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on 16-07-2002 01:05
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By Shireen Patel
As we look at this Ummah (nation)-our Ummah, we will see how disunited we are. Ever wonder why with Islam we still aren’t united? Allah (subhanahuwatalla) only knows the true answer to that, but we can still come to our own conclusion. If we attempt to understand the cause of this separation we can only then begin to eliminate it.
Through my observation on the nature of man, I have concluded that this separation is caused by something called ‘culture’. So what is culture? Culture is the total of the inherited ideas, beliefs, values and knowledge, which constitute the shared basis of social action. Now knowing this, you are probably wondering what the basis of my conclusion is.
There are many incidents where I have heard someone or a group of people have left their community Masjid to begin their own because of some cultural difference. Don’t get me wrong building a Masjid is very good, however, the Prophet (peace be upon him) has taught us that actions are based on intentions. These cultural differences that we are faced with in our community are so petty it makes me wonder if culture is the real problem. I can see the difference between an Arab and an Indian, but what is the difference between two Indians that originate from 2 separate villages a mile apart. Most of us have probably only visited these villages/tribes once or twice during our life, or maybe never.
The Glorious Quran tells us:
O Mankind! We have created you from a male and female and made you nations and tribes that you may know one another. Surely, the noblest of you in God’s sight are those who are best in conduct. (49:13)
Another way culture leaves us in conflict is in regards to who we should marry. A Muslim first or an African? A Muslim first or an Arab? A Muslim first or an Indian? Etc. If only we understood the ways of Islam, this option would be easily eliminated. Narrated Abu Hurairah (R.A.A): The Prophet (S.A.W) said, "A woman is married for four (things), i.e., her wealth, her family status, her beauty and her religion. So you should take possession of (marry) the religious woman (otherwise) you will be a loser."
Sahih Al-Bukhari [7:27-O.B] From this hadith our confusion is easily cleared up. Yet some go through their whole life being taught by culture to marry only in their ‘own kind’! Are we not all brothers and sisters in Islam?
An occasion when culture is also incorporated is during weddings. Including culture in weddings at times will only lessen the blessings of the marriage for much sin is committed. Some cultures, such as the western culture; sadly being adopted by the Muslims, allows the intermingling between males and females, whereas Islam forbids it. The Asian culture has a custom that encourages the bride to wear large amounts of gold and sit on a stage in a glistening outfit- these only invites the evils of Shaytaan!
We must realize Islam is a way of life, it is not something you practice only one day in a week. It is a lifestyle, based on the teaching of the Quran and Sunnah. If this is Islam, then how does culture come into all of this? Culture is also a way of life as it teaches us values, beliefs etc. Clearly we can see these two ways of life are conflicting because everyone’s culture is not identical to Islam. Does this mean we rid culture entirely from our lives? No, of course not. If we completely remove culture where will we learn how to cook our food? The use of culture can do no harm unless it contradicts the teachings of Islam. Although, we should remember to apply moderation as Islam teaches us to be moderate.
It is now, while we still have a chance to close the gap between our fellow Muslim brothers and sisters. In order to do this, we must strengthen our knowledge so that we may be able to distinguish between culture and religion. Once we establish an understanding we can begin to weed out the part of culture that contradicts our beautiful religion, Islam. By applying knowledge and wisdom we can begin to diversify ourselves and spread Islam to its fullest potential.
We must remember that this gap we have created is artificial as we all have the SAME objective. To be obedient to our Lord, the Most High! Once we have built a firm bond of brotherhood in Islam, insha’Allah, we will stop trying to destroy each other, but rather support and build a foundation for the revival of our Ummah.
Whatever good comes out of this it is from Allah(subhanahuuwatalla) alone, and whatever bad comes from this it is mine.
Our Lord! Bestow on us endurance and make our foothold sure and give us help against those who reject faith. (2:250)
Last update : 16-07-2002 01:05
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