Commitment with Understanding


There is a great deal of gloom and despondency among Muslims. This, despite the fact that we have a tremendous human potential of some 1.3 billion, and are leading the world in growth - especially in productive youngsters. We are also blessed with an abundance of natural resources such as petroleum and natural gas, while inhabiting the most strategic areas of the globe. Place these factors in the context of Islam's uniquely transcendental message, alongside the testimonials of a glorious historic past, and you have all the ingredients for a respectable place in the comity of nations.

Given this, especially in the post-colonial era, we should have taken off on sound footing, building a grand society on our traditional Islamic principles of justice, freedom, peace and prosperity. Yet we did not. And our masses are among the world's poor, hungry, and illiterate. With over a 60 percent illiteracy rate, our people are held backwards and have few avenues of gainful productivity. As a result, nearly 40 percent live below the poverty line (less than $2.00 a day). And while our masses continue to suffer, corrupt autocratic dictators plunder our resources and loot the public treasury. And when they finally leave thrones of power, billions are taken with them to be stashed in foreign banks.

These dictators have perfected the tools of corruption through deceit and nepotism; silencing and terrorizing the masses through coercion, detention and murder, maintaining their status quo by subservience to foreign masters, attending to their interests, rather than the interests of their own people.

In addition, the current havoc wrought on Muslim lands amply demonstrates that it is past time that our masses and genuine leadership take affairs in their own hands; they can no longer afford to leave them to autocratic rulers or their cliques and protgs, and the circumstances that necessarily result. Each and every one of us has to be earnestly committed and involved in all our affairs.

First and foremost, we must acquire knowledge. Indeed, the era of inquiry, inquisition and application started with the first word of Iqra revealed to the Prophet , and he made it incumbent on every Muslim, male and female, to acquire it from the cradle to the grave. This mandate created a great civilization unparalleled in the history of humankind. Unfortunately, this enlightened culture weakened because this noble tradition of scholarship was neglected by rulers of the day, only to be subsequently followed by subjugation by colonialists. And the failed states of the Muslim world today pay no heed to this tradition.

Public education and accessibility to knowledge must now constitute our primary concern since there is no lack of talent among Muslims within and without Muslim countries. And in this age of the Internet, with the free flow of information, one less barrier is breached. Essential is organization by dedicated individuals at the local level. And each and every one of us should be involved in one form or another, in attending or promoting it. Those with means should loosen their purses wide open, for that is best that can be done to uplift their people, while ensuring rewards with the Creator in the Hereafter.

However, it is important for those involved in this endeavor that the information imparted be relevant to our crucial understanding of Islam, offering Islamic solutions to the exigencies of our times, while adopting modern means for their usefulness. 

Muslims in the West, while promoting Islamic understanding among them, must develop necessary institutions, and simultaneously play their due role in this effort in Muslim countries. American Muslims, in particular, coming from almost every nation, are in a unique position, representing a microcosm of the Ummah, who can offer solutions for the Ummah's problems as they gather together their large pool of talent and advanced educational resources. American Muslims should develop requisite institutions in the U.S., as well as get involved in collaborative efforts in Muslim countries.

Among the primary institutions to be established and strengthened are those that serve as rights and civil liberties watchdogs; preserve and protect public funds against misappropriation and corruption; maximize public scrutiny and debate; and work for the unity and solidarity of the Ummah.

We must utilize the above means as committed Muslims. It means that we are committed to Allah, our Lord and Creator, put our trust in Him, and know that success will come if we are true believers - that we are conscious of our accountability and answerability to Him for all our actions. Our approach must be in conformity with the maxim - "seeking the good of this world and the good of the Hereafter." This commitment necessarily entails that we root out any and all selfishness, and work hard for the collective good of the community, the Ummah, and humanity at large.

Unfortunately, while we are good at concentrating on our individual salvation, we waste much time on issues that are peripheral and not of much significance to our collective existence which is at stake. Differences in seeing issues from different perspectives are a healthy sign, but only to the extent that they are not exaggerated to become detrimental to the community. Thus, while welcoming differences in views and ideas and encouraging diversity for the greater good, any sectarianism, discord and conflict must be shunned, and all of our issues resolved through discussion, amicably. Islam places its utmost emphasis on the unity of Ummah, second only to the submission to Allah; and condemns in the strongest terms any willful attempt that causes splitting of the Ummah.

Pursuing the above, Muslims must also be committed human beings, because Islam ascribes nothing more than a sublimation of human values. All it seeks is the good for humanity, in Toto, so we should embrace good wherever it is, irrespective of whence it emanates. This role is in accord with the Quranic message, for example, "You are the best Ummah evolved for humankind; you enjoin what is good and check what is wrong and evil for humankind while having faith in Allah" (Quran, 3:110). Its other characteristic is Ummatan Wastan, a median or balanced community given the responsibility of exemplifying as "witnesses (to the truth) before humankind" (Quran, 2:143). The greatness of Islamic Ummah is contingent upon carrying out this great role for humankind that it is assigned.

Therefore, Muslims must form alliances and coalitions worldwide, especially in the West, with likeminded people and organizations that stand for causes in common between them.

