Dear Zazzle Member or Concerned Citizen—
Today, there has surfaced a great deal of discussion and debate over certain products in the Zazzle Marketplace which reference text from Psalm 109 in combination with reference to President Barack Obama. We at Zazzle are aware of the issue, and would like to take this opportunity to respond in a unified and public fashion to all parties and viewpoints.
Zazzle puts great value on its Marketplace as a forum for discussion and debate of the issues of our day. We are proud of the fact that no matter how arcane or apparently esoteric a subject may be, there can often be found Zazzle products pertaining to it. We are particularly sensitive to Zazzle as an open forum for the expression and debate of political viewpoints. The rigorous debate and discussion of political issues, including candidates for political office, our elected leaders, and pending and actual legislation, is something that drives the very democracy that in turn allows for our freedom as citizens to make these expressions in the first place.
With that in mind, it is only after great thought that we have determined that these products, in the context of the full text of Psalm 109, may be interpreted in such a way as to suggest physical harm to the President of the United States. In deference to the Office of the President of the United States, and in accordance with federal law prohibiting the making of threats against the physical wellbeing of the President of the United States, Zazzle has therefore determined that these products are in violation of the Zazzle User Agreement and not appropriate for inclusion in the Zazzle Marketplace. We have begun efforts to remove them from our website, and we will be vigilant to the publication of similar products moving forward.
Zazzle will continue to allow and encourage the submission of products that express disapproval or approval of the President’s policies and actions, but Zazzle will not permit products that may be interpreted to suggest violence toward the President.
Sincerely,
The Zazzle Team
November 18, 2009 at 5:37 pm |
Thank you Zazzle for taking the steps to correct this issue. Any threat to the President is a great one and should not be taken lightly. Taking a stand as a business and trying to provide quality products can be a tricky road to tow. My respect for your company has been renewed. Thank you again, and your swift move to remove violent material from your listings is greatly appreciated.
November 20, 2009 at 4:09 pm |
Right now, you could go on the web site and order the bumper sticker. So….what does that mean about Zazzle’s comment above?
November 23, 2009 at 2:19 pm
“We have begun efforts to remove them from our website, and we will be vigilant to the publication of similar products moving forward.”
If you actually read the text above it would indicate that Zazzle is sincere.
So what does that mean about YOUR comment?
November 18, 2009 at 5:43 pm |
Kudos to Zazzle for making the right decision and removing this hateful content. Agree / disagree is one thing, but this was beyond the pale, unAmerican, and illegal.
November 18, 2009 at 5:45 pm |
Thank you, I think you have made a wise decision.
November 18, 2009 at 5:45 pm |
Dear Zazzle Team,
I think you hit the right tone here: “criticism ok, death wishes, not so much”. Thank you for your prompt and thoughtful response.
Cheers,
James
November 18, 2009 at 5:51 pm |
Good call, thank you.
November 18, 2009 at 5:52 pm |
Thank you for your serious deliberation of this concern and your prompt resolution of it. It is a credit to your operation that you can do this quickly and intelligently. Very Impressive.
November 18, 2009 at 6:01 pm |
Thank you for your consideration. These hateful products crossed the line regarding political discourse. You will be remembered by many of us out here who I am sure will continue to patronize Zazzle!
thanks a million,
November 18, 2009 at 6:09 pm |
Zazzle has made the right decision.
November 18, 2009 at 6:13 pm |
Once again this has obviously been taken out of context and those that try to configure things to the there way of thinking is whats wrong with human beings, fact of the matter is this:
Notice that it is a psalm of “David” and therefore reflects an experience which “David” went through. It is difficult to tell exactly which of his recorded experiences is referred to. Personally I think it probably is the time when he was railed upon by Nabal, the husband of Abigail, as recorded in the twenty-fifth chapter of First Samuel. Later, God judged Nabal and took him in death and David married Abigail. I think this psalm best fits on that occasion. It is clearly a psalm of someone who is deeply, deeply disturbed.
Why do ppl feel the need to discredit our/or any elected president? Sure he’s gonna make mistakes, but keep in mind The president is merely a figure to speak through he does NOT make the decisions! The presidents decisions can be VETO. Do you really believe he writes his speeches..No he has ppl to do that and others who change them to fit what they want him to say. If they want him to look bad they write it in….
To have ppl say that this Psalm is about Obama, or a way as to suggest physical harm to the President of the United States are uneducated and are trying to cause trouble where it needn’t be!!
I guess the old saying: If ignorance is bliss then this must be the Garden of Eden!
November 18, 2009 at 6:50 pm |
Was that an ex cathedra statement? Well, pontificate all you like, apologist, but it’s very clear that this sick little movement is solely for the purpose of praying for the death of the President. People are not stupid and we see through slimy, sleazy skuzz bags like you. Go to hell!
If this is the Garden of Eden, you are the slithering snake. (Even the Devil can quote scripture, honey).
November 18, 2009 at 7:01 pm |
Lisa – either you think you can explain this away because you think we’re that stupid – or you believe it because you’re that stupid. Which one is it?
November 18, 2009 at 11:24 pm |
The materials said “Pray for Obama: Psalm 109″. That kinda makes it clear what the intent is, and it’s not to reflect on the life of David.
November 19, 2009 at 8:05 am |
Who are you kidding? Instead of calling others undereducated, you may want to educate yourself about the extremists in this country that claim to be Christians. You might start by watching the film ‘Jesus Camp’ which profiles what I will call Talibangicals. You are the ignorant one here. Zazzle is to be commended for their actions.
November 19, 2009 at 8:10 am |
jennifer, warbler — I think you’re missing Lisa’s point. She is saying that this Psalm is appropriate to quote — if you happen to be King David. She is saying that using it as a way to suggest harm to the President is not appropriate. “Why do ppl feel the need to discredit our/or any elected president?” seems pretty clear.
November 18, 2009 at 6:18 pm |
Good job. I’m glad you are more concerned about your reputation as a business than profiting from hateful incitement to violence.
November 18, 2009 at 6:27 pm |
I feel relieved and renewed by your decision. It will allow me to continue to look to you for products. I am all for political doscourse but this is a thinly veiled death threat on our President. Whether the bumper sticker named President Bush or Obama, it is wrong. Thank you!
November 18, 2009 at 6:27 pm |
Thank you – it takes a thoughtful and courageous management to make the right moral decision. While there is certainly always room in political discourse for disagreement, there is no room for encouraging seditious and violent behavior. Again, thank you so much.
November 18, 2009 at 6:32 pm |
Thank you Zazzle for making the right call. These products were tantamount to cheering for the President’s death, something that is NEVER acceptable in a civil society no matter what your political views. I applaud you.
November 18, 2009 at 6:33 pm |
Thank you for making the right choice and removing these disturbing products. I am fine with disagreement with my postions, and I respect your company’s right to advertise products that show disagreement. When the disagreement turns to violence, direct OR implied, then that crosses the line. Thank you again for maintaining free speech, not violent speech.
November 18, 2009 at 6:35 pm |
Thank you for doing the right thing. Dissent is one thing, but inciting people to physically harm the president of the United States is not only immoral but illegal. That these people consider themselves Christian is ludicrous.
November 18, 2009 at 8:06 pm |
I suspect the people who are doing this don’t really consider themselves to be Christian; they are manipulating Christians to help them achieve their sinister aims.
November 19, 2009 at 3:28 am
I’m certain the people who are doing this do consider themselves Christians. It wouldn’t be the first time.
November 18, 2009 at 6:36 pm |
Your decision reflects a strong adherence to ethical business pratices. the concern you have addressd is one of crossing the line from freedom of speech to one of making threats against the POTUS. Those on the far right fringe know full well what Psalm 109 is all about. Many on the far right are being ‘egged on’ by the likes of Rush Limbaugh and the far tight to do harm to the president and have clearly crossed the line of what is free speech into threats. In a just and democratic society we do not tolerate this.
