Diablo III – A Muslim, A Christian and A Gamer Walk Into A Game – Part 2

Here are some of the responses from the 15 page thread on the Blizzard forums. The responses from those on the forums were not only against the Muslim but also against Christians and others from different religions,

Note: This is Part 2 of the post about the Muslim Gamer who found the Muslim Holy book, the Quran, in the game Diablo III, you can read Part 1 here.

“In my humble opinion, it should not be where it is in the game.”

“It should be neatly placed in an outhouse, along with every other religious scripture, so that our heroes have something to read while they take a dump”

“Grow up and get out of the forums”

“no1 cares you don’t have the right to not be offended, if ur offended by something this stupid get out!”

“in the dirt where it belongs”

“I’m very happy to know that Muslims are offended It will make the game better”

“Just bury the OP, dislike if you don’t agree. That way no one will pay attention to that kind of rubbish. Mission accomplished.”

“I’m loving this Crusade against the OP “

As you can see, a few of the comments are straight out racist and bigotry at its best. Their internet and gaming forums are known to have the best of the best trolls, so I’m sure there were a few in there just doing it for the lulz. Spend 5 minutes on Xbox Live to see the language and attitudes of many gamers.

troll game 351x350 Diablo III – A Muslim, A Christian and A Gamer Walk Into A Game Part 2

The Troll

Saying that, there is also a flip side to this, the Christian that I wanted to point out. A christian I have never met in my life and I will most probably never either. Regardless of that, I have a lot of respect for him and I wish I could shake his hand. This was his response in the thread,

(Name of Muslim who made the post) this is just my personal opinion. You and I and anyone else with faith or beliefs will never get any support whatsoever but hate and hostility on these forums or any game forums.

That’s how the world is today I’m afraid. But I DO understand where you are coming from. From looking at the pictures you posted a few hours ago, I do see resemblance of the Book of the Quran. As someone pointed out earlier there are different covers of the book.

Now let’s just say Blizzard for whatever reason did this and of course changed the pattern ever so slightly to not make it obvious that they really intended to make a prop Quran book in game lying in a pile of dirt and trash which isn’t acceptable.

Other view is they just by coincidence, the artist made that prop book which resembled the Quran but in no way was intended to offend Muslims in anyway.

Now although I can see your concern as it would concern me too and if I really found something offensive with no doubt in my mind I would…

1. Never buy the game

2. Write a letter or some sort of complaint to Blizzard

Although nothing will stop me for expressing my views if I found something discriminating or offensive I will speak my mind carefully not trying to offend anyone (which I can’t see how I could tbh) and just get my point across.

But just understand as much as I respect you for expressing your views and not being afraid to tell Blizzard and the community how you feel, expect hostility just as Christians do to.

Don’t be afraid of these kinds of threats, you have every right to express your views and your faith just as they do to express theirs.

But you see their behavior here is just disgusting to show all this kind of hostile behavior and hatred for religious people who have faith and in no way try and force it on anyone.

Those that do try and force faith on people don’t speak for the majority but still there is no reason at all to show this much hatred for the OP.

He was only expressing his views whether his wrong or right he feels he has an issue with that prop book resembling what his faith is about and that it was found in a pile of trash in the game.

No matter how small, silly or big the issue is to people NO ONE should be showing this kind of behavior to anyone religious or not!

Mankind isn’t perfect NO ON IS, religious or not know one is 100% perfect but if you want respect you all better start respecting people with faith and beliefs which mean more than life itself to them.

If you can’t respect that or give a polite and simple response then how dare can you demand him to be silent, tell him to get out of the forums or insult his religion?

I’m a Christian and I’m proud and Blessed to say it! No one on will ever take my Salvation from me that was given to me from God Alone! People here with no faith, I have no problems, with your choice not to believe.

I have many friends with no faiths and I feel sorry sometimes when certain people mock people who believe in God but our behaviour and attitude does not change, not even the slightest towards them.

That’s the kind of respect we give to people around us and I’m speaking on behalf of everyone who is religious who are afraid to express themselves openly.

It’s such a shame hardly anyone these days give nothing but the complete opposite to us and all we have to hear is to shut up about our faith or get out. Yet we have to here all your reasons and rejections about Religion and God and we sit back and listen.

(Name of Muslim who made the post), don’t be afraid to express your faith and your concerns if you feel insulted or feel any attack on your faith. You have a right to express yourself!

He later said in the post on the Christian Forum,

This has come at no surprise to me but I feel so sickened and heartbroken that a single Muslim was only expressing his concern and he was denied it by almost everyone on the community Forums. I just couldn’t keep silent and I came to his defence.

It is so difficult to get caught up in these kinds of things worried for your own safety. But I have to carry the Cross too; I have to suffer just as Jesus did for me. I didn’t look back at the responses as the pages have increased now. Seeing what people might have replied with towards me, I just couldn’t bare to read what they had put.

I know that I must have received loads of insults because I’m a Christian and I spoke openly on the forums where they threatened people to keep it out of any discussion and be silent but at the same time they give insult after insult.

The thing is If this kind of thing happens again I will gladly come to their aid!

If an admin suggest this is not the right place for this post please move it to somewhere appropriate as I was not sure where to post it.

