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Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura Friday Sermon 2 December 2016 / 2 Rabiulawal 1438H The Role Of Religion In The Life Of Communities Blessed Friday Jemaah, Let us extend our deepest gratitude to Allah s.w.t. for bestowing upon us iman and peace. In these moments of barakah, let us sincerely seek from Allah s.w.t. that He makes us among those who continue to have taqwa in Him, fulfilling His commands and abstaining from His prohibitions. Hopefully by doing so we will be placed among His servants who attain success in this world and the hereafter. Allah s.w.t says: 1 Meaning: “And if it were not for Allah checking [some] people by means of others, the earth would have been corrupted, but Allah is full of bounty to the worlds.” [Surah Al-Baqarah 2:251] Jemaah, if we were to study world history in detail and with a sense of remorse, we will find that this vast earth has been a battlefield between those who want goodness and truth, and those who seek to spread evil and falsehood. At times, truth triumphs, and at times falsehood wins. The battle between the two will continue until Allah bequeaths this earth to His servants who love peace, goodness and welfare for all. Even today we continue to witness such despairing developments. The geo-political turmoil around the world has led to conflicts and war, affecting millions of innocent lives. As a human being and as a Muslim that has ihsan (compassion), we are affected, saddened and even angry witnessing these painful developments. This is where religion is pertinent in guiding us towards upholding the good, and restraining evil. This is because Islam wants goodness, peace as well as development, not destruction and damage. 2 Blessed Friday Jemaah, We need to be aware of the turmoil and challenges faced by our fellow humankind, in continents and regions such as the Middle East, Africa, North Asia and also Southeast Asia. Conflicts and tensions are extremely complex. They are not just simply caused by religious differences, as depicted by some parties. They are caused by other factors such as the struggle for power, racial and cultural differences, pursuit of economic interest, historical baggage and many more. These cannot be solved immediately, nor can they simply end with the blink of an eye. It will surely take a long time – possibly even years – as many parties are involved, each with their own agendas. Hence, we need to be objective and not allow our emotions and anger to get the better of us. It is extremely easy for irresponsible parties to ride on the conflicts involving Muslims and use it as a means to create unrest between Muslims and non-Muslims. In fact, reports and heartbreaking photos of the victims of war and conflict have continuously been used as a means to stoke the flames of hatred in Muslims towards members of other communities, who are in fact not directly involved. This is where we hope that the Islamic values that we have learned can guide us and our families. I am reminded of a message from Rasulullah s.a.w. in a hadith: 3 Meaning: “…And three (things) that can save one: Fear Allah when alone and when in the open (public), being thrifty when in difficulty and when wealthy, and being just when angry and when in a state of being pleased.” [Hadith reported by Ibn Hibban] This hadith reminds us that we have to be just even when we are angry or disappointed. A Muslim has to inspire to improve the quality and honour of humanity, and be the catalyst in contributing and giving to humanity. Hence, as we witness these turmoil, there are several guidelines that we can hold on to, as taught by our religion: First: If we make doa, it is best that the contents of the doa seek human development, unity and peace for all. Pray that Allah will give a way out for parties involved in these conflicts, and that peace and safety are restored to those affected. This is better than asking for destruction. Rasulullah s.a.w was once hurt and injured by the people of Thaif, and he was also badly wounded when he was at Uhud. But what he uttered were noble words, seeking the goodness of all: 4 Meaning: “Verily, I was not sent to invoke curses, but rather I was only sent as mercy.” [Hadith reported by Imam Muslim] In a narration by Imam Al-Baihaqi, Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. supplicated for their goodness: Meaning: “Oh Allah, give guidance to my people, verily they do not know.” [Hadith reported by Imam Al-Baihaqi] The second guideline: When we are angry and wish to do something for the victims of conflict, channel our energy towards positive actions and efforts that can benefit all. If we hear and see things that can make us angry, then take a step back, and calm ourselves first before contemplating on our next action to ensure that we act with wisdom (hikmah). If we extend financial help, ensure that it is channelled to the registered humanitarian organisations with a clear and verifiable record. This is to ensure that our donations reach the intended parties, and not fall into the hands of irresponsible parties. The Quran taught us to repel evil with good deeds. Allah says: 5 Meaning: “And not equal are the good deed and the bad. Repel [evil] by that [deed] which is better; and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity [will become] as though he was a devoted friend.” [Surah Fussilat 41: 34] Third: If you feel angry toward certain parties because of the evil acts they have committed, do not let that anger shape your opinions, decisions, and actions towards others who share the same faith as them, or are of the same race and from the same country. Just as how we dislike it when people call us terrorists simply because of the irresponsible acts of a handful of individuals who claim to be Muslims but act otherwise. Didn’t the Quran educate us to be just to all, and Allah says: Meaning: “And do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.” [AlMaidah 5:8] Islam teaches us to act justly at all times, and to be just to everyone, wherever we are. Blessed Friday Jemaah, We are blessed to be in a peaceful state, and so let us grab this opportunity to make doa for the prosperity of our brethren who 6 are facing all sorts of trials. May Allah remove them from the harm that they suffer from. Ya Allah, Ya Rahman Ya Rahim, We seek Your mercy. Help our brothers and sisters in Islam and in humanity, no matter where they may be. Ya Allah, we ask from You, give them strength and security. Ya Allah, protect them and do not turn Your mercy away from them. Help them, and do not leave them to face these challenges alone. Ya Allah, Ya Fattah Ya ‘Alim, Grant them Your guidance, and unite the hearts of those involved in the conflicts in the Middle East as well as Asia to seek a peaceful resolution that will bring prosperity to all. Unite their hearts with love. Strengthen their resolve to improve the welfare of others and to do humanitarian work. Keep our country safe, peaceful and blessed, Oh Allah The Most Generous, The Most Just in Judgement, The Best of Planners. Amin Ya Rabbal Alamin. 7 8