinated with. A child is not born a muslim !!

Maggie Millington, Brittany , France

If Islam does preach this, then please can someone explain why a) it is the fastest growing religion in the States, especially amongst women, and b) the fastest growing religion in the world?
Surely all the people who convert/revert, who range from different socio-economic backgrounds, be it intelligent, LOGICAL thinking professionals or those involved in crime/drugs etc and want to reform themselves, haven't been attracted by its 'dark aged' beliefs?
Yes, I agree there are people who don't help, the media haven't either, who for the past decade or so have indoctrinated hate, animosity and negativity which has only increased the tension between muslims for non muslims and vice versa.
None of this existed 10 years ago, read between the lines, there's always a hidden agenda. There are blatant people in positions of power who have committed atrocities and the murder of hundreds of thousands of innocent humans, be it muslim or not, yet that goes un-noticed?

Irfan, Preston, Lancs, UK

I agree with Mo from Bolton, there is no comparison between Islamic extremism and the rise of Nazism.
However, the right to dismiss all religion for what it is, a primitive method of explaining the inexplicable too a suddenly self aware populace. A way of numbing the truth of the finite nature of human life, this should be an option for all. There are those who have the sense to look at the facts and not burden themselves with fear of the finality of death, and in so cause the death of so many others.
I laugh at the South Park cartoon where dead people queue up outside paradise only to find out that the only true religion was The Moonies. If people need religion to cope with the loss of family and friends, or to cope with the futility of their own lives, let them. But no one should be forced into living a lie.
Ramadan Kareem!

Kha, Dubai, UAE

If a religion must retain its adherents under threat of death, the spiritual and moral arguments for that religion must not be very compelling to the human heart, mind and conscience. If the leaders of a religion inflict death upon those who question, those leaders must not feel confident that their worldview can withstand intelligent scrutiny. May God protect Ehsan Jami!

Abdul-Haqq, Tacoma, USA

If a verse from the Koran states:
"Whosoever turns back from his belief, openly or secretly, take him and kill him wheresoever ye find him, like any other infidel." (quoted above)
then at least this verse in the Koran supports violence (there may be many other verses in the Koran that do so too). Islam requires full allegiance to the Koran. Hence, we need to have an open debate with our Muslim colleagues - particularly the ones who are described as moderate - regarding their views about this verse and similar verses, in the context of their expected full allegiance to the Koran.
It cannot work both ways. Islamic society has either got to endorse reform of the Koran or accept they support violence towards infidels (non-Muslims) and people who decide to leave Islam. This recognition is a fundamental step towards tackling a form of terrorism that is being endorsed by large sections of the world. The problem has haunted India and Israel for many years and now haunts the West too .

Sammy, Dundee, UK

funny you'd say that M jones, because the most racist societies on the planet, especially towards jews are muslim. that muslims want to be the new jews, while simultaneously imitating all the best nazi ideology and anti-semitism is hilarious if it wasn't so disgustingly dangerous.

bob, honolulu, US

Jegi,

No where in any book of the Bible does it say to kill "infidels." (I assume that you are referring to Old Testament instructions to the Israelites on how and where to wage war; these aren't in effect because those specific battles are over.) First off, because we as Christians are supposed to love and pray for unbelievers to come to God, not kill them. Secondly, because we don't have a concept of "infidel," or unfaithful. How can you be unfaithful to something you never accepted or belonged to? The reason Muslims call people infidels is because they believe everyone is born Muslim - so there are no "converts," there are "reverts;" there are no "unbelievers," there are "infidels."

Ella Lackey, Tulsa, USA

Hershovitz,

Maybe it's Islam and the suicide bombers you should be preaching to.

The rest of us already know the difference between peaceful religeous beliefs and murder.

j griffiths, manchester, england

Murder is murder. These threats should not be taken so lightly. How do the Dutch treat others (other than muslims) when they threaten murder? Is it the same? If not then the laws need to be enforced before innocent muslims are killed.

zeb, Auburndale, FL

Let us see if they get any public support or help from the recently well-off atheistm authors.

Geekwad, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada

I am proud of any person who could be so bold as to challenge his or her whole society and the tenants of their religion. I feel that the best people in history have been those who have challenged their foudations and met them head on.

Mr. Jami should be considered a hero, and hopefully one day will be remembered as one of the fomentors of the biggest change in the religion in its history.

Matthew, New York,

"However, the passages you quoted are no different from those used by anti-Islam and bigoted websites, which are completely contradicted by the actual translations that DO NOT approve of killing of infidels unless in battle. Killing an infidel is only allowed in battle if the infidel INITIATES the attacks. This verse was actually revealed in a time when Muslims were being oppressed and persecuted, therefore the historical background makes all the difference. "Hershovitz, New York,

Radical muslims believe that we are at war with Islam, this gives them the motive for attacking and killing us in the West. hence 7/7 in London. But 9/11 was perpetrated before the invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq.
Muslims residing in Britain accuse our Government of persecution and oppression -they recently held a demonstration in London against 'British Oppression'. This, in spite of being a protected minority. We won't allow Sharia here; that is why they allege oppression.

