Debatable sources

ALLAN Massie views Islamic State as “faithful to a narrow and blinkered or partial reading of the Koran” (Perspective, 18 February).

Many Muslims would agree, but any straightforward reading of the Koran and the life of ­Muhammad suggests conquest and subjugation of unbelievers were at the heart of the foundation of Islam. Thus extremists are able to portray themselves credibly as genuinely following his example and that of his revered first followers.

If a Christian group were behaving like IS, I would point to the life of Jesus and the New Testament as proof such barbarism is utterly at odds with Christian faith. Moderate Muslims do not face such an easy task.

Richard Lucas

Colinton, Edinburgh