Muslims cannot remain on the sidelines of this movement or only get earnestly involved with a holistic, transcendental vision taking the lead and guiding role. This is because Islam, literally and purposely, is peace, and takes an unreserved stand for justice humankind as a whole. The Quranic injunctions are clear; such as, "Allah commands you to render back your trusts to those to whom they are due; And when you judge between humankind, that you judge with justice: Verily how excellent is the teaching, which He gives you! For Allah is He who hears and sees all things" (Quran, 5:58). Then, further on in the same chapter, it instructs, "O You who believe! Stand firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it is (against) rich or poor; for Allah can best protect both. Follow not the lusts (of your heart), lest you swerve, and if you distort (justice) or decline to do justice, verily Allah is well-acquainted with all that you do" (Quran, 4:135).

Siraj Islam Mufti, Ph.D. is a researcher and a free-lance journalist.


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Older Comments:
LEARNQURANONLINE1 said:
Thank you for this wonderful information looking forward for more. I really appreciate your efforts to write such amazing piece of content for us.
2020-02-06

BINSEY FROM CANADA said:
My Dad was my Best-Friend; I put him in an old-folks home; he went in there on February 6, 2009 and he died on August 9, 2009. (I am shaking my head, no). I loved him so much; I could not take care of him, safely, anymore. I feel sooo sad and guilty, I wanted to take care of him till he died; but I couldn't. I feel sooo guilty; I wish I could have done more... I feel like I am such a bad daughter. I love my Daddykins, more than anything.... I miss him so much; he was my best friend. I miss him very, very much.
2009-12-31

MAIK FROM ZEALAND said:
simple but quality, thanks!a
2007-07-02

UMORU SEHID BUHARI FROM NIGERIA said:
Islam can equally be helped or propagated through the enpowerment of Muslims where ever they are. This can be achieved if the oil rich countries requiring the services of professioners will give peference to qualified muslims. In this way oil wealth is evenly spread and these individuals will have enough to spend in tneir localities for Islam.
2003-12-23

C.M. LACY FROM U.S.A. said:
I enjoyed your article. I hope it will have influence on the Islamic masses, especially those who are charged with filling the minds of the young. Improving and educating oneself for the greater good of all mankind is the best of all charities.
2003-05-21

MARY BARRY FROM USA said:
Assalamu Alaikum,
The brother presents a thoughtful, insightful article.
My concern is 2 fold.
1. While there seem to be many more muslims
individually writing of Islam, and it's strengths, its
glorious purpose, there seems to be still lacking a cadre
of "true muslims" to serve as a catalyst for the millions of
American muslims who desire/need direction &
guidance in order to proceed with ways & means of
strengthening the Ummah, as well as serving as role
models (which to me is the BEST dawah) to our
non-muslim friends and neighbors.
2. My second concern is the the Muslim Family itself,
and what I feel is a deterioration in the practice of our
faith as well as the example, expectations and
education we provide for the muslim youth in this
country.
May Allah guide us in addressing these issues and
inshallah, attempting to concretely begin to address
and begin to resolve these issues on a local, regional,
national basis.
We also cannot forget the suffering of our brothers &
sisters the world over.
Salam,
Sr. Mary
2003-05-15

KHADIJAIFTIKHAR FROM CANADA said:
most important not only men but women 2 we need raise funds 4 that weneed to support those who r talented but r unable to persue due 2 lack of resources spare more time on these . Find out solutions & ways a.s,a.p
2003-05-15

LULU FROM UK said:
Critical thinking is a special tool and we should learn to use it. With wisdom comes balance and wisdom is a special attribute and a gift from the Almighty Allah

The question now is why is it that we are not promoting the great scientists like Ibn Rushd at schools and colleges. Please visit the website: http://www.muslimphilosophy.com/ir/default.htm.

Muslims should not criticise others for criticism itself is a self defeat ideology. However if one has an issue with someone else or someone's culture he/she must look at the issue she/he has a problem with. It might not be the person but for example a statement made or an action done.

For the average person who does not possess the tools of critical thinking(within context of Islam) I would say dialogue is the best method to use. The reason being criticism can bring self defence and hence can create negative output. Example of a dialogue between muslims and Christians:

http://www.islamonline.net/english/Contemporary/2002/05/Article13.shtml

For muslims Islam is a way of life. The reason being all our guidance comes from the Quran and the teachings of our Prophet Mohamed(peace be upon him). I would say knowledge and Islam are like twins. For example one can visit:
http://www.harunyahya.com/50islamic_origins_modern_science.php

Reading a scholar's statement I strongly agree that we are super computer human beings who has a manual. God designed us in a unique way and sent messengers as software engineers who can interpret the manual(the Quran) and teach us all about it. Let us compare our heart to a software program and the rest to hardware. In Islam all intentions originate from the heart. Also it is a fact that without a manual a computer program is of no use.

Insulting others has no place in Islam but positive dialogue has. In Africa our elders use dialogue to discuss issues and resolve conflicts.