Mrs. Keats, Leicestershire, England

those people are just not very nice. (fundies)

moe, dubai, UAE

What a ridicilious statement from Mo Bolton:

As a muslim I compare the attacks and the growing intolerance towards muslims, like the growth of anti-semitism in Nazi Germany in the 1930s.

If there is growing intolerance then it is of your own making, you mention attacks againsy muslims, the only attacks i can see are by your own people in Iraq/Iran etc, ie car bombs, suicde bombers killing women and childeren, i have NEVER heard anyone from the Muslim community speak out against these attacks, I am to therefore led to believe you do not condone this huge loss of life, if as a muslim you take up arms against people that are killing muslims, then why do you not side with America/Britain as they are trying to stop these attacks by your own on people of your own faith. Pathetic email Mo in Bolton, typical of the closed mind of your community.

M Jones, Staffordshire, UK

I rejected being a Catholic - nothing happened- my view is to just ignore your religion - don't raise a fuss - just do it personally - no fanfare - just reject it howsoever you can.

Sayani Narottam, New York, USA

I believe Jesus Christ is the only way of salvation and all who reject Him will spend eternity in hell fire. But one cannot be made to receive Jesus Christ, it is a personal choice to give one's heart and life to Jesus.

Rev Spitz, Davis, New York

Islam is a very rational religion. It is based on intellect and reason. Our Holy Book, the Koran, gives freedom to all people to follow whatever they chose.

God encourages use of intellect. In fact, He says those who do not use their reason are like cattle. There may be spurious books that make apostasy a capital crime, but God's own pure and perfect book, Koran, does not prohibit men and women from changing their faith. In this life, Allah has given human being complete freedom. People who claim otherwise, have simply not read the Koran properly.

I believe that my God gave me a religion of freedom and tolerance, not one of oprpession and prisons. I think it is only a few dodgy Muslim clerics that misguide people for their own evil interests. We can't blame God for the evil acts of men. Muslims are free to come and go from Islam as they like.

Z Hussain, Rochdale, UK

"-- According to Baidhawi's commentary, Sura 4: 88-89 reads: "Whosoever turns back from his belief, openly or secretly, take him and kill him wheresoever ye find him, like any other infidel. Separate yourself from him altogether. Do not accept intercession in his regard."

Of course, the next verse is conveniently overlooked.

004.090 Except those who join a group between whom and you there is a treaty (of peace), or those who approach you with hearts restraining them from fighting you as well as fighting their own people. If God had pleased, He could have given them power over you, and they would have fought you: Therefore if they withdraw from you but fight you not, and (instead) send you (Guarantees of) peace, then God Hath opened no way for you (to war against them).

Alhan, Cairo,

Everyone says alot of negative thing about islam and muslims but yet you see millions of people around the globe turn to islam and accept it for their freedom from this world without anyone threatening them

Saif uddin, wednesbury, west midlands

I have been living in the US for a while now and I have given up on Islam too.

The Quran also says "there is no compulsion in religion"...I don't know if that applies to current Muslims or not. I didn't choose Islam, I was born into it, so why shouldn't I have the choice to follow whatever I want?

Name Withheld, Gainesville, FL

Theodore Van Gogh was not anti-muslim. he was honest.

dean hopkins, Jeff City, Mo

It amazes me how nearly ALL religions proclaim how merciful God is while they (the followers) are so UNmerciful to each other. The Catholic church, proclaiming Jesus, killed millions of "non-believers", as have Muslims and so have many others. If I believe God to be merciful, so then shouldn't I be merciful toward others of God's creation? God created everything EXCEPT religion - WE did that, and have been killing each other ever since. As a Christian I am NOT a Catholic, Lutheran, Presbyterian or anything else. I am ONLY a Christian and I could care less about what YOU claim to be as long as you do not infringe on my God-given right to be what I am. God gave us all a free thinking mind to do and believe as we wish on earth. He will sort us out in the next life. He does NOT need us to kill each other for Him or in His name. I'm sure He could easily do that Himself. Whenever men appoint themselves as God's agents here on earth we have religious strife.

Gene LaLonde, Detroit, Michigan, USA

Hershovitz, New York: A nice point well put. However, I understand that today's radical Islamists insist that they *are* currently (and constantly) under attack from the infidel, therefore constantly using the Koran to justify their inexcusable, murderous actions.

RJT, London,

Just like the Iron Curtain before it, this wall too is begining to crack. Can you imagine a Muslim Enlightenment? It wasnt easy for us, it'll be harder for them . . . good luck!

