This is with reference to the report “OIC warns against Islamophobia” (Sept.5). I believe by merely issuing such warnings and holding conferences would not help much in presenting the true picture of Islam to the world. As a matter of fact, it is not only the responsibility of the OIC and other Muslim organizations. The onus lies on the shoulders of each and every Muslim across the globe. The day we start following the true teachings of Islam, this so-called phobia will become a thing of the past.
The main problem is that we, the Muslims, think that it is the responsibility of the state to fight social evils. On the contrary, Muslims are supposed to join hands with the state in its efforts to fight crimes and social ills. Respect for law is the key to achieving a true Islamic society. Unfortunately, it has become fashionable among us, the Muslims, to criticize our respective governments for not doing enough but the question is what we are doing for the betterment of the society at large. If every individual starts following the teachings of Islam, a great many problems will be solved in no time.
We talk about rights and tend to forget our responsibilities. We must realize that these two Rs’ go side by side. For instance, non-Muslims think of us as an arrogant and intolerant people with no regard for the law. They have all the right to assume that, as people tend to deduce from the actions of other people.
The non-Muslims particularly the Westerners see Muslims fighting each other over the pettiest of issues and showing no tolerance toward those with conflicting views, what else are they (the westerners or non-Muslims) supposed to think of Muslims?
We do not respect rights of our neighbors; on the streets we do not respect the rights of the pedestrians etc. Muslim societies all across the globe (there maybe exceptions) are faced with these issues. What does Islam say about the rights of one’s neighbor? What does Islam say about one’s behavior toward other fellow human? And Interestingly, Islam does not allow discrimination on the basis of religion. One’s neighbor irrespective of his religion enjoys same rights in Islam. And it is the case when it comes to dealing with fellow human beings. Islam upholds the concepts of honesty and integrity. If we carefully look at ourselves and compare our actions with the teachings of Islam, we would be ashamed of ourselves.
Being a Muslim who has traveled extensively around the globe, I have come to the conclusion that we are Muslims by name only. We are not half the Muslims, our great ancestors (read companions of the Prophet) used to be!
Many of us, if not all, are under the wrong impression that all non-Muslims should be looked upon as enemies. No, this is not the case. Until and unless somebody is at war with us, he is a friend.
I think religious scholars should start making good use of the pulpit and impart training to those coming to the mosques as to how a Muslim should carry himself in the society. At this point in history, when everybody, though at times wrongfully, accuse us of being intolerant and irrational, we should tell them through our conduct what Islam and being a Muslim is all about. — Mohammad Al-Johaini, Jubail
