Voice of British Muslim Women

Sabahat Asif, Mitcham Park

Over the years we are increasingly witnessing countless attacks on individuals just because they practice different religions, are from different cultures or simply the fact that they don’t believe in any religion. We see many war torn countries, such as Afghanistan and Palestine, experiencing violence because of what they believe in. Despite having the same fundamental beliefs, different sects have conflict within the same religion. This raises many questions- do religious individuals fully take into account what religion says about tolerance and peace? Do these actions by the heartless extremists have any firm basis in religion? To answer these questions, I will use Islamic knowledge backed by what the Holy Qur’an states to explain the need of religious tolerance.

Religion is considered as the spiritual component of an individual’s day to day life and features distinct practises, beliefs and moral principles. In Islam it is believed that the law of religion was given by Allah to mankind through his selected Prophets and Messengers. Each sent to Earth at a specific time and place to help people attain goodness, both in this world and the next. The Holy Qur’an, the sayings and practises of the Holy Prophet of Islam, Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) have been given to Muslims as complete and perfect guidance on all matters, spiritual and secular.

In this modern day, globalised world, countries and communities are made up of individuals from a wide range of diverse ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds. Meaning we have the opportunity to interact with and experience different aspects of life from a variety of backgrounds. In such a society the issue of religious freedom and interfaith relationships is vital; it is linked with the fundamental human rights. Right to freedom of expression and speech, the right to make autonomous choices. In Islam religious peace and tolerance is practiced; firmly established by the teachings of the Holy Qur’an and the example of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). Despite the misconceptions and false propaganda regarding Islam, it is a way of life which prohibits intervening in the beliefs of others and the practice of their faith. Islam strives to honour and respect every individual regardless of their religion, culture or ethnicity.

Islam teaches love and sympathy for all of humanity and presents a model for resolving conflicts and hatred that stem simply from difference. In the history of Islam there are countless examples of tolerance and compassion from Muslim rulers towards followers of other religions. Sadly, because of destructive activities and extremely incorrect representations of Muslim and Islamic teachings, Islam is often misunderstood.

The founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, His Holiness Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (peace be upon him) expresses the Islamic fundamentals of religious tolerance in the following words:

“Abandon miserliness, hatred, envy, narrow-mindedness and impatience and become as one. There are only two big orders of the Holy Qur’an: one is unity and love and obedience to the Almighty God and the second is kindness towards one’s brothers and fellow human beings” ^[1]

This explains the significance that Islam bears on the importance of equality, compassion and fair dealing with all people within all religions. Equality and diversity are laws of nature that was created by God for our benefit and we should embrace it as such. In Surah Al-Ma’idah verse 49, the Holy Qur’an states:

“…For each of you We prescribed a clear spiritual law and a manifest way in secular matters. And if Allah had enforced His will, He would have made you all one people, but He wishes to try you by that which He has given you. Vie, then, with one another in good works. To Allah shall you all return; the He will inform you of that where you differed” ^[2]

The coexistence of individuals and communities from different backgrounds is a manifestation of God’s Will. It is a test for mankind to strive to live in harmony and find peace in our differences. As equality and diversity is from God, we as humans should understand and embrace their beauty and purpose; to inspire good works and establish unity. Let’s all take part to combat extremism and religious intolerance and treat everyone with respect.

References:

1. Address by his Holiness Mirza Masroor Ahmad, Khalifatul Masih V at the 2005 Peace Symposium. Available at URL: [https://www.alislam.org/articles/promoting-peace/]
2. The Holy Qur’an with English translation by Malawi Sher Ali. [5:49]