Lukey Boy, Herts., UK

This is a post for some of the people who are pointing out the various points about Islam/the Quran & how it's really a religion of peace, it's misunderstood, taken out of context, etc:
All that may be true, but it's also irrelevant. The fact of the matter is that this guy is getting death threats merely for what he is saying & that negates any acedemic point you may wish to bring up. I hope you can agree that there is a problem, & that you can see that denying the very reasons the extremists excuse themselves by isn't going to fix it.
Just a thought.
now... can't we all just get along?

Wes, San Diego, CA, USA

Why is it a "provocative move" to ask people please not to threaten your life when you exercise your right to freedom of conscience? Please explain.

Richard Barry, London, UK

Why is it a "provocative move" to ask people please not to threaten your life when you exercise your right to freedom of conscience? Please explain.

Richard Barry, London, UK

All schools should encourage a comparative study of religions: then you will see they were made up by humans hence why some religions need to have clauses about killing people who refuse to beleive. Surely a god who could make the immense universe is hardly going to be concerned with the trivial thoughts of any human ?

Name Withheld, uk,

To Farooq: There doesn't seem to be any such organisation in the U.S., though you may wish to look up either http://secularislam.org or http://muslimrefusenik.com/ These are websites dedicated to Islamic reform by Muslims. Alternatively you might wish to contact the Ex-Muslim organisation in Britain : http://ex-muslim.org.uk/ or a general atheist organisation such as Richard Dawkin's: http://richarddawkins.net/forum

Jim, Dublin, Ireland

It look like freedom has lot of power Human are born free the man made religions have made slaves of old thoughts .Its time we need a free open debate on all religions. and man should ba allowed to parctice his own made religion as long as this not interfere with other humanbeing rights. Itstime any one who threns to kill on the name of religion should be put in jail for life till he cahnges his views.

arsih sahani, new york, usa

well is nice to know SOMEBODY is standing up to islamic intimidation in europe! those young muslims have more courage than all of europes dhimmis combined.

Scott, Punta Gorda, Florida

http://www.almasry-alyoum.com/article.aspx?ArticleID=75920

Dr. Nasr Farid Wasel, former Egypt Mufti, said that all scholars agree that the punishment for rejecting Islam is punishable by death, because Islam did not sanction apostasy, because it did not force or coerce any one into embracing Islam, therefore a renegade must either repent or be condemned to the punishment of apostasy, because it is the right of Allah, the Almighty.

According to all scholars, from the days of the foremost companions and their followers until this time, the punishment for apostasy was sanctioned to preserve the rights and the unity of the community and therefore non-application of this punishment leads to disunity. Allah the Almighty said: "And verily this Brotherhood of yours is a single Brotherhood, and I am your Lord and Cherisher: therefore fear Me (and no other)".

Brandon Colt, Vancouver, Canada

What value has any religion if it is forced on people and they have no right to choose? Surely God wants people to follow Him by choice and out of love for Him!

Hilary Coffey, Ballyclare, UK

I don't know much about Pim Fortuyn so I can't comment on whether Mr. Fortuyn who (according to someone) was killed by an animal-rights activist was "anti-immigration" or not. I am, however, slightly more familiar with Theo Van Gogh's work. Theo Van Gogh made films criticizing various aspects of Christianianity, Judaism, and indeed anything that could be considered to be "establishment". To call him "an antiIslam film-maker" (as The Times does) seems rather narrow-sighted.

It reads that he is to be considered be "anti" whoever took sufficient offense to kill him.

Inna, Sacramento, CA/USA

Why should it be hard or dangerous to leave a "religion of peace" ? Just demonstrates how medieval Islam is.

Mike, Edinburgh,

What is the problem with the people in Europe???
They are letting this stupid traditional muslims to play on them. Those people are using the freedom they recieved from the Europeans to kill that freedom. This should not be tolerated at any time or place, especially in the West. You dont have to be a liberal or conservative to see that those radical muslims are a threat to society.

Kane, San Fracisco, U.S

Richard, Shaw , USA
I am a Muslim and therefore am aware of the lawful and un-lawful in Islam, I am not a terrorist I disagree with killing of the innocent no matter what religion disagree with occupation/and land grabbing, I disagree with going into war especially under false pretences disagree with degrading another religion, and i disagree with Mr Ehsans article above claiming that Muslims have no choice in fact we are encouraged to search for the truth, you may question any doubts , every Muslim is on a journey to establish the truth ,if he is content he commits if in doubt he continues or leaves, the choice is his. As for quotations from the Quran used above, are incorrect as they were revealed for a particular situation you cannot just pick out a verse and place in an article

Mr Richard what ever you read or hear on the American tabloids/news about Islam is not ISLAM, as what ever BUSH and he's allies do to the innocent is not a reflection of the American society, I hope.

