Letter From the Editor

Originality and modernity are wings of Islamic thought

There is a dire need to evaluate the Is- for the welfare of humanity. lamic thought constantly and revise its meth- Certainly, universities should pay more odology and mission in order to identify the attention to the cultural and intellectual pub- problems of this thought and its recent devel- lications, which contribute to awareness and opments. This should occur when there are guidance of people. This is the most impor- deviations from the approved methodologies tant mission of the university in the service and mission just like the case of many ex- of the community. tremists and delinquents. Consequently, the The positive effects of the human thought title “Islamic Thought: Methodology and appear in the development of science, cul- Mission” was chosen as the theme of the ture and businesses. Paying attention to the conference organized by the Muslim World human thoughts at our universities and insti- League in Dakar under the auspices of Sen- tutes leads to the desired development and egalese President Macky Sall. progress. This approach will lead to putting Serious talks and discussions took place Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa’s speech into practice, and resulted in important visions and ideas especially the bringing-up of the Muslim including the importance of linking the hu- youth who will carry the banner of the Is- man mind to faith in a way that makes the lamic thought. belief and faith the key reference of the Mus- Thought leaders and intellectuals know lim intellectual. Prophet Muhammad’s Sun- very well that systematic thinking and con- nah is the approved methodology that draws sideration are based on goals and purposes up the right path for all Muslims. Such link- including solving problems, interpreting ing is the reason for the strength and excel- strange phenomena and addressing issues lence of Islamic thought. facing communities together with taking The Secretary General of the Muslim positive attitudes towards them. World League Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin Nowadays, Muslims suffer from weak- Abdulkarim Al-Issa has stressed the origi- ness and underdevelopment in all areas and nality of the Islamic thought at the opening at all levels due to their intellectual back- session when he said “Originality and mo- wardness although they were in the past the dernity are the wings of Islamic thought used role models of the whole world in culture to reach the reform, creativity and cultural and thought. The lack of resources is not the influence.” real reason, but departing from the correct The outcomes of the conference are thought and path is. Therefore, the only way closely related to the concept of authentic- to progress and development is to reform the ity and modernity. The participants called systematic approach and abide by the su- upon academic, scientific and intellectual in- preme mission of Islam. stitutions to enhance their role in addressing By following this approach, demands of modern legal issues and understanding them the participants in the conference can be ful- correctly in order to reach accurate and cor- filled through removing all the negative ef- rect answers that introduce for all a road map fects in the old and modern thought together. PB lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 1 11

MWL holds international 4 conference in Dakar Dhul-Qadah 1440/ July 2019 1440/ July Dhul-Qadah

Ghanaian Vice-President opens 14 MWL conference in Accra

2 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 3 12

President of Senegal decorates Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa with State Greater Medal

Dr. Al-Issa meets King of Ashanti and launches food aid campaign in Ghana 20

2 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 3 MWL holds international conference in Dakar

4 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 5 Dakar (Senegal) - MWL

Under the patronage of His Excellency, the President of Senegal, Macky Sall, the International Conference on Islamic Thought, Methodology and Mission wrapped up its activities in the Senegalese capital of Dakar. The conference was organized by the Muslim World League and saw the participation of distinguished African scholars and intellectuals.

4 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 5 Dr. Al-Issa addresses the opening of the conference

Participants stressed the impor- Qur’an and the Sunnah to be able to tance of linking the human mind to undertake the Islamic sciences and the faith framework, to be on the confront extremist and violent ideas path of guidance and vision, adher- with their entire negative approaches ing to the traditions of civilization and developments, including terror- and human advancement in its moral ist delinquency. context, seeking peaceful and digni- Participants also stressed the fied life, and keen to unify the rows need to call on universities and sci- and do good to all. entific and intellectual institutions Conferees noted the authentic- to enhance their role in the study of ity of Islamic thought, which is ex- modern Islamic issues and to take pressed by the qualified and the com- cognizance of them in order to come petent specialists who can consider up with correct answers, solutions developments and have the ability to and perceptions that provide the separate the wheat from the chaff in road map for the benefit of the entire the contemporary intellectual trends. humanity. Conferees called for constructive Participants expressed their grati- thought based on the guidance of the tude to the Senegalese president

6 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 7 Part of the opening session of the Conference

and his government for their gener- welcomed MWL’s Secretary General ous care and hospitality. They also His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Muham- thanked the Muslim World League mad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa and the and its Secretary General for their attendees. He expressed his pleasure commendable efforts in disseminat- at holding this conference hosted by ing the tolerant principles of Islam the Senegalese government and peo- and confronting extremism, vio- ple and thanked the Muslim World lence and terrorism and calling for League for organizing the confer- more activism and programs that ence as part of its programs aimed provide wise intellectual guidance at promoting the scientific and intel- in the contemporary issues that are lectual communication with differ- necessary for the Muslim nation and ent nations and cultures. the entire humankind. His Excellency Sheikh Dr. Mu- The conference’s activities kicked hammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa de- off with a speech delivered on the livered a speech in which he thanked behalf of the Senegalese president the Senegalese President for his gen- by Speaker of Senegal’s Parliament, erous patronage of the conference, Mr. Moustapha Niasse, in which he asserting that the importance of its

6 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 7 A huge numbers of participants in the Conference

theme lied in the distinguished Afri- He added, “The Islamic thought can scholars’ presence. has illuminated the world with its His Excellency stressed the mercy, humanity, reform, justice, MWL’s constant keenness to express openness and tolerance within the the truths of Islam and its tolerant guidance of Islam, as well as the re- principles and its positive openness alities of the bright Islamic history to a number of cultures and civiliza- which is attributed to Islam, and not tions, its dedication to the establish- those who misuse its name for their ment of moderation and confronta- material and political interests and tion of exaggeration and extremism their ideological ideas. Those are and its call to make the scientific and fully attributed to their greed and intellectual meetings of Muslims ex- misguidance. We all know that the press their unified word, away from Islamic law has not preserved any- labeling and exclusion under any one from sinning or falling a prey slogan other than the slogan of Islam to misguidance or darkness but the and its name and collective descrip- only preserved and perfect is our tion. He stressed the importance of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon absorbing others with the supreme him.” His Excellency indicated that manners of Islam. authenticity and modernity are the

8 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 9 The attendees of the conference are the excellencies, researchers, scientists, scholars

wings of Islamic thought, hovering Islamic personality, especially the in the horizon of reform, creativity young people to hold an enlightened and cultural influence. He stressed Islamic thought that is helpful for the importance of the Islamic mod- them, the nation, the homeland and eration in the face of the intellectual all humankind. deviation. His Eminence Sheikh Al-Hajj Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa stressed the Imam Emai Anayang, Minister of importance of understanding the sig- Religious Affairs, delivered a speech nificance of the texts of the Shari’ah in which he said: “The Islamic and exploring its purposes and rules. thought, which we are discussing He underscored the importance of some of its theses today, is marked understanding the jurisprudence of by open and flexible characteristics priorities, balances and consequenc- and innovations, but they are guided es as well as spreading awareness of by Islam and follows its course. the rules of Shari’ah in changing the His Eminence said that the law fatwas and rulings, by the change of of Allah Almighty is concerned with times and places, conditions, cus- organizing the life of humans. In this toms, intentions and people, and sense, it is a comprehensive thought contributing to the shaping of the that deals with everything that exists

8 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 9 Senegal’s Speaker of the parliament recieves Souvenir from the SG of the MWL

in life. It does not overlook any as- acterized by the escalation of vio- pect and no aspect has primary over lence in its various forms, and many another. It embraces the issues of life scholars and researchers attribute with integrated and balanced totali- this to the growing intellectual crisis tarianism. that has resulted in extremism and He pointed out that the Islamic terrorism. thought is keen on the careful bal- Dakar’s Mayor Mrs. Seham ance between one’s innate desires Wardini delivered a speech in which and the growth and development of she thanked the MWL for organizing normal life. They should not limit this international conference and its themselves to one thing in particular, pivotal role in enhancing the values as they can’t have political or eco- of moderation, especially in the face nomic thought without a system of of extremist ideas. She emphasized ethics and values, or a system of eth- that the Islamic thought extends ics and values without wise political, bridges of communication with ev- social and economic arrangement. eryone confidently and aptly. He pointed out that the confer- On the sidelines of the confer- ence came in a global context char- ence, a Memorandum of Under-

10 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 11 Dakar’s Mayor Mrs. Seham Wardini recieves Souvenir from the SG of the MWL

standing (MoU) was signed between the MWL, represented by His Excel- lency Sheikh Dr. Mohammed bin Ab- dulkarim Al-Issa, and the Supreme Authority of Senegalese Endowment represented by Her Excellency Mrs. Halima Joub. The MoU included co- operation in activating endowments to contribute to the promotion and development of charitable work cul- ture in Senegal, particularly the im- plementation of mutual endowment, social and investment programs, as well as exchanging experiences in the field of charity and cooperation and coordination with other endow- ment organizations and institutions in the Arab and Islamic worlds. Part of the audience during the conference

10 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 11 President of Senegal decorates Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa with State Greater Medal

Dakar - MWL

President of the Republic of Sen- nating religious values of moderation, egal Macky Sall has decorated the boosting cooperation among the fol- Secretary General of Muslim World lowers of cultures and religions, and League Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin his initiatives and humanitarian pro- Abdulkarim Al-Issa with the State grams around the world. Greater Medal in Dakar in recognition The honorary ceremony took place of his international efforts of dissemi- during President Macky’s meeting

12 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 13 Senegalese President mimics Sheikh Al-Issa and the Order of the largest state

with Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa at the Pal- Senegalese President and expressed ace of Government in the Senegalese his pleasure for visiting Senegal, capital of Dakar. President Macky stressing that the services of the Mus- praised Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa for orga- lim World League around the world nizing the international conference especially in the African continent and for the great efforts made by the represent an Islamic and humanitar- Muslim World League all around the ian duty ordained by the values of the world and in African, especially in Islamic religion, especially the pro- Senegal. motion of harmony among followers Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa thanked the of religions, cultures and ethnicities.

12 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 13 Ghanaian Vice-President opens MWL conference in Accra

14 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 15 Accra (Ghana) - MWL

His Excellency Vice-President of the Republic of Ghana Dr. Maha- mudu Bawumia inaugurated the International Conference organized by the Muslim World League (MWL) in the Ghanaian capital under the title “Religious and Ethnic Minorities ... Rights and Duties”, with the participation of His Excellency Secretary General of the Muslim World League, Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa and a number of selected Excellences and Eminences.

