The Mosque Rhetoric

The question would seem to be pretty straightforward. Should a mosque be built within two block of Ground Zero? All the rhetoric surrounding this issue shows, though, the difficulty people are having with this question because of the actual nature of the decision maker in this case. The word 'should' has an implication of authority, implying that the question is directed to society and government as to whether they should allow it to be built. It is in this regard that we find the argument of freedom of religion directed against this presentation of authority, implying it would seem that the very question is inappropriate. This in turn is understood as simply supporting the argument that it should be built.

The challenge is then presented that it is insensitive to proceed with this building, presenting an argument that while no one can stop them from doing so, those wishing to build the mosque should re-consider their decision. The fact is, though, that this argument is still lost in the first one. People still see this argument as one reflecting the imposition of authority -- and the argument of insensitivity loses its impact.

The simple problem is that we really do not know how to reflect our opinion while still respecting the actual power of the decision maker. It is easier for us to tell the other not to do something than to respect that the other is still the decision maker and the most we can really do is advice the other not to do something -- and then to know how to articulate this advice. Ultimately, this group has the right to build this mosque on this land. It is not our decision. That is something that should have been recognized right from the beginning by those not wishing this mosque to be built. The focus then would have been on finding the language to present this view so that is would be heard by this group -- not just simply voicing one's own conclusions.

Rabbi Ben Hecht