Thanks and God Bless

Richard

I think Richard makes a great point here. While this particular incident is about Muslims and the Quran, the next person to get offended could be a Jew and their Torah, a Christian and their Bible or an Atheists and their Spaghetti monster. It goes back to that well known saying by Martin Niemöller,

First they came for the communists,
and I didn’t speak out because I wasn’t a communist.

Then they came for the trade unionists,
and I didn’t speak out because I wasn’t a trade unionist.

Then they came for the Jews,
and I didn’t speak out because I wasn’t a Jew.

Then they came for me
and there was no one left to speak out for me.

Regardless of what you stand for, we need equal respect for all. I’m a gamer just like many reading this article. I have a bookshelf full of games with hundreds more that I have digitally purchased, but Im also a Muslim and my faith always comes first. When a game has clear connotations against religion, I speak the language of corporations and businesses, the language that is called my wallet. My one sale wont make a difference, but there are 1.5 billion Muslims and 2 Billion Christians. Add to that number, the other religions around the world and you have a lot of sales that could be lost through incidents like this.

diablo III holy quran1 560x315 Diablo III – A Muslim, A Christian and A Gamer Walk Into A Game Part 2

Diablo III and the Holy Quran

I invite you the reader, from which ever religion you are, to tell publishers and developers that as a gamer you prefer religion to be kept out of games, that in fact games that do not have a religious intent, such as an Islamic game, Christian game or Jewish game, should not have any religious connotations or objects within them.

Richard, I applaud and thank you for your effort, along with anyone else who tried to support that Muslim brother in letting Blizzard know they would prefer it removed. I’ll leave you with an interfaith olive branch of sorts with this article about a promise that the prophet Muhammad (PBUH) made to Christians and finally I honestly request anyone who disagrees with this article and would in fact prefer to keep the texture in game, to leave a comment below. I am open to all points of view and would honestly like to understand your reasoning.

Incoming search terms:

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Post Info

Written by GengisPosted in Games,Islam,OpinionTags: Blizzard, christians, diablo, Diablo 3, islamic games, Muslim Games, Quran, respectOctober 6, 201158 comments

Thulfiqaar

Mashallah, it really warms my heart to see that kind of inter faith unity. It is exactly THAT, why I get angry and frustrated towards people that insult christians or people of any other religion. Why can’t everyone be like that?
A truly beautiful article and very well written. Thank you very much for sharing this with us. Jazak Allah.
Thulfiqaar

Also, I would also like to add, that this is why we need muslimgamer.com, because we are not welcome anywhere. As soon as we mention anything about islam the flames start flowing in. Inshallah this will be the home for every muslim gamer and a place where they dont feel afraid of being what they are: Muslim.
Snake XT

Haters gonna hate. I for one would like to see their faces when they stand before God, thinking those that believe “What if you’re wrong?” and the believer replies “What if Im right?”.

God bless Richard for standing up for that one Muslim. I would had done the same, infact any person that believes would whether its Islam or other. I hope they’ve taken it off or something, anything new since this happened?

Like brother Thulfiqaar has said. Beautifully written and it did hit home.
Roobarb

I’m a non-religious person and I support everything you write in this article. Just like not every Muslim is representative of the teachings of the Quran, neither is every Atheist representative of their beliefs. Good luck with dealing with Blizzard!
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  Roobarb, thanks so much mate. Your comment honestly means a lot. I just hope others can see that there is no harm intended with this post to anyone, its just another opinion, one of the 6 billion that are put out there every day
Joseph

Dear Muslim Gamer,
I am a Catholic, but I must admit that my knowledge of the Muslim faith is extremely small, and I have in the past allowed myself to be influenced by others and the media in skewing my view of Muslims. Although not outwardly offensive towards you I admit to have found my impression of your faith as alien and foreign, and strange. Yet because of this, incident lets call it, I find myself perhaps a little more educated. I am happy to have learned a little today, and I feel sad that your faith as well is condemned but such is the way of the world. I can only offer my support in words and prayers and hope that someday there is unity between our two faiths.
Joseph
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  Hi Joseph,
  Im honestly delighted that something like a video game or a post on a blog has added one more brick to the bridge between our faiths. In reality, there is so much in common between Islam and Christianity, as Jesus (Isa A.S) is also a sacred prophet to us and you will never hear a bad word said about him. If there are any questions you have in regards to other similarities or differences feel free to ask away, more than happy to help and inform where I can and research fro you what I don’t know.
  - Thulfiqaar
    
    Absolutely agree
- ieman
  
  Admin Edit: Pointless comment: No need for swearing.
  - http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
    
    ?????
Peter

Hi I’m an Atheist, and perhaps even worse a Dane , and I’d like to provide another point of view, In most western societies, the values provided by religion and the respect towards religion, have gradually been replaced by the values and respect for humanist ideals, ever since the renaissance this has been the focal point in the peoples fight against tyrants(both church and state). This is why we value freedom of speech as highly as you value the Koran, and abhor censorship as much as you abhor drawings of Muhammed.

