When the network Comedy Central altered an episode of South Park without consulting the writers because the previous night’s show had elicited warnings from an alleged Muslim extremist group, we think they made a mistake.

We also think it’s time for all Muslims to recognize this: The restrictions and prohibitions in Islam are for Muslims, not for everyone else. Muslim believers hold that no images of Prophet Mohammed should be created BY THEM. Muslims should not, therefore, watch shows that depict the Prophet. But they cannot dictate that the show cannot depict the Prophet Mohammed, unless the show claims to be a Muslim undertaking. Then other Muslims have the right to protest that, but certainly not to issue threats.

One of the first rules of Islam is that “There is no compulsion in religion.” Muslims are not to force others into being Muslims. If we acknowledge that, then we must also acknowledge that all the other rules Muslims follow must also not be forced on other people. That would include the prohibition on images of the Prophet.

Muslims must understand this. Their religious leaders should be explaining it. There’s no problem with being Muslim and living in a free society. Muslims are free to observe or ignore the guidelines of their faith. That is between them and their God. The people around them who live in and share a belief in a free society, have the right to believe the way they want to.

These rights are limited by the fact that you can’t harm another in the pursuit of your own rights.

Freedom of speech and creative endeavors cause no physical harm, unless they perpetrate hate against someone or something.

Depicting Prophet Mohammed as a bear isn’t funny to Muslims, and probably not to many others. It is offensive and in poor taste. We would wish those who saturate our lives with television programming would be more sensitive to their diverse audiences.

But they have the right to do what they want to do. Muslims can turn off the television, object and engage in educational efforts. But to threaten others in the name of Islam is not acceptable.