Asia Bibi to Pakistani persecutors: I forgive you
Imprisoned Pakistani Christian Asia Bibi has reportedly issued a public forgiveness of her persecutors, while imprisoned for blasphemy.
Bibi just spent her seventh Christmas behind bars, but told family who visited on Christmas Eve that she was not bitter.
“Christmas is the celebration of God’s mercy. I forgive my persecutors, those who have falsely accused me, and I await their forgiveness,” Bibi said.
Asia Bibi
Image/BPCA
“Jesus made this happy day for me and has accepted my prayers. I’m excited and full of joy in meeting today my family and celebrate Christmas with you,” the woman continued.
December 25 is also a holiday for Muslims, who celebrate the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Bibi also acknowledged this, as she is being held captive for allegedly speaking against the holy figure of Islam.
“Today is also the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Peace be upon him, on this day. Honestly I could never even think of disrespect. But, although I have been in prison for seven years, I do not hate those who did me wrong,” Bibi said.
“I pray that the Holy Prophet Muhammad will bestow wisdom on his followers so that peace can go on being built around the world. I pray that Jesus Christ will grant peace to the whole world.”
She pleaded for prayers from Christians worldwide that the Supreme Court find in her favor, overturning her death sentence.
Pakistan’s blasphemy laws have led to widespread misery and injustice among minorities. There were 1,400 cases reported in 2014. Pakistani courts have sentenced three people to death, six to life imprisonment and three others to two years in prison for blasphemy.
Nisar Shar, a lawyer and spokesman for the association of lawyers in Karachi, said that even for lawyers it has become dangerous to defend an individual accused of blasphemy. Bibi’s own lawyer is a Muslim but has decided to remain with her case.