Now you may say, as you so eloquently put it, that it’s a minor change that’s easily implemented and will have no impact on non-muslims, and you may be right, but on the other hand I really don’t see the resemblance with the Koran, the border is significantly different, and the center consists of 3 parallelograms as opposed to 2 parallelograms and a hexagon, and the patterns in the game are solid, opposed to the Koran which have intricate patterns. So the real question here is what are you trying to censor: geometry? Arabic inspired artwork? parallelograms?, you cannot do a believable medieval setting without these things, as during that period the middle east was the center of learning(due to a nasty Christian habit of burning anything remotely blasphemic – hence the western opposition to censorship) – I hope you get my point, this is censorship, however small it may seem, and it is as unacceptable to many, as it is to you that the book resembles the Koran, it is not a minor thing, as this is a direct threat against the rights our ancestors fought and died for.

This is sadly another foot note in what many see as a long and troublesome integration of two different cultures and mindsets, and you cannot expect that westerners will pay any more respect towards your religion than they do towards the religions they have more or less left behind.

Well that was a rather long ramble – but I hope we will one day reach a common understanding, that freedom of religion does not mean freedom to not get offended, you of course have every right to be offended, and to voice your discontent, but expect someone to get equally offended, and vast majority to ignore both
Peter

Hi I’m an Atheist, and perhaps even worse a Dane , and I’d like to provide another point of view, In most western societies, the values provided by religion and the respect towards religion, have gradually been replaced by the values and respect for humanist ideals, ever since the renaissance this has been the focal point in the peoples fight against tyrants(both church and state). This is why we value freedom of speech as highly as you value the Koran, and abhor censorship as much as you abhor drawings of Muhammed.

Now you may say, as you so eloquently put it, that it’s a minor change that’s easily implemented and will have no impact on non-muslims, and you may be right, but on the other hand I really don’t see the resemblance with the Koran, the border is significantly different, and the center consists of 3 parallelograms as opposed to 2 parallelograms and a hexagon, and the patterns in the game are solid, opposed to the Koran which have intricate patterns. So the real question here is what are you trying to censor: geometry? Arabic inspired artwork? parallelograms?, you cannot do a believable medieval setting without these things, as during that period the middle east was the center of learning(due to a nasty Christian habit of burning anything remotely blasphemic – hence the western opposition to censorship) – I hope you get my point, this is censorship, however small it may seem, and it is as unacceptable to many, as it is to you that the book resembles the Koran, it is not a minor thing, as this is a direct threat against the rights our ancestors fought and died for.

This is sadly another foot note in what many see as a long and troublesome integration of two different cultures and mindsets, and you cannot expect that westerners will pay any more respect towards your religion than they do towards the religions they have more or less left behind.

Well that was a rather long ramble – but I hope we will one day reach a common understanding, that freedom of religion does not mean freedom to not get offended, you of course have every right to be offended, and to voice your discontent, but expect someone to get equally offended, and vast majority to ignore both
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  Hi Peter,
  Firstly thanks for the comment, We welcome any feedback and dialogue, good or bad. Infact we love it when people bring a different perspective to mine or other commentatorsauthors on this site. Its one of the reasons behind the site, to have an open and free dialogue and communication between one Muslim Gamers point of view and another MuslimAthiestChristianJew or any other religion. Your still a brother to me
  
  In regards to your questions. Ill start with the resemblance and the censorship side of things. I guess there is a fine line between censorship and point of view. The resemblance of the graphics could be seen as very similar by one person while being seen as completely generic by another. I guess this comes down to how much you have been around the said graphic.
  
  While on holidays in Paraguay you may see some guygirl down the street who looks a lot like your childhood friend. You say wow! that looks just like XYZ my friend, while I look at the same guy and see littleno resemblance what so ever. Does that mean that the resemblance doesn’t exist or that the resemblance is there ata level that changes for each individual? In my opinion perception is individualised. One Muslim may see it, another may not, one Dane may see it, another may not. But does that make ones opinion any less valued than the others?
  
  I personally don’t see the request for change as censorship. I think if it was a demand then yes, it crosses that line. I haven’t seen any threats against Blizzard and if there were, I would be here posting at the stupidity of it myself. What I do believe in though, is the right of that person who posted it on the forums, to have that right to say what he thinks and request that change, because of a resemblance that he sees. I see that as no different than someone else asking that a certain staircase should be removed on XYZ level because it is annoyingdoesn’t fit into a level.
  
  Ill agree with you in that there have been times when Muslims have taken their disagreement with things the wrong way. But I also believe that the media can take a small issue and make it a lot bigger than it is. Generalisation is easy.
  
  I would prefer to see this as someone who didn’t like somethign they saw in the game and has posted a request for change on to the Blizzard forums. If Blizzard changes it cool, they gain more customers, if they dont, they lost a couple, who cares. If it escalated beyond that im with you mate, ill be here posting that the reaction has been taken too far. But if all it is, is a post on a forum with a request, and a blog post on some random site, is that really censorship and asking for anything more than a staircase to be removed in a level? Just because it has religious grounds does it make it any less valuable input because another person does not have those religious beliefs?
  
  I guess in the end its up to Blizzard to decide what they would like to do, which ever way they go they go and, that’s the end of it.
  
