Mohamed Bajrafil, imam of the Vigneux and Ivry-sur-Seine mosques, presents himself as the defender of a liberal and tolerant 21st century Islam. His recently published book Islam of France, Year I, “reestablished” several “truths” about his religion, and dismissed extremism.
“One cannot read the Qur’an today through a 1400 year old lens,” he argued. In his book, the imam opens up the subject for debate and proposes a re-reading of the texts. “One of the objectives is to teach Muslims and non-Muslims in France that we are in the 21st century and no longer in the time of the Crusades.”
He has preached in Vigneux for ten years and constantly works to remind worshippers of their “reality.”
“It’s what 99% of imams do,” he assured, “with our words we expose ourselves, we take risks. It’s a sacrifice. I’ve wanted to quit but I’m driven by passion and altruism.”
Concerning the much-debated topic of women and the hijab, the imam remains firm. “For me, the Quran requires that Muslim women wear it.” But, he believes it’s a personal choice. “The young woman who wants to wear one can. Those who refuse should be allowed not to wear one. No one can impose their opinions on others and I will fight my entire life for this.”
Understanding one’s religion. That’s the most effective barrier against radicalization, according to Bajrafil.
“Understanding frees us from manipulation. The examples of Coulibaly and the Kouachi brothers from the Charlie Hebdo attacks are proof… Most mosques are not frequented by these people. Those that are [radical] will never assist with my sermons for the simple reason that, to them, I am not Muslim.”
