"HE who takes an innocent life has killed the whole of humanity." I open this week's column with a quote from the Qu'ran, the Islamic holy book.

Islam is a peaceful religion which encourages harmony and love, not hatred and contempt. If the London bombers were true Muslims who read the Qu'ran with a pure and clean heart, they would realise that violence and hostility are not the teachings of Islam.

Taking a life is considered a big sin and the terrorists are completely mistaken if they think what they are doing is good and holy.

Like many British Muslims, I was shocked and saddened to learn the identity of the bombers.

Having being brought up to respect other people, regardless of their race or religion, I am surprised that Muslim extremists are so callous in their attitude and are willing to cause carnage and devastation. I think it is important to remember that it is only a minority that feel this way.

The vast majority of Muslims, particularly in Britain, do not hold these radical views and are law- abiding citizens who just want to get on with life.

One implication in the aftermath of the attacks is an increase in hostile relationships between the Muslim community and other faiths.

Inevitably, anger and suspicion will be provoked towards Muslims. But it is thought the situation won't get out of control.

A promising sight is religious leaders coming together to promote peace between the faiths and trying to stop a backlash towards Muslims who have nothing to do with terrorism.

Hopefully, conflict will not occur and all races and religions can live alongside each other in harmony, without fear of violence.