Entries Tagged 'Islam Religion' ↓

Perhaps one of the most discussed religions in the world today is Islam. People all across the globe known its name and have an impression of it as well, which unfortunately is not a good one. However, the point to ponder is that people simply believe on what anyone says about Islam without knowing what it truly is.

It is a common practice that whenever one has to create an impression of anything of any person on one’s mind, a research is done and knowledge is gathered about the respective phenomenon. The lines below give a brief introduction about Islam and some of its basic concepts.

Islam:

The etymology of the word ‘Islam’ means ‘peace’ or ‘submission’ in Arabic. Therefore, in its meaning, Islam is a religion of peace and submission to Allah Almighty. The Muslim greeting word ‘As-Salam u Alaykum’, which means ‘peace be with you’ has its roots in the word Islam. It is considered one of the Abrahamic monotheistic religions of the world in addition to Christianity and Judaism.

Muslims:

The people who follow Islam are called ‘Muslims’. The root of ‘Muslim’ also comes from Islam, meaning ‘someone who follows Islam’. At this point of time because of Muslim population, Islam is one of the largest religions of the world with over a billion followers which constitute almost 1/5 of the world’s population. The Muslims are as diverse as the world could be, the followers are spread all across the globe and belong to different cultures.

Islamic Beliefs:

Like every religion Islam also has a set of Beliefs. The prime Islamic belief is the oneness of Allah Almighty. In Islam, Allah Almighty is the only God having no equal and no family. Allah Almighty is alone and the supreme authority according to Muslim beliefs. One cannot be a Muslim without accepting Allah Almighty as the One and Only God. Including this primary belief, Muslims have six articles of faith which are:

• Faith in the unity of God
• Faith in angels
• Faith in Prophet
• Faith in Divine Books
• Faith in Afterlife
• Faith in destiny/fate

Pillars of Islam:

Besides the article of faith, Islam also has five pillars upon which the building of Islam stands. When a person concurs with the articles of faith, the next thing a person needs to do is to follow and apply the five pillars of Islam in his or her life. These five pillars of Islam are basically concerned with worshipping. The concept of worshiping in Islam is very broad and everything a person does in life can also be regarded as an act of worship if done under the guidance of Islam. There are five pillars of Islam, which are:

Kalima- It is the testimony of faith that Allah Almighty is one and Muhammad (PBUH) is His Prophet.

Salah- These are the prayers, which every Muslim has to say five times a day. The prayers are mandatory upon every Muslim man and woman.

Zakah- It is Almsgiving where the rich Muslims who have a certain amount of gold, money or such assets that can be converted into monetary values give a certain part of it to poor every year. This is also mandatory upon the Muslims who are eligible for it.

Sawm- Another mandatory way of worshiping upon Muslims is fasting. There is the month of Ramadan every year, in which the Muslims have to fast for the whole month.

Hajj- It is the pilgrimage which Muslims pay to the House of Allah Almighty in the month of Zill-Hujja. It is also mandatory for the able Muslims only.

Muslim Life:

The general impression that the life of a true Muslim would have nothing to do with this world is plain wrong. Islam is a religion of moderation, and recommends its followers to keep both religion and world side by side and condemns the life of seclusion and leaving the world altogether. A Muslim needs to balance his or her life, and Islam in no case encourages any form of extremism, whether it is religious extremism, or adapting extremely to worldly life and forgetting religion. This is why the true Muslims in the west, besides their busy life, manage time to read Quran online, thus keeping both world and religion side by side.

Conclusion:

In short, the image or preaching of Islam is against what the apparent image Islam has today. Rather, Islam is a religion of peace where a Muslim has to keep world and religion abreast without being too much inclination towards religion or the world.

Appearance of wrong or extreme image of Islam is due to two factors. Partly it is because of some fundamentalist groups who have somehow conceived the notion that Islam encourages the use of force to make a point without any discrimination of innocent and the corrupt, and partly because of media which airs the fire of Islam-hate by calling such people as ‘Jihadists’ or ‘Islamists’.

The message and teaching of Islam are quite contrary to what those specific people think or what the western media portrays to the world. Islam is a religion of peace, and there is no religion in the world that preaches peace and love for humanity more than Islam. The lines below give the anti-terrorism stand of Islam in light of Quran and sayings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Islam regards killing of people unjustly as a grievous sin and calls the killing of one innocent life as equal to killing the whole of humanity. Allah Almighty says in Quran:

“On that account: We ordained for the Children of Israel that if any one slew a person- unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land – it would be as if he slew the whole people: and if anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of the whole people. Then although there came to them Our apostles with clear signs, yet, even after that, many of them continued to commit excesses in the land.” (5:32)

In this ayah, Allah Almighty clearly states that whosoever kills a person for an unjust purpose has killed the whole of humanity, and the one who saves a person saves the whole of humanity. Therefore, it is outwardly wrong to say that Islam propagates terrorism.