14 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 15 Dr. Al-Issa addresses the opening ceremony of the conference

Dr. Bawumia stressed the paramount im- societies where holistic shift is achieved and portance and seriousness of the theme of the national and religious discrimination is elim- Conference, saying he was heartened by his inated. presence and participation in the discussion His Excellency the Vice-President spoke of an important issue seeking to achieve na- of the MWL’s initiative to bring these impor- tional and social harmony and peace through tant issues to the discussion table. His Ex- the consolidation of the culture of preserving cellency also commended His Excellency the minority rights and their performance of Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa’s ceaseless desire and duties. willingness to provide all support and help He pointed out that faith is the element required to promote dialogue, peace, coex- and the driver leading most of humankind istence and positive national integration, and and forming life systems, and this is why the take part in supporting the humanitarian and topic discussed in the symposium is very im- development work targeting the poor, the portant. He said that granting religious mi- needy and the orphans. norities their full rights, status, positive in- Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa stressed that the MWL tegration into society, their full participation is pleased to organize this significant confer- in all matters of their homeland and ensuring ence and always wishes to be a forum collect- performance of their full national duties hon- ing the shared values, which Allah Almighty estly are the best way to build just and equal has granted to the humankind so life would

16 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 17 Part of the Opening Session of the MWL Conference on Minority Issues

go on a straight path that pleases everyone in The Secretary General continued, “In Is- their harmony, peace, rise and development. lam, our Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa asserted that achiev- him, says: ‘No one of you becomes a true ing that hope would only take place when believer until he likes for his brother what he everyone lives under the umbrella of love, likes for himself’, and Allah commands us to tolerance and understanding the Almighty be kind, good and fair to everyone, regard- Creator’s way with regard to difference and less of their religions and races.” He asserted diversity, and when open brotherly dialogue that today’s world is in a dire need to acti- prevails. vate the humanitarian commonalities, some He added, “We will not find the harmony of which are sufficient to bring the desired and peace that we seek and will not eliminate peace and harmony around the world. the suffering of many poor, disadvantaged, He added, “We say this in the face of the persecuted and oppressed people around the greedy materialistic view, which sees only world, unless when we vanquish the brutal- its own interests to the detriment of the rights ity that is still dominant in some hearts. Be- and the pain of others, and then developers sides, we will not reach the true happiness in of this theory come to blame on the religions its world unless when we take into account for the clash of civilizations. While the fact is bringing joy to others and keeping evil away that religions disavow that, because religion from them.” is primarily based on bringing joy to humans

16 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 17 Ghanaian vice-President receives Souvenir from H.E. Dr. Al-Issa in the worldly life and the hereafter, but the racism together with fearing others and the values of religions unmask that theory and possibility of the civilizational clash.” He face its immoral challenges.” also stressed that the countries of coexis- Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa pointed out that this tence and religious and ethnic harmony could materialistic conception lacking values and overcome these evil orientations and extrem- principles recognizes that religions are the ist ideas and took the path of religious, po- threat to its reputation and entity. Through- litical and intellectual moderation and tem- out its history, this conception tried to dis- perance that is the key base for any stability tort its image and hold it the responsibility and development. He concluded his speech of any extremism or terrorism dressed in a by extending gratitude to the Vice-President fake religious cloak. He highlighted fabrica- of the Republic of Ghana for attending the tions experienced by the religions through- conference. Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa also thanked out history. He also underscored dark ages the Ghanaian leadership and people for their in which the Enlightenment in the West had generosity. been hindered for decades because of the re- The Secretary General of the Conference ligious extremism having no relation with of Ghana Catholic Bishops Pope Lazuris An- the correct religion, injustice and persecution und stressed the importance of holding this suffered by followers of religions including conference in Africa that is characterized by Muslims, Christians, Jews and others. a wide variety of religions and cultures, con- Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa stressed, “We are all firming that the leaders of religions represent aware that the absence of the correct and ac- the hope to achieve harmony and peace away curate piece of information would lead to from differences and clashes. misunderstanding or deliberate negative in- Pope Lazuris Anund pointed out that the terpretation due to the rooting of hatred and coexistence between the Islamic traditions

18 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 19 Ghanaian Catholic Bishops Pope Lazuris Anund and rituals from one hand and principles and sen. This coincides with the outspread of rituals of Christianity would result in peace manifestations of religious extremism that and prosperity among different peoples. He violated the rights of all people without ex- said: “Cooperation and understanding are re- ception. Consequently, we seek to contribute quired things to achieve harmony and peace to discussing of the problems of minorities among peoples with different faiths.” and stopping violence together with achiev- Pope Lazuris Anund made clear that ing sustainable development for all people leaders of religions should work together to without discrimination.” get rid of the hassles of the past and pres- Advisor of the President of the Republic ent. They also should work on common hu- of Burkina Faso Dr. Abu Bakr Abdullah Da- man denominators to be able to confront all khouri praised the human goals of the sym- policies of corruption, forms of extremism, posium calling for abiding by the humanitar- violence and negative competition with the ian brotherhood necessitated by Islam. aim of achieving the positive integration and It is worth mentioning that high-rank- fruitful partnerships that would lead to pros- ing religious, media and political figures of perity, peace and stability. Director of the Is- various affiliations attended the conference. lamic Center of Education and Development The symposium discussed a raft of pressing of the Republic of Ghana Sheikh Ibrahim minority issues, most notably national and Kudjo Kwai confirmed that the MWL led by common denominators, the cultural rights Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin Abdulkarim Al- of multi-religious communities and the role Issa has come a considerable distance in the of religious education and bodies in achiev- path of peace and global harmony. ing citizenship and promoting coexistence Sheikh Ibrahim Kudjo Kwai said, “The among religions together with elements and theme of the symposium was carefully cho- obstacles to social peace.

18 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 19 Dr. Al-Issa meets King of Ashanti and launches food aid campaign in Ghana

Kumasi (Ghana) - MWL

King of the Ashanti Kingdom retary General of the Muslim World Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, in the prov- League, Sheikh Dr. Muhammad bin ince of Kumasi the capital of the Abdulkarim Al-Issa who paid an of- province in Ghana, received the Sec- ficial visit to the Republic of Ghana

20 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 21 King of the people of Ashanti receives Sheikh Al - Issa

during a tour that included a raft of tended the meeting. It is noteworthy African countries. that the population of the Ashanti The King of the Ashanti wel- Kingdom reaches several millions comed the delegation of the Muslim in whole Africa. World League, headed by the Sec- During his visit, Sheikh Dr. Al- retary General, praising the arduous Issa inspected a raft of educational efforts of the Muslim World League facilities. He also launched a food in the humanitarian sphere that cov- aid campaign provided by the Mus- er the entire Africa. lim World League for hundreds of Many Africans belonging to dif- thousands of residents of the prov- ferent religions, races and ethnics ince. make use of these efforts without The Secretary General arrived in discrimination. The Secretary Gen- the Republic of Ghana on an offi- eral of the Muslim World League cial visit. He was received by Grand put spotlight on the deeply rooted Imam of Ghana Sheikh Osman Sha- history of the Ashanti people and its roboto, a number of high-ranking wide impact all over Africa. governmental officials, senior reli- A number of senior and high- gious figures and scholars in Accra ranking government officials -at International Airport.

20 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 21 Al-Issa inaugurates developmental and orphan sponsorship in Ghana

Ghana - MWL

The Secretary General of the Muslim val of Orphans organized by the Muslim World League (MWL) Sheikh Dr. Mu- World League and attended by thou- hammad bin Abdulkarim Al-Issa has sands of orphans in El Wak Stadium, in inaugurated a package of developmental the presence of the Minister of Gender, and orphan sponsorship projects in the Children and Social Protection. He an- Republic of Ghana, a move which was nounced the MWL sponsorship of thou- supported and welcomed by state offi- sands of orphans and the establishment cials and religious figures in the country. of a vocational and technical center un- Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa started the projects by der the supervision of the Government of participating in the International Festi- Ghana.

22 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 23 Dr. Issa with a group of orphans during the celebration of the MWL orphan sponsorship

The MWL spokesperson Abdulwahab of food, medical services and orphan spon- Al-Shehri said this is part of MWL’s mega sorship, and projects of mosques that serve program in the African continent aimed at Muslims in the African countries. supporting affected and needy people and Al-Shehri added that this festival comes victims of crises and disasters in the conti- within the framework of the special program nent. The program is adopted by MWL for approved earlier by Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa to its benefit serving all targeted needy- seg contribute to bridging the gaps in the needs ments in the societies with no religious, eth- of Africa, where the Africans are targeted nic or political discrimination. It includes with a package of various projects covering projects to provide potable water, baskets the most important weaknesses and need

22 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 23 Group photo of Sheikh Al - Issa with a number of students

points, through a comprehensive range of health, development and training initia- tives. In addition to the housing projects, food baskets, orphan sponsorship, water supply and many others for Muslims and non-Muslims, MWL’s humanitarian and religious work is not based on religion, color or ethnicity. Al-Shehri stressed that MWL pays special attention to orphans as one of the needy segments vulnerable to various types of problems from an early age, es- pecially in poor communities, due to the absence of one or both family sponsors. The MWL has previously launched its Global Humanitarian Project for the Or- phan Sponsorship to sponsored thousands of orphans in many countries around the world and provide them with financial, health, social and educational support, and share their own joys and international occasions. He said Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa launched

24 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 25 SG of the MWL, reassuring the conduct of the medical program for beneficiaries

the project of distributing food baskets for to combat eye diseases, seeking to treat the poor and needy in Ghana, aiming to pro- hundreds of beneficiaries as part of MWL’s vide hundreds of thousands of poor people medical project to combat blindness in the with basic foodstuffs for long periods, based African continent. on a periodic plan adopted by MWL to help These projects are part of programs and the needy. initiatives offered by MWL in Africa, which He launched a project to provide potable are based on its belief in its global humani- water to a large segment of those who are tarian role in standing with the poor and the deprived of having access to water supplies affected in their countries. To achieve its to where they live, as they have to travel Islamic slogan “There is a reward for every long distances to get drinking water. MWL one with a moist liver”, the MWL enhanced is one of the largest international organiza- its presence and positive impact on the Af- tions that has dug thousands of wells and rican continent and consolidated its long- connected water networks to homes of the standing alliances and agreements with of- beneficiaries, as well as provided purifica- ficial bodies, civil society organizations and tion plants and launched awareness-raising humanitarian organizations. programs on the importance of conserving MWL affirmed its intention to continue the water resources. exerting greater efforts in Africa towards a Sheikh Dr. Al-Issa inaugurated one of humanitarian and development activity that the biggest mosques established by MWL to is orderly and sustainable. MWL’s work serve the Muslims in Ghana and thousands focuses on coordination with government of the members of the Muslim community agencies in the countries targeted by its pro- there. He launched the medical campaign grams.

24 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 25 Islam is a moderate approach that does not emphasize or exaggerate

Mohammad Zakir Hossain

Dr. Hakan Gülerce is the director of the tend an international conference on “The Migration Policy Application and Research Values of Moderation and Centrism in the Center of Harran University in Turkey. He Holy Qur’an and Sunnah’,” which was is also a lecturer on Religion, Modernity, held under the auspices of the Muslim Social Movements and Migration at the World League (MWL). Mohammad Za- Department of Sociology. He has been to kir Hossain, the MWL editor, interviewed several countries in the world conducting him on the sidelines of the conference on conferences and seminars. He is also Sec- a range of issues concerning Islam and retary General of International Federation Muslims all over the world as well as the of Social Science Organizations (IFSSO). Ummah. Following are the excerpts of the Mr. Hakan was recently in Makkah to at- interview:

26 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 27 Dr. Hakan meets with H.E. the Secretary General of the MWL during the conference

1. How productive and effective did and needed by the Muslim World today. I you find the international conference on believe today the Muslim World needs this ‘The Values of Moderation and Centrism understanding of “wasatiyah” more than in the Holy Qur’an and Sunnah’? ever. What we can call as “Positive action” First of all, I would like to thank MWL or “meaningful action”, based on revelation for inviting me to this very important con- and faith, is an important way of approach- ference in Makkah Al-Mukarramah. I be- ing life which needs to be discussed both in lieve it is more than a conference where theory and in practice. It is a Faith Service many scholars around the world come to- Through The Guidance Of The Qur’an and gether, meet and discuss several issues Sunnah. So, serious discussion is required related to the Muslim world in particular to explore how this concept can give mean- and humanity in general. The topic, “The ing to all aspects of life and human rela- Values of Moderation and Centrism in the tionships, and how it can provide sustain- Holy Qur’an and Sunnah”, is very timely able solutions for humankind’s problems.