We can only get closer to Allah through knowledge and Allah is the Guide, the
2003-05-09

MASOUD TALEBZADEH FROM USA said:
ASALMOO ALAKOOM;
I READ THIS ARTICLE AND FOUND IT VERY MUCH ALIGN
WITH MY THOUGHTS. BUT I WOULD LIKE TO ADD FEW NOTES WHICH I THINK IS MISSING:
1)MOSLIMS IN WORLD NEED TO FIND MORE COMMON GROUND THAN DIFFRENCES,LETS FORGET ABOUT ALL DIFFERENT MAZHABS, JUST STAY WITH ALLAH AND QURAN AND MOHAMMD(PBUH)AS THE PROPHET.
2)UNFORTUNATLY THERE ARE TOO MANY VOICES IN ISLAM WIT DIFFRENT INTERPRETATION OF THIER OWN OF QURAN
OR HADITH, LETS HAVE ONE COMMITTEE OF RELIGIOUS LEADERS AND THEY COME OUT WITH FINAL WORD TO THE WORLD AND EVERYBODY TO ACCEPT THAT(OF COURSE WITH TIME AND DIFFRENT ATMOSPHERE THESE CONCULOSIONS CAN BE MODIFIED).
3)WE AS MOSLEMS AS YOU MENTIONED NEED TO FIRST EDUCATE OURSELVER(MALE AND FEMALE,UNLIKE TALEBAN WHO WOULD NOT ALLOW GIRLS TO BECOME EDUCATED),THEN
WE NEED TO STOP SEEING OURSELVES AS SAVIOR OF THE WORLD, WE NEED TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT FOR ME BEFORE EXTEDING AND PUSHING MY RELIGION ON OTHERS.BEHAVE HONEST AND HUMBLE.
4)AND LAST OUR RELIGIOUS LEADERS NEED TO STOP USING OUR YOUNG PEOPLE AS THIER OWN TOOL TO REACH THIER OWN POLITICAL GOAL, AND SHOW THEM HOW TO BE WISE AND DO NOT RESPOND TO THE HEAT OF THE MOMENT.

I HOPE GOD BRINGS PEACE AND UNDERSTANDING TO THE WORLD. THANK YOU
2003-05-09

TAUFEEQ AHMED FROM USA said:
Asak Brother,
I saw your atricle. You are perfectly right.
I appriciate the diagnosis of the muslim community. It is really an eye pener. Keep it up.

Taufeeq.
2003-05-08

LULU FROM UK said:
Using ICT(Information Communication Technology) to help Mankind;
The spirit of mankind community
Where intellectuals and the layman gather
From all walks of life
To discuss the issue common to mankind
Poverty; health; education; spiritual guidance
Can I say more
Souls so diverse
Yet so connected

Oh Allah source of all our knowledge
The Creator of Mankind
Through your knowledge we will discover all our talents;
For knowledge is in itself power
Power so vast yet so untapped
Power that no woman or man can own
For owning knowledge is in itself a defeat and hence ignorance;

We are like children for the more we learn
The less we know;
Oh! Allah the Lord of the Worlds
The Most Beneficent The Most Merciful
You have set us a maze
A maze of knowledge
With Your help we will find every clue for ourselves;
Surely in the end we will all join you

Oh our beloved Allah
The Lord of the worlds
We thank you for bestowing Your Mercy on us
To help us, help one another through ICT

A communication so unique
Where no one sees one another
Yet our souls are united to help and solve mankind's problem;
It does not matter what colour, creed or religion one comes from;
We are all here to help
To put a smile on someone's face
To feed the poor so that they can have a basic decent life
To educate those who are not fortunate to have basic education;
Oh Allah the list is long and there are more challenges ahead of us;
But with Your Mercy and Help we can break barriers;
Oh Allah, we thank you for all that You have given us...
2003-05-08

NURAINI ARSAD FROM MALAYSIA said:
To Hassan, although it is true that it is not realistic to educate everyone before effecting a crucial change, in your example, it could be that if education had been first, independence could have been achieved without violence.
2003-05-08

LULU FROM UK said:
Muslim nations are vast and diverse so each country can benefit by working with organisations, academia and so on across the world. This means working locally but acting globally. I can only contribute the area I have a keen interest which is ICT(Information Communication Technology)

The digital divide issues(computer have's and have nots) is one area where individuals and organisations can contribute to promote illiteracy, health, education and so on using ICT. One should not forget that computers, emails, internet, telecommunication are all part of ICT. The tools of ICT can be used to empower poor nations across the globe. Also to preserve our cultural heritages such as books and printed materials that are out of date can be digitised and published on the internet.

The global world has connected in a unique way using ICT such that distance is not a barrier any more. Discussion lists or forums which are moderated have been created to discuss different issues related to ICT. Organisations and individuals can join in to promote ICT.

You can find out how ICT is reshaping the global world:

http://www.developmentgateway.org//ict

You can even create your own expertise section.

Also others organisations bridging the digital divide issue:

Digital divide network
http://www.digitaldividenetwork.org/content/news/index.cfm
http://www.digitaldividenetwork.org/content/news/index.cfm?key=873

Digital Divice Partnership Online
http://www.digitalpartnership.org/divide.htm

Canada's ICT week:
http://www.itweek.ca/e/index.asp

Gender issues:
http://www.wacc.org.uk/publications/md/md2002-4/turley.html

Muslim websites:
http://www.muslimtents.com/sistersinislam/resources/ldomesticviolence.htm

Faith Science: The "Yoga" of Islamic Prayer
http://198.65.147.194/English/Science/2001/01/article6.shtml

Global Muslim Ecommunity:
http://islam.org/

The list is huge but by taking part in global efforts we can chan
2003-05-08

TRISH GLYNNE FROM USA said:
Oh how sweet it is to read thoughts that are like mine. I have been praying for a Muslim to say what I have been saying; that what we need is, yes, go back to traditional values, but scaled to today's realities. To go back to medieval times is not the way, but to keep the true values in today's society. There does NOT have to be a loss of commitment; just a re-evaluation of how one deals with others who are not committed to peace and love of your fellow human being. It matters not how one worships God as long as it's with belief that there is only one. Love to all!
2003-05-07

HASSAN IBRAHIM FROM KENYA said:
Assalamu Caleykum and carry on the good work. I have been reading Ismicity articles for more than two years. I've learnt a lot and been inspired by your work. Please keep it up and Allah will reward you, Inshaallah.

