By | Asif Iqbal
The Muslim Ummah holds a position of immense importance, grandeur, and elevation. In the Holy Quran, it is referred to as the best of nations, and its greatness is further elaborated in the Hadith. Alongside these honors, however, the Muslim Ummah has also been entrusted with significant responsibilities. These include the propagation, dissemination, and interpretation of Islam, duties that must continue until the Day of Judgment.
Throughout history, countless sacred souls from the Muslim Ummah—Companions, Tabi’in, Taba Tabi’in, saints, scholars, and righteous individuals—have dedicated their lives to the supremacy of Din-e-Mubeen (the clear religion). The vast universe has witnessed their bravery, selflessness, and passion as they presented a practical and living example of Islam, sacrificing their personal desires in the truest sense.
Yet, when we look at the state of the Ummah today, it is evident that the unity once fostered by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has been shattered. The beads of the rosary, once tightly bound, are now scattered. What has this division, separation, mutual hatred, intolerance, and endless criticism brought us? Why do the children of Tawhid (monotheism) now throw stones at each other’s minarets, mosques, and madrasas?
It is deeply regrettable that the Ummah, which once illuminated the world with knowledge, pen, discoveries, and innovation, transforming the world into a cradle of wisdom, is now plagued by division. Mosques stand divided, madrasas operate in isolation, and brothers are estranged from one another.
The bitter reality is that religious leaders and scholars are not united on a single platform. Instead of fostering unity, they often spread hatred and division. Pulpits and mosques echo with speeches that promote disunity and intolerance, while social media is flooded with content that fuels hatred and division.
What lesson is being imparted to the Ummah? Is this the Islam that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) brought? Is this the Islam practiced by the Companions and the righteous predecessors?
Consider the example of Mir Syed Ali Hamdani, the great benefactor of Kashmir, who left his homeland to dedicate his life to the propagation of Islam. His contributions to the people of Kashmir remain unforgettable. Yet, what have we done to carry forward his mission? How have we promoted his teachings and legacy?
The time has come for scholars and leaders to unite on a single platform, promoting unity and tolerance while eradicating hatred and division. The time has come for the Ummah to be taught the true lessons of Islam—lessons of unity, brotherhood, and compassion. The time has come for mosques and madrasas to become centers of unity and knowledge, rather than hubs of division and discord.
Asif Iqbal writes on socio-religious and political topics for The Spotlight opinion section.