26 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 27 A large number of scholars attended the Makkah Declaration Conference

So, I believe that this conference helped to ation, lasting solutions to these problems achieve/contribute to this mission a lot. have not been found. How can the happi- 2. Instability and disunity are harming ness of humanity be obtained both in this the Ummah. What could be the reasons world and in the next? What kind of ap- for this growing phenomenon and how do proach is needed in order to solve or, at you see these should be controlled? least, reduce these problems? Is reconstruc- In these difficult times, the Muslim tion possible without further spiritual and World and in general humanity is suffer- material harm being done? Can a universal ing from the problems which threaten both and sustainable solution be found that tar- our spiritual and material well-being. Not gets these problems at their very roots? The only instability and disunity, throughout need for answers to these kinds of question the world, hunger, poverty, social injustice, is more urgent than ever before. I believe oppression, war, enforced migration, anar- the enemies of the Muslims are “ignorance, chy, violence, terrorism, climate change, poverty, and conflict”. Muslims should fight environmental pollution and a host of other against these three enemies by the weapons negative trends are on the increase. Despite of “education, work/science, and unity”.. numerous efforts to better the human situ- In general, this is the faith service through

28 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 29 the guidance of the Qur’an and Sunnah and I have mentioned this in my early writ- MWL is a good example to implement this ings. For example; about the so-called Is- mission in our lives. lamic State that appeared a couple of years 3. In your opinion what are the major ago in the Middle East, I said, Islamic State issues facing the Muslim Ummah? is not Islamic and is not a state. So, I think As I mentioned above, the major issues we cannot use a term called “Islamic Ter- facing Muslim Ummah are “ignorance, rorism”. Because terror has no religion. No poverty, and conflict” and for these issues, Abrahamic religion in the World promotes we should struggle with “education, indus- terror or violence I believe. But here again, try, and unity”. In addition to this, I would our living for Islam and sincerity has a lot of like to use the metaphor of six sicknesses importance about the growing Islamopho- that we all see in contemporary Muslim cul- bia in the world. So, If we were to display ture and then reach into our “bag of medi- through our actions the perfections of the cines” for six cures for these six illnesses. morality of Islam and the truth about faith These “diseases” of the social life of Mus- and facts about its beliefs, without doubt, lim Ummah include despair, ignorance, ha- the followers of other religions would enter tred, disunity, despotism, and selfishness. Islam in whole communities; some entire The cures for these six sicknesses are all in regions and states, even, would take refuge the “pharmacy of the Qur’an and Sunnah” in Islam. These cures are all to be found in the very 5. The MWL initiative on the religious word of God Almighty, as revealed to the and civilizational dialogue has received Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). great attention in the West. How better It is important to point out that MWL is can we build up a global culture of dia- mainly addressing the ills of society and I logue among civilizations? believe these conferences should continue The great attention (MWL and the with workshops and discussions organized WEST) expresses the need to explore lev- by several institutions. els of peace and the principle of the Qur’an 4. Can you please elaborate on these and Sunnah through a series of activities by other issues? Some of them are as fol- MWL. Under the circumstances of our cur- lows: rent times with continuous struggles around a. The image of Islam today stands tar- the world, there is an increasing feeling of nished; a faith of peace, love, and modera- insecurity and fear. The question of how to tion is being equated with violence, poverty, succeed in achieving peace as an individual, and indignity. Both the external forces that as a society and internationally triggered a are out to damage Islam and a minuscule series of lectures on this subject. I believe extremist group within the community are MWL will have more responsibility to work responsible for this; on this mission to present the true Islam and c. Western media is doing much harm its principles, provide humanitarian aid, ex- by linking Islam to so-called “Islamic ter- tend bridges of understanding and coopera- rorism”. This is accentuated by the vulner- tion with all, engage in positive openness ability of Muslim youth to extremist ideas, to all cultures and civilizations, follow the especially through social media; path of centrism and moderation to realize

28 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 29 Shari’ah is such a term. The demonization of Is- lam via a subjective recon- struction of political Islam as a movement pushing for the implementation of Shari’ah law must know two things: 1. Shari’ah law is a dy- namic law to be reinterpret- ed in accordance with the needs of Muslim Societies. It is not monolithic and ahis- torical. 2. Shari’ah law is humane and open to multiplicity. Its position on such controver- sial issues as human rights, women rights, political pluralism, and some penal codes are open to discussion and need to be freed from “demonizing” biases. 3. Shari’ah law is based on the consent and is not something unilaterally and via state imposition. In short: A major part of Shari’ah is concerned with morality, worship, after-life, and virtue, which fall under the freedom of conscience and has no connection to MWLJ editor interviewing with Dr. Hakan state affairs or politics while some parts deal with state the message of Islam for a and its vital institutions? affairs and politics. This better world full of peace, One of the often-voiced does not mean that religious justice and coexistence. frustrations of Muslims is and moral values, such as 6. Critics of political Is- how some specific terms abstaining from lying and lam consider Shari’ah law from their religion have bribery, will be completely as a threat to their society. been taken over by the West- left out of politics and gov- How can we change this ern press and their mean- erning. It only means that stereotyped image of Islam ing substantially altered. such values can be incor-

30 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 31 porated after being adopted one or something in a wrong in mutual workshops, con- as universal or moral val- way, which also can lead us ferences, visits, many activi- ues once it has been filtered into hatred. Usually, when ties and day trips with a view through common sense, people get confused they to solving the problems in reason, sciences, and con- look for someone or some- our respective countries. By science. One’s intentions thing to blame. This damag- strengthening the connec- need to be pure, sincere, and ing attitude puts up enormous tion between us, we will be free from ulterior motives barriers in relationships. So able to have a more detailed for his message to echo in even if it is just a matter of and intimate understanding the minds and the hearts. confusion, such confusion of the problems affecting 7. What could possibly created barriers in cross-cul- our countries. We also be- be the best global mecha- tural connection. We can say lieve we can develop and in- nism to create a conge- that to have peace and rec- crease the level of cross-cul- nial atmosphere that can onciliation in the world, we tural communication among facilitate civilizational must love each other; to be Muslim Ummah. There are interactions and bring able to love we must know some attitudes and skills to about peace and security each other; to know we must make cultural adjustments in the world? What role have the willingness to en- and cultural interactions that the MWL can play in this gage different cultures. For should be applied. These regard? me the thing most deserv- attitudes have three dimen- I would like to start with ing of love is love, and that sions, which are openness, a very well-known issue. It most deserving of enmity is acceptance, and trust. These is in human nature to hate enmity. It is love and loving are the attitudes that we need the unknown. Many psy- others that make a person’s to adopt as we approach an- chologists today agree that social life secure and lead to other culture. They get us human beings are quick to happiness. For this purpose, started in the right direction judge, fear and even hate to strengthen communica- and help us stay on the right the unknown. If we do not tion between cultures and track towards building posi- know something, we feel each other, and to increase tive connections with people afraid of it. Once we get to understanding and respect, who are different. know something, if we en- the MWL should put more 9. What are your sug- counter the good names and effort to bring people from gestions to the MWL to attributes of that thing then different cultures together as build peace and security we can embark on the path it is doing now at this confer- all over the world? towards loving it. The more ence. I strongly suggest keep- we learn about it, the more 8. How do you see the ing the good work that we love it. This analogy may practical implementation MWL is currently doing and also work for human beings. of those resolutions? look for the ways and means If we do not know someone I think, in addition to this to improve it. Not only we may simply choose to not conference, facilitating the MWL should keep serving love or sometimes even hate. participation of young peo- the faith, sincerity, and fra- Sometimes we know some- ple from different countries ternity for a better world.

30 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 31 Freedom in Islam: Including Choice of Religion

By Ahmed Kamal El-Din Izzeddin

Despite much controversy and several misconceptions about the extent of personal or public freedoms al- lowed in Islam, the ceiling of Islamic liberties is high- er than depicted by most poorly informed narratives. While ‘Islam’ itself connotes total submission to God the Almighty, this by no means erodes any part of the space allowed for the individual to exercise her or his freedom. The intended submission to God is a matter of personal belief and conscience which is itself sub- ject to the will of the relevant individual.

32 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 33 The Temporal and Divine Spheres of Existence: There are basically two broad intertwin- ing spheres of action in Islam. The first is a temporal, worldly one, which is deter- mined by human will and social covenant. It includes the organization of the political society, under a social pact and a system of governance based on popular consensus. Human actions in the political society are governed by the promulgated rules of law, to which all members of the society are subject. Wrong doing is sanctioned by pre- ordained punishments exacted by judicial officials and executed by law enforcement officers. In sum, it is the quintessence of tions fetter the freedoms of the believer? the nation state. This is a rather tricky question. On the The second sphere is more directly outset, duties may denote the existence of dominated by the divine will, under which some kind of limitation on the human free- the deeds of man are judged, subject to re- dom, since one has to do certain things un- ward or punishment by God, in the here- der the compulsion of religion. Well, while after, or the Day of Judgment. While the the options may be narrowed as a result first, mundane sphere depends on human of the imposition of such duty, freedom covenant and design, this divine sphere is a is not necessarily squeezed or suppressed conceptualization of utter faith. Only those in consequence. An honest believer will who believe in God consider themselves as being subjects of His dominion, includ- ing His rewards as well as His punishment, depending on the deeds of the believer. The systems in both spheres can operate simultaneously in complete mutual syner- gy and coordination, free of any collision or contradiction. This enduring harmony is made possible due to the fact that the divine sphere has no physical existence which could collide with the temporal sphere. Rather, its effect is demonstrated through the actions of the believer, which are in turn governed by her or his concep- tion of the world. Duties and Freedom: To what extend do the Islamic obliga-

32 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 33 have willingly submit- ted to the relevant duty to such an extent that it becomes part and par- cel of his freedom! This seemingly ironical con- cept can easily be found in sufi or mystical litera- ture and mythology. The well-known sufi poet and devoted worship- per, Rabiaa Al Adawi- yah, expresses some of such meanings in one of her famous poems, where she surreptitious- ly and solemnly appeals to God: “I have known love since I have expe- rienced your love, and closed up my heart to all, other than You.” The Prophet of Islam used to ask his caller for prayer, or muazzin, Bilal ibn Ra- bah, to ‘bring comfort’ and ease to him and his companions by calling for prayers. Without a high level of conviction and purity of faith, it is not always conceivably easy to see divinely or- dained duties as a source of comfort, serenity and relaxation. And it is this delicate juncture of to- tal human assimilation with divine duty which is missed by researchers into the tenets of Islamic faith, especially when