I've just read COMMITMENT WITH UNDERSTANDING an article by Siraj Islam Mufti, a really nice article touching on contemporary issues. I agree with him in everything excepyt this: that we cannot wait until we are all fully educated. Sample this: During apartheid, ANC leaders had a meeting in which some officials suggested that the the military wing stop its activities till they the blacks in South Africa got fully educated. one memeber, i think Sisulu, rejected this and authorised the beginning of vilent resistance.And we now know what happened next. imagine if they sat back to educate the populace-may be they would still be servants in their own country.... Pliz consifdr this.

thank you.
2003-05-07

MICHAEL HOLLIFIELD FROM US said:
I can see that King is continuing his vigilante tactics of logging on, insulting someone whom he disagrees with, and then running away. I wonder why this is so common here?

I think that we find the answer in the remarks of Riffat Hassan, who described a familiar story, at least familiar to most reasonably well read people:

"What these dialogue participants need to realize is that the Muslim world has not gone through the paradigm changes that the Western Judeo-Christian world has, and that it is, therefore not appropriate to compare either largely uneducated Muslim societies with much better educated Western societies or Muslims who have been educated in the pre-Enlightenment, perhaps even the pre-Reformation mode with Westerners who have been educated in the post-Enlightenment, perhaps even post-modern mode. It is a sign of insensitivity if not arrogance to expect Muslims who have not had the opportunity to go through the process of becoming critical thinkers to engage in a dialogue..." (Education for Peace, eds. Haim Gordon & Leonard Grob, 1987, p. 97)

Fair enough, though it is more a result of clinging to a pre-modern religion than anything to do with "cultural imperialism" as she later claims.

However, the more interesting facet of this issue is why educated Muslims, or those educated in the professional and technical fields at least, prove almost equally unable or unwilling to become critical thinkers, and actually attempt to look at all sides of an issue, and rationally arrive at a view. Instead, we usually find them dogmatically quoting the Koran, making value judgments of others and other cultures soley on the authority of the Koran, or simply insulting people. It doesn't take much intellectual wherewithal to do that, but it does to give an argument.
2003-05-07

MARIANNE PALOS FROM UK said:
Salam alikum, I have read your article and would like to thank you for it.
2003-05-07

ZAKARIYA KOTTAKKODEN FROM INDIA said:
Dear brothers Assalamualaikum
I agree with the matters you pointed But how can we getaround the SHAMES . In all our great Organisation are managed by NON MUSLIMS
I expect from you good uggetions to overcome our SHAMES
2003-05-07

TIJANI OSENI FROM NIGERIA said:
You are doing a good job, keep it up. May Allah reward you.
2003-05-07

RAOON KUNDI FROM USA said:
A beautiful article that touches upon some very important issues ... I just want to add a few comments for those among us who seem to not find a way out.
Lets just start with going to our community centers (The Mosques), an easy way to do this is to start praying 5 times a day, and not quickly head out after each prayer but spend some time mingling with our Muslim borthers & sisters. This act increases our understanding of the community and its problems, its character and its constitution (both in terms of human and other assets). This is the first requirement for formation of a community and once we have a functioning community only then can we have collective action.
We also need to try to bring more and more people into this collective. It helps to understand this as a process and a reward in itself; I say this because, all of us have the need of looking for a quick wordly reward, but the reward here is far reaching. We don't want that thought process interfering with this. Allah's hand is on the Jama' and we need to continue to foster it and keep on making it strong, sometimes at the expense of our egos and prides, and committments of time and money etc. etc. Once we have this worked into our lifes other things will flow out of it automatically.
I can go on and on about the benefits that this process offers but, I would rather use up the last few words to stress again that the reward may come after a lot of hardwork and a long time, but it will, and my generation may or may not be there to reap it but we will have laid a foundation for the coming ones to build upon and ultimately succeed.
2003-05-06

ALAIN JEAN-MAIRET FROM SWITZELAND said:
Excellent piece. I note that many commentators ask what to do, concretely, to follow the author's suggestion. And I thought I'd propose a specific prayer, for a start. That is, not one out of the book, but one out of the heart. But I'm not Muslim. So I will only ask a few questions:

For what are Muslims to pray, in these days?

What do they lack most?

What do they need most?

Which concrete and sincere one wish, if realized, would truly help to strengthen the good values of Islam?

Which thought, if dedicatedly meditated upon by most Muslims, would lead their community along a path of renaissance?

Which prayer would surely bring the correct inspiration?

...

...

...
2003-05-06

SISTER APRIL FROM USA said:
Asalamu aleikum wa rahmatullah wa barakatuh -

Mash-Allah! This is an EXCELLENT article; I cannot say enough good about it. All Muslims need to read and think about it. It's not bashing, not siding with one line of thought or another, but putting Islam first in all things for the betterment of the ummah and mankind. It addresses so many things I've been upset and worried about in our ummah, and is written from the perspective of one who knows and understands our deen. May Allah bless and reward author Siraj Islam Mufti; there is much good to come from this article, al-hamdu lillah!
Jazzak Allah Khair - please let me know when Siraj Islam Mufti has other articles.
2003-05-06

SIDDIQUISHAMS FROM INDIA said:
assalam alaikum,
alhamdulillah.
we have to checkout ourselves..then we can do our deen perfectly
2003-05-06

SAYED YUSUF FROM USA said:
We all agree 100 percent however, what we muslims usually focus on is lack of solution and lack of participation. We need to contribute to our Islamic Organizations a fixed amount of our income and time and then we will be able to bring a little peace and tranquality to our souls. Let us all work toward that goal of creating some strong and powerfull organization for the generations to come.

