Cooperation, then, is only sanctioned in acts of goodness, and it is impermissible in acts of evil. Allah says: “And cooperate in righteousness and piety, but do not cooperate in sin and transgression” (Qur’an 5:2). The writer, however, used the term “cooperation” in an unrestricted sense that covers both the cooperation Allah has commanded and the cooperation He has prohibited. This is a mistake and a mark of ignorance, for cooperation must be qualified as that which Allah has enjoined—cooperation in righteousness and piety.

As for moral conduct, Islam urges noble traits and forbids vile and base ones. Yet the author mentioned “morals” without qualification, thereby including both commendable and reprehensible qualities. This likewise is an error and stems from ignorance, for morals must be restricted to what is commanded and encouraged: adorning oneself with praiseworthy character and keeping away from blameworthy character.

Regarding his statement, “They do not realize that a Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand other Muslims are safe,” the reply is that the prohibition against harming Muslims with one’s tongue or hand applies only when such action constitutes wrongdoing and aggression. As for enjoining what is right, forbidding what is wrong, restraining evildoers, and compelling them to follow the truth, these are matters the Lawgiver has commanded and encouraged.