  Hope that answers it, but if I didn’t answer something you were hoping I would please let em know, happy to expand
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  Hi Peter,
  Who knew an article about a Muslim and Diablo 3 would cause this much uproar Firstly thanks for the comment, We welcome any feedback
  and dialogue, good or bad. In fact we love it when people bring a
  different perspective to mine or other commentatorsauthors on this
  site. Its one of the reasons behind the site, to have an open and free
  dialogue and communication between one Muslim Gamers point of view and
  another MuslimAtheistChristianJew or any other religion. Your still a
  brother to me
  
  In regards to your questions. Ill start with
  the resemblance and the censorship side of things. I guess there is a
  fine line between censorship and point of view. The resemblance of the
  graphics could be seen as very similar by one person while being seen as
  completely generic by another. I guess this comes down to how much you
  have been around the said graphic.
  
  While on holidays in Paraguay
  you may see some guygirl down the street who looks a lot like your
  childhood friend. You say wow! that looks just like XYZ my friend, while
  I look at the same guy and see littleno resemblance what so ever. Does
  that mean that the resemblance doesn’t exist or that the resemblance is
  there at a level that changes for each individual? In my opinion
  perception is individualized. One Muslim may see it, another may not,
  one Dane may see it, another may not. But does that make ones opinion
  any less valued than the others?
  
  I personally don’t see the
  request for change as censorship. I think if it was a demand then yes,
  it crosses that line. I haven’t seen any threats against Blizzard and if
  there were, I would be here posting at the stupidity of it myself. What
  I do believe in though, is the right of that person who posted it on
  the forums, to have that right to say what he thinks and request that
  change, because of a resemblance that he sees. I see that as no
  different than someone else asking that a certain staircase should be
  removed on XYZ level because it is annoyingdoesn’t fit into a level.
  
  Ill
  agree with you in that there have been times when Muslims have taken
  their disagreement with things the wrong way. But I also believe that
  the media can take a small issue and make it a lot bigger than it is. Generalization is easy.
  
  I would prefer to see this as someone
  who didn’t like something they saw in the game and has posted a request
  for change on to the Blizzard forums. If Blizzard changes it cool, they
  gain more customers, if they dont, they lost a couple, who cares. If it
  escalated beyond that Im with you mate, ill be here posting that the
  reaction has been taken too far. But if all it is, is a post on a forum
  with a request, and a blog post on some random site, is that really
  censorship and asking for anything more than a staircase to be removed
  in a level? Just because it has religious grounds does it make it any
  less valuable input because another person does not have those religious
  beliefs?
  
  I guess in the end its up to Blizzard to decide what
  they would like to do, which ever way they go they go and, that’s the
  end of it.
  
  Hope that answers it, but if I didn’t answer something you were hoping I would please let em know, happy to expand
button=awsome

I made reply to you at the codex.

And really…RPGCODEX welcomes all, we have everything from neo-nazis to trannies.

We have high gameplay standards….but…ehm…low standards on everything else…
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  Yeah I can see there are all types on the codex, I wanted to hang out more but it just seemed impossible to get a response that kept it on topic. Im all up for intelligent conversation, whether you agree or not, but 1 man can only take so much lvl1 conversation.
  - Tyronework
    
    Ugh, I can sympathize. I love RPG Codex’s mission and ideals in regards to RPGs, but everything else I see there is just revolting.
Aseriousman

I was under the impression that it was the SCRIPTURE and WORD ITSELF which made the Qu’ran, not the cover of the book the scripture was binded in. Could the Qu’ran not be bound with any cover imaginable? Did not Muawiyah supposedly order the scripture inscribed upon his retainer’s weapons so that none could strike against them?

There is no scripture written on the cover represented in the game. This is not in any way approaching anything like blasphemy, and therefore any sort of appeal to change shouldn’t be honored. For, if it was, we would be opening ourselves to any number of complaints on what any particular scripture *could* be bound with.

There are countless cultures which use similar senses of geometry and design. What’s presented in the game could just as easily represent Insular or Celtic art as it does the Qu’ran.
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  Hi Aseriousman, thanks for the comment. Youre right in that the words of the Quran itself are what make the book sacred. To the point where If a sentence of the Quran was written on a piece of paper, then that piece of paper should not touch the ground either.
  
  In regards to the representation I would request you read my reply to Peter below in regards to resemblance and the Quran, where one person may see something that another doesn’t, but does that mean that the resemblance is not there?
  
  In regards to your third point, again i would say my previous replies below would answer that question both in relation to the resemblance and also that if the Celtic’s did indeed see a resemblance, are you of the point of view that they should not be allowed to voice their opinion and disagree with the inclusion if they so wish?
  - Aseriousman
    
    Voicing their opinion is fine and well. On the other hand, you must understand that to many in the world, freedom of expression is of paramount and I might even say near religious importance. It is as important to some (great number of) people that this not be infringed upon in the same way that it’s important for many Muslims/Christians/Jews/Buddhists/Hindus/etc to honor their own traditions and beliefs.
    
    Simply put, in order for us to coexist peacefully, there must be some tolerance for what others are doing. So, with that in mind, the practice of Islam is exceptionally well tolerated in most Western countries in spite of the fact that many people in those countries find Islam itself something to be disagreed with. I must point out, that apart from a radical few, this disagreement is quite civil and personal. I am also willing to grant that this is true of Muslims for the most part as well.
    
    However, the difference here is that you, as a moderate Muslim, are (apparently, though I may be wrong) approving of infringement upon creativity for what *might* be perceived as blasphemy. In this case, it’s particular egregious because the Qu’ran could be bound with virtually any cover imaginable. Where would we draw the line if we said that this was a valid cause for concern then?
    