Nilofer, London, UK

Religion is the root of all evil as it provides a readily available excuse for anything one wants to do. All holy books are big enough and full of ambiguity to justify any immoral act in the name of the supreme being's will and therefore beyond any challenge. Both Bible and Koran allow genocide, slavery, cruelty etc as long as it pleases God and promotes his cult further. Anyone with access to sources of unbiased information and history and average IQ can see it clearly. It's the oldest racket in the history of humanity. Exploit people's natural fear of the unknown and make them do things for you. If you combine it with exploiting of the natural bigotry in people you have a full blown religion.

Charles Boyer, Los Angeles,

Good for you! Let's aim for the future, not the past.

Welcome to Europe and civilisation

Name Withheld, london,

I hope this message will spread, radical islam has nothing to do in enlightened europe.
We don't want stone-age prophets to deny us liberty.

Lars, Stockholm, Sweden

"As a muslim I compare the attacks and the growing intolerance towards muslims, like the growth of anti-semitism in Nazi Germany in the 1930s" - Mo, bolton, UK

You would say that, wouldnt you? This 'growing intolerance' towards Muslims that you speak of, is a reaction to Muslim terrorism, Muslim intolerance (Rioting because of a cartoon? Give me a break!), etc. If anything, Islamism is comparable to Nazism, and the intolerance towards Muslims is comparable to the Allied intolerance of the Nazis.

My only hope is that when it comes to it, we wont be held back by the politically correct and bleeding hearts.

Pete, Cov,

the holy Quran

1. Say : O ye that reject Faith!

2. I worship not that which ye worship,

3. Nor will ye worship that which I worship.

4. And I will not worship that which ye have been wont to worship,

5. Nor will ye worship that which I worship.

6. To you be your Way, and to me mine.!

syed, ape town,

Are these statements in the Koran about murdering apostates so different from statements in the Old Testament that instruct Israelites to kill anyone who invites them to worship other gods?
"If your very own brother, or your son or daughter, or the wife you love, or your closest friend secretly entices you, saying, 'Let us go and worship other gods', do not yield to him or listen to him. Show him no pity. Do not spare him or shield him. You must certainly put him to death. Your hand must be the first in putting him to death." (deut 13:6) Isn't that (worshiping other gods) the same as apostasy? So are Islam and ancient Judaism that different? Perhaps we view Judaism differently because "worshiping other gods" often involved child sacrifice, sexual sins and more", whereas becoming an apostate Muslim doesn't necessarily mean you will engage in wicked practices. Either way, sometimes to me it seems the mindset is similar- you worship God the established, accepted way, or you die.

Chris, Grass Valley, CA

Forget the theology. If you think that changing your religion from Islam is ok, thats great...But there are ALOT of other people who don't view it that way and think that they must kill an 'apostate'. Are there violent passages in the Bible? yes. Has anyone been killed because he converted from Christianity recently? No. Have these people been attacked and death threatened by other Muslims who feel they are justified because the Koran tells them so? Yes.

It is a problem. I have seen muslim women being harrassed for not wearing hijab in teh West. Why should that be? The radicals arent as small a population as people think...

Ari, London, UK

This is a courageous young man, who deserves our support. We cannot have religious compulsion in a free society.

Let's hope many more young Muslims take heart from the examples of Ed Hussein, Ayaan Hirsi Ali, and now Mr Jami, and join the fight against Islamic supremacism and intolerance.

Andy Gill, London,

The Iraqis dying in Iraq are being killed by fellow Muslims, not by the religion of the US.

As for this guy, more power to him. But the story really should be about him but the story itself. I couldnt imagine a Christian making headlines because he wanted to leave Christianity. This says alot about Islam and its not good.

Richard, Shaw AFB, USA

Faith is generally imposed by your parents without your consent.

Name Withheld, uk,

All members of the UN are presumably signatories of the Declaration of Human Rights, so if they allow death to be meted out for religious reasons they are in breach of the Declaration.
It seems that Islam far from being the 'tolerant religion and synonymous with as it is claimed to be, is exactly the opposite. Death seems to be the solution for everything, giving up religion, adultery, criticising Islam, being perceived to criticise or mock Mohammed etc, etc. Not to mention so called honour killings.
Of course Chritianity has not been blameless in its past history either.
Another curious fact about Islam is though it tells us God is perfect, why does it insist on changing His creation. If God did not want us see womens hair and body shape he would surely have made them bald and physically unattractive.!!

billcarr, Turku, Finland

Hershovitz doesn;t know what he is talking about. The Quran expressly approves of killing those who leave the faith, and not just in time of battle. All four schools of Islamic jurisprudence agree on this point, and I have a suspicion that the Islamic scholars at Al-Azhar University have a much better idea of what is or is not in the Koran and the Hadith than Mr. Hershovitz

Finbar, Linthicum, MD, USA

This piece also glossed over the reason Ayaan HIrsi Ali left the Netherlands. She fled to the US in fear for her life after the murder of Theo Van Gogh, with whom she worked on a short film expressing Islam's oppression of women.
Read her book, Infidel, for the rest of the story. She also has now renounced her faith.