November 18, 2009 at 6:38 pm |
[...] you are new here, you might want to subscribe to the RSS feed for updates on this topic.Zazzle have just announced they won’t be allowing users to sell goods connecting President Barack Obama to Psalm 109:8. [...]
November 18, 2009 at 6:40 pm |
`I’ve never heard of Zazzle before today. I commend you for your decision in helping protect the POTUS. i will review your website offerings and do some Christmas shopping.
Thank you again
A military veteran
November 18, 2009 at 6:44 pm |
Thank you for taking the time to consider the ramifications of these products and your decision to remove them from your site. Removing products threatening the life of a US President is the right decision for all times, regardless of the person in office.
November 18, 2009 at 6:49 pm |
Thank you for this. That campaign is beyond inappropriate. I speak as a devout Christian.
November 18, 2009 at 6:50 pm |
Thank you for your wise decision. Political disagreement is part of a sound democracy. But inciting violence endangers not only the President, but the safety and well-being of our whole society. Again, many thanks.
November 18, 2009 at 6:51 pm |
Thank you Zazzle. You made the right decision, thank you for keeping that brand of hate and violence off your website.
November 18, 2009 at 6:54 pm |
I thank you so much! Speech is one thing. Slimy, veiled threats of physical violence (couched in terms of religion, or American history, no less!) are another matter and must not be tolerated. Any business that handles such a situation with thoughtfulness, and decisive action to protect our real freedom to choose our leader is a winner in my book.
I will be happy to spread the word about Zazzle’s stance, and your service.
Thank you again.
November 18, 2009 at 7:01 pm |
I want to thank you for taking down these horrible products. Political discourse unfortunately is the norm in the US, however these products clearly crossed the line. I appreciate you taking a stand. Peace to you from Tennessee
November 18, 2009 at 7:06 pm |
Thank you. It is wrong to pray for the death of anyone, but especially so in this context. I love disagreement, but not violence, or the wish, prayer, or hope of it either. Thanks for sending a message!
November 18, 2009 at 7:11 pm |
Thank you, Zazzle. You’ve done the right thing and I will continue to do business with you and will recommend you to others.
November 18, 2009 at 7:11 pm |
Thank you for the decency and appropriate response to the threat of violence to our President on products. This incredibly unsound and vile threat to our Nation should be identified and eliminated. It serves no American to provoke or suggest violence toward any person–and, in particular, to any President of our Country. Again, thanks for taking prompt action against hatred, fear, and death threats!
November 18, 2009 at 7:11 pm |
Thanks for seeing the danger in these biblical verses against the President. Many Americans are greatful.
November 18, 2009 at 7:11 pm |
As a Christian I am ashamed that there are radical fascist fake Christians calling for assassination of our president. Disgusting. Thanks for not selling them.
Blessings,
Ted
November 18, 2009 at 7:13 pm |
As a staunch advocate of free speech, but an equally vehement opponent of violence and its advocacy, I want to express my appreciation to Zazzle for doing the right thing.
You have earned a place on my holiday shopping list.
November 18, 2009 at 7:13 pm |
I add my thanks to you for quickly recognizing the seriousness of this issue. The good thing is, I just got introduced to Zazzle as a result of this and it’s great.
November 18, 2009 at 7:15 pm |
Thank you for this decision. Dissent is patriotic, but this is just sick threats
November 18, 2009 at 7:17 pm |
Thank you Zazzle. I look forward to buying products that criticize the president in a humorous way, just as I bought products that criticized Bush. But the Psalm stuff was way beyond acceptable. I’m glad that you took the high road in this instead of thinking only of the bottom line.
November 18, 2009 at 7:17 pm |
Thank you. This is precisely the correct decision. No matter who is the POTUS, this sort of rhetoric, purposeful fanning of the flames of violence towards that office (or beyond, merely that lone office, or public office in general) is unacceptable, and leads down only one dark, dangerous road.
I, too, never heard of your site until today, but will peruse it for ideas for Christmas gifts.
November 18, 2009 at 7:22 pm |
“In accordance with federal law” is a pretty powerful motivator… For whatever amount of “In deference to the office of the POTUS” actually influenced this decision, a tip of the hat to you for that…
November 18, 2009 at 7:25 pm |
Thanks – you’ve done the right thing here.
November 18, 2009 at 7:25 pm |
Thank you for acting fairly and recognizing that murdering the political opposition is the ultimate form of censorship. Shutting down advocacy for such murders strengthens, rather than weakens, the free exchange of ideas.
November 18, 2009 at 7:31 pm |
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter. Freedom of speech is one thing. Sedition and soliciting an assassin are quite another! Thanks again for attending to this matter.
November 18, 2009 at 7:36 pm |
Thank you for removing these products from your site.
November 18, 2009 at 7:37 pm |
I appreciate the quick response of your team to remove offensive material that seeks to suggest ill will toward the life of our president or other government officials or any citizen in general. The typical humorous or cranky tone of most every other zazzle product is otherwise entertaining and I will endeavor to support zazzle going forward.
November 18, 2009 at 7:37 pm |
Why did you offer these goods in the first place? Don’t you do any research at all? You were offering scores of these things and didn’t you wonder what it all meant? I can’t believe you didn’t know.
November 19, 2009 at 7:40 am |
Linda,
Perhaps you are unaware of how a POD (Print On Demand) venue such as Zazzle works. Zazzle does not design the products for sale on their venue. Individual ’shopkeepers’ upload their designs and receive royalties when the products sell. There are millions of designs offered by a vast multitude of shopkeepers. If every design was vetted before being placed in the marketplace, Zazzle would have so much overhead they could not sell anything due to the prices they would need to charge. They have an excellent content review staff and they actively act on violations of TOU of the site, copyright infringement, hate speech, etc.
This case was obviously one that was walking a fine line. I applaud their action.
November 19, 2009 at 9:19 am |
The products on Zazzle are user-generated and there are millions of products. The staff cannot spend all their time approving every product and can only take action when things like this are brought to their attention.
November 18, 2009 at 7:40 pm |
Thank You & Good decision. I’m glad you are more concerned about your reputation as a business than profiting from hate.
I never heard of Zazzle before today and I will be patronizing your sight in the future.
November 18, 2009 at 7:41 pm |
Yes. And if you keep reading that Psalm you eventually get to The End of the world… and nobody wants that to happen right? How could somebody pray for such a thing?
November 18, 2009 at 7:47 pm |
Great decision.
Using the Bible to promote murder, while increasingly common, is never right.
November 18, 2009 at 7:48 pm |
Good call. I will now proceed to your website and purchase something.
November 18, 2009 at 7:49 pm |
I am pleased to see that you will not stand for advocacy of violence. This is a most excellent decision. I am happy that I will now still be able to buy products from Zazzle, instead of being morally bound to boycott you.
November 18, 2009 at 7:52 pm |
Thanks so much for removing the merchandise essentially calling for an act of vioence to eliminate our duly elected President of these United States. While criticism of any elected leader is a fundamental right under our system of government, invoking biblical passages to call for the death of the President is not either a right nor an act befitting anyone who calls themself a Christian. These people are free to harbor wishes for violence in their hearts but not in the public marketplace of ideas.
November 18, 2009 at 7:53 pm |
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. The people who came up with this horror need to be stopped by any available legal means. I could not stand GWB as president. but never in a million years, would I ever have wished him harm. These people, who say they are Christians, are no better than any other terror mongers who use religion to justify violence.
November 19, 2009 at 8:17 pm |
Not only no better but no different..
