ATHEISTIC MOVEMENT IN : ITS CAUSES AND METHODS OF ERADICATION, A STUDY FROM ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE

Mohammad Abul Asst. Prof. & Head, Dept. of Da'wah & Islamic Studies International Islamic University Chittagong, Bangladesh.

Abstract

Atheism, as the concept goes, has a long history in the perspective of Bangladesh. Through historic struggle for independence for nine months Bangladesh become independent on 16 December1971.Though the spread of was not so frequent during the Pakistani regime; it started gaining ground with the independence of Bangladesh under the shadow of secularism. Eventually different organizations under the connivance of the party in power ventured to spread the concept of atheism in the name of freedom of expression. It is a matter of frustration that atheism in the name of freedom of expression has gained momentum during the current regime. This demoralizes the very concept of freedom of expression thereby stigmatizing the purity and sanctity of in the world in general and in Bangladesh in particular. However there exists scanty of research on the issue of reasons behind the growth and spread of atheism in Bangladesh. It is the objective of this paper to strike at the fundamental reasons for the spread of the concept of atheism in Bangladesh, its impact on the society at large from socio-religious and religious- economic point of view. It also examines the role of the government in power in the spread of atheism in Bangladesh. Finally this research attempts to render some suggestions to combat the spread of atheism in Bangladesh.

Keywords: Atheism, Spread, Cause, Organization, combat. have dared to violate the basic spirit of freedom of 1. Introduction expression. A good number of people have The history of atheism dates back to many centuries. audaciously misused the sanctity of the right to More precisely, it can be said that atheism starts its freedom of expression and have tried to stigmatize journey with the very concept of oneness and the purity of Islam. Contemporary dailies publishes existence of Allah (swt) on this earth by the prophets articles, features and the like that contain elements of Islam in different ages. It fundamentally goes which constitute the offence of atheism. Particularly, against the very spirit of oneness and existence of the current regime has become the safe haven for the Allah (swt) (Tawheed). So the prophets and their atheists to carry out with their atheistic movement followers from time immemorial tried their best to dauntlessly. Through this efforts the atheists are eradicate the vicious root of atheism as it confronts enjoying blank cheque to endorse against Islam and the basics of Islam. This struggle and effort to wipe consequently the common people, people having out the venom of atheism by the scholars of Islam shallow knowledge in Islamic norms and principles still continue but it requires to be intensified. are getting ridiculed and perplexed with it. There Bangladesh is a Muslim majority country. Here, exits scanty of books and other scholarly publications atheistic movement started to go on with the in this field so as to make people understand about guarantee of the right of freedom of expression of the motto of the atheists and the atheistic movement. every citizen of Bangladesh under Article 39 of the As atheism diametrically stands against the basics of Constitution of it though its seed was sown long Islam, it is severely punishable though the followers before its independence. Be due to the connivance of of atheistic movements are rampantly doing this with or spare by the government of Bangladesh, many impunity in Bangladesh. In Islam, there is no way

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open for an atheist to escape punishment. It is the Hadith for the purpose of atheism. In one occasion, in august objective this paper the strike at the causes of the , Allah (swt) advises mankind to address atheism, its origin and gradual development in with any of the names which have been prescribed by Bangladesh, its multifarious forms and dimensions, Him. The Holy Quran reads: and the ways forward to combat this challenge to make pure and appropriate spread of Islam to every "For Allah, there are the most beautiful names. So, nook and corner of the world in general and in call Him by them, and leave those who deviate in (the Bangladesh in particular. matter of) His names". (Surah Al-A’raf: 180). (Usmani, P- 270). 2. Historical Background of Atheism The historians differ as to the origin of atheism In the opinion of Abdur Rahman Abdul Khaleqe, the particularly the time exactly when atheism came into expression Al-ilhad implies disbelief in the very play. They also could not reach in a consensus as to existence of Allah (swt), showing back to the right who are the real protagonists (Winfried Schroeder, way of Muslim community, clear denial to the 1998, Page: 15). Winfried Schroeder points out that existence of Resurrection, Heaven and Hell. It is history of atheism is tantamount to the history of synonymous with hedonism which is to enjoy the various religious departure from orthodoxy. earthly allurements. (Abdur Rahman Abdul Khaleqe Referring to the Hunter and Wootton, Winfried 1404H, P: 5). In the Arabic terminology, a person Schroeder says: who believes in Al-ilhad as opposed to theism is defined as Al-Mulhid synonymous with atheist. In The church critic Paolo Sarpi, the deist Jean Bodin, ordinary meaning an atheist is one who denies the the Jewish questioner of the authority of the Torah existence of or Allah (swt). To Imam Al-Khidir and the immortality of the soul Uriel da Costa and the Hossain and Abdur Rahman Abdul Khaleqe an Al- strictly atheistic clandestine text Theophrastus Mulhid or an atheist is a person who is does injustice redivivus are all lumped together under the broad to his goal and is a distraught from the right path. In catch-all term 'atheism'. (Ibid. 22). the observation of Edward L. Queen, atheism is negates the existence of God (Edward L. Queen, However Hunter and Wootton's fusion of history of 1978, P: 167). Edwin R. A. Seligman very atheism with the history of some specific form sophistically points out the meaning of atheist in heterodoxy reveal the impression of ceaseless saying: continuity of atheism from the Reformation to the Enlightenment. On the otherhand, Lucien Febvre's Le In its narrowest sense the term atheist applies to one probleme de l'incroyance au XVIe siecle (1942), and who categorically denies the existence of any . Paul Oskar Kristeller's The Myth of Renaissance But in its wider sense it properly applies also to Atheism and the French Tradition of Free-Thought skeptics, materialists, positivists and all other who do (1968) represents a narrower concept of atheism. not accept the claims of theism — that the world was They distinguish direct questioning of the existence created or is governed by a person or persons having of God from blasphemy, and anticlericalism the human traits of intelligence and will in more or and this considered to imply a more modern view less magnified form. Moreover, as people generally (Ibid.16). To them there was no existence of atheism do not discriminate between belief and conduct, the before the seventeenth century and during the term atheist has also been applied to those who refuse sixteenth century atheism was comprehended as a to participate in the customary forms of public personal accusation rather than a religious one. worship. Thus the Romans called the Jews and early atheists because they did not pay the 3. Atheism Defined: customary honors to the sacra of the established The word ‘atheism’ corresponds to the Arabic imperial cult. ( Edwin R. A. Seligman, 1930, P: 292). expression ‘al-ilhad’ which means unbelief, godlessness. The very Arabic expression ‘al-ilhad’ It’s a denial to the metaphysical beliefs in God or has been frequently used in the Holy Quran and Holy spiritual beings. In the perspective of Islam, an al-

