Equality in the Eyes of God

Equality is neither possible nor guaranteed in all spheres in this world. In addition, it comes with some qualifications, responsibilities and consequences. For instance, everyone is not created equal in terms of their abilities and their strengths. We know that just by observing the world around us and we make decisions in our lives accordingly. Similarly, in the Hereafter, those who had done good deeds in this world will stand off better than those who indulged in evil out of their will. They will not be equal, but God has also assured extreme fairness and justice to everyone. In terms of law of God, they are equal when it comes to justice.

In context of your question, Islam does not condemn people of different minorities, sects or religion, nor does it condone that they be killed. In this regard, God’s law is clear: Murder of any soul is like the murder of entire humanity. The only exemptions that have been made by God are those who have themselves committed murder, and those who have knowingly opposed God and His messenger during the time of a messenger.

As for the sects, and real religion of God, it is part of man’s test to find the truth. Even if there were no sects amongst Muslims, there are people of other religions. Man has been given freewill not only in actions but also in gaining knowledge and decision making including decisions that one makes in religion. No one is exempt from it. Every soul has to make decisions in life. It is true for Muslims too. Just having born in a Muslim family and being told that one is going in paradise does not mean they are actually guaranteed paradise. Similarly, by blindly following a scholar and believing that by following a particular scholar one is going to go in paradise, one does not become eligible for it!

The path to paradise is the same for everyone – striving for truth, living by it, and becoming better persons. Quran has expressed this in alternate terms by saying that one who believes in God, Hereafter, and does good deeds will have his reward with God. Of course, doing ‘good deeds’ is a big term and in my opinion, it includes growing oneself spiritually and striving for truth, living by it, and then behaving responsibly with others in this world.

People who are killed are not necessarily killed because Islam requires or promote so, but because those who commit such actions are doing wrong and against the teachings of Islam. Islam in facts stops such injustice in this world too!

Regarding 72 sects, you can read my response to a question that I answered in the past.