2003-05-06

SFATIMA FROM INDIA said:
I think what you are saying is right but. by the time muslims wait to get technologically more advanced a, I think they will be wiped out by that time. the policy of the Kuffar is to cahnge the map of whole middle east within next 25 years. to suppress them to such alevel that they can never propogate Islam or fight jihad. before it is too late muslims should join hands in this country and show their solidarity, and oppose strongly by al means which is aginst the inteerst of tye ummah in the world , and not just sit worying about their own positions in this countyr. and material things. look at the orthodox muslims n the east side of the world they do not care about their wealth anymore. which is atemporray thing, our identity as mulsims is thraetened, it is no use accusing each other none of the arb leasders or any leader in the world is good including parvz mushaaraf of pakistan, there is hadith Narrated by Awf ibn Malik(Radhiallaho anho):
Allah's Messenger (sallAllaahu 'alaihi wasallam) said: The best of
your rulers are those whom you love and who love you, who invoke
God's blessings upon you and you invoke His blessings upon them. And
the worst of your rulers are those whom you hate and who hate you and
whom you curse and who curse you. It was asked (by those present):
Shouldn't we overthrow them with the help of the sword? He said: No,
as long as they establish prayer among you. If you then find anything
detestable in them, you should hate their administration, but do not
withdraw yourselves from their obedience.I think when you can obey the kuffar goverments rules and relugations then there is no harm in obeying a aggresive muslim ruler. ther is no ppoint in calling the taliban as terroist or saddam as terrorist to make kafir hapy. that is shear hypocrisy according to rasullalah there is no hope for people who cannot say the truth in front of tyrant. and oppose his actions by word and deed

2003-05-06

USMAN H. KHALIL said:
This is a very good article and speaks for almost every muslim in the world. All of us agree what is said but we have to start doing practically to implement what you said. Everybody wants to do something but cannot. We even know what are the prblems faced by us and may also know the solution. But who will start this and how and when? I mean if something has to be done why not is being done. We should be not be commenting here but doing something practically
2003-05-05

YAZID FROM USA said:
Salaam-

Wow! Well said.
2003-05-05

FATIMA AWAD FROM USA said:
It is a shame that the so-called Muslim countries of today are not one Muslim Nation, united, proud and powerful. Why do Western states view Islam as a threat. Because the message of Islam when applied to a governmental institution, threatens the very existence of the Western world. If an Islamic state was formed, the states that are in power now would crumble. An example is the United States of America, land of the ill-informed and home of white men who always seem to rule. The power of Muslims lies in Islam. Unlike the West which has reformed it's political, social economic systems over and over again at trying to attain perfection, The Muslim world experienced one renaissance; the rebirth of the human soul. In all it's goodness and with guidance from Allah SWTA, great leaders emerged and they led a single nation of Muslims which protected the rights of all individuals. A system was built on justice, prosperity, and dominance over the rest of the world that was stuck in the dark ages. That was the glorious past. Unlike that time of enlightenment, today the Muslim world has slipped into the dark ages by abandononing the guidance that can be found in the Quran, turning to the disbelievers for answers, not defending our soveriengty, our faith, our freedom. Rather, becoming slaves to imperialism, super-imposed boudaries, materialism, imperfect man made systems. We have begun to believe their lies. They have succeeded in dividing us into Shia, Sunni, moderates and fundamentalists. Iraqis want an Islamic State. They must realize that it will not be handed to the by the so-called liberators or occupiers or destroyers or transgressors. They must fight for it through something called JIHAD which is not a bad wors, which is not terrorism like They want us to believe. When will the hypocracy stop. Yeah, we need to go to war for our rights, for our beliefs, like Bush went to war for what he believed in, a crusade against the evil-doers. The real evil-doers must be punished.
2003-05-05

SALAH ISSA FROM LIVING IN USA ---------------HOMELAND IS PALESTINE said:
i have to admit this was a very good paper and i totally agree with what you said. i which you well and i hope you and the other muslim writers continue doing an excelent job.

Aslam Alukum
2003-05-05

HAROUN IBRAHIM ALIYU FROM NIGERIA said:
assalamu alaikum
i am indeed sad to note the activities of our so called rulers, how the sadly misrepresented islam and its clean values, i am in total support of general rethink on the pat of the ummah. Muslims all over the world must wake up and challenge injustice and bad leardership. we must all remember that Allah SWT will call us to account.
thank and may Allah continue to grand victory to us.
massam
2003-05-05

GHADA FROM EGYPT said:
The article is very interesting because it talks about issues that we all have in mind these days. What i would like to see though is actual advice , or practical steps individuals can take to improve muslim countries. We all want to do something butdon't know what to do!
2003-05-05

CRYSTAL KHAN FROM USA said:
Salaamaleikum wahrahmatullahi wabarkatahu....

An excellent article of great benefit!!! However, I must express concern about public education existing as our primary concern in accessing the talents of our youth. The public education system is half of what brought us to the fine predicament we are in to begin with.