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ilhad is one who is a disclaimer from the straight way basic objective of atheism is to convince people that (Ibn al Zaowzi, 1992, P: 145) and is also one distracts believing in God is nothing but remaining from something to something untruthful (Ibn Taymia, indifference from the worldly manner and it is P: 123). In the language of Imam Al-Khidir Hossain, nothing but to assume the life of a hermit. To an atheist is one who is disclaimer from (right) goal abnegate the existence of Allah (swt) and religion for (Md. Khidir Hossain, 1406H, P: 5). In its simplest disturbing human being from straight way to destroy form, atheism is a belief which strives to disbelieve there here and hereafter life is the objective of in the existence and oneness of Allah (swt) or of His atheism (Ibn Katheer, P: 95). Almightiness or of His Omnipotence. 5. Classification of Atheism 4. Objectives of Atheism Atheism has its different types and forms. It has The atheistic movement and thereby spread of taken various forms and shapes with the passage of atheism have some specific objectives though the time and following the geographical and political objectives are not fixed and listed. In the view of the variations. A humble effort to sum up the University of Cambridge, the objectives may be classification of atheism can be made as under: summed up as belief in God is not compatible with evolution, morality does not presuppose the existence of God, life is not meaningless without the existence of God, religion tends to subvert science etc. The (i). Intellectual Atheist/Agonist contemporary atheist backlash can be understood as Those who are interested in collecting information an attempt to achieve at least two social goals namely and intellectual stimulation about atheism fall under to guarantee the integrity and safety of science in this head. This group of atheists is very much eager society and to strongly discourage religion and to debate and argue about the causes of spread of encourage its obsolescence in order to safeguard the atheism by means of various popular internet sites. rule of secular religion. To the atheist, to believe in Having strong control on the books and other religion is a threat. resources on atheism, they circulate those information aiming to divert the Muslim from Islam. However, in Islam there is no scope to remain aloof Besides, these people explain the reason behind their from exercising or learning the art of science. Rather, adopting atheism. They are seen to be vocal about the to acquire knowledge has been made compulsory for political causes like gay rights, feminism, the the sections of population in Islam. To earn bread and environment and the care of animals. butter is by every individual is must as it has been mentioned in the Holy Quran that Almighty Allah (ii). Seeker-agnostic (swt) does not upgrade the status of any nation untill To this group fall the people who are sure about the it itself tries for so. Allah (swt) said in the Holy presence of God or Allah and are oblivious of His Quran: existence. Researchers Christopher Silver and Thomas Coleman identify them as people who "Allah will not change the good condition of a people frequently their own belief and are not seen to hold a as long as they do not change their state of goodness constant view as to their ideology. They embrace themselves (by committing sins and by being uncertainty. ungrateful and disobedient to Allah" (Surah Ar- Ra'd: 11). (iii). Non-theist There are some people who do not believe either in Innovation and initiatives of that nature has always the essence of religion or anti-religion. This class of been patronized by the Prophet Mohammad ( Peace people does fall within this category and are called be upon Him) as he endorsed digging of trench the non-theist. They show their apathy or disinterest around the city of Madina on the basis of the advice in the religious matters and maintain a neutral put forward by Hazrat Salman Farsi, a great position. companion of the Prophet (peace be upon him). The

