Friday, November 14, 2014

Jordan's King PlayStation-approved Islam

"Several hundred robed Muslim clerics recently packed themselves into an auditorium to hear the minister of Islamic affairs issue their new marching orders. Jordanian authorities have begun a campaign to coax — and, when necessary, pressure — Muslim clerics to preach messages of peaceful Islam from their pulpits. The main targets are Jordan’s more than 5,000 imams, including lay clerics and those on the government dole, who give the traditional sermon that follows Friday prayers.

The ministry is providing suggested topics for Friday sermons, available for download from the government’s Facebook page. Recent suggestions included:

• Oct. 17 — “Security and Stability: the Need for Unity in a Time of Crisis.”

• Oct. 24 — “The Hijjra New Year — Lessons Derived From the Prophet’s Flight From Mecca.”

• Oct. 31 — “The Beginning of the Rainy Season — Safety Measures in Preparation for Winter.”" (thanks Basim)