Ben Carson’s issue is with Sharia law, not Islam

It’s a subtle distinction for those who understand the connection. Unlike other religions that identify more with the teachings and doctrines rather than the governance within their religions, Sharia and Islam are often very closely tied together. To believe in Sharia law is to be a Muslim. To be a Muslim is to follow Sharia law.

It isn’t universal, and that’s the point that Ben Carson has been trying to make as he fights through the turmoil he created with comments against having a Muslim President of the United States. His point is that Sharia law is opposed to the Constitution. For many, possibly most Muslims, the secular law of the land is secondary to Sharia law and that would pose a problem for a President.

There’s a fine line between discrimination and pragmatic application of law of the land. Technically speaking, anyone who fully follows the precepts of Islam to include the supremacy of Sharia law is not ethically qualified to serve the country as President.