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"A Non-Theist simply does not concern him or 1. Hesitation, abnegation and disbelieve on herself with religion. They simply do not believe, and religion. in the same right, their absence of faith means the 2. Debate on Atheism and it’s directly absence of anything religion in any form from their influence on Younger of present world. mental space". (http://religion.blogs.cnn.com 3. Debase the principles of religion as Qur'anul /2013/07/15/the-six-types-of-atheists/?iref=obinsite, Kareem & its rules. P:1). 4. And fully taking the “Marxism” & followed it and denied everything accept material.( (iv). Ritual atheist Dr. Usman, P: 36) Again there exists some another group of people who hold the view that there is no necessity of getting Imam Al-Khidir Hossain said: associated with religion of any kind and there does 1. From causes of Atheism; when a person not exist anything like life in the next world. attracted on another who strong himselfe However, they still repose their belief in some of the than him in personality or speaking. Then, teachings of religious traditions. weak person attracted to strong and take "They see these as more or less philosophical “Strong person’s” believe and creeds and teachings of how to live life and achieve happiness destroied his believe on this danger and false than a path to transcendental liberation". (Ibid, P: 2). believes and his nature, charachter everithing. # There is another classification from Atheist, as 2. Another important one, that is, to reading follows: writings of Atheist and make weak himselfe on their pretending lines. - Dogmatic Atheism: Those are totally denied 3. And the most important cause is that, when the existence of “GOD”. evil propensity of person is wins on his good - Skeptical Atheism: They don’t directly reject manner and he see the rules of religion the existence of “GOD”, but, said: Humankind restract him to pupil his evilness. Then, he unable to know him. going to abnegae the rulse which he won’t to followed. (Md. Khidir Hossain, 1406H, P: 8- - Critical Atheism: They don’t directly reject 9) the existence of “GOD” & “knows him” but, said: there is not any right evidence to Abdur Rahman Abdul Khaleqe gives some causes: existence of “GOD”. 1. Urupian pops those defaced their religion which lost his real existence. - Practical Atheism: They said: If there is 2. Some bad Scholars who works for them “God” or not, it’s not fact for Mankind, but, (Atheist or Westarn). they able to ride their life without “GOD”. 3. Rising of many tribe of Atheist Economy Our say, Atheist can’t prove that, “There is no Policy. “GOD”. They only said that: Existence of “GOD” is 4. Following of Atheism with the power of improvable (Siddique, 2011. P: 14. material. (Unseen is nothing) 5. Bad condition of Islamic world infront of 6. Reason behind the Growth and Spread Urupians. of Atheism 6. To attracting to the new life and making a So many issues and factors play catalytic role in the new culture which totally free from any kind spread of atheism and atheistic movement around the of devine rules. nook and corner of the world. Scholars like Dr

Mahmud Abdur Rahman Usman, list the following Besides these there also other reasons and causes reasons behind the growth and spread of atheism: behind the growth and spread of atheism in

Bangladesh that can be summarized in the following ways:

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agency. There are some states in the world which (i).Weak Spiritual Condition, Imaan & have such constitutional and legal arrangement where Conviction: A pure Islamic feeling could reform the an atheist may refuge to the state protection even by civilization. However, if it ceases to exist, then there propagating the concept of atheism. Even he may be creates anarchy. When the spirituality of an converted to an atheist with impunity if the state itself individual lowers down, starts his going down to the shelters him. The case of Taslima Nasrin, a so-called path of an atheist. It is obvious that during life time Bangladeshi woman writer is under the state shelter of the Prophet of Islam, Hazrat Mohammad (peace be of for long as she is accused of propagating upon him) there also were some group of people who many anti-Islamic elements through writings that has did not firmly express their conviction on Islam. This sparked grievance among the Muslim in Bangladesh can easily be perceived by a simple analysis of the and many parts of the world. Also verse of the Holy Quran "O ye who believe! Enter may be named who is another notorious one who is into Islam whole-heartedly; and follow not the getting state shelter of India. footsteps of the evil one; for he is to you an avowed enemy" (Surah Al Baqarah: 208) that Allah (swt) (v). Education Plan & Rules of Educational advises human being to enter into the world of Islam Complex: Education policy of a country may completely. So weakness in the spirituality, lack of contribute to the spread of atheism in the sense that it firmness and conviction in the very existence of may patronize the inclusion of atheistic elements in Almighty Allah (swt) are some of the fundamental the academic curriculum. For example if a so-called causes that help spread of atheism. piece of literature like Satanic Verses composed by Salman Rushdie is allowed to be included in the (ii).Financial Weakness: Financial weakness of a curriculum, then any Muslim may fall a victim to the Muslim may be another cause behind his embracing anti-Islamic elements it contains and may turn into an the concept of atheism. It is an ancient tendency of atheist. human being to pursue for happiness and betterment of life. However when one gets frustrated in the fight (vi). Influence of Foreign Culture & Thoughts: against poverty, he may fall a victim any financial New generation always weak on some new style and allurement from any evil corner on the condition of some new behave, culture and thoughts. When, they his accepting atheism. listen to some new thoughts, see some new things, then, they divide in two categories. One of them think (iii). Association with Atheists: Association with the first those have religion and ethical knowledge and atheists may be another cause for one is believed to another directly about it those evil propensity lost be convinced and influenced by the beliefs and them and they love to taking everything from western manners of the ones with whom one associates. In and follow their all culture even its unmatched with this connection the advice of the Nabi Karim (peace his ethics. After that, he becomes western atheist be upon him) is worth mentioning. The Prophet Muslim. (peace be upon him) says that man is prone to be influenced by the company he keeps. So one shall 7. Islam vis-à-vis Atheism examine the nature of the character of the person Atheism stands in direct conflict with Islam. It is carefully with whom one associates. (Baihaki, 2003, diametrically opposite to the belief in Tawhid, Imaan, P: 44). Besides, one is very likely to be motivated by Akheraat and the like. There exist some specific the faith and belief of the influential family members. conditions which a person requires to fulfill to be It has been noticed that the issues of an atheist have qualified as a Muslim. A simple explanation of these in maximum cases have turned into atheist. So condition reflect the view that there is no scope for existence atheist in the family structure may create anybody to disclaim the very existence of the another ground for the spread of atheism. Almighty Allah (swt), His omnipotence, His oneness etc. One must concentrate his belief to these basic (iv). Patronization of Atheism by the State conditions of Islam along with the facts that there Agencies: Atheism may get spread by the state lacks of Nabi and Rasul which Almighty Allah (swt)