Name Withheld, redding, California

Not before time! At last ,some valiant erstwhile Muslims have found the courage to turn secular.
Where are the Richard Dawkins & Christopher Hitchens of the Arab world ? This natural rebelliousness of muslim youth should be fostered & nutured, with all the media publicity that can be attained.
Elsewhere in England clerics of all faiths decry what they term
"religious bigotry"" . To us atheists, religions ARE bigotry !
The very nature of religion posits that their god is the one & only god. This is a sure recipe for conflict & wars.
When mankind can begin to accepy his mortality without need for superstious hand-holding, religions can be transcended, and our world will be a happier more peaceful place.

wilfred knight, orange county, usa/california

Well put Georges.

Name Withheld, Epworth, UK

the holy koran does not say to kill apostates, on the contrary it does not prescribe any punishment. the verse quoted from the koran is from a translation that is incorrect, a more appropriate translation is ch 4 v 89 "they long that you should disbelieved so that you may be on the same level; so take not among from them friends until they flee (their homes) in Allah's way. Then if they turn back (to hostility), seize them and kill them wherever you find them, and take no friend or helper among them, ch 4 v 90 " ... also the next verse in the holy koran states that "except those who join a people between whom and you there is an alliance, or who come to you, their hearts shrinking from fighting you or fighting their own people" ... the koran does have many references to apostates but never prescribes a punishment such as ch 5 v 54 " O you who believe, should anyone of you turn back from his religion, then Allah will bring a people who He loves and love Him." ...

Faheem Ahmad, Porter Ranch, California

we should get those Imams who want apostates dead, together with that hateful bigot preacher in Kansas who says "God hates fags", and have them go bowling.

seriously, different religions are like opposing sports teams-- equally relevant to the world at large, and equally ridiculous in the eyes of God/Allah/Krishna/whatever.

the only difference between Christianity and Islam is about 500 years

Name Withheld, austin, tx, USA

Support this man and others like him in their quest for freedom of conscience.

Whether Christian, Muslim, Buddhist or other; all (everywhere) should have the right of free choice as their conscience dictates.

After all, what "god" would command murder if one chooses not to believe. Not a "god" I would choose to serve. That's an insane and evil "god" if there ever was one.

God has given mankind freedom of choice. So if one rejects my Savior (Jesus), that's their choice. No "hard feelings" or compulsion from me (it would be an absolute immoral act if I attempted to enforce religious retention or conversion).

Bottom line: God is Light and Love and NOT Evil as represented by crazed religious murderers.

SR, NC,

"the movement would declare war on radical Islam."

This is essential from Muslims themselves to prevent clash of civilizations between Muslims and non-Muslims.

Mr. Jami: you are doing a great job and all world sane and rational people will support you!

Any religion has to reform with the time and has to take into account the conditions prevailing in a society. Failure to do so will be disaster for the religion and its followers. This applies to Islam most, as its followers want to confront non-Muslims by all means including terrorism, jihad, internal subversions, deliberate breaking of laws and many illegal means.

Here one can't fool others for long by saying Islam is a great religion, it does not need reforms or springing up different quotations on different occasions.

Giving meaningless and worthless spins and justifications has affected the credibility of Islam and Muslims. Many non-Muslims have come to the conclusion: don't trust a word of what these people say!

Krishna R. Kumar, Udupi, India

This is a start, I would have like to seen Muslims out protesting the 9/11 attacks. Thank god (Jesus) they have the courage to speak up.

alla babbar, cleveland , oh

While tolerance and a right to freedom of speech is one of the great assets of civilized society,I do not agree that Islam's position on apostates and "infidels" is the same. If anyone has read history, then they will know that, contrary to popular belief, Islam was not spread by the sword and people of other religions were allowed to live in peace, practising their own faith, with peope living in tolerance of each others' views, and not hating the other religion just because everyone else did. Of course the people who receive death threats if they decide to leave something behind are to be pitied, but what about the millions of Muslims who just want to live life peacefully...the majority of people are being taught to hate their way of life. This is not tolerance.

Anne Darlington, Birmingham,

Hershovitz should preach to the many many Muslims throughout the Middle East who will unhesitatingly kill an 'erring' family member or friend, before correcting the Telegraph for quoting sections of the Quran. It is not propaganda to claim some will use these passages as a pretext for murder, it is merely contemporary observation.

charles soper (dr), London, UK

Georges, God did not, through the Quran command for muslims to kill unbelievers. The verse from the Quran quoted above must be read with the subsequent verses. In short, the apostate the verses were referring to can be equated to a person committing treason. They were 'muslims' but at the same time they were non believers who were using their position to engage hostilities against their 'fellow muslims'. The position is the same in most modern legal jurisdiction where treason is punishable by death. No difference here. I for one completely disagree that Islam subscribes death penalty as how the 'traditionalist' believe. This view is also shared by most scholars including Ali Gomaa, the Grand Mufti of Egypt as well as Syeikh Tantawi, the Grand Mufti of Al-Azhar Uni. With regards to the Committee of Ex-Muslims above, well its their right to do as they please but the manner in which they are doing it invokes suspicion to their actual motives.