Its not only the life that is sacred to Islam, rather all the associations of humans are sacred to Islam and no one is allowed to disrespect or mean any harm to the dignity, family, wealth and property of a person. Rather they are to be protected and respected, and those who don’t do so are transgressors and sow fasad (corruption) according to Islam. Allah Almighty says in Quran:

“…. and seek not corruption in the earth; lo! Allah loveth not corrupters.” (28:77)

Thus, Allah Almighty calls those people ‘corrupters’ who violate and do not respect the life, property, dignity, or family of a person. Then how can such Muslims call themselves as the bearer of Islamic message if they commit such hideous acts.

At another instance, Allah Almighty says in Quran:

“Allah forbids you not, with regard to those who fight you not for your faith, nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: For Allah loves those who are just.” (60:8)

In this ayah, it is evident that Allah Almighty forbids the fighting of people that do not fight Muslims on their faith or expel them from their homes. Meaning that no matter whatever the situation is Islam will never back the killing of innocent civilians in the name of Islam. Therefore, those who kill innocent civilians in the name of Islam are not doing it for Islam rather they have some other false agenda.

Rather, Islam preaches the message of fair dealing, piety and observing of justice whenever confronted with such matters. Allah Almighty says in Quran:

“O ye who believe! Stand out firmly for Allah, as witnesses to fair dealing, and let not the hatred of others to you make you swerve to wrong and depart from the justice. Be just: that is next to piety: and fear Allah. For Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do.” (5:8)

In short, Islam preaches it followers to be just. A just Muslim would never kill civilians or damage any of the property or respect of another person whether a Muslim or non-Muslim. Therefore, if anything, Islam can never be called a religion of terrorism or violence, rather the essence of Islam lies in peace, harmony and love for humanity.

About Author:

HijabalFaisal works with QuranReading.com which provides online Holy Quran tutoring service to Muslims in the West. To such Muslims besides the online Quran study, QuranReading also helps them in knowing the real Islamic values and teachings, so that they represent Islam in a better way to the people of West.

Different people in the world have different beliefs about the presence of the God. It is a fact that many strange and mysterious myths are prevailing among different factions of people living in various parts of the world. Almost all these suppositions are wrong and are not even close to reality. However, before discussing more about the actual nature of God, it is better to learn about contrasting presumptions of people belonging to different nations and faiths about the existence of God.

What atheists say?

There is huge number of people in this world who think that God does not exist at all. Their basic objection is that there is not apparent evidence that proves the presence of a divine being and is able to satisfy their minds and hearts. They believe that universe came into being in its own and is running smoothly at its own. As far as living organisms are concerned, their perception is that they are a result of thousands of years of evolution.

Emotional and irrational faith in God:

There are also such people who believe in God on emotional and irrational grounds. These people never try to satisfy their minds that whether an omnipotent and omnipresent God really exists. Some of their beliefs about God are based on fear of catastrophes, natural phenomena, and things like that. However, they never ponder on how these things really happen and who is actually behind them. Therefore, it is certainty that both of above-mentioned groups have never been able to find a satisfying and correct answer about their Creator.

Total ignorant:

Then there is yet another race of people who just do not bother to thing about God altogether. These people find it better to simply ignore the most difficult and mysterious question which apparently has no answer. According to them, the situation is so intricate that it seems to have no solution.

What these people are oblivious of:

Unfortunately, all of above-mentioned groups are completely oblivious of a true and powerful message that explicitly explains what is right and wrong. This divine message answers all the difficult questions and satisfies the queries of brain and heart.

People on the right path:

Finally, there are also people that are on the right path that God Himself has proclaimed for humankind. This path tells people to first identify their Creator by using their brains and after that worship Him from their hearts because this is the most natural method of establishing the presence of anything. The people who are following these righteous directions are called Muslims and the divine message is known as Islam.

The fate of divine books:

God had enclosed this great information in many religious books and revealed these books on different Prophets (S.A.) for the guidance of humankind. Unfortunately, dishonest followers of these books corrupted and tempered them and changed their actual message in order to axe their own material grinds. That is why God kept sending Prophets (A.S.) and kept revealing divine books and fateful people kept making changes in these scriptures.

The Holy Quran:

However, over more than 14 century ago, God send Prophet (PBUH) to the entire humanity as His last messenger and revealed Holy Quran on him. The Holy Quran contains the similar message incorporated by former divine books but with one exception. Allah the Exalted has made the Holy Quran the last of divine scriptures and after that; there will be no more book to bring human being towards right path. That is it is complete in all respects and God Himself has promised to protect this book in actual shape until judgment day. Allah says in Holy Quran,

“Behold, it is We Ourselves who have bestowed from on high this reminder: and behold, it is We who shall truly guard it” [Holy Quran 15: 9]

Holy Quran was revealed more than 1400 years ago and if you compare the earliest copies of the Holy Quran word by word with the currently published texts, we will find that there is no difference at all. Only this evidence is enough to prove that Holy Quran is indeed the word of God and no human being has authored this great book. Still, If people are still skeptic about the truth that Quran encloses, they can consult different methods to learn and understand Quran like learned Islamic scholars or reliable teachers offering Holy Quran online tutoring. After that compare that treasure of knowledge with the teachings of other religions and make a decision yourself.