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has sent on the earth to guide human being to the path His Messenger, cannot be shed except in three cases: of Tawhid and Akherat. It also inevitably include the in Qisas (equality in punishment) for murder, a belief that Hazrat Mohammad (Peace be Upon Him) married person who commits illegal sexual is Allah (swt)’s last Messenger on the earth. On the intercourse and the one who reverts from Islam other hand the concept of atheism stands on the view (Apostate) and leaves the ." (Sahih al- that there exists on Creator or Allah (swt) and so Bukhari, 9:83:17). there does not come the question of His sending Messengers on the earth to keep the people to the The declaration of Umar bin Abdul Aziz is also path of truth. This consequently led to the view that worth mentioning here. As to who would be subject there is no question of the existence of a world to death penalty, he utters: hereafter where human being would be put on trial for deeds they have committed during their stay on 'By Allah, Allah's messenger never killed anyone the earth. In Islam atheism is a serious offence. Islam except in one of the following three situations: 1). A categorises an atheist as a which is also used to person who killed somebody unjustly, was killed (in describe as polytheists. Polytheist can be translated as Qisas,) 2). a married person who committed illegal a denier or concealer. Kafir as the word goes carries sexual intercourse and, 3). a man who fought against the connotations of blasphemy and disconnection Allah and His messenger, and deserted Islam and from the Islamic community. In Arabic atheism is became an apostate". (Sahih al-Bukhari, 9:83:37) generally translated as ilhad which also means heresy. It is strictly prohibited for a Muslim to So in the light of the above mentioned deliberations it change his religion and profess another religion or to can be concluded that the atheism directly strike at become a pagan or to be an atheist. The Holy Quran the very root of Iman and Akidah of a Muslim and has specifically mentioned that those who go back runs opposite to the basic tenets on which Islam from the religion of Islam and embrace any other stands on. religion will have to suffer severe punishment in the world hereafter. In this case the Allah (swt) warns: 8. Atheistic Movement in Bangladesh As a Muslim country atheists in Bangladesh are still "O Prophet, strive hard against the unbelievers and unable to present them as an atheist publicly. the hypocrites, and be firm against them. Their abode However, it’s known to all over the world that, is Hell,-- an evil refuge indeed. They swear by God “Secularism, Marxism, Leninism, Communism, that they said nothing [evil], but indeed they uttered Socialism, Materialism” are considered to be some of blasphemy, and they did it after accepting Islam; and the prominent parts of atheism. Actually it is really they meditated a plot which they were unable to carry difficult to find out which parties are registered and out: this revenge of theirs was [their] only return for which are not. A simple survey based on the dailies the bounty which God and His Apostle had enriched and other sources like internet face book, , them! If they repent, it will be best for them; but if blog etc. will present us with the various types of they turn back [to their evil ways], God will punish organizations, groups, parties, communities which them with a grievous penalty in this life and in the are aimed at to spread the concept of atheism. Hereafter. They shall have none on this earth to Bangladesh is not an exception to this. In Bangladesh protect or help them." (Surah At tawbah: 73-74). atheism is getting spread under colour of different means and methods by different organizations, The last prophet of Islam, Hazrat Mohammad (peace groups etc. in the following manner: be upon him) also pronounces similar warnings to those who become an atheist or an apostate. a. Atheism under the Shadow of Political Intimating these people of the grievous punishment Organizations: the prophet cautions: In Bangladesh some of the political organizations directly or indirectly help spread atheism in manifold 'The blood of a Muslim who confesses that none has ways. There are many political parties that help the the right to be worshipped but Allah and that I am spread of atheism by adopting different art and

