From time to time, the issue of apostasy and Islam's stance on it raises hot debates and controversy in the international media, research centers, universities, and elsewhere. The pivotal question in such debates is always, "How does Islam respect the freedom of faith?" International media, particularly in the West, tends to place its focus on the traditional viewpoints of early Muslim scholars. Although these viewpoints may have been suitable for their time period and location, the media is now taking them out of their original context.

This folder aims at presenting the views of a number of contemporary and earlier scholars within their appropriate context. This well-balanced presentation will offer a variety of viewpoints that will help readers better understand the different interpretations of apostasy in Islam.

In addition to presenting scholars' viewpoints, the folder will allow our readers to participate in the ongoing discussion so they can exchange their views and ideas on this controversial issue.ss

There has been a wide variety of opinions by Muslim scholars throughout nearly fourteen centuries concerning punishment for apostasy with the majority of the opinion that apostasy is a capital crime as it threatens the integrity and stability of the Muslim community and state...More>>

Dr. Jamal Badawi

Islam does not compel people to join it nor does it force anybody to accept or to leave any other religion, but it places great importance upon conviction for those who embrace it...More>>

Dr. Yusuf Al-Qaradawi

I believe that the punishment for apostasy is discretionary and is left entirely to the concerned authorities in the Muslim state to decide…More>>

Dr. Muhammad Salim Al-`Awwa

Each nation has the right to enact laws that guarantee the protection of its identity. By the same token, the Muslim nation should protect its identity, mission, and society…More>>