Freedom of expression

Answer

Wa alaikumus salaam Warahmatullahi wabarakaatuh

Freedom of expression does not mean that a person can say whatever he wants. The best of creation, Nabi (Salllallahu Alaihi Wassalam) also was restricted in speech. In Surah Najm, Allah Ta’ala mentions: “He [Nabi (Salllallahu Alaihi Wassallam)] does not speak out of his whims.” This follows that his Ummah also should be careful of what they utter. This injunction is further emphasised by the fact that whatever a person utters is recorded by kiraman kaatibin and the person will be reckoned for it on the day of Judgement.

Now, if it’s a freedom that causes harm to others as in the actual case, then all the more, it will be prohibited. It is such a freedom that satisfies only a few people to the detriment of the vast majority. It is a freedom, which only the strong ones can enjoy. This shows that this kind of freedom is not a real freedom. But rather, it is anarchy under the cover of freedom whereby the law of the strongest reigns and makes the life of people a hell.

We need a freedom where everyone can feel free and protected. To bring this type of freedom, we must recognise the right of the next person. We do not have the right to be free at a level that offends or hurts others. Therefore, true freedom cannot exist without respecting the right of others. A freedom that violates the right of others is tyranny, which attracts Divine anger. Divine anger is manifested in different forms.

The freedom of expression by the French falls under the category of anarchy which is not tolerated by anyone who has the least concern for human right.