Skip to content
quotesby

About this quote

What does it mean?
Dealing with a crazy man is near impossible, but if he has religious beliefs and commits murder, Islam will be damaged by his fanaticism.
In plain terms
Crazy, murderous fanatics harm the reputation of their religion.
What can you take from it?
Extreme actions can tarnish a faith's image.

Where it applies

  • media coverage
  • interfaith dialogue

Putting it to work

  • condemn extremist acts
  • educate about true teachings

Questions to consider

  • How can religions protect themselves from extremist misuse?
  • What responsibility do leaders have in preventing fanaticism?

Another view

It generalizes all believers based on a few violent acts.

More from Ruhollah Khomeini

  1. The Islamic Revolution of Iran is honourable for it is the cry which has its origin in Ayatollah Khomeini's conscience.

    Permalink to quote #108
  2. Since Khomeini's death, the popular appeal of an Islamic state - and of fundamentalism - has surely dimmed. Thinkers still debate and warriors kill, but no cou…

    Permalink to quote #107
  3. I thought using the Ayatollah's money to support the Nicaraguan resistance was a neat idea.

    Permalink to quote #106

Related quotes

  1. From fanaticism to barbarism is only one step.

    Denis DiderotDenis Diderot quote #1
  2. The cardinal doctrine of a fanatic's creed is that his enemies are the enemies of God.

    Andrew Dickson WhiteAndrew Dickson White quote #2
  3. This is the sort of book that justifies fatwahs. If WWIII occurred right now, we could die happy knowing Baxter would never write again. If a dinosaur killing …

    James NicollJames Nicoll quote #4