World

Muslim group Liberal Islamic Association is campaigning for same-sex marriage

May 18 2017
Written by Benjamin Butterworth

<> on February 28, 2012 in London, England.

A Muslim group is campaigning in favour of same-sex marriage.

The Liberal Islamic Association has come out in support of the equality legislation in a bold move.

They have even cited text from the Quran to back-up their support for the progressive policy.

The group said: “The central verse in the Quran dealing with partnership and its general sense and use says: ‘And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquillity in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought.’ (30:21),” in a statement.

Muslim LGBT sign

They added: “In the Arabic original the Quran does not talk of ‘man and woman’, but uses the word azwadsch, which means ‘pair’/’parts of a pair’/‘partner’/‘spouse’.”

The group says that because the original text does not refer to particular genders, marriage should be open to different types of couples.

that’s why they argue that, so long as they match the other requirements and one of them is Muslim, the couple should be allowed to wed.

“The fathering of offspring is not named as the (primary) spirit and purpose of a partnership in the verse,” they said.

“Because ‘Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life.

“But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one’s] hope.’”

The group, based in Germany, is arguing that Chancellor Angela Merkel should introduce marriage equality.

Germany currently has a form of civil partnerships, but doe snot permit full marriage for couples who aren’t opposite gender.

Germany isn’t the only country where Muslim campaigners have embraced LGBT rights.

Pride in London is marking Ramadan as part of this year’s LGBT Pride festival.

One of the new events is A Big Gay Iftaar, which Pride in London says will “bring together the Muslim and LGBT+ communities to open a fast together during Ramadan”.

The event will be held in St Andrew’s Church, Southwark, on Saturday June 24.

A release explained: “It’s time to bring together the Muslim and LGBT+ communities to do something very important: open a fast together during Ramadan, otherwise known as ‘iftaar’.

“The intention is to get back to basics and talk to one another, learn about each others’ faiths, cultures and sexualities and spread some love that is so sorely needed in the world.

“Dates and food will be provided at Maghrib (sunset) and it promises to be a thought-provoking and community building evening.

“The event is open to everyone, regardless of background or sexuality. All proceeds will be donated to Pride in London and Imaan.”