    The thing about an inclusive culture is that it might include things that you personally don’t agree with. That’s really the catch there isn’t it? In order for it to work, we all have to give a little, and I think focusing on stuff like this(though I realize that’s the angle you are coming from as a game’s journalist) is failing to understand what the premise of an inclusive society is.
    - http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
      
      I guess my question would be, why is it that when the OP voiced his opinion, it is not “Freedom of Expression”? Is it because it has religious grounds? I agree with you in that no one should impose their beliefs upon you. But for some reason when all that has happened is someone has voiced their opinion, it is not Freedom of Expression?
Thulfiqaar

I love MG
Tyronework

At first when I heard about this I thought it was ridiculous, but then I saw the pics and I was like, “Oh, look at that…” Yeah, they should change it. We could split hairs about this and that, what does it mean, what constitutes insensitivity to religions and so forth, but best to just get rid of it and move on.
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  Hi Tyrone, this isn’t about forcing religion on anyone Its about one person who has an opinion and voiced it. Like I said in the comments below, whether Blizzard change it or not is their call, but the OP of the comment, I believe, just used his right to say hey, I would prefer this was changed and that’s it. Thanks for joining in on the discussion
Hishtagat

While I have no opinion on the subject at hand myself, I have to say that I found comments in the article really heart-warming. I personally identify myself as agnostic theist, and I find the hate and ridicule so often directed at people on the basis religious beliefs to be abominable. Seeing such a civil, friendly discourse between people of different beliefs (or lack of thereof) in here, and the overall supportive atmosphere created by other people commenting made me feel really happy, actually.

Best wishes to all of you here, it’s good to see that there are friendly, reasonable people in the world still.
- Thulfiqaar
  
  Thank you for the compliment I am really glad that a website such as this could have such a good impact on so many people. So thank you for the kind words and thank you admin ‘Gengis’ for this website.
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  Hi Hishtagat, Its great if the site can open up a discussion between Muslims and AtheistsChristiansJews or any other belief and bring an understanding to each others views on life and opinions. While they may not be the same and we can agree to disagree, open communication is a great thing and can assist in understanding each other better. Thank you for taking the time to comment, much appreciated
bonelatch

Hey MG. I just discovered you. Had no idea about this. Im Muslim myself and Im real glad I found this site.

Anyway, I want to make a few comments about the subject at hands. Now all those comments made by the Blizzard community do irritate me and anger me BUT I did want to present another way of looking at the presence of model and texture in game. Firstly – what is the context? Is this earth? If it is – when is it? Could it be AFTER current Civilization? Before? And what does the PRESENCE of the Quran mean? Its true – some douche in Blizzard may be trying to offend Muslims – its completely possible in the world we live in now BUT what else could be mean? Could we take it in a positive light possibly?

The book is either on shelves or next to a broken shelf on in rubble. This implies that it was in use before and that it simply got displaced in the conflict. Maybe? It also implies that it was of importance and that it was properly kept before the demons from hell came and destroyed the place. Alright – it ALSO implies that the book still or did exist at that time and that it was worth keeping on the shelf for study. lol not to flaunt my Muslim pride but you DONT see bibles and dont see torahs so what does that imply? lol – no to offend anyone of course. Doesnt it mean – in some way – that Islam has stood the test of time or that it mattered?

Yes, that is an optimistic positive way of looking at it that slightly dismisses the possibility for foul play but why not? Muslims are getting battered day and night on the news for existing and we cant just keep getting bogged down by small things. Yes – its wrong and we should voice our opinions – most definitely – but who the hell are these people in the grand scheme of things? Some douche drawing a cartoon? The guy is useless to humanity in the end. Wouldnt it be far more effective to brush off our shoulders and turn the other cheek? We’re better than those morons.
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  Salams and welcome to the site, glad you found it Each person is entitles to their view brother and each is entitled to voice it. While some may want it removed others see it as fine, the article has created a lot of discussion and that we are happy about. One of the aims of the site is to put subjects like this into the spotlight so both the for and against arguments can be put forward and discussed, jazakAllah for taking the time to comment
Ahmed Akoush

Alsalam alykom MG, first i’d like to thank you for your great effort discussing this issue and gathering the comments form my deleted thread! Yes, it’s me the OP, actually i don’t have the time now to look into all the comments here, but i will check them all very soon. I would really use your help with getting this issue sent to blizzard, i tried my best and sent lots of e-mails, contacted customer service, but still no response, i am actually thinking of starting another thread with this same issue, but i feel it will be dealt with as the former one..
joseph

Hi, I stumbled upon this through completely unrelated gaming google search. I don’t have much to add but just wanted to express my support. I am largely an atheist, but I completely understand and agree with everything you’ve said here. There is a segment of the gaming population that has long enjoyed certain privileges. Games are designed with them in mind. Gaming culture is dominated by their beliefs. Though many of them claim to support the invisible hand of markets, they get deeply offended when games attempt to appeal to anyone else, or when we give feedback on how gaming might be more inclusive. Removing the texture does not harm them, except in the sense that it undermines the idea that the world exists simply for them. This is a lesson they need to learn soon. In the meantime, websites and projects like this make things more tolerable for many of us. Thanks.
WabbaHoodoo

I stumbled over this article and i feel like the writer left a few things out.