34 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 35 relating it to modern con- about the essence of free- pinge upon the freedoms cepts of human rights and dom of faith. A few quota- of other humans, which liberties. tions from the Muslim Holy would be an encroachment When Rabei ibn Aamir, Book, the Quran, may help upon the oneness of God back in the year 14 A.H, ap- illustrate thisindispensable the Almighty who – alone - proximately, 636 A.D, was conviction: has the ultimate power and asked by the then Persian (1) “Say, ‘The truth is control over all humans. monarch about the Islamic from your Lord’: Let him His dominion is shared by message carried by Prophet who will, believe, and let none, absolutely. Muhammad he said: “God him who will, reject [it]”. (2) “Let there be no com- sent us to relieve people, Reference to the Lord, or pulsion in religion: Truth- whom God so wills, of wor- God, as the ultimate source stands out clear from Error: shiping slaves [of God] to of truth is crucial here. No whoever rejects evil and be- the worship of God, of the human being should attri- lieves in Allah hath grasped narrowness of the world to bute to her or him the origin the most trustworthy hand- its spaciousness, and of the of truth, not only because hold that never breaks. And injustice of religions to the man continues to be fal- Allah heareth and knoweth justice of Islam”. The con- lible, but also because such all things”. This should text tackled in the previous attribution of truth to man be quite natural, since by paragraph is essential to would bestow upon him a definition ‘faith’ should be comprehend the meanings measure of authority and a purely willful exercise. conveyed in this message control over other human Once belief is ‘forced’ or carried by Rabei ibn Aamir beings. And if that would coerced it becomes shorn on behalf of the Prophet. be the case, then man would of its core attribute that The Quran is quite clear avail an opportunity to im- endows it with its essen-

34 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 35 tial meaning. If someone is (3) “Therefore do thou ‘manage’ (corresponding to compelled into embracing give admonition, for thou the Arabic ‘yudeer’) in this a religion, the result will be art one to admonish.Thou translation of the versed- void. No religion would be art not one to manage enotes a lighter weight in embraced at all. (men’s) affairs”. The word meaning than that carried

36 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 37 by the original Arabic word ‘musaytir’, most appro- priately meaning ‘control- ling’. Therefore the proper meaning of the second verse should go as follows: “Thou art not one to con- trol (men’s) affairs”. Again, this is because if the acts of man are controlled by any person other than the doer of the act, then the whole of such act becomes void. Prophet Muhammad says: “verily, acts are based on the intentions. And verily, every person gets what he [or she] has intended.” The word ‘intention’ here, from the Arabic ‘niyyah’ denotes free will. Once the compo- nent of freedom is stripped from the intention, the cor- responding act becomes void of its content. Should it be an act of worship, it goes unaccepted by God. compelled to believe. In considered in Islam, be Should it be an evil act, not other words, it is a contra- they good or bad deeds, for freely intended, it will not diction of terms to speak of the purposes of rewarding incur punishment by God. ‘compelled belief’, since and punishment alike, be- This is due to the ultimate such element of compul- cause without his freedom divine justice. sion would negate believ- man is relieved of all re- (4) “If it had been thy ing, an act which should sponsibility. Suffice it that Lord’s will, they would all only be deliberate and free- from inception, the reli- have believed, - all who ly expressed. gion of Islam itself cannot are on earth! Wilt thou In conclusion, freedom be embraced except with then compel humankind, is placed in a uniquely high full freedom and unfettered against their will, to be- place in Islam, not just as will. Consequently, respect lieve”! Again, God reminds a decorated icon but as an for the freedom of the in- his apostle of the human essential ingredient of hu- dividual in Islam is funda- freedom of faith, and that man action. Only willful, mental and cannot be com- human beings may not be freely exercised acts are promised.

36 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 37 Hong Kong Muslims - Keeping Islamic ethos alive amid multi-culturism

Aftab Husain Kola

Islam today is an intrinsic component of Hong Kong’s dynamic hybrid culture as it was 100 years ago and serves as a fine example of peaceful cultural co-existence. AFTAB HUSAIN KOLA charts out the Islamic com- munity’s history and developments of the vibrant city-state comprising of a cluster of 263 islands. Hong Kong became the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China on 1 July 1997. With a population of 7,213,338 as on 2018 with Chinese 92%, Filipino 2.5%, Indonesian 2.1%, others 3.4%, Hong Kong is one of the world’s leading financial centers.

38 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 39 Religion-wise, Buddhists or Taoists form across Central Asia, and from the southeast 30%, followed by Christians 12 % and Mus- through the ancient trading ports on the South lims 4.2%, and rest others. Out of the near- China Sea. Guangzhou (formerly Canton), at ly 300,000 Muslims in Hong Kong, most the mouth of the Pearl River and a short train are of Indonesian origin (150,000). Ethnic ride from Hong Kong, has always demon- Chinese Muslims number 50,000 and there strated more willingness to foreign influence are 40000 South Asian Muslims, most of than other Chinese cities, and its Huaisheng whom are Pakistani and the remaining popu- Mosqueconstructed in the Tang Dynasty is lation include Indians, Bangladeshis, Malay- recorded to be the oldest mosque in China. sians and others. China started receiving Muslims after the Muslims make Hong Kong their home rise of Islam in the seventh century, main- Muslims in Hong Kong are fully inte- ly as ambassadors or merchants. They took grated in civic society since the first Indian the land as well as the sea route, along the lascars (merchant sailors from, mainly, the Silk Roads through Central Asia, and by sea, Indian subcontinent employed on European over the Indian Ocean via the Straits of Ma- ships) arrived on East India Company ships lacca. We learn from historical sources that in the 1830s. The East India Company’s in 651AD, an envoy representing the Islam’s trade with China reached its peak in the early third Caliph Uthmanbin Affan, came to the 19th century and thereafter it opened the gate Tang court at Changan in central China. As for the early Muslims making Hong Kong as Islam spread in the Central Asia coupled their home. Prior to these Muslims, Islam with the conversion of the Turks to Is- was already introduced in China from the lam, cities in the western province of Xin- northwest along the overland caravan routes jiang became important centers of Muslim

38 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 39 culture as early as the 10th century. Guards, Prison Guards, Dockyard Guards, The words Hong Kong translate into ‘Fra- Watchmen, Bank Clerks, Royal Naval Dock- grant Harbor’, aptly named because of its yard Police, Ferry Supervisors, Post Office deep-water harbor, which has contributed to Mail Launch Guards, Sanitary Foremen and Hong Kong’s great success as a center for in- Government Servants. The diamond mer- ternational trade and finance. Naturally, the chants from South India, especially Mus- early seamen mostly came from the shores of lims, also arrived in good numbers. Malabar (India), Bay of Bengal, Campbell- pur (north of Pakistan’s Punjab Province,), Organizing into a community Hazara (Abbottabad), Lahore, and Gujarat. When the Muslims maritime traders be- Besides those others came from Shanghai, gan settling in Hong Kong during the early Aden (Yemen), Java, Sumatra, Malacca, Ma- 19th century getting proper accommodation laya (now Malaysia), Sarawak, South-Sea was a big problem they encountered. Moro Borneo, Brunei, Port Said (Egypt), Turkey Kai (streets of the people of the Moros) in and Zanzibar (Tanzania). an area known as Lower Lascar Row in the With Hong Kong’s trade firmed up more Central area was the locality they somehow and more Muslims landed here from India managed to stay. The Muslims organized (principally Punjabis) filling most of the post themselves into a Jamat (organization) for as Hong Kong Police Constables, Marine social and welfare development of the com-

40 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 41 munity and used to meet often at Lower manages the present 5 mosques and 2 Mus- Lascar Row. As Muslims managed to grow lim Cemeteries, besides madrasas and mak- in business hundreds of the Muslims and tabs attached to these mosques. The BOT is their families vacated their shops and resi- also the authority to make all arrangements dences for elsewhere in Hong Kong, their for funerals and burials of deceased Mus- shops were taken over by Chinese traders lims; to employ Imams, Quran Teachers, selling Curios, Souvenirs, Old Scrolls and Cemetery and Office Staff; to announce the Relics and these streets of Lower Lascar dates and days of Muslim festivals, e.g. be- Row are now better known to many tourists ginning of Ramadan and Eids; to buy air- as the ‘Cat Street.’ time on Radio and conduct suhoor and if- Also, during their stint in Kowloon Penin- taar program during Ramadan; to carry out sula the Muslim garrison was one of the first halal inspections and issue halal certificates groups to make arrangements for prayers in Hong Kong and some parts of China; to for the Muslims. On their request a tem- undertake dawah work for the Muslims and porary site was allotted within the Whit- Non-Muslims and carryout any other activi- field Army Barracks between Austin Road ties in the general interests of the Hong Kong and Nathan Road, especially for Friday and Muslims and propagation of Islam. The pre- Eid prayers. The first Mosque in the Kow- mier organization is also engaged in enhanc- loon Peninsula was built in 1896. The grand ing better understanding among different Moorish type Mosque was built entirely by religious leaders and conducting interfaith the Muslim garrisons with assistance from meetings and visiting and educating Mus- their respective commanders. lims held in the prisons. Though Muslims are found all over the The Islamic Union of Hong Kong is an- Island State their main concentration is in other prominent organization whose prima- and around a Masjid; for e.g. near Kowloon ry purpose for coming to Hong Kong was Masjid in Tsim Sha Tsui, Masjid Ammar in to enter into trade and commerce with Wan Chai and Cha Wan Masjid in Cape Col- China. Because of their enthusiastic spirit, linson. they finally settled in Hong Kong to pursue their trading activities. With a member- Active Organizations ship roll of over 700 Muslims of differ- Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Com- ent nationalities such as Indians, Pakistanis, munity Fund, the coordinating body for Chinese, Malays and British, the activities all Islamic affairs in Hong Kong, is a well of Islamic Union include: to improve the respected apex organization. Popularly general welfare of Muslims in Hong Kong; called among Hong Kong Muslims as to promote and foster the practice of Islamic ‘The Board of Trustees (BOT)’, it is rec- principles; to spread, expound and propa- ognized by the government of Hong Kong gate the truth of Islamic knowledge; to es- as the main body representing the interests tablish and maintain homes and hostels for of the Muslim Community in Hong Kong. Muslims in need; to establish and operate The powerful 7-member Board, serves as a schools, colleges, hospitals, clinics, homes federation of four founding and oldest Mus- for the aged and any other charitable and lim Organizations of Hong Kong. The BOT educational institute which the Union shall

40 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 41 deem necessary; to prepare, print and pub- etc. There is a small percentage of them lish any periodicals, books, circulars, leaflets working for the Hong Kong Government, or other literature and to distribute among its for e.g. in the Police Force, Correctional Ser- members and others, etc. vices, Judiciary, banking and finance. With a Besides, there are several organizations mercantile past, Muslims also are into busi- engaged in working towards the welfare of nesses like export-import, retail, etc. Thanks Muslims. The major ones include Anjuman- to efforts by the Muslim community, there e-Mohammedi (Hong Kong SAR) Trustees are a number of community kindergartens, Incorporated; The Pakistan Association of primary and secondary schools. Hong Kong Ltd.; The Indian Association of Another important element in Hong Hong Kong; Chinese Muslim Cultural and Kong’s Muslim community is that there is Fraternal Association; Hong Kong Islamic spirit of camaraderie among them. With well- Chinese Federation; Hong Kong Muslim coordinated management of affairs and Women Association; Khatame Nubuwwat mutual respect, the Muslims here is saved Islamic Council Ltd.; Hong Kong Islamic from the virus of sectarianism. Youth Association (HKIYA), Dawat-e-Is- Hong Kong is a melting pot of varied cui- lami, Hong Kong; Idara Minhaj-ul-Quran sines but for Muslims they are mostly not Hong Kong and the United Welfare Union permissible. Catering to the needs of Muslim Hong Kong Ltd. community and visiting Muslim travelers, a number of halal restaurants have come up. Muslims in jobs and businesses At the recent count, around 80 Halal restau- Hong Kong is a multi-cultural society where rants are doing brisk business in Hong Kong. Muslims and non-Muslims live and work They are at many places but the prominent together in an atmosphere of peace and har- ones include Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean mony. Majority of Muslims work in offices, Park Hong Kong, Popeyes, Ebeneezers, 27 banks, security services, Halal restaurants, Kebab House.