November 18, 2009 at 8:07 pm |
Thank you to Zazzle for taking down the offensive merchandise.
November 18, 2009 at 8:10 pm |
Thank you, Zazzle. I was very happy to read this. I’m a loyal customer (my Christmas postcards ordered came to me today and they’re beautiful)/
November 18, 2009 at 8:12 pm |
Congratulations, Zazzle. Thank you for a wise decision. Peace!
November 18, 2009 at 8:14 pm |
Thank you, Zazzle, for recognizing the difference between free speech and incitement to violence and domestic terrorism. Our country is in bad enough shape without having to worry about some “good Christian/patriot” (NOT) giving Osama bin Laden the ultimate satisfaction of seeing the United States of America completely destroyed from within. Do stay vigilant, please, for more incendiary products of this ilk.
November 18, 2009 at 8:17 pm |
Kudos to Zazzle for rectifying this situation as quickly as you did. These products were sick. Your actions are appreciated.
November 18, 2009 at 8:19 pm |
Wishing for someone’s death is beyond the pale. But that was not what happened here. This was a joking reference to wishing the guy wasn’t President any more – something lots of people in this country feel. Zazzle overreacted to Obama supporters who either a) really do have paranoid delusions about anyone right of Al Gore being a dangerous freak, or b) just want to convince other people that this is so. This is too bad.
I’m curious what lefty site is sending all the “thanks for getting rid of this awful stuff!” traffic this way.
November 19, 2009 at 1:40 pm |
Read the Psalm please…. wishing the man’s wife becomes a widow and his children is pretty straight forward. And you have plenty of Christians here telling you that it was totally meant as a threat. So please. Peddle it elsewhere.
November 19, 2009 at 1:52 pm |
“May his children be fatherless, his wife a widow” Ohahhahahahaha….absolutely hysterical isn’t it?
Or are you going to take the idiotic position that the very next line has nothing at all to do with anything?
There are dangerous freaks out there, Pseu. And then there are those who enable them. Here’s a mirror.
November 19, 2009 at 2:12 pm |
Psue, one person’s joke is another’s call to action. Following directly on verse 8, verse 9 requests that the leader’s wife be made a widow. Verse 10 asks that his children’s home be destroyed. People who get the supposed joke aren’t the problem. I wouldn’t want to see the fringe-ist element take this as public encouragement to commit a heinous act. Perhaps I am over-reacting but I believe there is a line and that this crosses it.
I believe in free speech, but I also believe in social responsibility. The response to this situation indicates to me that the larger community still has some sense of decency. Thank you for your reasoned dissent. It keeps the conversation going.
November 24, 2009 at 11:37 am
The merchandise does not say Psalm 109:8-10. If it did, your reference would be valid. Let’s not get all worked up about a joking reference made re: one stanza, when 99% of the people have no idea what follows it. Is it a meanspirited reference to wishing his term was over? Yes. Is it meant to incite violence? Hardly. I support Zazzle’s decision to remove the merchandise because of the ensuing controversy, but think we should not assume the merchandise was implying something it wasn’t.
November 18, 2009 at 8:20 pm |
Thank you for your decision on this particular product. I am glad that you are continuing “to allow and encourage the submission of products that express disapproval or approval of the President’s policies and actions…” Policies and actions in political discourse are fair game and everyone has his/her right to express an opinion, including on products that you distribute. However, I am very happy that you decided to weigh in on the gravity of this particular message and its potential serious implications. I will tell everyone I know about your decision to do the right thing and will promote your company by name. Again, thank you.
November 18, 2009 at 8:22 pm |
thank you! The United States should stand together or their will be no UNITED states…..Harm our president in these times and we will see real tyranny. UNITED states of China for example…..
November 18, 2009 at 8:22 pm |
Thank you for your decision do business in an ethical manner. Your website is now in my ‘favorites’ and I look forward to shopping with you for the holidays.
November 18, 2009 at 8:23 pm |
Thank you for your responsive and responsible decision.
November 18, 2009 at 8:25 pm |
Thank you for vindicating my decision last year to set up a store here… I well appreciate the freedom to advocate a viewpoint, using your products as a delightfully visual assist–but there is a line that must be held or our freedom will not last. Kudos for responsiveness, Zazzle.
November 18, 2009 at 8:28 pm |
Thank you for your prompt decision and action of removal of these products.
November 18, 2009 at 8:28 pm |
As a Christian, I thank you for this decision (and the diplomatic wording).
November 18, 2009 at 8:34 pm |
Thank you so much for taking down these products. It really shows a lot of moral courage to stand up to those who are advocating action against President Obama, and there is just no other way to take this “slogan.” I love ordering products from Zazzle and will continue to do so, secure in the knowledge that it is a company I can believe in. Really appreciate the way you handled this.
November 18, 2009 at 8:38 pm |
Thank you for this act of responsible citizenship. Free speech is always to be encouraged, but threats and incitement to violence are not.
November 18, 2009 at 8:41 pm |
Thanks for acting with integrity and decency after this was brought to your attention
November 18, 2009 at 8:50 pm |
Thank you for protecting our Democracy
November 18, 2009 at 8:59 pm |
Thank you for your integrity and smarts. I appreciate you all hearing our concerns and taking them seriously. Blessings to all of you.
November 18, 2009 at 8:59 pm |
Thanks for standing up for America,these wacko’s need to be uncovered & named.
November 18, 2009 at 9:12 pm |
Thank you Zazzle for doing the right and ethical thing. I have always thought you were a good company, and now I know you’re a great and ethical company too.
November 18, 2009 at 9:19 pm |
Thank you for doing the decent, right thing.
November 18, 2009 at 9:26 pm |
Thank you for the speed with which you removed access to this awful stuff. I had not heard of Zazzle before today, but now I will know that you are worth considering for my transactions.
November 18, 2009 at 9:30 pm |
Thank you for refusing to support this most abhorrent of filth.
November 18, 2009 at 9:56 pm |
The right thing to do. Clear thinking people must be ever vigilant of the threat that surrounds us all today. Fascism can be tied up in many pretty bows.
November 18, 2009 at 10:07 pm |
Kudos to you for removing this odious and hateful theme from your merchandise. I assure you I will be letting everyone know about your company’s decency and intelligence, and will encourage all to shop Zazzle and to support your actions.
November 18, 2009 at 10:08 pm |
Thank you for making the right decision. I wasn’t a customer before today – I am now.
November 18, 2009 at 10:10 pm |
Many thanks for this common sense decision. I agree that rigorous debate is vital to our democracy, but these items were not part of a rigorous debate. They were purely inflammatory, and in a most dangerous way.
November 18, 2009 at 10:29 pm |
Thank you. I heart Zazzle for doing the right thing.
November 18, 2009 at 10:38 pm |
Thank you for taking swift and responsible action.
November 18, 2009 at 10:48 pm |
I never heard of Zazzle before but after today’s disclosures I will be back to shop. Kudos.
November 18, 2009 at 11:00 pm |
Good on ya, Zazzle; you did the stand-up thing.
November 18, 2009 at 11:10 pm |
As a strong ACLU supporter, I thank Zazzle for distinguishing between free speech and hate speech (and moreover, a call to assassinate the president, said in what amounted to a dog whistle).
November 18, 2009 at 11:15 pm |
Thank you for helping to protect the president.
November 18, 2009 at 11:58 pm |
Everyone, large and small, can do their part to bring our political dialogue back to being rational. You just did yours. Thank you, Zazzle.
November 19, 2009 at 12:21 am |
Thank you for taking decisive responsible action in helping to protect our president.
Kudos.
November 19, 2009 at 12:26 am |
whew! now i can buy from you again!
