Omar Suleiman, a prominent Islamic scholar, was recently asked questions on the LGBT issue and its compatibility with Islam. In response, he shared his firm stance on the matter. According to Omar Suleiman, he does not support the LGBT agenda religiously, socially, or politically. He firmly believes that the Muslim community should oppose any ideology that contradicts the principles of Islam, per the Quran and Sunnah.
Dr. Omar Suleiman on the LGBT Question
Furthermore, Omar Suleiman was asked if it is possible to support LGBT rights politically while disagreeing with them morally. He emphatically responded that Muslims should not be expected to separate their religious conscience from their political and moral principles. For a Muslim politician, activist, or any individual to endorse something that undermines the teachings of the Deen (religion) is simply unacceptable. Muslims should refrain from endorsing or engaging in legislation that supports actions prohibited in the Deen.
Moreover, the question arose whether Muslims could form an alliance with LGBT groups due to their support for Muslim rights. Omar Suleiman firmly stated that this was also not permissible. He explained that the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad does not provide any justification for aligning with a group whose cause directly contradicts his message. Muslims should operate based on their own principles. They should not engage in political tribalism. Instead, they should engage with society based on their own causes, issues, and principles as Muslims.
Omar Suleiman Discusses Contradicting Islam with LGBT Ideology Beliefs
In addition, Dr. Omar Suleiman was asked about aligning with groups that are not explicitly LGBT groups but have elements that Muslims disagree with, such as anti-war or anti-poverty groups. He acknowledged that such situations require careful scrutiny. While the cause being advocated for is generally deemed important, it is crucial to be cautious of the baggage that may accompany certain speakers or organizations. If a group’s overall agenda includes elements that contradict Islamic principles, it becomes necessary to ensure that everyone involved remains focused on the specific cause without introducing conflicting elements. Muslims must engage in activism while steadfastly safeguarding their principles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Imam Omar Suleiman is addressing a growing issue to the Muslim American community, which is the LGBT movement and ideology. The incorporation of LGBT curriculum in schools, as well as the growing social norm for LGBT labels and practices, is not compatible with Islam and our teachings for Islamic gender, gender dynamics and responsibilities, marriage, and society.
Dr. Omar Suleiman’s insight on the issue from an Islamic perspective should center Muslims in the United States when it comes to reconciling an approach on this issue in the public and private sphere. While Muslims can and should engage with society and advocating for causes aligned with their Islamic principles of justice (in God’s language), Imam Omar Suleiman states we must also remain steadfast to our principles and belief systems as Muslims.