42 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 43 Although no financial support is received was built anew in 1984. It has a capacity to from the Government but Hong Kong Gov- accommodate 3,500 worshippers. Besides ernment permits Muslims to practice Islam. the five times daily prayers, Fridays and The Government is mindful of the places Eid prayers are also held. In Ramadan the of worship for Muslims and extends policy mosque is a beehive of activity as iftar and support to build new places of worship. The taraweeh are arranged. The Islamic Cen- Dawah work is being done by the Incorpo- tre attached to the mosque houses madras- rated Trustees of the Islamic Community sas for boys and girls, a library and a com- Fund of Hong Kong and the Islamic Union munity hall. The complex is equipped with of Hong Kong. Introductory courses on Is- conference room, management office, two lam are held twice year for all those who office rooms for Imams and a big kitchen. are interested in Islam. Visits to Masjid are Dawah Courses (Intermediate Course on arranged for schools, colleges, universities, Islam) for Non-Muslims are regularly con- Hong Kong Police department and for walk ducted. Located on Nathan Road, today the in visitors. Kowloon Masjid and Islamic Centre, with its distinctive white marble exterior, is a defin- Mosques in Hong Kong ing landmark in Tsim Sha Tsui and stands as Hong Kong is home to five regular a true symbol of the Muslim Community in mosques and they are: The Jamia Mosque, Hong Kong. Kowloon Mosque, the Ammar Mosque, The Masjid Ammar and Osman Ramju Stanley mosque and the Chai Wan mosque. Sadick Islamic Center in Wan Chai was con- It was in 1849, the Jamia mosque was secrated in 1981 and now houses the head- constructed at the mid-level of the famous quarters of Incorporated Trustees of the Is- Shelley Street in Central Hong Kong, also lamic Community Fund of Hong Kong and known as the Ladder Street where you can Hong Kong Islamic Youth Association. The go on the world’s longest escalators. Also center of the mosque is an eight-story com- known as Lascar Temple, the mosque though plex which integrates the functions of prayer small but its exquisite, perforated Moorish hall, Chinese restaurant, Halal bakery, medi- arches and colorful facade, set in a serene cal clinic, classrooms, library and seminar suburban location makes it an important room. The two other mosques are the Stan- landmark for the Muslims. As Muslim trad- ley Mosque located on Tung Tau Wan Road ers began trickling in Hong Kong, a major inside the restricted area at Stanley Prison expansion was carried out in 1915. This and a small Mosque in Cape Collinson, structure is protected under the Antiquities Chai Wan. and Monuments Ordinance by the Govern- Hong Kong has at present two Muslim ment of Hong Kong. cemeteries, one in Happy Valley and the Kowloon Mosque is the first mosque on other one in Chai Wan. Both are managed the Kowloon Peninsula. Built in 1896 by the by the Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Muslim garrisons of Hong Kong Regiment Community Fund of Hong Kong. of the British Army with the patronage from Despite being a small percentage of the their respective commanders for the Mus- population yet the Muslims in Hong Kong lims of Upper India, the Kowkoon mosque are living a life with dignity and respect.

42 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 43 Why New Zealand stands out

By M. Nasir Jawed

Conventionally a calm and cool country, What happened at Al-Noor Mosque in cen- New Zealand woke up on March 15 to a ter- tral Christchurch and at Linwood Mosque rible news: A far-right terror attack had struck that also wounded scores, cannot be seen in twice that Friday afternoon, slaughtering 50 isolation. It has been happening for decades. people in two mosques. It didn’t take us long Anti-Muslim attacks have been on the rise in to know the details of the incident including the past few years worldwide, mainly in the the gunman, who gave us enough reasons to United Kingdom, Canada, United States and call him a terrorist. many other places. An Australian-born Dunedin resident, Bren- An imam and his associated are killed near ton Harrison Tarrant, 28, is a white suprema- their mosque in Queens, New York in August cist. He live-streamed online the massacre 2016; a man sprays bullets inside a mosque and posted images of the weapons to Twitter in central Zurich, Switzerland, in December before the feed was taken down. The weap- 2016, wounding at least three worshippers; ons were scrawled with white text. An exam- in January 2017, one Alexandre Bissonnet- ination of the text revealed his obsession with tee kills six worshippers and injures many the history of conflicts between Christians at a Quebec City mosque in Canada; in May and the Islamic empire. Tarrant has since 2017, Jeremy Joseph Christian, 35, engages been arrested and charged by New Zealand in racial slurs at two Muslim women on a Police with murder. train in the north-western US state of Oregon The Rising Tide of Hatred leading to a scuffle in which he stabbed to

44 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 45 death two men who tried to intervene in the to think … We’re so sorry, for the families matter; a 48-year-old Darren Osborne drives over there, for the dead and the injured ... his van into a group of worshippers in Lon- [we] just want to go home and hide … It’s don in June 2017 killing one and injuring just so much of everything to take in that nine. Osborne reportedly shouted: “I want to somebody in our family would do anything kill all Muslims – I did my bit.” like this,” the granny said while speaking to Spain too saw spurt in attacks, some of them Australian media. deadly, on Muslims in the cities of Barcelona, But this is not just all that Muslims got from Madrid, Navarre and Cambrils as also on the the New Zealand community in response to mosques of Granada, Fuenlabrada, Logrono the grisly incident that shook them to the hilt. and Seville are desecrated and firebombed. Sample this: Churches in New Zealand In India, Muslims are being lynched on the opened doors for the Muslims to pray when streets on flimsy ground by Hindu fanatics. mosques were closed for security reasons. In Myanmar and Sri Lanka, they are being Mosques received messages of solidarity targeted by radical Buddhists. and flowers. A fundraiser for the victims is These are but just some of the incidents nearing $400,000. And a UK-based national that are happening around the world spark- forum for Christian-Muslim engagement is ing debates about the growing phenomenon calling on Christians to go along to Friday of Islamophobia and anti-Muslim hatred as prayers at their local mosques – a call the also rising tide of far-right politics in several archbishop of Canterbury endorsed. countries. Churches in London such as St. Paul’s Ca- In the Occupied Palestinian land, terrorists thedral offered prayers during daily services killing Muslims are a common sight with no for those affected by the shootings in New restrains from the government. Zealand. We Stand Together The church tweeted: “We pray too for our A disturbing trend indeed, but it is important Muslim friends (and neighbors) here and for the Muslims to remake their approach around the world.” while dealing with such a situation; and need A Christian Muslim Forum based in London to think: Are they deeply disappointed and urged Christians to go to Friday prayers at depressed with such incidents; are they angry their local mosques “to stand in solidarity” and getting impulsive when it comes to Mus- with Muslims. lim response? Are they resigned to their fate, The forum announced on Twitter with the or getting inclined to taking a path of destruc- hashtag #WeStandTogether: “The devastat- tion and devastation? Or, they still see a ray ing attacks in Christchurch bring us together of hope; the glimmer of a promising future; in grief and in our determination to fight ha- and are therefore reasoning out with the saner tred with friendship.” voice in the society? People wrote message using #TheyAreUs If a gunman in New Zealand with his stupid to signal that Muslims are welcome in New ideology kills 29 people inside a mosque, Zealand. the shooter’s entire family there, including the 81-year-old grandmother, feels “devas- They Are Us tated.” The message #They Are Us gained traction “We’re all gob smacked, we don’t know what after New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda

44 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 45 Ardern used the words in a twitter in re- and mass shootings whether in Cairo or in sponse to the attack. It soon became viral and Pittsburg when a 46-year-old Robert Gregory people used the messages using the hashtag Bowers gunned down in a synagogue. The #TheyAreUs to signal that Muslims are wel- Muslim-American nonprofit groups Cele- come in New Zealand. brate Mercy and Power Change launched a In another show of solidarity, the Jewish com- crowd-funding appeal that raised thousands munity in the country shut its synagogues for the victims. on Shabbat for the first time, according to a Recently after terrorist attacks on churches in tweet by Isaac Herzog, head of the Jewish Sri Lanka, Muslims have taken out proces- Agency for Israel. Northlanders turned up en sion to condemn the attack and in support of masse to walk and sing alongside the Muslim the Christians not just in Sri Lanka, but also community in a show of solidarity. in India and Pakistan. Hundreds of people took out a vigil march Prince William from Whangarei’s Town Basin to Laurie Hall Several countries hailed Jacinda for her Park, organized by various faiths and com- statesman-like approach during the incident. munity leaders throughout Northland. The A few weeks later, Prince William of the attendees at Laurie Hall Park said the show United Kingdom visited New Zealand (April of support for the Muslim community from 26) and told the New Zealanders: “You stood people from all walks of life showed bigotry up (to attacks) and you stood up together.” and hatred could not win. The prince rightly declared: “The global ide- They are right. Hatred will never win. These alism of hate will fail to divide us.” In an- concerns about humanity have never been a other inspiring speech at Christchurch’s Al one-way track. Muslims have shown similar Noor Mosque, Prince William addressed the gestures during incidents of terror attacks Muslims and called on them all to unite to

46 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 47 fight racism in all its forms. are about 60 mosques in the country. New Zealand They have also secured from the local city Located in the South Pacific, New Zealand is councils plots of land for burial. Schools and a country of about 60 million sheep but only universities send their classes to visit Islamic 4.9 million people, of whom about 50,000 are centers and mosques to get a better apprecia- Muslims, who first arrived here in 1868 from tion of Islam and its rituals. Universities and China to work in the mining industry, but soon other training institutions are visited by Mus- returned as the industry declined. They came lims for information on Islam. TV and radio again in 1908 and settled in Auckland, but programs are presented, and scholars of inter- they took a firm foothold in the country from national repute are invited for public lectures. 1950 onwards. Although in small number, Conclusion they soon organized themselves, gathering Allah Almighty says: “And We will surely in private homes to observe salaat (prayers), test you with something of fear and hunger conduct Qur’an classes and hold religious and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but celebrations. Later they purchased ordinary give good tidings to the patient, Who, when houses, converting them into Islamic centers disaster strikes them, say, ‘Indeed we belong in all major cities throughout the country. to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.’ In 1950, they formed a regional Muslim asso- Those are the ones upon who are blessings ciation in Auckland, called the New Zealand from their Lord and mercy. And it is those Muslim Association (NZMA) and followed who are the [rightly] guided.” (Qur’an, it up in the other regions like the Wellington 2:155-157) Muslim Association in Wellington in 1962, In the given atmosphere of hatred and hos- which later became the International Mus- tilities, Muslims need to play a vital role on lim Association of New Zealand (IMAN). By global level to encourage the concept of mu- mid-1950s, every region had set up Muslim tual existence – by words and deeds. Damage associations, which were registered with the has been done – both from within and out- government as incorporated societies. They side – to drive across a wicked message that used these bodies mainly for the immediate Muslims can’t coexist with others, which is needs of their communities. In most cases, this wrong. Muslims’ is the most flexible culture meant establishing classes for Qur’an-reading that all through the history has been able to and Islamic studies. Despite the scarcity of adapt to the strangest of strange places in the educational resource material and adequately world. This is one reason why Islam spread trained teachers, these classes filled the need so fast and so consistently. Instead of fall- for some form of Islamic education in what ing prey to the sinister machinations of the was a completely secular environment. preachers of hatred, Muslims need to prove In September 1979, Muslims established a that they abhor terrorism and hatred in all national body called the Federation of Islam- its faces and forms whether they are coming ic Associations of New Zealand to coordinate from inside or outside. We need to expose with the regional associations and also to rep- and shame all these preachers of hatred. resent the interests of Muslims as a whole, at We are not alone. In this path of peace and national and international levels. truth, we will always find Jacindas and Wil- Today, the Muslims in New Zealand com- liams on our side, enough to frustrate their prise about 35 different nationalities. There evil plans.