Conclusion:

Every wise and rational person is rightfully doubtful about this book if he or she has not gone through this book. However, as mentioned above, there are many options for people to know more about Quran like learning online Quran offered by different Muslim organization. In fact, Allah has answered each question in this book, which a person can ask, and we should be grateful to God for this showing us the right path.

There are several issues and concerns people have regarding Islam. People believe it to be a religion that is hostile, that promotes aggression, oppresses women, and is against progress and civilization and so on. The fact of the matter is that all these are mere accusation and the projections of western media; the real Islam is quite contrary.

Among the several accusations made against Islam, the major accusation is that Islam oppresses women and is strictly against their education and enlightenment. The fact is quite contrary, as Islam is an ardent supporter of education of women, and Muslim women have a great place in Islamic history. The lines below discuss the emphasis put by Islam on education of women.

First of all this thing needs to be cleared out from the head that Islam only encourages the education of men and does not allow it for female. On contrary, Islam is supportive of education and learning without any gender discrimination. The hadith of Prophet (PBUH) says:

“Acquisition of knowledge is binding on all Muslims (both men and women without any discrimination)”. [Ibn Maja 1:81]

It is clear from this hadith that Prophet (PBUH) enforces the acquisition of knowledge by both the genders equally. A woman has the equal right and duty of getting educated as does a man. Therefore, there is no truth in the false accusation that Islam is gender biased in the matter of education.

Pertaining to education, first of all a Muslim needs to understand the concept of education in Islam. In Islam education does not mean only attaining of worldly or religious knowledge or degrees, rather Islam emphasizes on education of manners along with the formal and conventional education. The hadith of Prophet (PBUH) in this regard is:

“The best parents are those who provide the best of education, which includes the best of manner.” (Al-Bukhari)

This hadith clearly interprets into the fact that education does not only comprise of degrees and knowledge of science or arts or philosophy or religion, rather it also includes the manners. And when it comes to manners, the Muslim women have been at the best of them, thus according to hadith, those prestigious women are considered educated. Some of the renowned Muslim women that fulfill the Islamic criterion of education are mentioned below:

Hazrat Khadija bint Khuwalid (R.A) - She was the first wife of Prophet (PBUH) and the first women to accept Islam. Her status as a successful business woman shows her education and learning of business, and her status in Islam as being the one along with her daughter Fatima as the perfect women, shows her education of manners as well.

Hazrat Aisha (R.A) - Among Muslims, Hazrat Aisha (R.A) at that time as well as till now is regarded as one of the most intellectual women with the qualities of leadership. She is among the personalities who have narrated the most hadith of Prophet (PBUH). Her knowledge of hadith qualifies her as an educated women and the reverend place she held among Muslim because of her manners makes her a perfect example of educated women.

Hazrat Umm Salama (R.A) - She was another wife of Prophet (PBUH) known for her wisdom and intellect. She gave important advice to Prophet (PBUH) regarding crucial matters and all her life she was a confidante whenever her husband required her to be so.

Bottom Line:

In short, this image of Islam oppressing women is merely a false projection of the western media who does not want Islam to spread and the Islam which opposes the limitless liberalism west idealizes. Islam is equally biased when it comes to education of women. The hadith of Prophet (PBUH) and the examples of Muslim women in Islamic history show that women are equally valued and given importance in Islam when it comes to education.

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It is the basic belief of every true Muslim that this world is a transitory one and will finally culminate on the judgment day. On the Resurrection day, everyone will be accountable for his deeds committed in this mortal world. Pious Muslims will be rewarded with paradise where they will be the beneficiaries of God’s unbound blessings and will live there forever. On the other hand wrongdoers and followers of satanic ways will perpetually burn in a fire that is million times stronger than the ordinary worldly fire.