November 19, 2009 at 12:40 am |
I was one of the people who wrote to you about this. I would like to thank you.
November 19, 2009 at 12:51 am |
You’ve taken the right action. I’m all for taunting politicians, and they usually deserve it. However this Psalm 109:8 snip in regard to Obama is clearly beyond the bounds of legitimate criticism, and into a place that the Secret Service should be looking into. Thanks for your correct response to this.
November 19, 2009 at 1:26 am |
Thank you very much for being honorable.
November 19, 2009 at 2:05 am |
Thanks for making the ethical decision. Don’t worry I can’t imagine more than a handful of right wing nutjobs buying that product.
Let me premptively cut off the “You’re trampling on my freedom of speech!” nonsense.
The 1st Amendment guarantees free speech, but does not mandate that others have to assist you in spreading whatever crackpot opinion you wish to promote.
If you’re really believe in praying for the death of the POTUS find a printer you shares your twisted sense of Christianity.
Alternatively; take that can of spray paint (the one you’ve been saving for touch-ups on your trailer home), and make your own. I’m sure it would only improve that pork and beer stained “wife-beater” of yours.
Mike from FL
November 19, 2009 at 2:48 am |
Thank you Zazzle for your prompt response, and for showing that you are not just anonymous and cyber, but as a small business you are real people with a concern for the welfare of our Nation, and that you will not support any product calling for the death or assassination of our democratically elected President.
November 19, 2009 at 3:20 am |
Excellent response, Zazzle! Came here to give you a piece of my mind – what a nice surprise to see how well you’ve reacted to this very disturbing call to violence. Your response is very much appreciated by this concerned American. I agree with the posters here that you have struck just the right tone with your statement.
Thanks and hope you get lots of happy eyeballs here because of this & sell a bunch of (non-assasination bating) Tee shirts!
November 19, 2009 at 3:39 am |
Thank you for your concern and patriotic action. As Americans, civil debate and discussion is ALWAYS welcome. However, dog whistling for harm to come to the President of the United State has no place in our public discourse. Such dangerous behavior is not only a threat against a person, but also a threat to the nature of our republic. Our freedom of speech comes with the responsibility to exercise this freedom in an appropriate manner. Using Biblical verses as veiled threats, or encouragement for murder, is beyond the pale. Thank you for ending this vile effort on your site.
November 19, 2009 at 3:45 am |
no brainer really. thanks for nothing.
November 19, 2009 at 3:46 am |
I agree with other posters that you have done the moral and decent thing. This was quoting scripture for the devil’s purposes. I will put Zazzle in my bookmarks and do some Christmas shopping there.
November 19, 2009 at 4:07 am |
thank you for acting responsibly and removing this heinous material.
November 19, 2009 at 4:09 am |
A good decision. Well done.
November 19, 2009 at 4:10 am |
Thank you so much for removing those religious wackjob shirts promoting violence against the president. It gives me hope for my country.
November 19, 2009 at 5:21 am |
I am very saddened by the complicit silence of the Republican Party. Can anyone imagine our country’s domestic relations if someone was to harm our POTUS/FLOTUS. To all corporate enterprises there need to be a sense of loyalty to the country first before profit!
November 19, 2009 at 5:57 am |
Good decision!!! Thank you very much.
How did this one get in in the first place? Don’t you review your products first?
November 20, 2009 at 10:16 pm |
There is a discussion of this topic earlier in the comments, if you are curious
November 19, 2009 at 5:58 am |
Outstanding!
Responsible commerce is greatly appreciated, and will be rewarded in the marketplace.
This is not a free speech issue; this is a decision by a merchant to honor American values of respect, and commonwealth.
November 19, 2009 at 6:04 am |
While speech is a freedom that should be protected at all costs, radical groups providing a dog whistle to any psychotic willing to take up arms against the President of the United States should not be given a platform to spread their hatred. This psalm being referenced is a thinly veiled attempt by a group that should not be given the opportunity by responsible merchants to pass along their vile desires and thanks to Zazzle’s responsibility and ethics they are not being given that chance here. Everyone has the right to disagree, no one has the right to call for assassinations.
November 19, 2009 at 6:32 am |
Thanks. I think the statement shows a well considered and thoughtful read of the situation. Well done for making the right decision.
November 19, 2009 at 6:54 am |
No matter your political stance, never take the Word of God out of context to justify your feelings towards another, especially when it pertains to violence & death.
November 19, 2009 at 7:13 am |
Bravo Zazzle! You’ve done the right thing in removing this horrid content. Thank you for taking such quick and decisive action. It shows your integrity and makes me proud to be one of those who sells my designs through Zazzle.
November 19, 2009 at 7:29 am |
Thanks, Zazzle! So many of us really appreciate that you made the right decision in this case.
November 19, 2009 at 7:36 am |
Thank you for making such a wise decision.
November 20, 2009 at 6:59 am |
I agree with that.
November 19, 2009 at 7:51 am |
Thank you for removing this. It’s mind numbingly scary.
November 19, 2009 at 7:57 am |
As one of the people who sent you an email over this issue, I want to now thank you for your decision. To be clear, I will defend the rights of people to say things that I deem are disrespectful, inaccurate or just plain stupid because I would like the same consideration from them. However, threats of violence are over the line, and should not only be disallowed but actively condemned.
November 19, 2009 at 8:04 am |
Thank You Zazzle. I respect the market of free speech – but death threats are bad for business and against the law
November 19, 2009 at 8:24 am |
PATTING you guys on the back!!
November 19, 2009 at 8:38 am |
Thank you for doing the right thing Zazzle. I will continue to use your site.
November 19, 2009 at 8:43 am |
Thank you for your prompt action on this subject. As many others have said, I had never heard of Zazzle before this subject came up, but now will count myself as a supporter. Not that that was the point of this whole thing, but just to let it be shown that doing the right thing does not go unrewarded. Hopefully others will follow your good example of responsibility and common sense.
November 19, 2009 at 9:46 am |
Thank you for making the right decision. No matter how strongly we disagree with a leader, it is entirely inappropriate to suggest physical violence against any person. I would say that it is entirely unpatriotic and immoral. I only wish the people who would purchase such a product, might see it that way. Compassion, love, understanding will always trump vengeance and hate. Thank you for not spreading hate speech.
November 19, 2009 at 10:37 am |
Thank you for being rational in these difficult times. I will make certain to refer my friends, associates, family and colleagues to your website for the Holidays.
November 19, 2009 at 11:13 am |
[...] least one online company has announced it will no longer sell Psalm 109 shirts, although when I checked earlier, the shirt pictured in the image above was still available for [...]
November 19, 2009 at 12:18 pm |
Thank you. It’s so good to see someone do the right thing.
November 19, 2009 at 12:38 pm |
To assist you in yur efforts, I have referred this matter to the FBI for criminal investigation.
November 19, 2009 at 12:42 pm |
I admire Zazzle for its decision on the Pray for Obama items. And I respect your right (and duty) to continue promoting items that encourage healthy dissent in our government.
November 19, 2009 at 1:02 pm |
Thank you Zazzle! Yet another reason while I’ll continue to do business with you!!!
SR
November 19, 2009 at 1:12 pm |
Thank you for taking down this not so thinly veiled death threat to a fairly and overwhelmingly elected President. It’s one thing to disagree with his holding the office, it’s quite another to encourage his assassination and hide behind the Bible in doing so. You’ve taken a stand for the right thing to do side and I’m sure the haters will threaten boycotts, trash you on hate radio, and criticize you until their faces turn purple and their heads explode. But good people are and always have been the majority and will respect you for this decision. At some point decent people have to say ENOUGH and you just did. Thank you.
November 19, 2009 at 1:46 pm |
Thank you very much for responding so quickly. I have been thinking of using you guys for some merchandise, and this makes that choice easier.
