More Open Questions for Muslims

Note: These are not rhetorical questions. I really would like to know.

Q: What is blasphemy against the Prophet? Is any criticism of Islam or the Qur’an or Mohammed considered blasphemy? If not, can you cite any instances of such critiques that are not blasphemous?

Q: On the other hand, if even the mildest and most respectful critique is considered blasphemous, does this mean that non-Muslims may not, respectfully, express their reasons for not accepting Islam?

Q: What about a religious pluralist such as John Hick who is willing to accept Islam as a legitimate religious response to the transcendent, but denies the exclusive claims of all religions, including Islam? Is that blasphemous also?

Q: Why isn’t freedom of speech a sacred principle for Muslims?

 Q: Is blasphemy so serious a sin that it merits the death penalty, as in Pakistan? If so, why?

Q: How can you prevent blasphemy laws from being used to persecute innocent members of minority religions—as occurs in Pakistan?