But Allah Almighty loves His creatures and His love surpasses the love of everyone in the world including the love of mothers for their children. That is why Allah does not want human beings to burn in hell and want to save them from everlasting curse. Allah has proclaimed many guidelines which every person in the world can follow to earn his place in paradise and avoid atrocities of hell.  According to a Hadith of Holy Prophet (PBUH) there will be seven types of person who will be under the shade of Allah on Judgment. Those persons are,

The just ruler:

The concept of justice is the foundation of religion of Islam. Especially, it is very important for any Muslim ruler to be just and compassionate to all people regardless of their social status and wealth. He needs to keep one thing in mind that it is actually Allah who bestows ranks and can strip anyone from his position as well. As Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said,

“Allah does not bless a people among whom a weak man is not given his right.”
[At-Tirmidhi]

The one who is attached to Mosques:

Hazrat Abu Hurraira (R.A.) narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said,

“Allah will prepare for him who goes to the mosque (every) morning and in the afternoon an honorable place in Paradise with good hospitality for (what he has done) every morning and afternoon goings”. Sahih Bukhari [11:631]

Mosque is the home of Allah and anyone who goes to mosque five times a day to offer prayers will definitely find a place in paradise.

A young worshiper:

Youth is the age of unbridled desires and insatiable imaginations and it is very difficult to divert to ways of Allah in youth. However, those young Muslims who follow the teachings of Islam with full zeal and zest and avoid the traps of Satan are especially compensated by Allah in the next word. It is especially important for young Muslims to follow the life of Holy Prophet (PBUH), resist the mundane temptations and learn and recite Quran either through Quran tutors or online Quran recitation academies.

Love is only for Allah:

Allah Almighty Says in the holy Quran:

“The believers are nothing else than brothers, so make reconciliation between your brothers, and fear Allah, that you may receive mercy.” [Quran 49:10]

The person who is ready to sacrifice all his relations and property for the sake of Allah is especially praised by All Mighty. According to Islamic teachings, a Muslim’s love for his relatives cannot surpass his love and affection for Allah and such persons who follows that principle will be saved from the unbearable heat of the judgment day.

A chaste man:

It is almost impossible to reject the call of any unchaste women but such Muslims who successfully manage to avoid adultery are the favorites of Allah. Allah has announced strict punishment for adulterers both in this world and in the world hereafter. Allah says in Holy Quran,

And come not near to the adultery. Verily, it is a shameful (deed) and an evil way (that leads one to Hell).”  [Quran 17:32]

The one who gives charity silently:

Giving charity secretly is one of the most favorite actions of Allah and such Muslim will not even get close to the sweltering heat of sun on Resurrection day. Secret charity means your charity is only for the sake of Allah and you are not being chivalrous just to show off.

The one who shed tears in love for Allah in a lonely place:

Such person whose heart is filled with unconditional love, glorification and reverence for Allah and he sheds tears in such a place where he is hidden from the worldly eyes of people. While shedding tears he remembers and praises Allah and asks for His forgiveness and mercy. This person has made his future in next world completely safe and he is a member of paradise. As Allah says in The Holy Quran,

“The believers are only those who, when Allah is mentioned, feel a fear in their hearts and when His Verses (this Qur’an) are recited to them, they (i.e. the Verses) increase their Faith; and they put their trust in their Lord (Alone).” [Surat Al Anfal: 2].

Hence it is absolutely important for every Muslim to inculcate these qualities in his or her life to avoid wrath of God on the all important day. They need to learn Holy Quran no matter what difficulties they face and no matter where they learn the Quran whether it is in mosque, school or online Quran teaching. They need to follow the teachings of Allah to become a staunch Muslim to end up in paradise. There is no other option.

It is rightly said that change is the other name of life. Everything has been constantly evolving and changing since the inception of this boundless universe. Stars are wandering in the immeasurable cosmos and planets are revolving around these stars. Similarly, human beings have also made unbelievable progress over the centuries. Starting from a simple and uncomplicated life, human beings have developed a modern and sophisticated system of living in this world.

Islam and latest developments:

The basic reason of this preface is that some so called western and even some misguided Muslim scholars hilariously allege Islam of being incapable of adapting to social and technological changes that have taken place in recent years or so. This a rather distorted view of Islam as a religion because Allah on many occasions have emphasized on the importance of living an industrious life and have give certain examples like movements of stars in the universe.

Examples from Islamic History:

Furthermore, it is quite misrepresenting to say that Islam cannot keep abreast with what is happening around the world. There are many examples in glorious Muslim history where Muslims influenced the world not only through their own culture but also adopt good traditions and mundane knowledge of other civilizations. For example, it were Muslims who revitalized the Greek wisdom of medicines and literature and make best use of it for the betterment of the world. Later on this knowledge became an indispensible part of Muslim societies and cultures.

In addition to this Muslims History has also seen many revolutionary movements like Khariites and Mutazila.  These movements were both beneficial and detrimental for Muslim culture and had long lasting impacts on Muslim societies.

Moreover, Muslims as a nation and religion has seen many rise and falls like complete plundering of Baghdad by Hulegu Khan. Likewise, Non Muslims have been trying desperately since the times of Holy Prophet (PBUH) to eliminate Muslims from the face of the world. Despite of these malicious efforts, Islamic societies have flourished and Islam is still a major force to reckon with in this world.

