A problem in ourselves

At a time when the world seems so determined to misunderstand, or at least misinterpret the Qur`anic texts, we must continue to demonstrate the fairness of Islam by showing an awareness for the dignity of the human intellect and by confirming that we have this capability.

Reading the Qur`an, I always feel in awe at the Glorious guidance of our Creator, and find its contents utterly essential in maintaining human righteousness and good deeds. However, I also continue to seek what some in the world consider sources of misguidance and the inciting of violence. Believe me, if I had ever come across such things, I would not have hesitated in declaring my disagreement with them. But despite looking for errors or what could be a construed as misguidance for human beings, I continue to regard every single Qur`anic verse as guidance, and no one has ever drawn my attention to any false teachings in the Qur`an.

No human could ever attain the sublime quality of these written Islamic teachings. The Qur’an brings to humanity the broadest perspectives on world affairs and the human purpose. Previously, no one could ever declare, on the strength of their faiths and religious teachings, that there is ‘no compulsion in religion’. But Islam does by including the right and liberty to believe! The Book goes further when it draws our attention to what would be acceptable on the Day of Judgement and what would be not.

At the height of the conflict with and the severe persecution of the first Muslims in Makkah, the Qur`an guided them by saying: ‘let not the animosity of those who once have stopped you from the Sacred Mosque, that you transgress against them. Cooperate (with them) in the matters of goodness and Righteous cause. But do not cooperate in the matters of any wrongdoing or aggression. Always be conscious of God, as He indeed inflict severe punishment (for any wrongdoings and transgression). The Qur`an:V2/S5

Further guidance is offered by saying: “O believers! Stand firm for God and witnesses for justice and fair dealings. Let not the animosity of any people towards you make you swerve from the Path of Justice. Always be just, as that (justice) is the nearest path to be God consciousness.’ The Qur`an V8/S6

We Muslims believe and regard the teachings and guidance of the Qur`an to be the culmination of divine revelations to all the prophets and Messengers. No falsehood could be present from its start to its finish as it is a revelation from the one Who is all wise and All Praiseworthy.

A Muslim must not react negatively to any provocation from whomever or wherever it may come.

All Muslims should believe in the Qur’an’s confident message and act accordingly. When we are less than confident in ourselves and in the teachings of our religion the we begin to lose our faith or to react negatively and violently, and it is this that makes what is all good look all bad!