Before i start let me just say that i am an atheist, but i have the greatest of respect for the good religious folks out there.

Now, first of all, i seriously doubt Blizzard INTENTIONALLY decided to put the Quran (or a book that looks just like it) in D3. And even if they did, does that have to mean that blizzard should change the texture of the book?
I can understand the notion that you feel offended because it’s lying in dirt (actually, if you go back to the collection of pictures you will find that said book is only found on bookshelves or the remains of a collapsed bookshelf…), i mean, isn’t it a bit hysterical to be offended by a minor and insignificant texture prop in a game which is about blood, bones and violence?

I think there’s plenty of themes in D3 which can be taken offensively (for example bones from bodies, which won’t be seen in the chinese version of the game because of offensive concerns in china, which i can understand, to some degree). The book isn’t presented in a negative fashion, and as such i don’t think it’s okay you act the way you do, it would be completely justified to feel offended if this book was found on fire or penetrated by a spear or whatever, but it isn’t, it’s just a random game prop lying on a shelf.

Second, the reason why this topic was trolled, laughed at and finally deleted on the D3 forums is probably for the exact same reason i’ve been trying to point out, the book is so completely harmless and plays such a minor role that it took a keen eye to ever find it.

There’s some pretty rude and juvenile comments thrown at the poor guy who made the topic which he definatedly doesn’t deserve, but this is how assholes on the internet says that you’re overreacting over something really really small.

Last, let me just point out that YOU decided to consider it a negative thing that the Quran is in Diablo 3, even when it doesn’t appear to be presented negatively, why is that? Let me stress that i’m not asking this because i want to be an asshole, i’m asking because i’m interested.
Jay

In my opinion you are far too easily offended if this in-game bookcover offends you.
Yes i can see there is a resemblance to the cover of the quran you added, but then again i have seen numerous qurans with a different cover..
If the cover of the quran was such an important part of the believes then wouldn’t they all have that same cover?
Isn’t it the content of the book what you base your beliefs on and guide your life by? and does that in any way get disrespected in the diablo game? i haven’t seen it.

why care that they have that book cover on a shelf (and tumble down once the shelf gets destroyed like any other book) ?
As long as they don’t let you do anything bad to that book or do something to disrespect the values and believes you learn from it you should maybe even feel proud they thought it good enough to include it in the game instead of being offended by such futilities
Motb

There is a resemblance but nowhere does it state that it in fact IS the Quran. It most certainly is a coincidence that the book has that design as believing that Blizzard INTENTIONALLY put the Quran on the ground to offend all muslims is just a LUDICROUS idea.

Let’s even say that it IS the Quran, (Diablo universe references following) isn’t it possible that the cathedral in New Tristram might have had a copy of the Holy Quran on the book shelf and that when it was destroyed by the meteor crushing through the church (religous offense of the christians?) the book might fall down on the ground along with the rest of the books? You say you are all for muslim religious references in games, well this is one! Your holy book (even though it probably is a coincidence) was on the shelf, suddenly a meteor crushes through destroying everything and the Quran along with the rest of the books fall to the ground. Is that really offensive or just a game being realistic? Would it suit you more if the book was the only one left on the shelf or it be completely removed from the game? If you say you are all for Islam references in games you can’t reasonably say that the book should be removed from the game (although its pretty sure a coincidence) or is the Holy Quran completely out of bounds for a game?

If Blizzard remove it because of the muslims claiming that a texture on a book in a fictional world (that might now have Islam at all so it might be another religious book or a selfhelp guide to how to make proper shelfs) that consists of some shapes is out of bounds, then it is easily imaginable that other religions might step in and claim that there is some offense at their religion. It might be something as coincidential as this book design or something far greater like all the crosses and churches desecrated by unholy figures(which is pretty much the whole Diablo universe). What should Blizzard do then? They can’t be the judge of which religion has a fair claim and which has not. Let’s not forget us who don’t have a religious belief, what if WE are offended by something? If for me the Wretched Mother monster in Diablo III is offensive because I had a female relative that died of a horrible disease and was vomiting all the time in her deathbed and somewhat resembled the creature in the game, should they not remove it then by your standards or are your beliefs more important than my close relative? If they change the book for the muslims they can’t deny the same for the jews or christians or buddhists and so on. Thus the only reasonable thing they CAN do is NOTHING. They don’t have to apologize for something they haven’t done, they don’t have to change something because some people think it’s something that it isn’t.
Gelion

Hi everyone just been reading all this and it is interesting and quite a big question on religion in games as well as truth.

Me i’m a christian but not a practicing one. So i am a bit off on the side about these things. I looked at the image a close look and if i had seen the book in the game on my own i would not have taken much notice of it. and even now with the originator of this argument about the image of a book item pointing out how it looks like the Quran.
To me after looking at the book it only seems to be a passing resemblance to the book.

But to him its enough to be something he is willing to stand up about and i am fine with that, but i would like to point out that this is a beta so if there are mistakes and snarf-ups like this then it will get fixed by the time either the demo gets put out or the game itself comes out.
It is likely the offending item will have changed to something else.

