Rediscovering Islam’s essence in age of superficiality
Aftab Ali Khan Musa
In the age of instant information and social media trends, an upsetting phenomenon has arisen within the Muslim community. Individuals, predominantly on various online platforms, seem to engage in a practice where non-Muslims are swayed into reciting the Shahada; an Islamic declaration of faith, with the claim that they have instantaneously converted to Islam. This trend raises questions about the depth and sincerity of one’s commitment to Islam, for the faith transcends the mere recitation of words. Since, it demands profound comprehension, genuine intention, and steadfast adherence to its principles.
Islam, a religion that once stood as an epitome of civilization, has a rich history of contributions to various fields, including science, architecture, and philosophy. However, contemporary Muslims appear to be drifting away from the guiding principles of their faith, replaced by a growing sense of ignorance and intolerance. This exodus is particularly heartbreaking when contrasted with Islam’s historical legacy as a religion that promoted pluralism, patience, and acceptance.
History is evident that Muslims, Jews, and Christians coexisted harmoniously during various periods, contributing collectively to the rich tapestry of shared knowledge. This inclusive society stands in stark contrast to the current state of affairs, where intolerance has replaced acceptance, and divisive ideologies have driven a wedge between communities.
Discussing Muslims, the troubling reality is that they seem to be deviating from the teachings of Islam, turning to intrusive methods in misguided attempts at conversion. The rise of Takfir (though forbidden in the scriptures); a term denoting the act of declaring fellow Muslims as unbelievers further exacerbates the internal divisions within the Muslim community. This intolerance not only hinders meaningful dialogue but also leads to a state where historical truths are concealed to perpetuate distorted beliefs.
Alluding to the renowned poet-philosopher Muhammad Iqbal, the recitation of the Shahada out of zeal falls short of constituting true Islam. Iqbal posits that being a Muslim involves a commitment of the heart, intention, and actions that promote peace and love. This sentiment underscores the importance of understanding Islam beyond superficial practices and embracing its profound principles.
A crucial question emerges: How did the Muslim community reach this point of superficiality in its practice of Islam? One plausible explanation lies in the influence of biased religious scholars, commonly referred to as Mullahs. These individuals, motivated by socio-economic and political gains, have been known to manipulate religious teachings, leading believers away from the core values of Islam.
To reclaim the true spirit of Islam, it is imperative for Muslims to refocus their attention on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Quran. While acknowledging the history of Islam is crucial, the emphasis should be on learning from it. This requires a concerted effort to bridge internal fault lines through impartial inter-sect and inter-faith dialogues, fostering a deeper understanding of Islam as a religion of peace, pluralism, and tolerance.
Delving into Islamic history, the era of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) serves as a paradigm of a diverse society where Muslims, Jews, and Christians coexisted in harmony. Jews played significant roles in overseeing financial matters, while Christians aided the Prophet’s family and his grandson, Imam Hussain in the war against the rebellious forces of Yazid Bin Muawiyya. This historical reality contradicts the prevailing narrative of intolerance and division within and without the Muslim community today.
To address these challenges, Muslims must undertake a comprehensive examination of their beliefs and practices. Superficial efforts at conversion not only defy the essence of Islam but also repel others, infringing on their privacy. The journey to rediscovering Islam’s essence requires introspection, acknowledgment of historical truths, and a commitment to fostering pluralism and tolerance within the community.
In a nutshell, the current trend of reducing Islam to a mere recitation of the Shahada on social media is symptomatic of a broader issue within the Muslim community. To reclaim the true spirit of Islam, Muslims must break free from the influence of biased religious scholars, refocus on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Quran, and engage in impartial inter-sect dialogues. Only through these efforts can Islam be presented to the world as a religion of peace, pluralism, and tolerance, resonating with the principles that defined its golden era in history.
(Aftab Ali Khan Musa is CSS mentor Lecturer of English Essay, International Relations and European History).