I do appreciate that your business is built around personal expression, so I understand this was at least an interesting decision for you. I assume you probably also has legal council which told you directly that threats to the President are in direct violation of Federal law.
I hope that the purchasers of these products take a deep inventory of themselves and perhaps get counseling.
Thank you for doing the right thing.
November 19, 2009 at 2:46 pm |
As above, thank you for distinguishing between free speech and thinly veiled hate speech.
November 19, 2009 at 2:50 pm |
Dear Zazzle,
Well done. I applaud you on acting on this issue and being decisive in doing so. Free speech is a great thing; veiled threats on our President’s life is quite another. Your decision is certainly the most mature, well-reasoned one.
D
November 19, 2009 at 4:55 pm |
How many years have ZAZZLE been offering this T-Shirt seeking Execution of President Bush – and how many times have you Sanctimonious Folks Complained like you have today ?
How many of you are MSNBC Rachel MaddCow Suck-ups ?
To all 168 of you -
What do you have to say about this Tee Shirt that is not thinly veiled nothing –
http://www.zazzle.com/we_dont_need_to_impeach_bush_we_need_to_exec_tshirt-235938761640316002
November 19, 2009 at 5:00 pm |
[...] Zazzle refuses to sell Psalm 109 Killwear November 19, 2009 | Posted by Polycarp From here: [...]
November 19, 2009 at 5:11 pm |
Why are these products still listed on your site 24 hours later?
http://www.zazzle.com/psalm+109+gifts
November 19, 2009 at 5:41 pm |
I am a free speech, First Amendment advocate. Even though I am an Obama fan, I would fight for the right for someone else to vote against him or express their opinion of his views and policies.
However, I genuinely believe that a significant number of people promoting the “Psalm 109:8″ items are rallying support for more than political action. The verse quoted is OK, but the REST of the psalm can too easily be seen as advocating assassination of our President.
I think your statement above represents an enlightened stance on the subject and I applaud your decision to remove these items from Zazzle’s inventory.
November 19, 2009 at 5:45 pm |
[...] Statement on Psalm 109 Products Dear Zazzle Member or Concerned Citizen— Today, there has surfaced a great deal of discussion and debate over certain [...] [...]
November 19, 2009 at 5:52 pm |
A very good decision. I’ll remember it when looking for specialty and custom-designed products in the future.
November 19, 2009 at 6:08 pm |
Thank you for your quick response on removing the rest of the Psalm 109:8 content! You have restored my faith in Zazzle. I am spreading the word to everyone I know that you have stood by your word. Thank you so much!
November 19, 2009 at 8:15 pm |
Thank you,…Well done..
November 19, 2009 at 8:18 pm |
How long will it take to take these items down?
November 19, 2009 at 8:35 pm |
Thanks for removing the incrediblly horrific Psalm 108:9 “pray for Obama’s death” merchandise. It appalls me to realize how many good “christians’ in this sick and pathetic country pray for Sasha and Malia to be orphaned…
November 19, 2009 at 9:00 pm |
Thank you. Just placed my first order with Zazzle, now there will be more.
November 19, 2009 at 9:07 pm |
Doesn’t matter who is our President or how much you disagree with him – threats shouldn’t be tolerated. Good decision.
November 19, 2009 at 9:56 pm |
We have your back on this, Zazzle. There are a lot of blogs and chats buzzing about your conscientious high road here. Not everyone in the POD realm has taken this better path.
The consequences of an honorable decision will repay Zazzle. You are going to see a huge influx of new sellers and buyers because of your decision. But even if that weren’t the case, congratulations on just being decent.
November 19, 2009 at 10:41 pm |
I never heard of your company before tonight, when it was mentioned on the Rachel Maddow Show. She did not suggest that viewers contact Zazzle; I’m doing this of my own initiative.
THANK YOU for taking a principled stand, even at the risk of lost profits. What you have gained in customers’ esteem is beyond price.
I’ve read Psalm 109 in context. It clearly propounds the assassination of a sitting President. 109:8 has to be taken in the context of the statements immediately following, as well as in the context of increasingly violent statements made by moronic thugs like Glenn Beck (who has also joked about poisoning Nancy Pelosi), and an alarming trend for the radical right to show up at presidential appearances armed as if for insurrection.
The anti-Obama rhetoric mirrors that brandished against Dr. George Tiller, the courageous doctor assassinated by yet another far-right extremist from the Taliban wing of the Republican party.
The right doesn’t just want President Bush replaced. They want him dead. Psalm 109 is not a joke to the fringe; it’s a call to arms.
THANK YOU again for your courage.
November 20, 2009 at 4:00 pm |
Well, your second-from-the-last line clearly shows where your mind was at …
“President Bush”?
November 20, 2009 at 7:05 am |
[...] the 109:8 merchandise, including a baby’s bib, to be sold online calling it free speech. Zazzle.com, another online merchandise store, said it was a threatening and refused to allow vendors to sell [...]
November 20, 2009 at 8:11 am |
It’s not all removed: http://www.zazzle.com/psalm+109+gifts
November 20, 2009 at 10:20 pm |
It isn’t that Psalm 109 is the problem. It is the implication created by mixing the psalm with “Pray for Obama.” Don’t get confused.
November 20, 2009 at 8:48 am |
Not only did you make a reasoned decision and explained your choice well, you did it swiftly (but not without due consideration) and did it without asking people to participate in a poll, unlike a competitor of yours who has lost business from at least one person in this country.
November 20, 2009 at 9:07 am |
I am very glad that Zazzle took the steps to remove these products from the website. It is more than a good business decision. I have not directly bought anything from Zazzle but I will now. Thanks for taking steps that protect President Obama.
November 20, 2009 at 10:23 am |
Just want to thank you for your responsible and well considered stance on this issue. I know where I will be doing Christmas shopping this year.
November 20, 2009 at 11:53 am |
Thank you, Zazzle, for caving to the lies of liberals. Thank you for believing the false nonsense of Special Keef and Herr Madcow. Thank you for robbing the majority of Americans of something that a tiny minority of bloviating jerks found offensive.
And thank you to liberals for actually starting to care about subsequent biblical verses. Perhaps now you’ll start to care about Matthew 7:2.
November 20, 2009 at 12:02 pm |
Thank you! I’m all for great debate, satire, critique and the likes, but praying for harm to come to the president puts us in dangerous waters as a people.
November 20, 2009 at 1:46 pm |
Thank you for taking a stands against Hate Groups that misuse the Holy Bible…such people are no different than those who use the Holy Koran to kill in the name of Allah. Under God our nation will continue to be of peace and not hate…
November 20, 2009 at 3:48 pm |
May his days be few; may another take his place of leadership.
May his children be fatherless and his wife a widow.
May his children be wandering beggars; may they be driven from their ruined homes.
May a creditor seize all he has; may strangers plunder the fruits of his labor.
May no one extend kindness to him or take pity on his fatherless children.
May his descendants be cut off, their names blotted out from the next generation.
May the iniquity of his fathers be remembered before the Lord; may the sin of his mother never be blotted out.
May their sins always remain before the Lord, that he may cut off the memory of them from the earth.
November 20, 2009 at 3:58 pm |
Well, at least you helped me to make up mind about purchasing anything from your website. If y’all aren’t concerned enough with free speech, and if the ability to say on a bumper sticker depends on whose nose gets bent out of shape, then obviously you aren’t interested in that portion of the populace who is. Thanks for nothing.
November 20, 2009 at 3:59 pm |
Thank you so much Zazzle!! Excellent decision and excellent explanation. I’m all for free speech, civil discourse, and even civil disobedience but the key word is CIVIL. Clearly these products were not civilized a expression.