The ability to survive and adapt:

Many Muslim Scholars like Allama Muhammad Iqbal have attributed the survival of Muslims to their ability of withstanding any assault against their religion and traditions. Furthermore, Islam as a religion is fully equipped to adapt to changing world and formulate new rules and regulations within the principles proclaimed by God in Holy Quran and through Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Islam is alive as a religion is also evident from the commendable freedom fights across the Islamic world to gain independence from imperialistic countries like United Kingdom, France and Italy in first of the twentieth century.

This implies that Muslims like just other religion like to have their own independent countries where they can establish their own system of government and spend their lives according to the teachings of Islam. Muslims never surrendered to the intruders and kept on fighting against any effort by occupying nations to eradicate Muslim history and traditions by propagating their cultures in conquered lands.

Technology and Islam:

Another, blame against Islam is that Islamic teachings opposed the use of technology. This is another erroneous supposition because most of the recent scientific discoveries are endorsing the natural facts described in Holy Quran. How could be such religion be against modern inventions and discoveries who itself explains these natural phenomenon centuries before they were scientifically proved.

Furthermore, during the zenith of Muslim rule, Islam produced some of the greatest scientist the world has ever seen. For example, Avicenna is regarded as the pioneer of medicines in east and west, Jaber Bin Hayan known in west as Geber invented the sulphuric acid and Ibne Haytham was the one who explained the structure of eye precisely and he is the actual inventor of Pin Hole Camera as well. Even in recent times, Islamic countries have made rapid progress in the field of technology and trying to compete with rest of the world.

Western traditions and Islam:

Islam is a complete code of life and provides completed guidelines about how to live and survive in this world without inviting the wrath of God. However, according to western world adaptability with latest developments means totally imitating the western cultures and devising our institutions on western lines. The point to be discussed that western institutions, traditions and cultures would be able to meet their particular requirements but they are not suitable for Muslims societies or for any other society for that matter.

Islam is a perfect model for living in this world and needs no foreign assistance or modification. As far as keeping harmony with rest of the world, Islam offers the principle of Ijtehad to Muslims. In Ijtehad, Muslims scholars can find directions from Holy Quran and life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) about how to adjust with latest developments surfeiting the world nowadays. Therefore, Islam is complete in all aspects and Muslims need not to embrace western culture to survive in this world:

Conclusion:

Islam is a divine religion fully competent to counter different problems arising during different periods of time. Islam is still prevailing in this world is a proof that Islam is a true religion that has everything for everyone and will prevail till the judgment day Inshallah.

The evolution in science and technology has made the modern man skeptic. He now believes that man is the center of all the activities of the universe and he governs all its processes and holds in his hand how the world is to change and evolve.

Although man has certain authorities, however, the qualities of Omnipotence and Omniscience lie only with Allah Almighty. There is no sane or a logical person in this world who will deny the fact that there is a God and He is the One who governs and regulates all the activities of this world and is all-knowing. The lines below give different facts, that point towards the existence and presence of Allah Almighty, but these points are only for the people who understanding, and not for those who are stubborn enough to ignore any fact laid in front of them.

Facts from Universe:

Universe is a humungous creation of Allah Almighty and for a sane person it is a justification enough that all of this cannot come into being on its own, neither can it all run systematically without any regulation of a Supreme Authority. Some amazing facts about universe, which we never bother upon, are:

• In this world, 16million tons of water falls down on earth, while in the same second 16million tons of water evaporates from its surface.
• Every second, lightning flashes about hundred times which releases trillions of nitrogen molecules in the earth’s atmosphere, thus making it stable.
• In one second, the Sun performs the function of converting 564million tons of hydrogen into 4million tons of energy and 560 million tons of helium. By the end of this process, the sun emits a big radiation ball, which contains energy equivalent to millions of nuclear bomb.

If these simple facts be analyzed, it becomes evident that even a slight irregularity in the tenth part of a second could result in the end of the world as we know it. All of it directs towards the fact that Allah Almighty is there who is watching and governing all these affairs to the minutest details. Allah Almighty says in Quran:

“And with Him are the keys of the unseen; none knows them except Him. And He knows what is on the land and in the sea. Not a leaf falls but that He knows it. And no grain is there within the darknesses of the earth and no moist or dry [thing] but that it is [written] in a clear record.” (Surah Al-An’am 59)

This ayah shows that there is nothing Allah Almighty does not know about, and there is nothing that happens without His Will and permission.

Facts from Human Body:

Besides the marvels of this world, the human body and its functioning is another jewel created by Allah Almighty. For believers and logical people, the functioning of human body and its construction are evident examples of the Creator and His dexterity. Some facts about human body are:

• Every second the blood and reproductive cells produce over 2000 proteins.
• Every second, on average 50million cells die and the same amount of cells regenerates in our body.
• All the blood is circulated to the whole body by the heart within 60seconds.
• In every single second, about five hundred different chemical processes take place in a liver cell.
• Over a 100 billion body processes would have taken place until you finish reading this sentence.
• The body processes and functions take place in over 7billion people of the world every second.

