Peace2u
Turn To Islam
The Muslim community and countries are an interesting phenomenon. I have yet to meet a Muslim that is not annoyed or frustrated by the state of the Muslim world. What is really interesting is their endless list of conspiracy theories about what is happening in the world. Though, credit where it is due and perhaps there is some foundation to the stories, but what is more interesting is the “Dua” factor. Every time there is a discussion of some sort about the brutalities, murders and mass genocides that are taking place around the globe, lo and behold there is always the brother or sister that will say; make Dua, InshAllah for the suffering Muslims, may Allah have mercy on them.
There is no doubt that there is great power and mercy in prayer and indeed Allah (SWT) asks us to make Dua. But there seems to be some confusion, it seems like the majority of the Muslims do not understand the essence of Islam and this has resulted in Islam being labelled a backward religion. Most Muslims and indeed a few non Muslim writers have agreed that Mohammed (PBUH) was the greatest man that ever lived. Most of us may agree that his life is exemplary for us all to follow. Question is, did he stay at home and pray instead of signing treaties, negotiating with non Muslims and perhaps even going to war. Did he not live Islam practically day to day in his every action?
It is strange, but when did Islam become a religion of aspirations and prayer? Since when did it loose its practicality and ability to thrive in the world? Better still, Muslims blame everyone else but themselves. Someone once said, people behave the way you allow them to behave. Muslims have become fatalistic and their laziness and apathy is the biggest problem.
At the leadership level it seems shockingly abominable. Most of the leaders are selfish individuals that are sacrificing their countries wealth and people for their own hedonism. Indeed there are rare examples in history where great leaders have stood against luring selfish temptations and the World Bank, to instil a structure for their people and their selfless attitude has been an exemplary a saviour for their country. Perhaps some of our community leaders/political aspirers/Muslim representatives could benefit from a crash course on their legacy.
The “them and us” mentality is profound within Muslims and only results in strengthening tension. It has been said, that everyone is Muslim unless they show signs otherwise. That’s probably a shock for those who rush to use the “Kafir” label so easily. Perhaps that is Just a glance back at our history speaks volumes. Ayub-bin-Habib Lakhni (August 716 Ad ) changed the Capital of Spain from Seville to Cordova, with the opening of schools, colleges and libraries. Cordova became the seat of learning which later became the renowned University in Europe. During Islamic Spain governed by Abdul Aziz- bin Musa 713 AD – 715 AD), Muslim law governed the country. Non Muslims however governed in religious matter by their own head approved by the Amir, hospital and educating centres were free and the list continues.
What is most interesting is the common factors during the Islamic empire are the leaders. Consistently wee see that the leaders were just, compassionate, strong and put the needs of their people before their own. Salahudin Ayubi, a renowned warrior and leader was known for his justice, integrity and strength. He was ready to aid the weak against the strong. This coupled with his compassion and vision resulted in a phenomenon that history can not deny. Abu Bakr records that the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) said “A just governor is the shadow of God upon earth”.
It seems the Muslims need to take a step back from their lives and learn from their history.
Taking part in the political process is one step towards making a difference. Indeed re-educating ourselves on the practicalities and duties as a Muslim is probably another step. We have all probably agree praying five times is Fard, but does our Fard stop there? Is there more to being a Muslim than just prayer? Indeed the greatest scarifies in Islam is to speak the truth in the face of tyranny. Imagine if every Muslim took this simple teaching on board. If every Muslim stood against tyrannical leaders then surely the world would be a better place. Is smart voting not speaking against tyranny?
There is no doubt that there is great power and mercy in prayer and indeed Allah (SWT) asks us to make Dua. But there seems to be some confusion, it seems like the majority of the Muslims do not understand the essence of Islam and this has resulted in Islam being labelled a backward religion. Most Muslims and indeed a few non Muslim writers have agreed that Mohammed (PBUH) was the greatest man that ever lived. Most of us may agree that his life is exemplary for us all to follow. Question is, did he stay at home and pray instead of signing treaties, negotiating with non Muslims and perhaps even going to war. Did he not live Islam practically day to day in his every action?
It is strange, but when did Islam become a religion of aspirations and prayer? Since when did it loose its practicality and ability to thrive in the world? Better still, Muslims blame everyone else but themselves. Someone once said, people behave the way you allow them to behave. Muslims have become fatalistic and their laziness and apathy is the biggest problem.
At the leadership level it seems shockingly abominable. Most of the leaders are selfish individuals that are sacrificing their countries wealth and people for their own hedonism. Indeed there are rare examples in history where great leaders have stood against luring selfish temptations and the World Bank, to instil a structure for their people and their selfless attitude has been an exemplary a saviour for their country. Perhaps some of our community leaders/political aspirers/Muslim representatives could benefit from a crash course on their legacy.
The “them and us” mentality is profound within Muslims and only results in strengthening tension. It has been said, that everyone is Muslim unless they show signs otherwise. That’s probably a shock for those who rush to use the “Kafir” label so easily. Perhaps that is Just a glance back at our history speaks volumes. Ayub-bin-Habib Lakhni (August 716 Ad ) changed the Capital of Spain from Seville to Cordova, with the opening of schools, colleges and libraries. Cordova became the seat of learning which later became the renowned University in Europe. During Islamic Spain governed by Abdul Aziz- bin Musa 713 AD – 715 AD), Muslim law governed the country. Non Muslims however governed in religious matter by their own head approved by the Amir, hospital and educating centres were free and the list continues.
What is most interesting is the common factors during the Islamic empire are the leaders. Consistently wee see that the leaders were just, compassionate, strong and put the needs of their people before their own. Salahudin Ayubi, a renowned warrior and leader was known for his justice, integrity and strength. He was ready to aid the weak against the strong. This coupled with his compassion and vision resulted in a phenomenon that history can not deny. Abu Bakr records that the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) said “A just governor is the shadow of God upon earth”.
It seems the Muslims need to take a step back from their lives and learn from their history.
Taking part in the political process is one step towards making a difference. Indeed re-educating ourselves on the practicalities and duties as a Muslim is probably another step. We have all probably agree praying five times is Fard, but does our Fard stop there? Is there more to being a Muslim than just prayer? Indeed the greatest scarifies in Islam is to speak the truth in the face of tyranny. Imagine if every Muslim took this simple teaching on board. If every Muslim stood against tyrannical leaders then surely the world would be a better place. Is smart voting not speaking against tyranny?