Tolerance, a term which we sometimes use in place of the words respect, mercy, generosity, or forbearance, is the most essential element of moral systems; it is a very important source of spiritual discipline and a celestial virtue of perfected people.

Islam abhors and absolutely condemns terrorism and any terrorist activity.

Only those who overflow with love will build the happy and enlightened world of the future.

Terrorism is one of the cardinal sins that the Koran threatens with hellfire.

My only role in the opening of the schools has been to suggest and encourage opening them. But it is impossible for there to be a [central authority] controlling the schools. They are in more than 100 countries, and there must be many different companies that have opened and run them.

Islam's basic principles of belief, worship, morality, and behavior are not affected by changing times. Islam does not propose a certain unchangeable form of government or attempt to shape it. Islam has never offered nor established a theocracy in its name. Instead, Islam establishes fundamental principles that orient a government's general character.

A small minority in Turkey even accuses me of having political ambitions, when in fact I have been struggling with various illnesses for many years.