These facts of the human body show that there is no such thing as the body running on its own, rather Allah Almighty, has specified the regulation of the processes that take place in the body, and whenever, He wishes to disturb even the minutest of them, the human body dysfunctions and goes into pain and suffering. All of this is governed by Allah Almighty, as He says in Quran:

“…. No date-fruit comes out of its sheath, nor does a female conceive (within her womb) nor bring forth….” (Surat al Fussilat, 47)

This ayah and countless other in Quran notify the fact that Allah Almighty is the sole creator, and there is nothing in the universe, in humans, in animal, and in non-living things that happens without his permission and will.

Concluding, it can be said that if a logical and sane person, ponders over the mysteries of universe and even on the most common and simple processes without any bias, he or she would ultimately find Allah Almighty, and will know that He is the Omnipotent and the Omniscient and all of this cannot be a mere co-incidence.

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The latest issue haunting the Muslim world is the derogatory movie made against the Holy Prophet (PBUH). The protest and the fire in the heart of Muslims across the world had not ceased, that a French magazine came up with the caricature of Prophet (PBUH) resulting in adding insult to injury. The only reason because of why Western world could come up with against all this derogation and hurting of billion Muslims is the Freedom of Speech.

Freedom of speech is to say what a person wants regardless of any insight to the consequences. The lines below give a detail of the concept of freedom of speech in West and their contradictions, along with the sayings of Islam on freedom of speech in light of holy Quran learning and Sunnah.

West And Its Contradictions:

Every where the modern countries of West are found speaking freedom of speech, however, firstly their lie contradiction in their saying and doing, and secondly, as per say there cannot be such a concept of freedom of speech.

Contradictions:

Some of the major contradictions in the Western world pertaining to the slogan of freedom of speech are:

• In Europe certain social and legal limits are imposed on publication of Semitic cartoons, and as per law the person doing so is liable to be prosecuted legally. Moreover, in some of the European countries the law restricts everyone not to say that Hitler was the killer of Jews. On the other hand, when it comes to the movie and sketches against Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) the hypocritical Europe calls it freedom of speech.
• In UK there exists Official Secrets Act, which binds all the workers of UK intelligence agencies to sign a paper which restricts their freedom of speech in matters of national security.
• In United States also the CIA officials are bound to keep everything secret as per law. The law initiated when CIA officials started writing memoirs. Thus the hypocrisy of United States pertaining to freedom of speech.

As a matter of fact, no matter how liberal the West is, they have never been able to establish a true definition of freedom of speech. Would calling prostitution good, pornography a healthy thing be considered freedom of speech? The answer is that it is very subjective and the West could never define freedom of speech, neither can it allow someone to speak against its opinions. Therefore, the Western Freedom of Speech slogan is fallible; hence it needs not to be followed.

Islamic Point Of View:

The Islamic point of view about the freedom of speech is quite clear; there is no ‘freedom of speech’ slogan in Islam. Rather Islam has given us Quran and Sunnah as the boundaries, staying within which a Muslim can say or debate about anything. Therefore, there is no need to follow the Western slogan of freedom of speech. Allah Almighty says in Quran:

“We have set you on a plain way of commandment so follow it, and not the desires of those who have no knowledge.” (Quran 45:18)

Therefore, Holy Quran reading gives guidance to Muslim about anything they want to say about anything. In lights of Quran Muslims can decide whether the speech about a particular person or topic is to be made or not.

It is not that Islam does not allow proclamation of opinion freely; rather it is allowed but within the boundaries set by Quran and Sunnah. Some examples that show the Islamic freedom of opinion and respect to the feelings of others are given below:

• Harun al-Rahid would give financial incentives to those who would learn, teach and debate about issues of deen for the purpose of clear understanding.
• Prophet (PBUH) said: “The master of martyrs is Hamza bin Abdul Muttalib and a man who stood up to an oppressive ruler, ordered hi (to do good) and forbade him (from doing evil) and was killed by him.”  Thus Muslims have freedom of expressing their opinion when it is against an oppressor abusing his authority or anything happening against Islam.
• When it comes to tolerating non-Muslims, Prophet (PBUH) clearly said: “Whoever hurts a non-Muslim citizen of an Islamic state hurts me, and he who hurts me annoys Allah”. (Bukhari) The hadith clearly shows the value preached to Muslims in respecting and securing the non-Muslim citizens, their beliefs and lives both.

In short, a Muslim of today’s world does not need to follow the Western hypocritical slogan of freedom of speech. Rather a Muslim needs to follow the instructions of Quran and the Sunnah of Holy Prophet (PBUH) which in reality are what they preach on contrary to Western slogan. Therefore, a Muslim must always speak and express opinion in guidance of Quran and Sunnah and not follow the hollow charm of West.

