As-salamu `Alaykum Wa Rahmatu Allah,
Dear Respected Members of Our Community,
These are challenging times, and Muslims across the globe confront an array of adversities, both locally and internationally. As we remain deeply troubled by the situation in Palestine, the brutal assault on a 6-year-old Muslim boy this past weekend further highlights the intensifying challenges confronting our community. It is no surprise that Islam and Muslims are under attack globally for the truth they carry. As Muslims, it is essential to find ways to shield ourselves, our faith, our values, and our community from these trials and attacks. Seeking help and support from the Lord and the Sustainer of the world is the ultimate protection against these challenges.
I would like to draw your attention to a verse from the Qur’an’s Surat Al-A’raf, where Allah describes the situation of the true followers of Prophet Musa during the time when the Pharaoh threatened them.
The Pharaoh accused Musa and his people of causing corruption and leaving their gods. Pharaoh threatened to kill their sons while keeping their women alive, declaring his power over them. Musa advised his people, saying,
| قَالَ مُوسَىٰ لِقَوْمِهِ ٱسْتَعِينُوا۟ بِٱللَّهِ وَٱصْبِرُوٓا۟ ۖ إِنَّ ٱلْأَرْضَ لِلَّهِ يُورِثُهَا مَن يَشَآءُ مِنْ عِبَادِهِۦ ۖ وَٱلْعَـٰقِبَةُ لِلْمُتَّقِينَ “Seek help through Allah and be patient; indeed, the earth belongs to Allah. He grants it to whom He wills of His servants, and the best outcome is for the righteous.” (7:128) |
This verse illustrates the challenges and persecution faced by Musa and his true followers during that time. It provides guidance to all true believers on how to protect themselves in difficult times. It reveals the falsehoods spread by oppressors, their unjust decisions, and their misplaced sense of power.
As we look at our current situation, we can draw parallels between the struggles Muslims face today and the historical struggles of Musa and his true followers. We need to focus on the protective measures outlined in this verse to overcome these challenges. Just as the true followers of Musa trusted Allah when Pharaoh’s army cornered them at the sea, we must hold on to our faith and believe that Allah will guide us through difficult times and help us find a way out.
Increasing our worship of Allah is also crucial in seeking His help. Doing good deeds and offering additional prayers at night can strengthen our connection with Him. The Prophet Mohamed, peace be upon him, demonstrated this practice during his trials in Makkah and Madinah.
Sincere supplication (Du’a) is another powerful tool that we should utilize. The Prophet Mohamed ﷺ secured Allah’s support during the Battle of Badr and the Battle of Al-Ahzab through earnest supplication.
Furthermore, we must exhibit patience, unwavering commitment to our Islamic principles, and perseverance to establish Allah’s mission and spread the truth and justice. Allah promises victory to the patient, righteous, and just. Thus, we must trust in His divine plan and remain steadfast in our beliefs and values.
It is also crucial to utilize all appropriate means available to us within our society. This includes understanding our rights, standing firmly against any type of wrongdoing, speaking out against injustices, and engaging with officials to address our concerns. We cannot rely solely on prayer and patience; we must actively participate in improving our communities and society, and strive towards justice and independence for all peoples and nations.
My dear brothers and sisters, the holistic approach to protection outlined here, which involves seeking Allah’s help, maintaining patience, having certainty in Allah’s promises, and utilizing available means, will serve as our shield against trials and tribulations. When we embrace these principles comprehensively and sincerely, Allah will be with us, alleviating our pain and guiding us to a source of a better future for all. Allah says:
| يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓا۟ إِن تَنصُرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ يَنصُرْكُمْ وَيُثَبِّتْ أَقْدَامَكُمْ “O believers! If you stand up for Allah, He will help you and make your steps firm” (47:7). |
May Allah grant us strength, patience, and wisdom during these challenging times, and may He protect our faith, community, and humanity from all harm and injustice.
Dr. Basyouny Nehela
President
Boston Islamic Seminary