Our effort is not to raise a good "citizen of the state" , but moreover to raise a "good human being". A good human being requires the faculties of critical and independent thinking. Whereas a good citizen of the state may involve being a "good" or "bad" human being. We muslims should be inculcating in our youth the ability to make sound judgements based on independent, moral thinking. Public and western secular education is robotized and anti-independent.

Thank you for this wonderful article.
Crystal Khan
2003-05-05

[email protected] FROM INDIA said:
This is very inspiring article. I tried to respond it with my views but I was told that my user name is not valid.

Give me your e mail adress I promise to post my views insha allah.
2003-05-05

FETHIA FROM AMERICA said:
very important points are raised which is the main prevalent issues in the whole muslim society.from this point of view this article is realy good and its message should be more elaborated and more discussed in every muslim gatherings. the solution given as promoting public schools should be more clear cause it has to answer that activities done through public activities are more effective than theone done in private sectors.So as a remedies towards this major crisis in the muslim world more studies and researches are needed in order to adress our problem in an efficient way.Thank you.
2003-05-04

IBRAHIM AZOOR FROM MALDIVE ISLANDS said:
Praise to be Allah,peace be upon Prophet Muhammed and all other prphets.i totaly agree with the bulletine of 5/2/2003 Commitment with Understanding. as around the world we see people with poverty and illiteracy around the world and it include many muslims and muslim nations too,as you have mentions ISLAM tell to acquire knowledge and who walks out of his home to acquire knowldge is walking in the way of ALLAH.
the first verses wich was revaluated to prophet(pbuh)"read or proclaim in the name of ALLAH". state the importance of acquiring knowldge.

as we see the dictators among our muslim naton(s)
the fact i dont understand is are these people realy following the islamic democracy or.....

2003-05-04

L ALAHEM FROM USA said:
Alhamdulilah for your article, it speaks to my heart. We must pull together and give a hand up to our brothers and sisters. We in this country move about freely in a society that others only dream of, and what are we doing? Petty bickering and finger pointing! We must beging to relate to each other as an Ummah, and turn our attention to our bretheren, to educate, guide and help them, and ourselves to fulfil the promise of Islam.
2003-05-03

YUNUS BADAT FROM UK said:
YOUR ARTICLE HAS MANY FACTS AND FIGURES. HAVE WE EVER ASKED OURSELVES WHY WE ARE IN SUCH A SITUATION TODAY, HAVE WE NOT FORGOTTEN THE MOST SIMPLE OF SOLUTIONS, OUR PROPHET S.A.W, OUR TEACHER AND GUIDE - DID HE NOT CONVEY TO US THE MOST IMPORTANT DUTY OF A MUSLIM!! - S A L A H
TAKING ABOUT PERCENTAGES? WHAT PERCENTAGE OF THE MUSLIM UMMAH PRAY SALAH 5 TIMES DAILY? SOMEONE CAME UP WITH A FIGURE OF 5%. EVEN THE JEWS SAY, AND I QUOTE "WHEN YOU MUSLIMS START PRAYING YOUR SALAH, JUST AS YOU PRAY ON FRIDAYS, EVERYDAY, 5 TIMES, THAN WE WILL HAVE SOMETHING TO FEAR ABOUT, UNTIL THAN YOU ARE LOSERS".
SO MY HHUMBLE ADVICE TO ALL BROTHERS AND SISTERS IS, LET US ALL REPENT AND MAKE A FIRM INTENTION TODAY, TONIGHT, NOW THAT WE WILL NOT MISS A SINGLE SALAH. PRAY IN THE MUSJID WHENEVER POSSIBLE, NEXT PRAY AT WORK OR SHOP IN JAMAH, SISTERS AT HOME PRAY AT HOME.
LET US ALL SUBMIT TO ALLAH FOR GUIDENCE TODAY NOW EVERTIME. WE NEED ALLAH ALLAH DOES NOT NEED US.
2003-05-03

SHARIF BRANHAM FROM US said:
That was a well thought out article that reflected my sentiments exactly. The Ummah definetly needs an action plan that is both holistic and universal. I hope we can get past our cultural biases to truelly help one another.
Brother Mufti's article has inspired me.
2003-05-03

PATTI FROM USA said:
Very nice article. Thank-you for sending it. I truely care, and I know things will turn around for you guys soon. For every reason demonstrated in your argument here. Um, Nice article.
2003-05-03

TARIQ SHAIKH FROM USA said:
Till we stop listening to the uneducated Mullah and learn to read and spend time learning the Quran, nothing will change.We really have to get educated people involved in teaching the masses at our mosques etc. Not just religious educated people but people of all walks of life who stress moderation and tloerance.Thats when we will be successful.
2003-05-03

A FROM USA said:
Salam to the Muslim Ummah,

With great pleasure i write this note. This article i hope brings out a lot of details to us, the person who wrote it is a very learned person, with excellent understanding and wisdom (Hikma from Allah) Allah has bestowed upon him. It is also essential to understand the open-mindedness the Quran creates in a human being, be it in dialogue or building a world with justice, freedom and peace or any other thing that we can think of. It tells certain chosen human beings who have attained that level of intellectual excellence and wisdom, to serve the people in a just way, and build a moral society. And to those who are still on their way to attaining it to follow the righteous path of guidance.