November 20, 2009 at 4:07 pm |
As of 11/20, you could still order the Psalm 109 bumper sticker.
November 20, 2009 at 5:01 pm |
I applaud your sensitivity to this sensitive issue. However, I must point out that as of Friday evening, November 20, 2 days after your statement, your website is still offering bumper stickers for sale with this hateful (Pray for Obama/Psalm 109:8) incitement to violence message at this link: http://www.zazzle.com/pray+for+obama+psalm+109+8+gifts
November 20, 2009 at 5:55 pm |
Bravo, Zazzle! You did the right thing. Your clear and unequivocal statement restores my faith in the idea that some people still value ethics over profit.
November 20, 2009 at 5:57 pm |
Thank you for caving in to the few over-sensitive bleeding hearts. I know where I will NOT be shopping at all.
November 20, 2009 at 6:24 pm |
Why is it that if someone comes up with a clever saying or bumper sticker using a Bible quote the radical left takes it as a death threat? I am sure it was not meant that way but probably that enough is enough of a President that hates America and wants to change it more towards Euro Socialism. Since when does the left ever look at anything in context? Let’s see…never! How about the first amendment that was taken wrong…read the letters of original intent. Or lets trash the Christians but don’t say anything against Islam that teaches to kill the infidel if they don’t accept Islam and take their possessions. We are being run by the fringe left that wants to destroy what our forefathers were so careful to construct and even said it can’t work without the Bible as the truth to guide it. Why don’t you get a life and take a joke instead of being a bunch of mena spirited jerks. And we are not a Democracy but a representative Republic or what’s left of it.
November 20, 2009 at 7:17 pm |
Zazzle’s statement is a steaming pile of bovine fecal matter!
Check the link. http://www.zazzle.com/psalm+109+gifts
They still are selling the products that state “Pray for Obama Psalm 109:8″
Liars Liars Liars!
November 20, 2009 at 8:02 pm |
Thank you for your wise decision to take this offensive material down. There is always room for debate, approval, disapproval, parody, and satire. But material such as this, has no place.
November 20, 2009 at 8:47 pm |
Congrats to you for doing the right thing. I really do not like banning books, or dialog etc–but this–this smacks of racism and harm. So thank you, again.
November 20, 2009 at 8:51 pm |
Thank you zazzle for taking action and sticking with it unlike the competition, I’ve even blogged about this issue myself
http://sweetinaction.blogspot.com/2009/11/fuck-you-friday.html
November 20, 2009 at 10:05 pm |
He needs prayers hopefully God guides him in the Right direction. Sad that prayer for him is being used in a bad way Prayer should always be used for good ! Never for bad ! Granted Obama is not doing any good for the country so far not one thing good. But get real who ever prays for his demise is wrong in doing so. If you pray then please pray for good to come from his presidency ask God to guide him to do good for the country and the people. Not for bad things to happen to him. He is a human being just like you and me and no one should ever be praying for evil to happen to a person .
November 20, 2009 at 10:12 pm |
I wonder if there would be all this “concern” from those here if it was directed at George Bush. I don’t believe so.
This is probably the only biblical verse the muslim obama knows, (Yes he did say to George Stephanoplis at the end of a sentence,
“My Muslim Faith” and did not correct it until corrected by the host.) Now no one forgets his faith like that. Wake up America.
November 21, 2009 at 10:13 am |
To me you are all missing the boat on this one. As a Christian and a conservative this bumper sticker has NOTHING to do with praying for harm to come to the President..it is about praying for a change in 2012 for a different administration. We should all be praying for protection over him and all who serve this country, whether we agree with their politics or not. Don’t be looking for something else other than vs. 8 of Chapter 109, which states hope for a change. It doesn’t reference the whole chapter!
November 21, 2009 at 10:15 am |
A great many of us were happy to see this bumper sticker available and are ready to purchase it. It is disheartening when you see the number of bumper stickers suggesting that we ‘Whack Bush,’ that you would pull a product far less suggestive and one requiring some research before one even knows the words of the phrase. The First Amendment Rights apply to everyone, even those being pressured by an administration to get behind them or be silenced. That phrase is exactly what the First Amendment was designed to protect-the right of the citizens of this country to express their feelings. Flag burnings, hateful messages toward politicians and corporations have been seen throughout our history. If this had been directed at the prior administration and been forced from the market place, the ACLU would have been all over our this. It would have been seen as harmless and all-in-good-fun. Why would you roll over on this now?
November 21, 2009 at 12:29 pm |
Youre kidding me right? There is no threat in that bible verse ! You sold out, you caved and there is no freedom of speech or democracy as you claim when you do so.
November 21, 2009 at 1:29 pm |
Thank you for this decision. I am a fervent supporter of 1st Amendment Rights, and I agree with the ACLU that the real test of such commitment is a willingness to allow the American Nazi Party to air its views. I do, however,I draw the line at advocating the assassination of the President of the United States – whether blatantly stated or couched in religious symbolism. THANK YOU for doing the right thing.
November 21, 2009 at 2:43 pm |
There is nothing in the bumper sticker or the biblical reference that suggest harm to Obama. It was merely a creative method of stating disagreement with the radical policies that this administration is consistently promoting without regard to the majority of
American citizens who are opposed to these actions as shown in numerous and diverse polls. I believe there were similar stickers illuding to removing Bush and other former presidents from office. Too bad Zazzle doesn’t have a spine. This action and the input that prompted it have nothing to do with fear for a president and more, much more, to do with a biggoted attitude toward conservative values and references to God and the Bible. Now what is that about equality in the Constitution? I think I heard somewhere that the Constitution guarantees us free speech. Just another pathetic showing of cowtailing to the politically correct who seem to think that they can dictate the rules for others that they don’t follow themselves. Sorry, Ziggle. You lost a sale! As soon as I finish this response and copy your decision and my response and send it to everyone on my email and FB list, I will push delete!
November 21, 2009 at 10:05 pm |
Zazzle way to bow down to the Obama nightmare & to his kool-aid drinking supporters. Where in the verse does it say about death to th president? Its the verse ,not the whole chapter that they are refering to.Way to stand by freedom of speech & the right to dissagree with the government! For all you Obama lovers I will find a place to by the sticker & will put it on my truck! Why you ask?/ I am an AMERICAN & I believe in what are forfathers did & died for . GOD BLESS AMERICA! IS IT 1-20-2013 YET?
November 21, 2009 at 10:44 pm |
Diana Butler Bass of the religion blog Progressive Revival described it as “a sort of right-wing Christian equivalent of the old ‘01.20.09′ stickers looking forward to the end of the Bush era.”
While an American Civil Liberties Union official expressed concern about hostility toward the president, she didn’t criticize the slogan in an interview with The Christian Science Monitor because Verse 8 is only about removing him from office.
Above are from a quote from the ACLU today,even the ACLU doesnt believe the bumper sticker is a “threat” to anyone, they and the Progressives equate it to the left wing “01.20.09″ anti Bush bumper stickers. It was OK, to be hateful and outright hostile towards Bush, but its not ok to show dissent in even the most “polite “way towards obama. No freedom of speech here, no democracy no first amanedment violation here is there?
November 22, 2009 at 3:21 pm |
you people are pathetic!!!! Those of you who confuse what has been said on this bumper sticker says nothing about harming or killing President Obama. It says LET HIS DAYS BE FEW; AND LET ANOTHER TAKE HIS OFFICE.
November 22, 2009 at 10:16 pm |
I am beyond dissappointed with the decision to discontinue products that specifically referenced Psalms 109:8. 109:8 is a specific reference to a limited verse in the bible. It is intellectualy dishonest to say that by extension it includes verse 9 and beyond. Nice job playing this one liberals, continue your march toward full control of the press. You’re wrong on this one zazzle.