Every now and then the biggest issue Muslim world faces is a person or a group of people publishing, writing, or creating something that is against Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In response to which the Muslims all across the globe protest in despair and try everything possible that emphasizes their protest even if it’s violent.

Although a Muslim, who reads Quran, knows about hadith and Sunnah of Prophet (PBUH) has every right to protest in the strongest way possible. However, the Muslims of today need to learn Quran preaching, be cautious and sensible and try to understand the reasons behind these offenses against Prophet (PBUH) and what are their aftermaths. The lines below explain that why the evil people offend Prophet (PBUH) and how should Muslims react in response to it, but before that a little background of the current situation.

Background of Current Situation:

The situation at hand is that an unknown person has made a movie about Muslims and in the movie Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has shown in an insulting manner. The movie was to be released in the remembrance of 9/11. The information about the movie caused great anger among Muslims and strong protests were made in Libya, Egypt, Yemen, Sudan, Tunisia and other Middle East countries along with all other countries with Muslim population. The rallies started as peaceful turned out violent, resulting in fires and the Ambassador of US getting killed in Libya along with 4 other diplomats. From then onwards the protests have been going on across the globe.

The Reasons Why They Offend:

A Muslim needs to analyze the reasons for why such people offend Islam in particular and Muslims in general, so that the according response could be exhibited. First of all the need is to analyze the kind of love and revere Muslims have for the Prophet (PBUH). Some of the major hadith’s in this regard are:

The Prophet (PBUH) said that no one can have true faith until “Allah and His Messenger are more beloved to you than anything else” (ibn Al- Arabi)

Moreover the Prophet (PBUH) also said that “No one is a believer until I become more beloved to him than his father, son, and the whole humanity.” (Ibn Dakik)

These two hadith’s show the love Muslims carry for the Prophet (PBUH) and the importance the reverence and lover for Him holds in Islamic faith.

Now coming to the reasons why such people offend against the feeling of Muslims for Prophet (PBUH). There are several reasons besides them being non-Muslims. The major ones are:

• The reason for such offense could be that such people want Muslims to be distracted from Islam by doing such things. This situation is the same as the people of Makkah would do where they would tell the visitors not to meet Prophet (PBUH) by calling him a wizard, and magician.
• The other reason could be to gain fame. All those people who have offended Prophet (PBUH) previously and those who did it now were unknown to the world prior to their offence. Therefore, to gain fame the cheap way they offend Muslims that makes such people the subject of talk across the globe.
• The third major reason is to earn money. With an offensive picture or movie, that gets publicity all over the world, it is bound to generate a lot of money compared to if it were ignored.
• Political tactics and political gains is another reason for such offense. Like in this particular case, Libya was to select its political government and the riots broke.
• Last but not the least of all reasons could be to harm the image of Islam and Muslims. The culprits know that Muslims get extremely offended by such actions. Thus they want to show Muslims as barbarians, savages and violent people and portray Islam in the same way.

It is the duty of every Muslim to respond to such offense only after knowing the above mentioned reasons or any other reasons behind the offense.

How Muslims Should Respond:

Before moving forward to how Muslims should respond to such an offense, the need is to develop an ideology for the response.

There is no denying the fact that every Muslim loves Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) more than anything and anyone in this world. However, fiqh also teaches us to keep an eye on the consequences as well. A Muslim must take an action after considering the principle, and consequences.

In the given case, the principal is to take as severe stance against the offender as possible. However, when the consequences are considered, where most of the times it results in loss of life, property of others, a bad image of Islam, violence and distress in the country, then fiqh tells us to give the consequence priority. By Quran reading a Muslim can find the perfect example of it in the instance of when Prophet Moses went on the mountain and on his back people made a bull god and started worshiping it, and upon his arrival Moses became furious and angry with Harun (his brother). As mentioned in Quran, the reply of Harun was:

“I was afraid lest you should say: You have caused a division among the children of Israel and not waited for my word.” (Taha 20:94)

In this case also the principle was to stop Bani Israel from worshiping a bull god; however, the consequences would have been division among the people and violence. Therefore, Harun opted for consequences, and Moses asked for his forgiveness from Allah Almighty.

Now coming back to the point of how to address such offense, the lines below give details that are totally practical while keeping both the principle and consequences in mind.

Ignore- The first and most effective way of responding to such offenses is to ignore them. This seriously demoralizes the offenders and does not let them succeed in their plans mentioned above. In Quran Allah also says:

“And turn away from the ignorant” (Al-A’raf 7:199)

Therefore, responding to such offenses in any way gives air to fire. So totally ignore!

Reflect- The second thing the Muslims must do is to take a leaf out of the life of Prophet’s (PBUH) life. He was an epitome of forbearance, patience and forgiveness. Whenever such an epitome strikes, Muslims should try to idealize how He would have reacted to such situation. His obvious response would have been to bear such a person as He did all his life and to view things from forgiveness perspective.