S. Shaikh, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Its about time that those of us, who have rid themselves of man made myths,unite and stand up against this tide of irrational belief. It is especiall necessary in the muslim world, which has proved to be the most intolerant of beliefs. The euphamism that Islam is a relgion of peace cried out by our leaders is a dangerous idea that is keeping us from realizing the true threat that we face. While I find the connection between the 9/11 attacks and islamist terrorists highly dubious at best, it certainly does not erode the fact that religion in all its forms poses a real threat.

Salman, San Jose, California, USA

"This is great news indeed. One to speak for the others to follow. Go with the flow!
Also,
it says in the christian faith to kill infidels as well but nobody accepts the old writings as correct anymore.
Jegi, Stockholm, "

Really? I'd love to know exactly where 'in the christian faith' it says to 'kill infidels'. Like, really, really love to know where you got that from.
In fact, I am so sure that you have not the slightest clue about what you are speaking of that I expect no reply at all, because there is none. That statement is completely indefensible.
Fools like yourself with no understanding are the real issue here - every intelligent human recognizes Islam for what it is, a cultural and tribal religion initiated to create an empire. Fools such as yourself enable it to grow and spread through your bankrupt 'moral relativism' - that is, in case you are so incompetent you can't understand the meaning, saying that all religions are equal. They are not.

Adam, Calgary, Canada

good on him, islam has murdered and intimidated people for freedom of religion for far too long. its unfortunate that standing up for freedom of religion is now becoming a sin if its islam. too much fear of the hate and violence islam brings, and not enough courage to stand up for what is right.

bob, honolulu, US

The other day I saw a video which was posted on Youtube about a girl raised through religion in her family, she became close to a muslim man but her family in the end faked their approval of this and she returned home where she was surrounded by angry men who proceeded to stone her to death.

The video was recorded by one (and more) of these men and showed her alive and moving crying for help only to get rocks thrown at her until she was dead.

I have never seen something so dreadful in my life and can only imagine how silly this is all getting.

Religion is supposed to be about peace and respect but as with everything nothing good remains good as it is changed by man time and time again until it is something completely different and reflects what man wants and not religion as originally intended. A great shame.

Robbie Khan, Gosport, hampshire

I ask that whenever serious issues such as this are public references to the Quran and/or Hadith must be stated to verify and ascertain the truth of the quotes, otherwise we may fall into serious harm by publishing false religious statements during these times of great tension and conflict.

Shpendim Nadzaku, Rockford, Illinois, USA

Nilofer,

You need to learn about Islam.

Richard, Shaw AFB, USA

There are those who say the Quran is misread and misused, well, it's followers are practicing what it preaches. Just look to Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Sudan to name a few in which the ruling populations practice religious intolerance against everyone not Muslim. If the Quran is so misread and hijacked by radicals, then there are millions upon millions upon millions of uneducated followers of it who are radicals who beleive it is ok to kill those who leave the faith or kill the kaffir.

Rory Flood, Indian Train, NC,

Reminisant of all those that were shot or blown up trying to get over the Berlin wall to escape the tyranic grip of the communist workers paradise, or hung with piano wire for opposing Hitler, or having your eye`s and tongue cut out and layed to rest with the fish, for trying to get out of the Mafia!! Gives you something to contemplate and reflect on during ramadan, dunnìt !!!

Alan Mac, Uppland, Sweden

I agree as do most muslims that 9/11 was un-islamic and there is no justification for it as much as im sure the west are against the killing and torture of the muslims that are occupied by the west,
but it would take a practising or real muslim to be aware that in islam such actions are forbidden therefore the fact that this man decides to leave islam after 9/11 has no relevence, he's faith must have been weak and lack of islamic knowledge, to let the terrorist influance his stance on islam,
And as quoted in the article above that muslims are born into islm and do not have a choice that is inmature as anyone born in to judasim or christianity is born a jewish or christian and so on, its there choice weather they follow the religion or not.

Its unfortunate that this individual has chosen to blame religion for his own personal views.

