BEIRUT: A Lebanese judge ordered three Muslim young men who insulted Christianity to memorize verses from the Quran’s Al-Imran surah which glorifies Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ.
Instead of handing down a prison sentence over their contempt of religion, Joceline Matta ordered the men to memorize the verses to be released.
While reading out the verdict in court in Tripoli, North of Lebanon, last week, Matta noted that her decision aims to teach the young men about Islam’s tolerance and love for Virgin Mary.
“The law is a school and not just a prison,” she said.
Prime Minister Saad Hariri commended the move on Twitter and saluted Matta for her decision which reflects justice and teaches mutual concepts between Muslims and Christians.
State Minister for Combating Corruption Nicolas Tueni also praised Matta and said her decision paves the way towards innovative judicial approaches that help resolve social problems and religious intolerance.