November 24, 2009 at 11:36 am |
I am fully aware that books of religion get the “That’s not what I take away from the [insert religious text here]” addendum. I do find it humorous that the book(s) talked about here were assembled into the “bible” or “canon” by men (not a divine entity) quite some time ago. That’s right, they were separate writings merged together based on what the council at the time determined to be important and why the bible has “books”. I wonder how that “book” read before it got merged with all of the others? I am sure that the person who penned that part of psalms wanted people to extract just that one verse out and exclude the rest of the story that goes with. I am sure that the people who are attracted to this shirt will also stop reading there.
Any time I bring up intolerant or otherwise hateful bible verses I am always told, “you can’t take one verse out of context”…. So , it’s ok to take one verse out of context as long as you support what it says but not ok to take one verse out of context to point out the intolerance it preaches? Intellectually dishonest? I think it would be intellectually dishonest to wear this shirt and believe you are in line with the teachings of jesus (if you subscribe to them).
November 23, 2009 at 9:04 am |
As a Christian, never in my wildest mind would I have ever intepreted this as a call to violence about the president. Instead, I see it is a call to action to remove him from office by the means that the US constitution grants us – by not re-electing him or by impeachment.
Christians do not encouage death wishes or encite violence. Those who think they do are sadly mistaken.
We do pray for our president – mostly that God would bring Obama to repentence, and we also do pray that he is removed from office. But no one wants him to die before he has had time to understand the saving grace of Jesus. We feel that way about all of our opponents.
I am disappointed to see an outlet for free speech to make this call. Fortuately, there are other businesses with more bravery.
It amazes me too that for how often Christians are called humorless, our humor is maligned when it happens. Believe me, I have seen a lot of bad taste come from the Left, much of which was much nastier. I am not really surpised by the two-faced approach I see here. Just very sad.
Yes, we are praying for our President, that his days in office may be few, that he can do no more harm to our country. And we pray that his supporters will see that this emperor is not only naked, but is charging the country for his non-existant clothes. May God open the eyes of all.
AJ
November 28, 2009 at 10:12 pm |
Thank you for your comments. I kept reading and reading, and you were the first I read who voiced my sentiments exactly. This man has done so much harm to our country that I cannot begin to expressn my concerns. I simply have to keep in mind that God is sovereign and establishes all rulers. I believe with my whole heart that Obama is being used by God to bring things to an end. The U.S. does not appear to be present in Revelation, so we will either not exist and be so insignificant that we are of no import. Obama may be God’s tool to bring this to reality. I hope not, for the sake of our children, but it is difficult to not believe otherwise. Thus, I do pray that his days will indeed be few and that he will be removed from office by some legal means.
November 23, 2009 at 9:59 am |
Funny how those t shirts with death to Bush etc. were just peachy keen.
November 23, 2009 at 2:25 pm |
I think is considered different because it’s related to Christianity. Since the world hates Christ and for the most part religion, it’s no wonder this is a controversy. Now – hating, mocking, dehumanizing, and even threatening Ex-President Bush is more acceptable because it originated from a non-religious perspective and is probably honored under the Freedom of Speech.
So to sum it up. If it’s Christ related let’s hang it on a cross.If it’s pagan related let’s rejoice and spread the hate. That’s fair.
November 23, 2009 at 10:05 am |
Thanks Zazzle!
Printing materials that blatantly threaten our country is something for dark and evil people.
November 23, 2009 at 2:42 pm |
YEA Zazzle !!!!!!
November 23, 2009 at 5:30 pm |
It is clear that that those who use Psalm 109 in reference to our legitimately elected president — a man who took office a mere 10 months ago, voted in by a wide majority of the American people — are using their religion as a weapon. The Psalm in question contains the verse, “May his children be fatherless, and his wife a widow.” Anyone who is not troubled by the intention of that reference cannot be a genuine Christian. Zealotry and thinly veiled threats against the life and family of the President of the United States are blatently and thoroughly anti-American.
Thank you, Zazzle, for doing the right thing.
November 28, 2009 at 10:26 pm |
If the intent was to include statements beyond verse 8, then those verses would have been included when the verse was cited. People need to thank their lucky stars that Christians are indeed praying daily for Obama and his administration. My husband and I pray together and separately on a daily basis, and yes we do pray that his days be few. We are praying that he will either be removed by legal means or serve as a one term president. We also pray that God would protect our nation and that He would not turn His eyes from our nation because of the evil of Obama and his administration. Have you either thought that it is prayers such as these that help our country and help Obama? If anything, individuals who support the actions of him and his administration are “thoroughly anti-American.” His actions tell me that he must hate American, Christians, democracy, and the military. Have you even looked at the list of his various “czars” and other appointees. Do you ever listen to Fox or read anything other than liberal publications? There is so much that the public in general does not know that it is obsolutely frightening. He is surrounded by socialists, extremists, liars, and crooks. In time we will truly reap what he has sown. Furthermore, if you know anything about the Bible and covenant at all, you should realize that If he ever turns his back on Israel we are doomed. I would proudly display this bumper sticker if I had one, except for the fact that liberals would no doubt damage my car. That, my friend is hate, not a prayer that the obamanation on the White House would be removed by legal and just means (not physically harmed in any way) and quickly!!!!!!!!!!
November 24, 2009 at 9:16 pm |
gutless – PC at it’s worst. What a laughable leap to call Psalm 109 a death threat. Get a life!
November 25, 2009 at 10:50 pm |
It is truly amazing how people who critize Christianity really know very little about the Bible or our faith. If a person truly is a Christian they follow the ten commandments. One of the “biggies” demands that “Thou shall not kill”. We are allowed to take all of our petitions to God but we are not allowed to ever kill! No, the entire passage of scripture (Psalm 109) is not about killing. It is about a frustrated David who was discouraged and tired of the mess asking God to just fix it all. But….he was going to leave it in God’s hands. Just as he did with Saul when he had two chances to kill him and refused. Christians don’t kill.
Then – if you really knew our faith – you would also know that this is an old Testament verse. While we often refer to the old Testatment – we do not live by it. It is more like a “history” of our faith. We live by the New Testatment where there are hundreds of verses that command us to Pray for our enemies – to let God handle our enemies and to never take revenge but rather to allow God to decide on punishment.
Christians pray – we do not kill. Quoting this verse is not dangerous. Unfortuanately, there were many hateful things that were promoted about Bush and still remain on this site. Many sayings that could be interpreted to mean bodily harm to President Bush.
I am encouraged about one thing however. If you are so ignorant about the Christian faith, perhaps that’s why most people are also so ignorant about the Muslim faith. I’ve read the Koran. They are not asked to simply pray. They are told to kill family members as well as the infidel Americans. Now I wonder….would any of you be upset if a good muslim designed a t-shirt with their scriptures on it?
Ignorance is not bliss – ignorance usually means trouble.
November 26, 2009 at 5:55 am |
Sad commentary and decision to pull the Psalms 109:8 sticker. In my mind, the intent of the verse is that this President’s “reign” be “1 Term and Out,” particularly with the Romans 13:1 sticker that you will continue to allow on the site – if we are even still Blessed enough to have an opportunity to participate in a free, fair Presidential Election ever again. You are imposing assumptive “intent and motive” into Psalms 109:8 that is fear-based, not discernment – you have succumbed to inhibiting our First Amendment Rights as sellers and buyers. While this is also your right to do as a company, I also make my choice, and will share with my friends and family members – to not be purchasing anything from a Zazzle site in the future. May I direct you to “The Truth Project” to understand my position on your cowardice.