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tactics. However it is not quite safe to conclude that satellite television, film and other theatrical options. all political parties help propagate atheism, some of However, atheism is predominantly spreading with them are involved in it. Marxist-Leninist based the help of literature in Bangladesh. Many prolific Communist Party Bangladesh, Workers Party writers are found to include elements in their writings Bangladesh, Shramik Krishak Samajbadi Dal, that directly go against basic pillars of Islam. But Socialist Party of Bangladesh (SPB) are some of the despite that those writings are not being proscribed political parties in Bangladesh which are involved in by the government. With this they are getting the spread of atheism by their activities and encouraged and invigorated thereby enhance their functions. Though directly they are helping object of anti-theism writing. Newspaper publication is another the atheists but a close scrutiny of their activities will option which spreads atheism. It is not limited here. reveal the fact that they are no less harmful than There are other means that also contain atheistic those organizations which are directly spreading and elements like science fictions, novels, drama, short advocating for atheism. story etc. by means of which atheism spreads in Bangladesh. b. Atheism by the Freemasonry Activities The Jewish community as it stands today is always d. Atheism in the Name of Social Welfare vigilant to do harm to the Muslim . Though Activities Judaism is believed to be a divine religion, due to massive change in the Old Testament, Judaism has # Atheism in Education lost its originality. (http://m.harunyahya.com/ - Mobile Education Program for street-Childs; tr/works/531/Allah-Is-Known-Through- their class time always fixed in prayer time Reason/chapter/101/Philosophies-that-Made-the- and not any religion subject in syllabus. Mistake-of-Denying-Allah). Thus the Jewish - Education Program for groundless people in community is doing its best to circulate anti-religious different slums; it’s same as before without sentiment all over the world with the help of its religion activities, but, destroying the strong financial and other strategic stronghold. manner of children. Accordingly the Jewry is regarded as worldly and - Take a position to planning in National chauvinist ideology. To them, Christianity and Islam Education Plan; so, we see many atheist are false religions and must be abolished. Thereby writers and their writings in syllabus. Such they claim the eradication of all religions from the as Humayun Azad’s writings and others. earth. So these activities of the Jewish community - Mobile Library; carried most of unethical also play vital role in the spread and growth of and Atheist Books. atheism. - Different categories of English Medium Schools - To build-up the Educational Complexes c. Atheism under the Banner of Social Media - To giving Scholarship & sending abroad Social media like internet, social websites like - To appointing Teachers & Learning Plan; Facebook, Blogs, and Twitter etc. have been the safe School time are specifying at prayer time or heaven for the atheist to manipulate their thoughts on very early morning, so that, students are atheism to the nook and corner of the world within unable to take religion education as it’s time seconds. At this age of science and technology, it is in morning in Bangladesh. considered to be the most influential means of spreading atheism to different communities of people # Social Atheism in the Social Works particularly the young generation who are thought to - Free Medical Service or with fees; with this be the future of any nation. In Bangladesh, the trap main goal to taking position in general atheists are, at large, to use these social media with a people and serving some Atheist thought view to convincing the young generation of the through social service. country. Besides these, it gets spread by means of - Free Foot & Cloth distribution other technological devices like audio and video,

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- Short Loan; to oblige general people to reward for the best of what they used to do" (Surah having “interest”. An-nahl: 97). - Social Association or Club; they served all kind of Atheism with this community and Again Allah (swt) says: making plan from here. "As for the one who turns away from my message, he - To establishing communism in society. shall have a straitened life, and we shall raise him # Atheism by Women blind on the Day of Judgment" (Surah Ta-ha: 124). - To making Hesitated women about their religion rights. With all these verses of the Holy Quran it is clear that - Misinterpretation about verses of women peace is most important in both the worlds, here and rights. hereafter. Everyone who does good deed will be - To making divide between women and her rewarded in both the worlds. The condition precedent family. to observe Islam to its fullest sense is to have firm - Try to establish the "Western Prostitute and irresolute faith and conviction on Allah (swt) and Policy" on "Muslims Women of His Messenger Hazrat Mohammad (peace be upon Bangladesh". him). It requires that every Muslim will follow the - To provocation the women against Man. tenets and institutions of Islam completely. It - Misinterpreting of Women’s Freedom. indicates that a Muslim shall follow the path - Committee of women unity & Ladies Club instructed by the Holy Quran and Hadith. In this are controlled by Atheist and their followers. respect, Allah (swt) Himself guides the Muttaqee: "This is the Book; in it is guidance sure, without 9. Recommended Ways to Combat Atheism doubt, to those who fear Allah (swt)". (Surah Al and Atheistic Movement in Bangladesh Baqarah: 2). Rasul-e-Kareem (peace be upon him) In the light of the foregoing discussion on atheism, it teaches human being saying: has been revealed that atheism has a long historical "I have left with you two matters (amrayn), you will background and has taken manifold shapes and forms not be misguided if you hold fast to them: the Book of keeping its sole objective of converting religious Allah and my Sunnah". (Ibn al Atheer, 1969, Part 1, minded people particularly the Muslims to P: 277. religiousnessless. It strikes at the very root of the concept of oneness of Allah (swt) and His very Life the companions of the Prophet (peace be upon existence. It tempts the religious people to convert to him) was completely based on Islam and the concept of non-existence of the Creator Allah consequently they could establish a society, a state (swt) and thereby leads to kufri which is a serious where there was peace everywhere. So, to remove offence. So it is high time to ponder over the atheism from the society, complete observance of threatening issue like the spread of theism and Islamic rules and principles is a must. atheistic movement all over the world particularly in Bangladesh. To combat atheism, the following means (ii). Appropriate Education System and measures can be adopted: Education is defined as the harmonious development of mind and body. Islam emphasizes on the necessity (i).To Follow Islam Completely of education and the very first revelation from Allah (swt) says in the Holy Qur'an, "They are such Omnipotent Allah (swt) is to learn, study, research that Allah has inscribed faith on their hearts, and has but it must be in the name of Allah (swt), the Creator. supported them with a spirit from Him. (Surah Al- "Read in the name of your Lord Who created". Muzadalah: 22). Allah (swt) further says: (Surah Al Alaq: 1). It means that it must be based on such system which will definitely guide the learners "Whoever, male or female, has acted righteously, to the teaching of Islam. The prerequisite to develop while being a believer, we shall certainly make him such a system is that it accurately be designed in such live a good life, and shall give such people their a way that it includes the Islamic values in an appropriate manner. To stress on the necessity of