46 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 47 Religious Policy of Some Prominent Mughal Rulers

Mohammad Dawood Sofi

Introduction ing the reign of Babur. In a way, Ba- The religious policy of the Mughal bur had inherited his religious policy emperors was based on tolerance from Lodhis. As an enlightened rul- and acceptance. When Babur came er, he exhibited tolerance towards all into power, Sikandar Lodhi’s fanati- religions and had advised Humayun cism found space in his empire. It to follow the same policy. In most was mainly sustained by some of the of the cases the Mughal emperors officials who continued to serve dur- showed a lot of tolerance towards

48 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 49 other religious groups without losing Islamic Mughal court challenged the position of the character. The Hindus who were in majority orthodoxy. were treated liberally by the Mughals. This is evident from the fact that a large number of Religious Policy of Akbar Hindus were appointed to high posts in the A lot of literature has been produced on how government such as Revenue and Finance, and what kind of religious policy and idea Army, etc. It is because of the official pa- Akbar followed. It is not generally accepted tronage and recognition that the Hindus were that Akbar abjured Islam; however, it is also well-off socially and economically. true that he deviated from orthodoxy by in- voking Sufic and pantheistic notions. He be- Department of Religious Affairs: Func- lieved that he understood Islam better than tions others and his policies and principles helped The Mughals had established the Depart- in spreading the power of Islam to a great ment of Religious Affairs for the adminis- extent. In the early days of his rule, there tration of various religious matters. It was used to be serious discussions over various generally the office of sadr-us-sudur that issues between the learned jurists. He used was responsible for the administration of the to conduct and supervise such theological religious affairs. The person who was to be discussions regularly with an aim to secure appointed to the post of sadr should possess his own supreme position in the Empire. distinguishing qualities such as faith, wis- To realize this dream, he in 1579 persuaded dom, integrity, truthfulness, foresight, kind- many theologians to sign a document called ness, sincerity, etc. so that he can deal with mahzar that recognized him as imam-i-adil different religious matters and issues justly (the just ruler or leader). However, such rec- and honestly. As the head of the Department ognition in the mahzar encountered opposi- of the Religious Affairs, the sadr possessed tion because it was considered that Akbar the authority of appointing qadis and muhta- was not technically imam-i-adil or he does sibs. He was also responsible to appoint the not possess such qualities. According to the staff of masajid and manage their expenses, Muslim jurisprudence, it is the authority of in case the locals failed to do that. Even the the imam-i-adil to choose or apply any in- sadr had a say in the choice of Imams and terpretation among different interpretations preachers to different big masajid. The De- of the sacred text offered by the leaned ju- partment had, therefore, a stronghold over rists. In doing so, the leader should have suf- the religious affairs until Akbar devised new ficient knowledge in order to judge the best policies that resulted in considerable politi- interpretation. In the earlier period, the rul- cal and administrative changes. It declined ers who did not possess such qualifications the power and authority of the office of sadr- used to delegate this authority and power us-sudur. Not only this, the establishment of mentioned in the mahzar to their sadrs. The strong contact between Mughals and Safa- signing of this document, therefore, marked, wids, the immigration of a large number of among other things, the decline of the power Iranians to India, the matrimonial alliance and influence of the orthodoxy in the court, with the Rajputs, and the growing influence the end of Akbar’s discussion with the ortho- of both Shi’ah Iranians and Rajputs in the dox Islam, and the beginning of the hostility

48 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 49 between Akbar and traditionalist Muslims. were condemned by Akbar. The doctrines Subsequently, Akbar was now determined to and ideas Akbar followed were heavily influ- break or reduce the influence of orthodoxy. enced by the philosophy of Ibn Arabi. God Therefore, he victimized the more prominent creates visible differences whereas Reality is religious figures, dismissed sadrs and qadis always the same. Akbar realized that there is and replaced them with new sadrs and qadis a close relationship between the Divine Sov- who would help him in satisfying his desired ereign and the temporal sovereign and he be- goals. lieved that for the later dispensing of justice Although Akbar proclaimed his strong and administering the world is the real form belief in God in all the circumstances, yet his of worship. concept of how God should be worshipped Akbar’s religious policy also represented was independent of both Islam and Hindu- his efforts at finding out the truth in other ism. His belief was similar to that of Sufis religions. According to him, there was no who believe that each person should realize harm in doing so. Further, he hardly worried and worship God according to his individual about limitations that only such features of knowledge. The image-worship of the Hin- other religions should be accepted that do dus and the prayer rituals of the Muslims not conflict with Islam. He took full advan-

50 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 51 tage of his position as a monarch to bring Akbar’s son Jahangir, although, pursued about various changes in various fields. So the policy of his father and maintained a dis- his policy of eclecticism and heterodoxy has tance from the orthodoxy, yet, he attempted eclipsed various institutions of Islam and to restore the rites and institutions of Islam has also damaged the hold of Islam upon the that were otherwise eclipsed or discarded polity. Therefore, Akbar’s policy evoked a during the reign of his father. Shah Jahan, strong reaction from the orthodox Muslims often pictured as a religious man and an or- and most bright name in this regard is that thodox Muslim ruler, passionately pursued of Shaykh Ahmad Sirhindi. He because of the policy of re-imposing Islamic laws. De- his earnest efforts and endeavors came to spite the growing power and influence of be popularly known as Mujadid-i-alf-Thani non-Muslims and other sects of Islam in the (The Reviver of the Second Millennium). Empire, it was not easy at all for the Mughal The title shows the significance of his efforts rulers to neglect the voices of orthodoxy. in restoring the position of orthodoxy to its At the same time, these rulers were bound earlier position and in reforming many un- to give due consideration to the feelings and Islamic practices that had found legitimacy voices of Shi‘ahs and non-Muslims because among the Muslims. Indeed, he was highly they were holding high positions. Therefore, successful in his mission for he touched the their cooperation was highly significant to feelings of the majority of the Muslims. It keep the Empire free from disorder and an- is also reported that Akbar towards the end archy. It is correct to say that both Jahangir of his rule showed less interest in religious and Shah Jahan made several attempts to experiments and speculations. reconcile orthodoxy, yet, in this process they One of the noteworthy elements of Ak- neither offended others nor took away any bar’s policy was his emphasis on the toler- privilege from them. By respecting the feel- ance of men of all faiths, including Shi‘ahs. ings of different groups, Jahangir and Shah He strongly prohibited Sunni-Shi‘ah conflict Jahan, thus, succeeded in maintaining the and worked for the cooperation between the balance between them. two groups. It is because of this reason that Shah Jahan exhibited tolerance towards Jahangir used to say with lot of pride that others, despite being regarded as a staunch while elsewhere Shi‘ahs persecuted Sunnis orthodox Muslim emperor. This fact is and vice versa, in his father’s empire Sunnis proved by the thing that in 1637 there were and Shi‘ites not only tolerated one another 35 Rajputs who were holding high posts in but also prayed in one masjid. It is true that the Mughal administration. Moreover, the Akbar’s policy of eclecticism made the Mu- poet Sundar Kavi Rai being one of his fa- ghal Empire almost free from various reli- vorite courtiers indicates Shah Jahan’s pa- gious controversies but at the same time, it is tronage and partiality towards Hindu poetry. also true that the same policy is responsible However, this balance was somewhat dis- for undermining the various rites and institu- turbed by Shah Jahan owing to the favoritism tions of Islam. for his eldest son, Dara Shikuh. The favored prince was considered as a cynosure of the Religious Policy of Jahangir and Shah Ja- eyes of non-Muslims because he was prov- han ing himself to be another Akbar in the mak-

50 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 51 ing. Being interested in mysticism from an war against the Shi‘ah Sulatnates of the Dec- early age, Dara Shikuh was a great admirer can. Keeping these serious factors in view, of a famous Qadri mystic, Miyan Mir of La- Aurangzeb had to devise his policy accord- hore. It was followed by his interest in Hindu ingly. Moreover, his temperament as well as Vedantic philosophy. In his work, Majmu al- necessity made him to rely on the support of Bahrayn (Meeting of Two Oceans), he tried the orthodox. Obviously, because of such at- to prove that there was hardly any difference titude, he failed to gain full support and co- between Islam and Hinduism and if there operation of the non-Muslims and Shi‘ahs. existed any difference between the two that The resentment and dissatisfaction of the was merely verbal and speculative (lafzi). non-Muslims was further exacerbated when Religious Policy of Aurangzeb Aurangzeb decided to re-impose jizyah and Shah Jahah was succeeded by Aurangzeb other regulations which had been discarded Alamgir. He was considered a pure orthodox by the earlier Mughals emperors. All these Mughal ruler who in relation with his pre- reasons prevented non-Muslims to offer the decessors followed a more orthodox policy. maximum support to Aurangzeb. However, The situations Aurangzeb faced were com- to say that there was complete lack of co- plex as well as challenging. The frequent operation from non-Muslims and Shi‘ahs is Maratha slogans of Hindupad Padshahi totally wrong. There are reliable reports that strongly provoked the feelings of Hindus many Hindus and Shi‘ahs not only showed and injected rebellious poison among them. allegiance but also rendered credible service The Shi‘ahs started to show the resentment and support to Aurangzeb. It is important to because of the conflict of the Mughals and note that how difficult it was for the Mughal the Safawids regarding Qandahar and the emperors to rule a region full of various po-