Or that something that has been coming into my mind is that he and others should ask if there are any D3 beta players around and to ask if they can see if the item is there, if it isn’t there then this also answers the question on why he didn’t get a reply.
Plus i would like to see the site this is on my self.

As someone wanting to cause some problems of have some fun aka a prank, has managed to enter the item image of the bate and altered the image so that it is enough to make someone looking to cry out at the insult being done.

Yeah a bit far fetched but it is possible and also what makes me a little amused is that everyone seems to think that there are no Muslims working at blizzard, but then again i could be wrong and there isn’t any.

But for me i am assuming hat there are and they may not see anything offensive about the graphic, or it has been pointed out before and while minor in the scheme of things when the full game and demos come such a graphic will have been changed.

Another idea is that they could have a quest started and you the player could have to find these books as you go through the level and pick them up and once you have however many that are put in, return them or place them in a holy place dedicated to the light and gain something for it.
Yes that does smack be selfish and rude but if that did become a quest would that sooth your ruffled feathers?

Though another idea that came to me is that it could just be a strange chance that such a graphic appeared, they Blizzard could have a program that generates a random images for such items and that is how it came to be.

I know that i am likely be possibly rude but that is unintentional, sorry.
But also posting this on the D3 forum is just asking for trouble as its a forum for discussion and other people will put their views forward, and sadly it was partly his fault that his post got deleted as it was thanks to those posting on there becoming hateful and nasty and thus the admin were forced to remove it as some of the comments and such were likely breaking some of the rules and some people would likely try and retaliated in some way that could harm the d3 forum or sending harmful msg to others.

I know that i am sounding like an donkey about this to yo all and to him but if he continues just please, please think carefully about how he puts things in his post as like this site you all are much more thoughtful and less childish than those on the D3 forum can be.
Gelion

Just been reading a bit more in the D3 post of overlords and some of the people a supportive to some extent and some do raise some good points about somethings.

But then you get someone like **SpaceMonkey** and what he has done is just offensive even to me as that is just asking for trouble with what he has done.
Random

Question: If a superstitious person said that they take offense to the number 13 being put in the game, and that they’d like it taken out, what would you think?

Before you judge, that number 13 means doom for the person who believes it means doom. They find that a game which has the number 13 popping up often is something that they can’t deal with and they can’t accept and thus would like it to be taken out (respectfully, off course!). This person might even see it to such a degree that keeping the number 13 in the game is a blatent insult to the person because it shows that Blizzard doesn’t care about their beliefs – a belief that the number 13 will bring doom on them. A serious issue to this person to say the least!

Should the number 13 be taken out of the game? Should society walk over these egg shells too? Where does the line get drawn in the sand?

And – again, before you judge – DON’T insult me by saying that it’s just a superstition and it pales in comparison to what who are having a problem with. You are not to judge this persons’ issue with the number 13 no more than we are ‘allowed’ to judge yours.

From my point of view, I see religion as superstition. I have no problem with religion personally, but I find it offensive that religious people ask, or even demand, that I walk over their egg shells. I see this issue you are having to be no different to the hypothetical guy who fears the number 13 and wishes it to be respectfully removed.

That all being said, it wouldn’t hurt for the book cover to be changed.
JohnBHammer212

Why would a Muslim buy a game called “diablo.” A game full of blood, gore, evil, demons, and scantily-dressed women. Oh and drinking. And sorcery/witchcraft. And going down to the depths of Hell….. Are you even allowed to say the word “Hell?”
JohnBHammer212

Why would a Muslim buy a game called “diablo.” A game full of blood, gore, evil, demons, and scantily-dressed women. Oh and drinking. And sorcery/witchcraft. And going down to the depths of Hell….. Are you even allowed to say the word “Hell?”
JbJb1643

And I wonder if the game “diablo” will even be allowed to be sold in stores in Muslim countries….
JohnBHammer212

In fact, just by looking at screen shots and websites of the game “diablo” you might be in some trouble………!
Ramsey

Just out of curiosity but, think of what the presence of the Qur’an in the world of Sanctuary implies. That even in a world without the blessed prophet Mohammed (pbuh), God (swt) has stretched out his Mercy and has offered a sure weapon against evildoers. It implies that in every world that ever existed, God has send a messenger. So what if it lies on the floor, it lies there because evil *fears* it. The cathedral, in all its sanctity lies in ruins, yet the holy book lies on the ground, despite all the devastation quite intact.They do not even seem to be touched by the dust. In fact, in our world, the real world the Qur’an has been treated much worse.

Of course, what I mentioned earlier in this post assumes that the world of Sanctuary is a real one, it is not. And I choose not to be offended by the presence of a texture that may or may not be intended to be an alternative version of the Qur’an. I can understand why some people might be offended, Islamophobia is rife in the world and there are plenty of people that wish to cause harm to those who serve God. But I don’t believe this is such a case. Only few people will notice the texture resembling the Qur’an, and most of those will be Muslims highly acquainted with the book. There is no ill intention involved, and considering the role of intention in Islamic law I would say that nothing bad has been done. And one should not be offended by something not done out of ill intentions.