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acquiring knowledge, beloved prophet Mohammad “Anyone of you not will be Mumin (fully faithful) till (peach be upon him) dictates: I will more beloved to him more than his life” (Abu Abdullah, Ahmad bin . 2001. Part: 29, “Acquisition of knowledge is compulsory for every Page: 583, Hadith No. 18047). Muslim and placing knowledge on improper person as neck laced hogs with gem, pearl and gold”(Abu So the center of every works and deeds of every Abdullah, Ahmad ibn Muhammad, 2001, Part: 1, Muslim must be to obtain satisfaction of Allah (swt) Page: 81, Hadith No. 224). and His most beloved Messenger, the last Prophet Hazrat Mohammad (peach be upon him). If this can Rasul-e-Kareem (peach be upon him), while be attained, it can be believed that atheism will not be emphasizing on the importance on attaining able to create any influence upon the Muslim. knowledge based on Islamic values, instructs Abu Zar (R), a great companion of him: (iv). Association of Good and Avoidance of Evil “O Abu Jar! When you come to morning and learn a Companionship verse from Book of Allah, it will be better for you Man, by nature, is a social being and he has to more than performing hundrat “rakah” Prayer and maintain relationship with other members of the when you come to morning and learn a lesson of society of his surroundings. It is very instinct that a (Deeni) knowledge, even you got chance to man will be influenced by the nature of the company performing about that or not now, it will be better for he keeps. In this connection Rahmatullil Alamin you more than performing thousand “rakah” (peach be upon him) teaches man to be very careful prayer”. (Abu Abdullah, Ibn Mazah, Page: 79, while selecting someone as his friend and company, Hadith No. 219). as to him, man is likely to get influenced with the nature and habit of the company he keeps. So every So the center point for education system should be to Muslim must be very much selective at the time impart education to the learners with a view to when chooses someone as his friend. In this ensuring knowledge based on Islamic values. connection the life meaning the Sunnah of the Prophet (peach be upon him) shall be the best (iii). Love for Allah (swt) & His Messenger (peach example to take as a model as certifying the character be upon him) of the Prophet Allah (swt) says: "To you be your It is the essence of Imaan and Akidah that everything Way, and to me mine". (Surah Al Kafirun: 6). Allah of a Mumin shall be dedicated to the oneness of the (swt) also said: " Ye have indeed in the Messenger of Creator of everything Allah (swt). As to what would Allah a beautiful pattern (of conduct) for any one be the basis of doing everything of a Muslim, the whose hope is in Allah and the Final Day, and who Holy Quran teaches: engages much in the Praise of Allah". (Surah Al "Truly, my prayer and my service of sacrifice, my life Ahzab: 21). and my death, are (all) for Allah, the Cherisher of the Worlds". (Surah Al An'am: 162). The life of the Kholafaye Rashedin also can be taken as another example which is Muslim can follow as It means that the deeds by a Muslim shall be to this is the complete reflection of the character of the satisfy Allah (swt). The Mumin shall constantly be Prophet (swt). So in the simplest form, one has to fearful of Allah (swt) with utmost reverence. choose friend whose life bears the reflection of the Throughout the Holy Quran, Allah (swt) warns the characteristics of the Prophet and his companions. Mumin to fear Allah (swt) (Ittakullah). So to ensure Islam always encourages honesty which is a divine the appeasement of Allah (swt) shall be the motto of quality. In a short word, companionship of honest every Muslim. Besides every Muslim must have people it’s has more influence to changing mind and maximum love and respect for the last and the best life and companionship of dishonest people has more Messenger of Allah (swt), Hazrat Mohammad (peach danger influence to destroying mind and soul. Quran- be upon him). In this respect the Prophet says: ul-kareem emphatically says:

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"O you who believe, fear Allah, and be in the Allah. Surely Allah is Most-Relenting, Very- company of the truthful". (Surah At-Taowba: 119). Merciful". (Surah Al-Huzrah: 10-12) In this connection the citation of a Hadith of the Prophet by Ibn Abbas (R) is worth mentioning. As Prophet Mohammad (peach be upon him) said: narrated by him, on an occasion someone asked: “Help your (Muslim) brother when he Jalim (oppressor) or Majlum (oppressed).” Then asked a O Rasulullah (peach be upon him)! Those people we person: O Rasulullah (peach be upon him), we will are sitting with them, who is well from them? (We’ll help him when he oppresed, but, when he is sit down with them only) Said (peach be upon him): oppressor, then, how to help him? Said Prophet “That person who is remembers you Allah (swt) Mohammad (peach be upon him): “You raistrain when you are see him, whose speech increases your him or stoppage him from oppression, then surely knowledge (of Deen) and his deed remembers you the that is helping him”.(Bukhari, Muhammad ibn akhirah (Here after life)” (Abu Ya’la, 1984, Part: 4, Ismaeel, Part: 9, Page: 22, Hadith No. 6952). Page: 326, Hadith No. 2437). (vi). Rights of Allah (swt) and His Constitution: (v) Showing Due Respect to the Right of Every All kinds of Fiat of Allah (swt) and paying these all Individual Particularly the Muslims properly are rights of Allah (swt). The Muslim must The pious Muslims must show due respect to the observe some specific duties towards Allah (swt) in other members of the society irrespective of race, the line with the spirit of the Holy Quran. The duties colour, gender, religious belief. Ethnic origin or any include offering of prayers regularly, fasting, paying other quality shall not be matter to consider someone zakat and performing hajj. Besides they need to do as worthy of respect. It shall be borne in mind that amole saleh or subsidiary religious works for further Allah (swt) has created all members of human rectification of their soul. community. The senior members of Muslim community should be more respectful towards their (vii). Rights of Family: respective duties and responsibilities to the society To show respect to the elders and love and affection and the arena where they work. This will be certainly to the younger is considered as a divine virtue in eye encouraging to the young generation and will help of Islam. Every member of a family shall have to them to turn to the belief in Islam. The Muslim observe this duty to the other members of the same. should strengthen their ties with other Muslim All member of family like mother, father, sister, throughout the world. Emphasizing on the necessity brother, wife, child etc. are included in this point. If of it, the Prophet says: anyone has full ability to marry then he should merry and take child for making strong the Islam. Actually All believers are but brothers, therefore seek whole Muslim World is a family and everyone in this reconciliation between your two brothers, and fear family in bonded with the concept of brotherhood. In Allah, so that you may be blessed with mercy. O you this case Allah (swt) says: who believe, no men should ever scoff at other men. May be, the latter are better than the former. Nor "We commanded man (to be good) in respect of his should women (ever scoff) at other women. May be, parents. His mother carried him (in her womb) the latter women are better than the former ones. And despite weakness upon weakness, and his weaning is do not find fault with one another, nor call one in two years. (We said to man,) “Be grateful to me, another with bad nicknames. Bad is the name of and to your parents. To me is the ultimate return. sinfulness after embracing Faith. If anyone does not However, if they force you to ascribe partners to me repent, then such people are the wrongdoers. O you about whom you (can) have no (source of) who believe, abstain from many of the suspicions. knowledge, then do not obey them. Remain with them Some suspicions are sins. And do not be curious (to in this world with due fairness, but follow the way of find out faults of others), and do not backbite one the one who has turned himself towards me. Then, another. Does one of you like that he eats the flesh of towards me is your return, so I shall tell you what his dead brother? You would abhor it. And fear you had been doing.” (Surah Al-Luqman: 14-15).

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to denounce all the earthly coruscations and other mundane allurements. In this connection Allah (swt) (viii). Marriage and Reproduction says: Time marriage can be another solution to this. However while marrying one must follow the range "It has been made attractive for people to love the Islam permits. Besides the question of reproduction desired things; that is, women, Children, hoarded to maintain continuity of human progeny, marriage heaps of gold and silver, branded horses, cattle and has some specific impact upon shaping of the tillage. That is an enjoyment of the worldly life; but character of life of every individual. In this respect with Allah lies the beauty of the final resort. Say: the Holy Quran dictates: Shall I tell you what is far better than that? For those "And it is among His signs that He has created for who fear (Allah), there are gardens with their Lord, you wives from among yourselves, so that you may beneath which rivers flow, where they shall live find tranquility in them, and He has created love and forever, with purified wives, and approval from kindness between you. Surely in this there are signs Allah. Allah is watchful over His servants." (Surah for a people who reflect". (Surah Al-Room: 21). Al-e-Imran: 14-15) Prophet Mohammad (peach be upon him) has given superb advice to marry those able and shows nice Our Prophet Mohammad (peach be upon him) at this path to controlling sex-appeal. He says: point advises: “Listen, anyone never can enter in Zannah with his “O Young Man! Who is able from you to carry “Amal” (deed). Surely beloved deed to Allah (swt) is heavily of family (i.e. right of wife), he should merry. regular deed even a little". (Bukhari, Muhammad ibn Because, it makes eyes down and raist the vagina Ismaeel, Part: 8, Page: 98, Hadith No. 6464). (i.e. misuse of eyes and vagina will easy to safe). And who is unable, then he should performing fast, (x). Compulsory Morning/ Evening School because, this fasting will be shield for him”.( Ibn (Madrasah) is Demand of Time: Hazzaz, Imam Muslim, P: 2, Page: 1018, Hadith No. So to exterminate the so-called atheistic movement in 1400). the world and more particularly in Bangladesh, And Prophet Mohammad (peach be upon him) dissemination of Islamic knowledge is a must. The commands to reproduction and command for his syllabus of different tires of education in Bangladesh Ummah (Follower) that: shall have to be designed in a way so that it contains “Marry the women who are loving and ability of the basic learning of Islam. Broadly speaking the rebirthing. Because, I proud of my huge Ummah syllabus shall contain chapters that will include the (followers) than others Ummah of other prophets elements that constitute the offence of atheism and (saw). (Abu Daud, Sulyman bin Asha’b. Part: 2, the punishment which an atheist has to undergo in Page: 220, Hadith No: 2050). both worlds. To eradicate the spread of atheism imparting of Islamic knowledge has got no (ix). Akhirah Based Life alternative. While emphasizing on the necessity of The earth has many allurements and attractions. The learning the Holy Quran, Rasul-e Kareem (swt) life here is very much attached and man does not observed that learning the verses of the Holy Quran is want to dies. However death is the ultimate more precious and useful than purchasing camels destination of living creatures including the human from markets and he reiterated that reading a single being. There is no escape from death."Every soul verses of the Holy Quran is better than buying a shall have a taste of death in the end to Us shall ye be single camel from the markets like Buthan and A’kik. brought back". (Surah Al Ankabut: 57). Everyone has (Please see: Ibn Hazzaz, Imam Muslim, Part: 1, Page: to be accountable for the deeds one does here in the 552, Hadith No. 803). It reveals the fact that there is next world. Omar (R) said: "Bring yourself to no alternative of inaugurating Evening Schools Basic account before you are taken to account". (Al Islamic Knowledge for all specially for children. Tirmizi, Part: 4, P: 638). So the life of the Muslim Around the globe, like Somalia, the Kingdom of shall be shaped and designed in a way that it is ready Saudi Arabia where school of this type has already