November 28, 2009 at 9:15 pm |
@George W: be honest, you h ate Obana for whatever your reasons are, and do not appreciate that death threats against him have been cut off on the Zazzle site. You’re a right wing bigot, and you kind already have an inordinate voice in what goes on in this country. Witness the years from 2001 to 2008. Our nation has been brought to its knees by GOP fascists, and you stilll are on their side! Don’t you care about this country at all? Are you really that devoted to conserving the power of the rich?
November 28, 2009 at 9:11 pm |
I’m glad to see that Zazzle addressed this issue. There are still plenty of anti-Obama hate products on Zazzle, but since free (hate) speech is presumably guaranteed by the Constitiuion, I suppose we can expect that the sellers of these products will be allowed to exercise their right to free (hate) speech. I’m glad one of the idiots suggested murder, if if only because it forced Zazzle to face to take a stand.
Sure, we’re allowed freedom of speech, but are we guaranteed the right to use a platform as powerful as the web to spread our hateful ideas? I hope not.
November 28, 2009 at 9:28 pm |
“Zazzle will continue to allow and encourage the submission of products that express disapproval or approval of the President’s policies and actions, but Zazzle will not permit products that may be interpreted to suggest violence toward the President”
I’m not really sure why Zazzle would encourage the submission of such products. If you want to allow them because of the right to free speech, okay, and because they increase your profits, okay, but why would you encourage hate, regardless of its object?
November 28, 2009 at 10:06 pm |
Thank you for this statement and your position against violent and hateful messages.
November 28, 2009 at 10:06 pm |
As a Christian and a believer in the inerrancy of the Bible, I am to pray for the leaders of our country. While I wish Obama no physical harm, I do pray that his days be few and that a man of ethics with a love of God and not Allah be in his place. He has done more to harm this country than any president in our nation’s history, and I believe with my whole heart that he truly hates America. I fear for my child and her future. I fear for the elderly who will be impacted the most by his evil heathcare plan. I grieve for the unborn whose lives are snuffed out every few seconds because of him. I grieve for our military who cannot get the support the need. I grieve for small business owners who will lose their livelihood as a result of his taxation demands. I grieve for those of us who have worked hard all of our lives and will be taxed to death to pay for his debt and not have any retirement funds on which to base the future. I grieve for the ignorant who just wanted Bush our of office so badly that they failed to inform themselves about the truth of Obama. So yes, I pray daily regarding this man. I pray that God does not turn his face from our nation, and I pray that He will protect us from further harm, and I pray for a one term presidency. Thus, if you pull Psalm 109:8 out of context, and view the verse in isolation, it is not hateful in its intent. Just because there are those of us who want him out of office doesn’t mean that some plot is afoot to harm him in any way. That is unChristlike. I want him legally removed from office and am not ashamed to admit it. And, by the way, I don’t have one of the bumper stickers on my car. Why? Because I am worried that it will be keyed or kicked in or whatever. And you liberals call coseratives mean-spirited. I think the bumper stickers should indeed be avialable for those who are brave enough to display them.
November 29, 2009 at 11:01 am |
[...] on tshirts, mugs, and bumper stickers, hoping that he will, somehow die. Fortunately, places like zazzle recognize this craziness and has banned [...]
November 29, 2009 at 1:26 pm |
What cow-towing!
The tee shirt did NOT include verse 9, so all arguments from that point are based upon spin and lie.
Not much on the 1st Amendment freedoms, are we?
November 29, 2009 at 7:36 pm |
It’s hard to defend free speech when you don’t agree with. To me, the most precious form of free speech is that which I vehemently oppose.
I am proud to live in a country where I can witness the irony of its citizens burning her flag. In most countries, you would be SEVERELY penalized for such “speech”!
If we pat each other on the back for protecting speech we all agree with, it’s not that big of a deal.
The reference is for Psalm 109:8. “May his days be few; may another take his place of leadership.”
To say that since the text continues is a threat of violence to the POTUS can be debated.
The reference is for Psalm 109:8.
People see if differently.
A group of people were offended, and it was removed.
Money talks. (“I’ll buy from you now!…) (Thank you for not selling this to my neighbor…)
I hope no one is ever in a position where they are the only one with a particular opinion and they are silenced.
That’s not was America is about.
Censorship is censorship.
Mob mentality is what got some people pushing other people into boxcars.
You people scare me.
December 14, 2009 at 6:49 pm |
It’s scary to see the extent of ignorance that people in this country suffer from regarding their own Constitution. Free speech, as defined in the Constitution, prevents *the government* from interfering with speech that can be construed as having political content. Zazzle is not the government, and is not obliged to give protection to the speech of those who offend its customers with their hate. Try to understand that.
November 30, 2009 at 9:38 am |
To Whom it May Concern,
The totality of Psalms 109:8 reads “Let his days be few; and let another take his office.” Period. One must read further into Psalms to find the imprecations that are attributed as “threats” against the President. Apparently nobody has taken the trouble to read the biblical text, only to react to assertions made by others — Zazzle included.
I find no threat, implicit or explicit, in this bumper sticker, only a heartfelt prayer for change. We have seen far worse in our recent political history, as well as “change we can believe in.” Psalms 109:8 is change that I can believe in.
December 14, 2009 at 6:47 pm |
Apparently, Mr. Duerksen, you failed to notice some of the truly offensive bumper stickers sold by someone calling themselves Nobamaman. They may be seen here: http://www.zazzle.com/nobamaman
December 1, 2009 at 6:23 pm |
Very well done.
Thanks,
r.b
December 1, 2009 at 9:33 pm |
As i browsed through the webste ZAZZLE looking for a very nice gift for a pet lover, i came across the anti-obama hats. I can’t believe how offensive these products are!
I WILL NOT purchase from this store and i will be sure to tell all my friends and family the same. DO NOT purchase from ZAZZLE.
December 4, 2009 at 6:43 am |
I agree 100% with Gary Duerkson above. There is nothing sinister about the use of this Scripture to express a heartfelt desire to see change. In this case it’s the hope that there is not another term. The progressive media is twisting that to mean that we want to see him dead. Nothing could be further from the truth.
Where was this pompous media when sites were selling “Buck Fush” bumper stickers (and worse). How about the disappointment that was registered when Cheney or Bush were not killed because of a foiled terrorist plan or hunting accidents?
Thanks for cancelling my order Zazzle. I’m glad my money is not going to you. I’ll shop elsewhere in the future.
December 6, 2009 at 1:15 am |
ARE YOU PEOPLE KIDDING? To spin the Psalm as meaning death is ridiculous and petty. Anyone who claims this is 100% basing it on partisan BS. Those of us who understand the agenda of Obama are hoping that he does not get a second term, or that he gets impeached for his anti-American agenda. Only a few sick, ignorant fools would like to see him dead. Probably the same percentage of sick, ignorant fools who wanted to see Bush dead…probably less, but I will give the benefit of the doubt…but if it were not so hateful of you to actually spew this drivel, it would be laughable that you spin this as a physical threat.
December 8, 2009 at 7:48 am |
The creators of this psalms 109 t-shirt knew this was malicious and wish harm on the President. This prayer is prayed when you have ought against your enemy and want harm to come to them. Do know be deceived, that this was innocent, I know and of course, now I am ashamed to be called a “Conservative Christian”. Now I understand the hate that lies and wait for those that somehow are not like them.
December 14, 2009 at 6:43 pm |
Dear Zazzle,
Thank you so much for taking the appropriate action here. Title 18 of the USC, S871, specifies the nature and elements of the crime that the actions of seller Nobamaman constitute. Your swift response to persons such as Nobamaman give me hope that the tenor of civil discourse in this great nation is not irreversibly destroyed.
December 16, 2009 at 3:28 pm |
Political correctness kills, not bumper stickers.