Nilofer, London, UK

This religious fanaticism is at the root of all our problems with Islam. It starts at birth. It is bad enough with the Christian religion where we are all brainwashed by our parents and school teachers to believe that there is a God etc. With Islam, it is even worse. Just look at the children in a Moslem school. What hope do they have? They have no choice but to believe. Islam is a mediaeval and barbaric religion. The instruction to kill those who turn their backs Islam is just one example. Anyone who criticises Islam is at risk of death -- witness the furore over the Danish cartoon. Here in the West we tread pathetically on the eggshells of Moslem sensitivities. Why? Because we fear a violent overreaction and it is time we stopped pussyfooting around. In Mr Jami's case we have someone brave enough to stand up to the Islamic radicals. It is time for the rest of the Moslem community -- those who do not support fanaticism, to stand up and be similarly counted.

Chris Smith, Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Pim Fortuyn was shot by a Dutch animal rights activist, not a Muslim.

paul, Tokyo, Japan

These men are showing incredible bravery. May their efforts be crowned with success. God bless them.

Nicholas Lee, Windsor, UK

How many cases of death penalty inflicted on "apostates" have you heart of ? - None, isnt it ?

Now look to the real deaths and the effective murderers in Irak, Palestine and so on....

Anti Islam hysteria and hatred can cover even the sunrise?

med, Paris,

What Mr Jami is saying is quite unremarkable, but the reaction speaks volumes. I'm sure that soon people will start commenting on this page that in Islam, apostates are usually only killed if they refuse to 'repent'. How generous!

James, Adelaide, Australia

Well put Georges.

Alas, you are trying to apply logic and common sense to people of "faith". Its laudable, and deserves wide support, but in the end it is pointless, because they are not listening.

Bill, Singapore,

He seems like a very good guy... with his head in the right place. Good luck to him.

john, London, UK

how about talking about the religion coming from the US and responsible for the death of more than 1 million Iraki civilians?
a bit of common sense Infidels.

darabzebbou, baghdad,

The Times is very selective with it's translations! Surah 4 vv88+89,trans.Muhammad Asad: Do you, perchance, seek to guide those whom God has let go astray - when for him whom God lets go astray thou canst never find any way? They would love to see you deny the truth even as they have denied it, so that you should be like them. Do not, therefore, take them for your allies until they forsake the domain of evil [this is a spiritual domain] for the sake of God; and if they revert to OPEN ENMITY, seize them and slay them wherever you may find them. And do not take any of them for your ally ....unless [various exceptions]

A Salmon, Damascus, Syria

Why are Europeans such insuffrable cowards when it comes to Islam? Why are you all so affraid to anger Muslims. The only rational good reason I can think of is FEAR. You know very well how little Islam tolerates criticism and rightly fear it. However, you do the cowardly thing and try to accomadate Islam's intolerance in order to not anger it. You remind me of the family of a violent alchholic who have to constantly walk on pins-and-needles to avoid setting him off. Its pathetic.

Tim, Oshkosh, Wisconsin, USA

This is one brave young man.

Politicians need to come off the fence.

There can be NO PLACE (any more than there is a place for Nazism or the Ku Klux Klan) in western democracy for any religion or group who BASIC TENETS enshrine and reward violence and murder of others on the basis of their religion (or lack of it) or personally held views or codes of behaviour (such as homosexuality) that whist not held by the majority, are deemed legal. Let there be no denying this from "woolly" and "liberal" muslims who are such only because they aren't yet in power - the prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, was clear about this.... "kill 'em".

No 'ifs', no 'buts' - this religion is at odds with the legal and moral framework on which Western democracies are based and needs to be shown the same levels of tolerance that they, if they could, would accord to apostates, homosexuals, pagans, drinkers, or indeed avowed atheists such as myself.

Ali Dur El Bin-bin, Roma, Italy

Religious schools are a bad idea anyway, but the idea of the taxpayer funding the indoctrination into a religion that can be this hard to leave seems especially wrong-headed.

Separating children by their parents' religion seems a funny way to improve integration. The government seems keen to underwrite religious determinism when it should be working to counteract it.

nonplussed, London, UK

Respect to the Committee for Ex-Muslims for finally taking the initiative to do what should have been done a long, long time ago.

Adam Hunt, London,

Erm maybe I expect too much from the Times but if youhave abandoned your faith as a Muslim, should you really be classing these people as Muslims?

Fred, Bedford, UK

Good for you! The choice to be religious, atheist, agnostic, etc. should always be up to the individual. The history of the Western World is loaded with struggles for freedom of and from religion. Let us not forget that.

G, Montreal,

an illegal battle in countries like Iraq Afghanistan Bulgaria of course we have the right to defend them because they have no real reason this is like the cold war all over again where as the capitalist could not allow communist to flourish as it was a threat to their ideologies wealth and all that same islam is a threat to westernized thinking.

continued form the one i sent in before

u.s, london,

Islam like Judaism, served as a full and complete government as well as a religious way of life for their followers for many centuries, and there was absolutely no such thing as "secular" or seperation of "Church" and state. (Note: "church" here refers to the clergy's control of civil matters, rather than reference to the place of worship. Thus would include the temple and the mosque for the sake of conversation) Leaving Islam on the basis of belief only and without offering any damage or oppression to others or to the Islamic State does not carry corporal or capital punishment, or any other type of punishment that I have found evidence for. In fact, there were cases at the time of the prophet, peace be upon him, where some had entered Islam, left Islam and then came back to Islam. Other cases people left and did not come back and lived on without any persecution or prosecution for that matter, whatsoever.

