Dr. Yasir Qadhi calls for unity and political engagement within the Muslim community, urging thoughtful involvement and respect for diverse views to protect their rights and strengthen their voice.

Political Tensions and Unity Amidst Challenges

Dr. Yasir Qadhi addresses the current political tensions and divisions impacting Muslims, highlighting the significance of unity amidst these challenges. Referencing an historical incident involving the Muslim minority in Abyssinia, he points to the importance of communal support during times of fear and uncertainty. This story illustrates how the Muslims in Abyssinia once prayed for the success of a non-Muslim ruler who protected them, underlining the complexities of political dynamics for minority communities. The speaker calls for solidarity, urging the Muslim community to prioritize shared interests in times of turmoil.

Importance of Political Engagement

Dr. Qadhi stresses the need for Muslims to be politically engaged to safeguard their rights, particularly during politically polarized times. He shares a story from the time of the sahabah, where they prayed for one non-Muslim group’s success over another, showing that political engagement doesn’t imply endorsing every part of a political stance. Drawing parallels between this historical context and modern-day politics, Dr. Qadhi encourages active participation to protect freedoms and interests without compromising beliefs. He emphasizes that engagement, such as observing election outcomes, helps shape the political landscape in beneficial ways.

Advocacy, Unity, and Civic Responsibility

Shaykh Dr. Yasir Qadhi explores the importance of advocacy and lobbying to champion the Muslim community's rights. He underscores the significance of making dua and seeking Allah’s guidance in decisions. Dr. Qadhi also highlights the roles of civic leaders and scholars in fostering respectful discourse and unity amidst political tension. He discusses voting for third-party candidates as a way to signal dissatisfaction with the current system, potentially challenging the two-party dominance and building alliances with other communities seeking change.

Navigating Political Endorsements and Complexities

Shaykh Dr. Yasir Qadhi reflects on the challenges faced by Muslim civic leaders when endorsing political figures, recounting situations where some imams supported Trump for specific policy reasons. He contrasts this with Muslim activists opposing Trump’s rhetoric, emphasizing that religious beliefs should not dominate political analysis. Dr. Qadhi calls for a cautious approach, discouraging insults and urging respectful dialogue, given the uncertainty and complexity inherent in politics. He advises against definitive judgments based on predictions or assumptions about political figures.

Avoiding Divisions Based on Political Disagreements

Dr. Yasir Qadhi discusses the potential harm of labeling fellow Muslims traitors due to political differences, reserving such judgments only for extreme situations. He recounts the tragic events of the first Civil War in Islam, which led to internal conflict, highlighting the emergence of factions condemning each other. Dr. Qadhi emphasizes learning from these historical tragedies, cautioning against creating divisions within the Muslim community based on politics. Instead, he encourages unity and understanding.

Embracing Diverse Viewpoints and Avoiding Extremist Labels

Dr. Qadhi addresses the risks posed by extremist groups quick to label others as disbelievers. He advises adopting the mainstream Sunni perspective, which refrains from attributing theological deviations to political disagreements. Drawing from historical examples, he advocates for mature, respectful dialogue rather than inflammatory language, emphasizing the benefits of diverse representation across the political spectrum. Dr. Qadhi calls for a balanced approach, urging Muslims to value differing opinions and avoid divisive language.

Supporting Gaza and Holistic Community Involvement

Dr. Yasir Qadhi underscores the importance of supporting the Muslim community in Gaza and participating in the political process to effect change. He encourages engaging with lower-level politicians, such as Senators and Congress members, who can drive significant transformations. Dr. Qadhi calls on Muslims to be active politically, socially, and spiritually, advocating for faith-based contributions to society. Ultimately, he encourages a comprehensive approach to creating a positive community impact, seeking Allah’s blessings and guidance.

Reciter: Shaykh Sajjad Gul - Principal of EPIC Masjid's Darul Quran Hifdh School.

Dr. Yasir Qadhi is a prominent Islamic scholar and author with a PhD from Yale University. As Dean of Academic Affairs at the Islamic Seminary of America, he focuses on faith, social justice, and political engagement, guiding Muslims through modern challenges.