It is a known fact that reading broadens one's knowledge and thinking, and it is also a known fact that as Muslims it is our reponsibility to help the masses get the most authentic information be it muslims or non-muslims. I am deliberately not giving a solution to the above two statements that i made, on how to solve the problem of distribution of knowledge, which is my intent, because i want everyone to "THINK" of how to do it, if one does not know how to do it then join the group of people who know how to do it and "LEARN". We have been given "GUIDANCE" and a "BRAIN". Now what we need to do is open the "EYES OF OUR MIND". Now is better than later or never. May Allah forgive me for my shortcomings and mistakes. Any good understanding that comes out of these comments is because of Allah and any wrong understanding that comes out of this is because of me.
2003-05-03

ROBERT OSSORIO FROM USA said:
I am in agreement with your premise of the potential power of Islam. One goal must be to redirect the enrgies of the Western Media to positive things being done by Muslims all around the world and not simply to continue to let them focus on the radicals of the Middle East and their actions. Secondly, these vast resources which you speak of must be redistributed into the hands of more Muslims who can diversify its use especially into the field of education where the next generations must be taught to move our way of life forward according to the Word of Allah and not the misguided interpretations of a handful of individuals and their ignorant followers. We must all beware of those others, the "outsiders" who for centuries have corrupted the way of life for the "People of the Book" and have brought disharmony to what was and is to be a great big family under "One God"
2003-05-03

AMIN ABDULLAH FROM USA said:
PEACE BE UNTO ALL WHO FOLLOW THE GUIDANCE; If you see that which is "Good" praise ALLAH, if you see other than that,Blame no ONE but yourselves. So said the Messenger of ALLAH.
2003-05-03

ABDUL QADIR DRAPER FROM ENGLAND said:
Victory Inshallah

Projecting pessimism onto the Ummah of Muhammad(SAW)is now a thing of the past. Today Muslims rejoice in universal political awareness post Bush and Blair Crusades.

Colonial intervention in Afghanistan and Iraq shows the kuffar fear for their puppets and global influence in the face of the march of political Islam towards its ultimate goal - one state which is Shara for all Muslims.

Morale is soaring in Muslim lands demanding the removal of their tyrant rulers and Western backers.

Recently, US crusaders partially removed themselves from Makka and Madina and redeployed their troops to other lands such as Iraq as a ruse to help keep their Saudi allies in power. Muslims now know that oil is only half the story.

Muslims in the West should focus on unifying the Ummah under one banner; not dividing her on pessimism. The Ummah is on the march and nothing the crusaders can do will stop her now they have set fire to believing Muslim hearts.

We in the West have a duty, and an obligation, as part of the Ummah of Muhammad(SAW)to strive for unity and solidarity where ever we find ourselves; to stand with our Muslim brothers in the fight against the crusader as one believing nation.

It is only a matter of time, inshallah, before this Islamic Ummah shakes off the hydra's head that the West has superimposed on her body and replaces it once more with one Amir-Al-Muminun uniting all Muslims under Sharia.

The Kuffar tremble at the example of political Islam. Their own system is a deep quagmire of corruption, plummeting economic, social and moral decay.

"So do not become weak against your enemy, nor be sad and you will be victorious if you are indeed true believers. If wounds and death have touched you, be sure the same wounds and death have touched them. Thus the days, some good, and not so good. We give to men by turns that Allah test the believers and take martyrs from amongst you. And Allah likes not the zalimun
2003-05-03

AKBAR KHAN FROM CANADA said:
As-Salaam-U-Alaiykum,

It is absolutely the reponsibility of the scholars to be our guides, as the scholar should be our Amir in every aspect of society to show fellow Muslims the path towards righteousness through leadership. Through Islamic knowledge, we know that it is not just the pious Islamic scholar who has dedicated his life to spreading knowledge who will be judged before Allah, Subhana wa ta'ala, but so will the Shaheed, and so will the Muslim who has spent his life in giving Zakat. All three of these men will be the first to stand before Allah (SWT), and be judged by Him, just as everyone else will, but, based on our INTENTIONS, not on what we have DONE, but for whom we worked in our lives for.

Alhumdulilah, as far as it goes concerning coalitions in the West, as I'm Toronto Canada I see an upsurgance of great unity between the United Church, Masjids, and even Synagogues, all joined forces in their protests against the invasion which happened in Iraq...adn continue to protest against the now occupation of Iraq. Mash-Allah I have seen some very prominent Islamic organizations involving youths in Canada and the USA who are well educated, yet are on the straight path of clinging to the Ummah, following the prophet's Seerah, and being well-educated with Quranic understanding...that is an ongoing process.

May Allah raise the Iman of all those who read this article so that they may take a more active role within their communities!

Wa-Salaam
2003-05-03

IQBAL AHMED FROM USA said:
I agree with all that you have written and have similar views and I have seen similar articles hundreds of times but no body takes a practical steps to give it a practical shape. I am looking for a practical steps taken by great theoreticians. If you have a plan put it into action and invite people to join it.
iqbal
2003-05-03

NOON FROM USA said:
very appropriate, thank alla u2.
2003-05-03

FIRDAUS FROM MALAYSIA said:
I think it is about time the ulama and scholars of Islam should rise up to this challenge! They indeed will be questioned by Allah as to why they have let dictators rule Muslim countries for decades?! They should lead the muslim ummah in the true sense of the word. But alas, some learned scholars are more interested in worldly gains, occassionally treating fellow muslims like dirt. I have the unfortunate experience of meeting one of such scholars. The plight of the muslim ummah is due to our own weaknesses. We have non other to blame except ourselves.