52 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 53 litically active groups and religions. There- fore, the success of the Mughal emperors depended upon the support and service of all these groups belonging to various religio- political ideas. There has been gross exaggeration by many writers about Aurangzeb and his pol- icy. For instance, many modern writers are painting Aurangzeb as a model of intoler- ance, especially against the Hindus that is not correct. There are many charges, in this regard, leveled against him such as demoli- schools of jurisprudence, Fatawa-i-Alam- tion of temples, discontinuation of festivals, giri is regarded as the largest compendium and subjugation of Hindus. Facts and evi- of Muslim jurisprudence prepared in India. dences prove that he only sanctioned the de- Moreover, he showed minimum inclination molition of those temples which were built towards mysticism. or repaired without official sanction and dis- From the whole discussion, certain con- continued only those festivals, like Holi, that clusions can be drawn. The Mughal emperors caused inconvenience to the others. It cannot firmlyestablished as well as followed the pol- be doubted at all that these and some other icy of religious tolerance. Nevertheless some measures had proactive effect on the major- of them deviated from orthodoxy like Akbar, ity of Hindus. There are many documents yet, none of them abjured Islam. It was Akbar like Indian Historical Records Commission who showed more generous attitude towards Proceedings 1946 that record various grants non-Muslims than the other Mughal emper- of land to different temples and their priests, ors. Among other things, he greatly reduced list of Hindu officers holding high positions, the influence and power of the orthodoxy, Hindu employees admired and acclaimed for discarded many Islamic traditions, and intro- their support and service to the Empire, etc. duced many new religious experiments. The during the period of Aurangzeb. All this con- emperors who followed him, particularly Ja- firms the claim that Aurangzeb was intoler- hangir and Shah Jahan, tried to restore the ant ruler is not supported by the facts. The orthodoxy to its previous position and main- discussion shows that Aurangzeb received tain the balance between the between various support, service, and loyalty of many non- entities. Aurangzeb’s endeavor is most vital Muslims, still many of his decisions and pol- for he showed maximum determination in icies, disliked by the non-Muslims, made the restoring the power of orthodoxy and rein- situation more complex for him. troducing various laws of Islam. Some of his On the other hand, Aurangzeb was deep- measures, without any doubt, created resent- ly interested in Muslim jurisprudence as he ment among the Hindus but they were not himself was a learned jurist. He rendered brutally implemented. Nevertheless, his poli- his service in the compilation of Fatawa- cies, according to Ishtiaq Husain, were “far i-Alamgiri in Arabic. Based, especially on more tolerant than those of any non-Muslim the Hanafi School but also drawing on other monarch of those days.”

52 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 53 Education, Religion and Secularism

By Shah Abdul Hannan

If we study world history, we life story) or Fiqh issues. That is, will see that just like every cell summarizing in one statement, in that has a nucleus according to sci- addition to putting emphasis upon entists, prior to the rise of secular- all these, there were discussions ism as an ideology, the nucleus or and teachings about History, Ge- center of education was religion. ography, Duties of Statesmen, The objective of education was Policies of Government or rules to establish an ethical base and to of administration. A letter that was mould human beings with moral sent from Hazrat Ali to Malik Al or ethical ideology. This applies Ashtar specified the duties and to Islam as well. During the ini- responsibilities of a governor or tial phases of the Islamic era, the head of state. This shows that the middle ages and even most recent- basis of education was religion or ly before the colonial era, Muslim Islam, which promotes good char- educational institutions had put acter and ethical values. Natural emphasis upon the Qur’an, Hadith science or social science – what- of the Prophet Muhammad (peace ever the teachings were – were be upon him) and the Sirah (his based on this specific source.

54 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 55 The same is true in the history of Bud- the Reformation Movement. A dispute arose dhism to some extent. The education that was from the Christian Church itself over whether disseminated through Nalanda University the Pope was the sole interpreter of the Bible. was based on fundamental teachings of char- Without going into too much detail on this is- acter building and on the basic ethical val- sue, this resulted in the Church being divided ues taken from the teachings of Buddhism. in multiple sects. For example, the Lutheran They had also incorporated other streams of Church under the leadership of Luther, the knowledge prevalent in India at that time. Calvinist Church under the leadership of Cal- If we analyze the primary phases of the vin, the Angelical Church led by the British Hindu religion, it will be clear to us that the Priests, the Baptist Church and others. This basis of acquiring knowledge was the Veda. was called the Protestant Movement which Veda itself means Knowledge. The basis of was the result of the Reformation Movement. their ancient philosophy was also Veda. In There was a third revolution which had other words, Veda was at the center of their occurred in France. It had started in the name education culture. Alongside it, military sci- of ‘Free-thought’. The influence cut through ence, diplomacy, financial studies/economics the end of the 18th century and before & after and other scriptures were added according to the French Revolution. Whatever the reason the need of the time. was, majority of the leaders of these revolu- Historically, the Christians’ education tions were openly atheist or inclined to athe- system was also based on the Church. Every ism or secularism. In the history of mankind, church was used as a college or an education- this was the first time that they came up with al institution. Whatever was taught there, the the philosophy that religion needed to be ex- basis was the Bible, i.e. the Old Testament cluded from activities of the state and society. and the New Testament. This only proves That is, religion will have no role to play in that prior to the end of the 18th century – issues of the state or society. If religion exists, when the Enlightenment Movement began it has to exist only in the hearts of the people and gave birth to Secularism – education was – if anyone wants. Religion will be absent in based on religion. The result of this education areas like Economics, Culture, Politics, Le- culture was that human life was more or less gal system, and other mundane matters. The governed by certain ethical and moral stan- main argument of this movement was that dards. As a result, most of the people, wheth- logic, and not divine revelations, will be the er they were Hindu or Buddhist, were chari- basis of life; and there will be no establish- table. As regards fundamental human values, ment of religious or divine law. they were better than people now. They were The first bad consequence of this was not inhuman. that education was separated from religion. Prior to the enlightenment movement (that As a result, the schooling systems that de- supposedly advocated free thought) initiated veloped made people selfish. They became at the end of the 18th century, there had been commercial. Respect for religion decreased. two more revolutions in Europe. The first The greatness or dominance of ethics/morals was Renaissance. This occurred in areas of was reduced. Man became more accustomed Art and Literature; it was not based on reli- to immorality and selfishness. This schooling gion or politics. The second revolution was gave rise to generals, politicians and scholars.

54 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 55 In their inner self a predispo- sition was imprinted that for the greater society there was no need of religion – whether in parliament, markets, stock exchanges, or banks. This in- dividual thought process that developed became the basis of their social attitude. Consequently, this thought influenced all sectors of- hu man life. Social Darwinism became a norm in economics and the theory ‘Survival of the Fittest’ was acquired as the theme. Only the capable will survive. Which meant: those who are not capable will one day be destroyed. Why would we obstruct the natural process? In this fash- ion, if any nation whether in initiated thinking about the Socialism was given birth. this sub-continent, Africa or Economy with the exclusion The result of the imposition China does not prove itself as of God. Even capitalism that of Free-thought or secularist the fittest, it is bound to lose started 500 years ago was not ideology on Economy was out. There is no need for mo- so unethical in reality; Chris- that inhumanity and immo- rality or pity in such cases. It tian morals had moderated its rality established itself and it is only logical that ‘we are activities. However, they had was considered positive sci- pushing the fittest forward’. started a completely compet- ence; economy was a unique This was Social Darwinism itive market system. Prior to science; there will be no which was against Chris- the Free thought movement question of morals; no eth- tianity and against Islam. the horrific face of capitalism ics. Just as we don’t give any Christianity asks you to love had not shown itself. thought of ethics in the flow your neighbor, it asks you to But when capitalism com- of air or water, there will be give charity. And Islam talks bined itself with secularism, no ethics on the flow of the about ‘Infaq Fi SabiliLlah’ or the laborers in Europe started economy. It will run by it- ‘Spending in the way of Al- facing oppression to such an self. Such notions resulted lah’, Zakah. This is a serious extent that they were left only in many ills. Needless to say, matter. It puts especial em- in the state of being alive – as such economic theories were phasis on the duties towards resources for market produc- the result of excessive greed near relatives. Secularism or tion. Communism came in as and the urge for too much the Free-thought movement a reaction to this very aspect; wealth. Interest operations

56 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 57 British looted our region, as they looted Africa. Looting was their main activity. That means: men educated in the secular education system started oppressing people se- verely. Then they announced that their objective was to civilize people. How can such uncivilized people civi- lize others? At the time when they ar- rived as traders in the court of Mughal emperor Jahangir, the culture, the refinement, the etiquette that the Mu- ghal possessed were much superior. What I’m saying is that colonizers’ political at- titude was based on immo- rality. They fought against made the situation worse. cas, Australia, New Zealand, each other. France and Eng- If interest was not there this almost 100 percent of Africa land tried to take the control may have never happened. and almost 70 percent of of India. In the end, England I have explained above Asia. In trying to do so, they occupied this region solely. the nature of the enlight- became involved in wars Similarly France, Britain & enment movement (or the with each other and with the Spain fought in America. In free-thought movement or natives of those countries. the end South America went Secular movement). The The followers of the en- to the hands of Spain. North other result of these move- lightenment movement or America went to the hands ments was that man at home ‘Free-thought’ of the 18th of the British. The British, spoke of independence, de- century managed to conquer French, Italians, Germans mocracy, brotherhood while the whole world. Their sense and Portuguese fought in at the same time the chil- of immorality was behind this Africa. Portugal took over dren educated in the secular great win. No moral society/ the region of Mozambique. education system went out to state can attack or capture The Dutch took some parts conquer the world. People in another state. But they looted including South Africa. France, England, Germany, the world. They looted iron Maghreb or North Africa Italy, Spain, Holland and few ores and various minerals, was taken over by Italy and other European countries gold, diamond – they loot- France. This very incidence conquered almost the whole ed everything. The Spanish is portrayed in the film of of the world: the two Ameri- looted South America. The Omar Mokhtar.

56 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 57 What we noticed that the Free-thought movement that abandoned religion produced very bad examples of humans. These men went on conquering the world. These men plundered foreign countries and then fought among themselves. The result was that they could not give any peace to this world. They fought the First World War and the Second World War. Four very harmful doctrines were given birth by the Western Civilization: Fas- cism, Communism, Capitalism and Secu- larism. Except for democracy, they seem to have given nothing good at all. The ones who didn’t want to give any room for God in their consciousness showed animal behavior in issues of family and gen- der. They thought that there was no need for family and that it was merely an institution due to the secular mind-set. This could have to subjugate and enslave women. They pre- become worse. However, the little influ- ferred living like animals. Even if anyone ence of Christianity (wherever applies) that grew a family, that Muslim Ummah: 20 Con- exists today has prevented it from going to temporary Issues and Challenges would be that extent. Whatever good is there has been merely to produce children, which is anther possible entirely due to people adhering to animal attitude. There was also an idea of their religion of Christianity. And the moral ‘Communes’. These communes would have degradation has happened largely due to this 100 men and 100 women, and the identity of Free-thought movement; due to the secular the fathers of the children was not known. ideology of separating life and ethics. Everyone would take the responsibility of What’s the solution to this problem? As far child rearing. They also came up with the as my knowledge goes, this can be solved in thought that an animal looks after (or rears) two ways. One, as Muslims we take seriously its young only until it can eat by itself. The the directions given by Allah (SW); in other tiger or the dog rears the young cubs until words, we need to submit to Him completely. they are capable of standing on their legs. The root cause of all problems is the false Man will also have to do the same. The at- display of Free-thought. Their statement is: titude is: ‘Why shall I strive for 30 years? Leave God! On the contrary we should keep Why shall I sacrifice so much? The child Him near to us. We have to follow Him all the has been born as a natural phenomenon and time. We have to lead our lives keeping faith he/she is grown up now. Let him/her do and trust in Him. We are bound and indebted his/her duty. I have no more responsibility. to Him in all aspects. We cannot do without Why shall I give up my self-interest? Why Him. This is our duty as Muslims. People of shall I give up my happiness & pleasure?’ other religions have to go to the Creator, go The deplorable state of families was largely to moral values, and return to religion. So as

