Principles of Islam
11. Freedom of Expression
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It amounts to the sacrifice of one’s ego. But that is
the occasion when man assures his entry into
heaven.
When does one find the opportunity for this great
form of worship and this great good fortune? This
opportunity comes one’s way only when there is
full freedom of expression. When one can criticize
another with impunity. When such an atmosphere
prevails in a society, which permits the speaker to
air his views freely and the listener may freely
appreciate what is being said. Just as a mosque is
the right place for the performance of prayer in
congregation, similarly freedom of expression is the
right atmosphere in which to foster the great virtues
of expressing the truth and acceptance of the truth.