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started journey towards serving the mankind with the 7. Al-Hakim, Abu Abdullah. (1990). Al- light of Islamic knowledge. Mustadrak -ala- Sahihain. Ed: 1st. Byrut: Dar

10. Conclusion al Kutub al 'Ilmia. Part: 4. Islam is no doubt the complete code of life. Surely 8. Al Tirmije, Abu Isa Muhammad ibn Isa. Al the (true) religion with Allah (swt) is Islam. (Surah Zami' al Sahih Sunan al Tirmize. Bairut: Dar Al Imran: 19). There is nothing left here which is necessary for the completeness of life in both the Ihya al Turath al Arabi. world. Almighty Allah (swt) Himself declares this 9. At-Tabaree, Abul Kasem. (1994). Al- stating that: “This day have I perfected your religion Mu’zam al Kabeer. Ed: 2nd. Vol: 25. Cairo: for you, completed My favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion" (Surah Al Maktaba Ibn Tymia. Part: 8. Maedah: 3) So to follow the directions of the Holy 10. Bangladeshi TV Channels: DeshTV, ATN, Quran and shape up the line with the Sunnah of Channel I, NTV, EkusheTV, Boishakhi and Rasul-e Kareem (peach be upon him) is the only way to eradicate atheism from the society. Atheism in any so on. sense is a grievous offence in the eye of Islam. It 11. Baihaki, Abu Bakar Ahmad. 2003. Shu'abul derails religious minded people to the path of Iman. Ed: 1st. Riyadh: Al Rushd Library. falsehood and thereby widens the path of chaos and anarchy in the society. So it is a duty of all of us to 12. bdnews24.com, (on line newspaper) Date: eliminate the spread of atheism from the society for 03/12/2010. its ultimate betterment and to ensure peace and 13. Bukhari, Muhammad ibn Ismaeel. Sahih Al- liberty in both the worlds. Bukhari. Egypt: Dar Tuk-al-Nazah. 14. Berman, David. (1988). A History of Reference: Atheism in Britain: From Hobbes to Russell. London: Croom Helm. 1. The Holy Qur'an. 2. Abdur Rahman Abdul Khaleqe, (1404H). Al- 15. Gangguhi, Md. Hanif. Translator: Md. Zamal Ilhad. Ed: 2nd, Riyadh: Al-Maktaba al Uddin. Islamer Itihashe Ja kichu Prothom. Arabia al Saudia. 3. Abul Fatah, Md. Yahya. (2012). Hadith (What’s first happened in Islamic History). Oddhoyoner Mulnity (Usulul Hadith). Ed: Ed: 2nd. Chittagong: Al-Manar Library. 3rd. Dhaka: Maktaba all Azhar. 16. Gallarate. (1968-1973). Encyclopedia 4. Abu Abdullah, Ahmad Ibn Muhammad. filosofica. Ed: 2nd, vol: 1. America: ISEDI. (2001). Musnad Ahmad bin Hanmbal. 17. Hinnells, John R. New Dictionary of Muassasa al Risala. Religions. Mosaic. 5. Abu Ya’la, Ahmed Bin Ali. (1984). Musnad 18. Ibn al Atheer, Majd al Deen Abu Sa'adat. Abu Ya’la. Ed: 1st. Vol. 13. Damesqe Dar al 1969. Zami' al Usul fi Ahadith al Rasul. Ma’mun. Ed: 1st. Dar al Bayan library. 6. Abu Daowd, Sulyman bin Ashab. Muhakkik: 19. Ibn Hazzaz, Imam Muslim. Sahih Muslim. Mohiuddin Abdul Hamid. Sunan Abu Vol: 5. Byrut: Dar al Ihyah. Daowd. Vol. 4. Bairut: Maktaba all Asria. 20. Ibn Taimiya, Abu Abdur Rahman. Mazmu'- al-Fatwa. Beirut: DKI.

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