Having said that, it would be admirable of Blizzard as a company to alter the texture. Although part of me hopes they don’t. I like the thought of Islam reaching the world of Sanctuary… who knows… maybe we’ll see more in an expansion pack
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  thanks for the comment Ramsey. I think its a matter of seeing the Quran as not just a book, but something Holy and even then, I still think that Blizzard has the right to do what ever they like in their game. But I will also stand up for the right of anyone who thinks that it shouldn’t be there and their right to let Blizzard know. Whether Blizzard does anything about that feedback is up to them
http://www.facebook.com/people/Albin-Engström/100000473893874 Albin Engström

Having the ability to express yourself anyway you want is an extremely important part of human growth and it should be held above everything else in this world, just as some might be offended by a texture in a game i’m offended by people brainwashing their children effectively ruining their capability to think logically, but that doesn’t mean i get to force them not too.. even if i call it “asking politely”.

A world were everyone feels at home but might get offended by their neighbor is better than a world only a few can call their home, in my opinion.
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  Hi Albin and thanks for your comment. I guess its a matter of objectivity. Just as you might see religion as brainwashing, a
  religious parent can easily see something else as brainwashing to them.
  Its a matter of as you mentioned, the right to believe and express
  yourself in any which way a person sees fit.
  
  I think the importance of the ability to express ones self and inform
  others of the offense caused by a situation should be maintained. While
  the choice to change or remain as is, is ultimately up to the person
  doing the so called offense, it is up to them to decide if they will
  continue to do so or not.
  
  I see no harm in a person telling another that they are offended, the
  harm comes about from how the person offended or doing the so called
  offending reacts or informs the other
  
  While it might be a utopian dream, ultimately the world in which one
  gets along with different neighbors and each respects the others beliefs
  and life style without encroaching upon the others rights is the best
  outcome for all.
Logan

Do you treat the Tao Te Ching as Holy? The Bhagavad Gita? The Bible? The Torah, and Talmud? How about the Book of Mormon? The writing of L Ron Hubbard?

To me, some of those books are meaningful, and others are straight up junk novels. While I completely respect other people’s right find them as Holy, I do not expect everyone to treat ALL of these books and thier content as Holy. To me freedom of religion is the freedom to choose what is holy to you. While it may be offensive for a Mormon to see the writings of Joseph Smith lying on the ground, I do not expect you to show the Book of Mormon the same reverence and awe that a person from Utah might.

The other thing that I think some religious people have a hard time wrapping thier heads around is that for some secular and western people, the freedom of speech is one of the Holiest rights afforded to us. To try and moderate or filter anyone who is simply expressing a point of view is like throwing your shoe at the Quran. It may seem like an extreme example, but these people even support the right of speech and expression that extremely offensive to themselves rather than trample on their freedoms.

So while I completely respect your freedom of speech and your right to complain or boycott the game, I cannot support your view that any particular religion or book be given special treatment in a way that steps on other peoples freedom of speech.
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  Hi Logan, thanks for your comment,In essence I agree with a lot of what you said. I guess the balance to be found here is that Blizzard has the right to include the texture, and the person who is against it has the right to ask Blizzard to not include it. If we are going by the rules of freedom of speech, then anyone who does find it offensive should be entitled to voice their opinion. I should emphasize that that is all that has happened here. People that have found it offensive have requested that the texture be removed, but in the end, its up to blizzard to decide what they will do. Thanks for taking the time to write a well thought out comment, much appreciated
NigelThornberry

The game is about the lords of Sin coming from Hell to destroy the world. And you are upset because in the midst of that destruction, they *may* have knocked a Qur’an onto the floor?

This is why no one cares about what you are saying. Demons killing men women and children, conquering heaven, etc, is all fine by you, but Allah help them if they don’t respect the Qur’an while they do it!
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  Hi Nigel, You have to understand that the Quran is not just any book to Muslims. It is not treated that way and there are certain rules for the way that it is handled. So while I understand from your perspective there is no harm done, from a Muslims perspective, if they perceive that as the Quran then they have the right to be offended and voice their concerns, and that is all that has happened here. No screaming and yelling, no violence and no threats. Just those that have been offended have voiced their opinion about it and requested Blizzard to change the texture, whether they do or not is up to them. Thanks for your comment!
  - Mranalbaum
    
    I agree if my Torah was just thrown on the ground somewhere i would be devastated it isn’t just some random book
    - http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
      
      Thanks for the comment
KJK

A simple request turned into a hate thread. As a catholic I sympathize for the Muslim Poster for receiving tons of hate. Although you can’t avoid these problems though. A lot of muslims and christians could be playing the Binding Of Isaac right now without care. Remember that Isaac came from Abraham, a big figure in Islam and Christianity.
- Ramsey
  
  If I recall, the game was called that because the child you play is called Isaac and his mother is a psychotic Christian who believes that she has to sacrifice her son much like Abraham (pbuh) was asked to do.
  
  And by ‘psychotic” I mean a break with reality with delusions and other such things.
http://www.facebook.com/muhd.faris.16 Muhd Faris

stupid yahudi the cristian is crazy
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  No need for swearing mate. You can get get your point across while still being civil.
muhd aiman

cristian is …
- http://www.muslimgamer.com Muslim Gamer
  
  I am not sure what your point is?
ieman

Admin Edit: Pointless comment, no ned for swearing.

Diablo III – A Muslim, A Christian and A Gamer Walk Into A Game – Part 2

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