In a Hadith (Ibn Majah): Aa'ishah (rda) says: " Once the Nabi (saw) entered the house and I guessed from his face that something of great importance had occured. He did not talk to anyone, and after making ablution he entered the masjid. I stood behind the wall to hear what he said. He sat on the mimbar and, after praising Allah Ta'ala, he said; 'O Muslims! Allah Ta'ala has commanded you to call people to good deeds, and prevent them from committing sins; otherwise a time will come when you will make du'a to Him but He will not listen to you; you will ask your needs of Him, but He will not grant them; you will demand His help against your enemies, but He will not help you.' After saying this, he came down from the mimbar."


All Praise be to Allah.
2003-05-03

LOUBNA NASSER FROM U.S. said:
IT IS TRUE THAT THE MUSLIM WORLD IS VIVID WITH ITS RESOURCES. NOT EVERY MUSLIM BENEFITS FROM THESE RESOURCES. EDUCATION IN THE MUSLIM WORLD IS LIMITED TO THE WEALTHY FAMILIES WHO OWN THESE RESOURCES. TALENT IS NOT A FACTOR THAT DETERMINES IF AN INDIVIDUAL WILL HAVE THE SAME OPPORTUNITY TO AQUIR KNOWLEDGE. MONEY IS AN ESSENTIAL FACTOR THAT DETERMINES WHO WILL CONTINUE HIS OR HER EDUCATION. ALTHOUGH ISLAM HAS THE SAME MOTIVATION FOR EVERY MUSLIM TO SEEK KNOWLEDGE, YET WEALTHY INDIVIDUALS WHO DO NOT KNOW THE BASICS OF THE RELIGION DETERMINE WHO WILL CONTINUE THEIR EDUCATION.
2003-05-03

WALKER SCOTT FROM USA said:
So much of the problem of Islamic despondency and illiteracy is the failure to get beyond a religion of divine slavery to the greater mystery of Christ's divine sonship. If and when we move from a master-slave bond to a father-child relationship with the all-holy One, we enter into a much greater freedom. To move from Allah to Abba is not blasphemy, but the truest and most profound liberation, to move from divine servility to the freedom of divine sonship. This is what Jesus Christ alone offers. This is where Islam finds its ultimate fulfillment too.
2003-05-03

ALI PCALUNDO FROM PHILIPPINES said:
I agree with this article, we should learn to unite ourselves and not to depend on our mostly dictator Muslim leaders, and we should start now.
2003-05-03

VAN CALDWELL FROM U.S. said:
as a non-muslim and non-expert in affairs of the ragion, this is the best summary of of past, present, and future I have read.
2003-05-03

MAHMOUDKHAN FROM AUSTRALIA. said:
I agree. It is time for us to reflect upon ourselves and our failings. Once recognised we can work on improvong on our shortcomings with the help of Allah SWT. By reflecting upon ourselves we can also identify some of the goodness in our selves. We can then harness these good qualities and reach out to one'self family and so on. We need to be convinceed that what we preach is genuinely what we believe and not a merely a projection of ourselves to acquie an approval for gain recognition from friends and or "autho rity" .For there is only ONE authority,and that is the Supreme being. Only the Omniptent seeks our full and total submission in all honesty.When we are honest we will demand honesty from our leaders. We deaserve the leaders we acquire. It is our inaction to dethrone these zaalims that has led to the decline of the Umma.Granted it is difficult ,but I agree that we need to start at grass roots . Education of the masses in our communiyies in the "West" is the springboard to disseminate education in the underprivileged countries . If not physically then by means of funding. The need to educate the younger generation in the field of Media Training is a matter of urgency and absolutel;y mandatory.Let us ask ourselves "what have I done for Allah SWT ,What have I done for the deen of Islam?" This to me is the turning point. We all have some gooness in us . Let us therefore nurture it and expand it.. Salaams mahmood Khan Sydney
2003-05-03

S.M.PARVEZ FROM INDIA said:
the whole article is really good,the main problem is how to implement it?how to make people at grass root level to involve in this?One suggestion is that all the arab or islamic countries who provide jobs to outsiders should make it compulsory to hire only muslims only,It is there in few muslim countries but the nonmuslims at the top curcumvent the way saying that they cant find the muslim candidates,so try to hire only muslim to help them financially
2003-05-03

ASMAHAN FROM USA said:

Jaz'ak Allah Khair.
I totally agree with your essays and i do hope that the muslim umma gets your message and works to bring back the golden age of Islam.
sincerely,
asmahan
2003-05-03

DR.ABDUL MANNAN FROM FINLAND said:
Its a well written article with the thoughts of present time much needed for Muslim Ummah. I wish a wide circulation of this article to all other internet based Muslim groups. I would like to request the author to write a book on the same ideas. We need badly this kind of encouraging books to face the present world situation and to waking up the Muslims. Thanks to Islami City and also thanks to the author. May Allah SWT give you proper rewards.
2003-05-03

JUST A GAL FROM USA said:
As a new muslim, I think a lot of what you say in this article is true, we need to forget divisions and create places that are for the good of all the muslims wanting to obey Allah, more mosques,so one can be in each area is a good start, and dont have imams in them trying to create war on americans here in america, you can be a good muslim and american at the same time,but we need to all help each other to acheive our best so A;;ah will be happy with us, thanks.
2003-05-02