Siddeeq, Largo, MD

Good move. Everyone should be allowed to believe in whatever they choose. I myself prefer to follow science and peace.

Jay, Middletown,

This is great news indeed. One to speak for the others to follow. Go with the flow!

Also,
it says in the christian faith to kill infidels as well but nobody accepts the old writings as correct anymore.

Jegi, Stockholm,

Allah is not merciful.
When I see the west cut off Saudi Arabia with air flights in and out as a sanction and take away visas from the royal family.
When we insist that until she allows freedom of all religions and resinds the apostate laws, then and only then will I know ex-muslims are safe in the west.
Democracy has an old enemy, Islam. Alongside communism and other dictator ships it is a virulent ideology that must not be tolerated.

mike, nz,

Anybody has right to choose their religion!

zhen, Shanghai,

If Islam is truly from God, You dont need human element to terrorize people in to submission. God gives opportunity for everyone in this world to find him.
In contrast Jesus taught that just because you are born into the family of a christian you dont automatically become a christian.
Jesus answered and said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God." (John 3:3)

and do not suppose that you can say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham for our father'; for I say to you that from these stones God is able to raise up children to Abraham. (Mathew 3:9)
We see that it is choice before men, either to choose God or reject him. No human to control your personal decision.

jose, Toronto, Canada

If Islam has to modernise, it can only happen from within through revolutionary leaders like Ehsan jami. For his young age his vision and daring is remarkable. I hope the best possible security is provided to him. I also thank Timesonline for bringing such news into limelight. People like Jami should be given far more coverage across media. This will not only inspire the peace loving muslims but also help reduce blanket prejudice against Muslims which is also natural, given the widespread terror strikes.

Anuradha, Bangalore, India

"Hershovitz" does not know Islamic teaching: In Islam there is NO "offensive" battle conducted by Moslems because all battles fought by Moslems are in defense of 'allah' because, to be non-Moslem is a crime against 'allah' and, therefore, it is the duty of all Moslems to fight in defense of 'allah.' According to scholars of Al-Azhar University, foremost in islamic scholarship: "Holy war, WHICH IS DEMANDED IN ISLAMIC LAW, is not a defensive war because it could legitimately be an offensive war. That is the apex and most honorable of all holy wars (jihad). Its goal is ...the construction of islamic society ...regardless of the means. It is legal to carry on an offensive holy war." Anyhow, Muhammad ordered death for apostasy for those who left Islam because by doing so they had 'made mischief in the land' by the act of no longer being 'faithful' to 'allah'. Typical totalitarian tactics.

Martel, london,

Governments should give full support to this kind of people.

Mike, Oklahoma,

The universal Quran states in 4:88 "How then could you be of two minds about the hypocrites seeing as God himself has disowned them because of their guilt. Do you perchance seek to guide those whom God has let go astray when for him whom God lets go astray thou canst never find any way? They would love to see you deny the truth even as they have denied it so that you should be like them. Do not therefore take them for your allies until they forsake the domain of evil for the domain of God; and if they revert to open enmity, seize them and slay them wherever you may find them, and do not take any of them for your ally or giver of succour:"
I'm no scholar,but these verses are definitely about treacherous hypocrites, not weak disbelievers. If you knew the history of Islam, you could learn about the conditions of the Muslim community at the time these verses were revealed: they were attacked numerous times, by armies and by hypocrites in their midst. But hate is more exciting than history

Tauseef, toronto, Canada

This person, Mr. Jami is just trying to further his political ambitions in Netherlands where Islam bashing is politically encouraged.
Ayaan Hirsi Ali got noticed and got a political start for also Islam bashing. Using religion to further political ambitions is deplorable.

Justin Hays, Sioux City, Iowa, USA

Guys don't speak about 'oh it only means defence when attacked' - how can a religion be in a state of 'self-defence' for 14 centuries? was Mohamed in self-defence when he sent armies to fight other tribes in arabia or plundered caravans to weaken his enemies economically (similar strategy to that of bin laden). How can you self-defend thousands of miles away in 7th century iberia or china? (which is praised by islamic religious and historic tradition, as well as school text books as 'fotouhat')? Read Surat al Tawbeh and you'll see for yourself. Unlike in the Bible when 'love your enemies comes after the old testament and makes it both theologically and historically 'abbrogated' - the case is reversed in the Koran wherer 'kill them wherever you find them' comes after 'no compulsion in religion' and abrogate it, together wih 124 verses,