The Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) of Greater Washington issued a statement Saturday saying it “was incensed by the vicious terrorist attacks which occurred in Paris last night. We mourn for those killed, offer our condolences to their families, and pray for a swift recovery of the injured. The rising tide of violence and terrorism across the world is profoundly disturbing.
The JCRC stands in solidarity with the people of France and the free world. We condemn these attacks in the strongest possible way and support French President François Hollande in seeking justice for the victims. We agree with President Barack Obama in his remarks condemning the attack, “Once again we’ve seen an outrageous attempt to terrorize innocent civilians. This is an attack not just on Paris, it’s an attack not just on the people of France, but this is an attack on all of humanity and the universal values that we share.”
Muslims around the world, from religious leaders and politicians to ordinary people are condemning the attacks. Many have said these attacks do not represent the true believers of Islam. These jihadists only represent themselves and a skewed view of Islam’s religious doctrine. We continue to work with our partners of many different faiths to build a society based on inclusion, open dialogue, and mutual understanding.
The Talmud says, ‘Whoever destroys a soul, it is considered as if he destroyed an entire world. And whoever saves a life, it is considered as if he saved an entire world.’ And the Koran says, ‘If anyone killed an innocent it would be as if he had killed the whole of mankind. And one who saved a life would be as if he had saved the lives of all mankind.’ Our common humanity trumps our different theology. The Jewish community of Greater Washington and the world must show that acts of love and kindness far out number the acts of terrorism in our world.
Sadly, yesterday’s events are part of a much bigger trend of continued acts of violence and terror against innocent people. The world must find a way to stand together to create a place of peace and understanding.”