Be Smart- Muslims should use their head and consider such an offense as an opportunity to show their positive side. Everyone in the world thinks of Muslims as vicious people, therefore, by reacting to such offenses calmly and peacefully would send a positive message about Islam and Muslims to all the people of world.

Appreciate Denouncers- Everyone who denounces and disregards such an offensive movie, the Muslim should appreciate them and join hands with them. Every statement of apology from any embassy or State should be appreciated instead of attacking them.

Professional Response- On contrary to the response showed by Egypt, Yemen, Tunisia and Libya the right way of expressing the freedom would have been to show it the way the offender’s show, by making a movie, journalistic writing, poetry and all other forms of arts.

Concluding Remarks:

There is no denying the fact that the love for Prophet (PBUH) is the life of a Muslim and nothing is above that, and Muslims possess every right to be furious. However, in Quran Allah Almighty says:

“No one should be held accountable for others’ mistakes.” (Al- An’am)

Therefore, Muslims must show forbearance and appreciate those who denounced the movie and all the people associated with it. Moreover, burning building and property of others who are not affiliated with the offending person goes against the preaching of Islam. Hence it is the duty of every Muslim to record protest against every offense made against Islam in the most professional, peaceful and calm manner, so that the world sees the peaceful, forgiving, loving and humanitarian side of Islam.

May Allah guide us all to the right path and make us better Muslims and lovers of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Ameen!

Every person who is born to Muslim parents is a Muslim by birth and a person who accepts Islam after by saying the Kalma is also a Muslim. However, being a Muslim is far more than merely being born to Muslim parents or just entering Islam by saying Kalma. The need for a Muslim is to follow and practice Islam.

After entering Islam or realizing the fact of being a Muslim, it is the duty of every Muslim to follow the Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The lines below give useful tips extracted from Sunnah and Quran that can help a Muslim to become a pure:

1. Faith In Allah-

First of all you need to have a strong unflinching faith on the Supremacy of Allah. He is the creator of all and whatever happens in this world is as per His will. Have strong faith in Allah, all His Prophets and Books He bestowed upon mankind.

2. Pray- Thing to adhere to in prayers is not saying them as a robot, rather there needs to be sincerity in your prayers. Take prayers as a source that helps you avoid all other sins, instead of just performing prayers and continuing sins likewise. Pray with true heart and spirit.

3. Midnight Prayers- Say the prayer of Tahajjud at midnight when most of the people are in sleep. Waking up at midnight shows that your love with Allah and for only him you have woke up and not for reasons of boasting in front of others.

4. Zikr- Reciting the name of Allah Almighty all the times makes a person blessing full. The Zikr purifies a person and makes him close to Allah Almighty.

5. Shukar- Being grateful to Allah Almighty for all you have whether it’s physical, spiritual or mental is another trait of a pure Muslim. When a person believes that all is from Allah Almighty and he becomes more thankful and grateful to Allah for all His blessings.

6. Quran and Hadith- In order to become a true Muslim, a person needs to stay in constant touch with Quran and Hadith of Prophet (PBUH). Both these sources provide guidelines to becoming a true Muslim, no matter whichever walk of life you belong to. If you don’t have time to read Quran at home, you can read Quran online in your office, same goes for Hadith as well.

7. Protect Chastity- Adultery is one of the major sins, therefore, to become a true, you need to protect chastity and always ask Allah for protection.

8. Keeping Promises- Prophet (PBUH) always kept His promise no matter whatever the situation is. Therefore, to become a pure and true Muslim you need to keep your promises, and honor your commitments.

9. Fast- Besides the month of Ramadan fast in other months as well. But do not fast to impress, rather fast only because you want to do it for Allah and Prophet (PBUH) did it as well.

10. Never Lie- One among the people who is most hated by Allah is whom who lies. In order to become a pure Muslim, you need to be a void of lying. When you become a pure Muslim, you become a role model, and a role models are not worth following if the person is a liar. Therefore, commit never to lie.

11. Be Kind- To become a pure you also need to be a kind to everyone, regardless of that they are Muslim or not, as it is what our Prophet (PBUH) did. Moreover, if you are a man, then the best thing you can do is to be kind to your family, as Prophet (PBUH) said:

“The best of you is he who is best to his family.”

12. Strive Towards Goodwill- The path of becoming a pure Muslim also requires sacrifice. In order to practice goodwill, you will have to sacrifice your personal will, be giving, be considerate, helpful, courteous, and charitable, participate in Quran teaching and be a source of providing happiness to others.

In short, being a pure Muslim is not just following a single instruction of Islam. Rather, to become a true Muslim you will have to follow Quran and Sunnah and make them a part of your life, and to seek guidance from both these sources.