58 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 59 a solution we’re saying – whichever way pos- It’s because of this existence of order that it sible – the education system based on morals/ has been possible to conceptualize scientific ethics needs to be brought back. For moral theories. If Allah didn’t Exist, there would education there is no other basis other than have been no order; neither would science religion. In a Muslim State, Islam should be have been created. the basis for the Muslims, and other religions No religion has interfered in the develop- for their adherents. In non-Mulsim states a ment that has occurred due to science. The moral education system needs to be estab- one or two examples that are found in Chris- lished with their religion as the basis. We tian Europe were mistake. But Christian lead- hope alternatives will be there for Muslims. ers or the Pope are not against Science. If the education system grows in this man- We understand that humans were basical- ner, then we can hope that the process of ly religious (God-fearing). They need to be developing good human beings will start. If reverted to religion and God-consciousness. good human beings are created, wellbeing They need to be reverted to being Islamic. will spread in all sectors. Good people will What’s the difference between a person who be created everywhere, in politics, economy, is religious and a person who is secular? An family. We cannot do with just theories. And Islamic person looks for a solution to any the change will not happen with only what I problem in the Qur’an and the Sunnah; and am saying. However, we do have to start to then to other areas. The same is applicable to work for the revival of humanity. We know other religious people. On the other hand, a that such a revival is not impossible. secular mind doesn’t think about what’s there There are some other relevant issues that in Allah’s Book. He/she thinks and looks need some discussion. There is a claim that for what secular scholars say; what politi- Christian Churches are opposed to Science. cal leaders are saying or what Russia, China, I don’t know how much of it is true and how America, or Canada are doing. They have much is propaganda. This needs to be delved taken the world from religious thought pro- into. If anything of that sort has happened, cess to secular thought process. That is why then that is a mistake. Science has flourished our duty is to bring back the whole world into in India and China. Here, scientists were nev- the frame of morality/ethics, to bring it back er penalized. to the religious thought process. Science has flourished in the hands of The use of the word ‘secular’ was start- Muslims. We know of no incident of scien- ed after the Free-thought movement in the tists being tortured or oppressed in Islamic 19thcentury. By accepting the ideology of history. Who can claim that in any move- enlightenment, educated society has become ment, whether Communist or democratic, no more or less secular. Unfortunately, we have mistakes were made? Removing Christianity numerous people who pray but claim to be completely is an over-reaction. secular. They don’t look for solutions in Is- I would like to mention here a comment lam. These secular minds need to be reverted made in the book ‘Tawhid’ by Isma’il Al to Islam completely. For this, they need to be Razi. He said, ‘God is not against Science, given some basic books to read. There is no nor an enemy of science’. It’s just because other way. I hope, if we try our best, we will Allah exists that He has established an order. succeed insha Allah.

58 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 59 The Great Women of Islam: Sumayyah bint Khabat

Dr. Sumaiya Ahmed

Women companions were very active in religion as well as in politics and business. They were courageous in the battlefield and provided services like giving medical aid to the soldiers, nursing the wounded and providing food and water to the needy in a manner which has no parallel in history. They spread the message of Islam and it is proved by many instances that their conduct converted many disbelievers to Islam. There are many more stories like this that will encourage our Muslim sisters to acquire more knowledge about such great women. The Sahabiyat (Prophet Muhammad’s Women Companions) were the noble women who were the contemporaries of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him).

60 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 61 They were honored during the very life- due course of time, she got married to Yasir. time of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace It was a happy marriage and soon they had a be upon him) with the prediction that they son whom they named ‘Ammar. Abu Huthai- would live forever in Paradise in the here- fah was a very kind, loving and generous man after. Their achievements and influence are and he liberated the family from his bandage, found in every sphere of that momentous but he continued to keep good terms with period in the history of the world, which them and very often helped them with cash transformed the whole of humanity forever. as well. Yasir had two more sons, whom he They were as active in religion as in poli- named ‘Abdullah and Hareeth’. He later was tics, as courageous in the war in the peace- murdered before the advent of Islam and with ful and persuasive propagation of the teach- this tragedy, it seemed ill fortune started to ings of Islam. These noble, selfless women haunt the family. Sumayyah bint Khabat was could be found in the battlefields among the one of the seven people to be enlightened by foremost ranks of those taking part in jihad. Islam and swear allegiance to the Prophet They were to be found in the political area, Muhammad (Peace be upon him). She is in the field of education, in the interpretation among the foremost of the greatest women of Shariah. The collective body of laws as companions. Islam is unique in the sense revealed by Allah the Almighty in trade and that a person is a value does not depend on commerce, in agriculture, in medicine, and in color, race, language, gender or nationality. nursing. In short, there was no sphere that did The norms are purity of heart and good will not benefit from their intellect, their wisdom towards all. As Allah says, “Verily the most and their gentle yet firm strength of character. honorable of you with Allah is that believer The history of the Muslims is full of material who is most pious” (Surat Al-Hujurat, Verse about Muslim women taking leading roles in 13). religious and intellectual fields. Thus we find Thus, a person who wishes for his fellow that Sumayyah bint Khabat. human beings what he wishes for himself, Three brothers set out form Yemen to who is kind to his fellow human beings for go to Makkah. They heard about this city the sake of Allah, is the one who fulfills the and wanted to experience its culture and to conditions of the test set by Him. The seven partake of its various social activities. One people who first accepted Islam were the fol- was named Yasir and the other two were lowing: named Harith and Malik. The latter two left 1. Abu Bakr Siddique to return home to Yemen after some time, 2. Ali Bin Abu Talib but Yasir liked living there so much that he 3. Khadijah decided to story on permanently. According 4. Zaid bin Harith to the custom of the time, he got the spon- 5. Sumayyah bint Khab sorship and support of Abu Huthaifah bin 6. Ammar bin Yasir ‘Abdullah Makhzoomi, and became his com- 7. Bilal bin Abi Rabah panion and partner. As they got to know each other better, they took a likening to each oth- The Quraish of Makkah could harm the er. Abu Huthaifah had a very intelligent and Prophet because of the power and position sensible slave girl in his house, Sumayyah. In of his uncle Abu Talib, Abu Bakr Sid-

60 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 61 dique was also a very powerful man because persecution of the innocent. Muslim would of the wealth of his tribe and his own per- end, and when they would be able to beat sonal influence. But the common Muslim, him peacefully. He said that things were go- whether man or woman was not spread any ing way beyond all limits. The prophet then imaginable torture or torment. Sumayyah comforted him with a prayer to Allah to pro- bint Khabat, her husband and her son ‘Am- tect and save the family of Yasir from the mar were very often the targets for the fire of Hell. cruelty of the Quraish on one occasion as Abu Jahl gave Sumayyah the worst kind the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon of punishment, but she did not waver even him) was passing by the marketplace he for a second and remained as steadily as a saw all three members of the family being rock. He tried to pressure her, cajole with put through the worst form of torture pos- her and threaten her to recant, but she blunt- sible. But he was so helpless, that there was ly refused. He could not accept the fact that no way he could rescue them. He could only she could resist him. So stubbornly, and console them and said, “Be patient O family in out of rage he thrust his spear into her. if Yasir: for your final destination is -Para This proved to be a fatal blow and she died. dise.” Othman also narrated that the Proph- Thus, Sumayyah had the distinction of being et Muhammad (Peace be upon him) used the first women martyr of Islam. This - inci to say these words to comfort the family. dent took place seven years before the Hi- Once ‘Ammar managed to escape and reach jrah. Then her husband also fell victim to the the Prophet. He then asked him when this torture of the Quraish and he also died. After

62 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 63 the martyrdom of both parents,‘Ammar took and women. Everyone knows that in Islam- a special place in the affections of the Proph- ic Law, there are many commands only for et. He used to address him lovingly as bin women and many more for both men and Sumayyah. He often spoke of the family women. It is the responsibility of both to of Yasir in the highest terms of praise. Abdul- propagate religion and its practice. Women lah bin Masood says the Prophet Muhammad have given many sacrifices to this end. Histo- (Peace be upon him) once said that when dis- ry has recorded that the first martyr for Islam sensions and disputes appeared among the was a woman Sumayyah bint Khabat, ‘Am- people Ibn Sumayyah would always stand by mar’s mother who was struck down by Abu the right and just. The family sacrificed their Jahl a spear. lives, all in order to nourish the truth and also The hustle and bustle of this world are not to earn rewards for the Hereafter. It is about only because of men, women to play a great people like these that Allah, “Verily, Allah part in keeping it inhabited and running. Ev- has purchased of the believers their lives and ery man and women look upon acquiring. The their properties for (the price) that theirs shall things of this life as his or her duty, accord- be the paradise. They fight in Allah cause, so ing to one’s understanding, intelligence and they kill (others) and are killed. It is promise courage; houses, shops, property, children in truth which is binding on Him in the Tau- and family; although these things are mortal rat and the Injeel and the Qur’an. And who and bound to part Religion and its knowledge is truer to His covenant than Allah? Then re- are also a Muslim’s personal asset, an asset joice in the bargain that you have concluded. that is everlasting and the effort for which That is the supreme successes (Surat At-Taw- never goes waste, just as men and women bah, verse 111). make their effort for this world and cooperate The Nobel Quran in several places and with one another for it, similarly it is, their re- the traditions very specially address only sponsibility indeed more so, to keep religion the women though more often both men and religious books alive in their lives.

62 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 63 Letter to the Editor

Dear Brother Qais Bajaeifir about my homeland Kerala in your Assalamu Alaikum Wa-Rahmatulla- Journal titled “Why do Muslims Chris- hi Wa-Barakatuh tians and Hindus coexist peacefully in I read your article titled “Why do Kerala state”? Muslims Christians and Hindus coex- The article is quite thoughtful and in- ist peacefully in Kerala state?” in the spiring. Kerala is one and the only MWL Journal. I Am a native of this example of coexisting of a human be- wonderful land, Kerala. ing without any difference of religion, My heart tears with pleasure when I caste, and politics. read your article. I know these words The reasons for the peaceful living of are less to express my gratitude. Keralites are those the article men- I congratulate you and the writer of tioned. The high rate of literacy, com- the article as a representative of Kerala mon language, and government poli- people. cies, and implications. Thank you very much. I wonder how a Yemen citizen can write such an article like this. Nazer Basheer Usman I congratulate from my bottom of heart Saudi Arabia for your article. Any giving claps for Studio Maghrabi, Makkah, Alsalam beautifying my land with your beauti- mini market Makah ful words. Once again thank you very much. To the Editor With love, MWL Journal Rajab1440H/April 2019 Shamsudheen Mubarak Dear Sir, Senior sub-editor Hope you are fine, and with prayers. Malayala Manorama I came to read one wonderful article (The largest regional daily in Asia)

64 lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019 l lDhul-Qa’dah 1440/July 2019l 65