Who is right about the veil?
Manzoor Moghal, chairman of the Muslim Forum, stated categorically that "we need to understand that the Muslim veil is not an article of faith, but a cultural practice often masquerading as an Islamic requirement" (First Person, July 19).
Yet in a more recent article in the same column the Church of England Bishop of Leicester, writing about the French banning of religious symbols, stated that the targets are a small number of Muslim women who wear a full-face veil or niqab.
His statement also appears to be at odds with the Holy Koran which makes no mention either of any need for women to cover their heads or faces, stating only that Muslims should dress modestly.
John Catt (Mailbox, July 21) took up the bishop's stance by indirectly referring to "a particular religious symbol", so who is right between Mr Moghal and the Bishop of Leicester? What is the true situation?
Patrick Trigg, Oadby.
4 Comments
by me, leicester
Wednesday, July 28 2010, 3:48AM
“Perhaps the Bishop and others should study history in more depth.
The covering of females faces was first decreed by the religious leaders of the Christians ,followed by the jews and lastly the Muslims. Amazing what you find out when talking to Turkish historical scholars.”
by Eleane Rhodes, Uppingham
Sunday, July 25 2010, 10:43AM
“If this is not religion but choice why do they wear black, why not pink, white or blue each of which is less threatening than all in black. Is there a reason why they cannot brighten up.”
by Lee, East Leicester
Saturday, July 24 2010, 9:00PM
“I totally agree.Too many "Christian" spokesperson's fawn and hand wring over islam.The church as become weak and is it any wonder the the pews are empty.”
by Peter West, Puntous, France
Saturday, July 24 2010, 1:25PM
“It is time the Bishop started preaching Christianity rather than apologising for Islam.”