umm Abdillah, Radio Islam Programming – 2014.01.23

Herewith, part 3/4 in a series of summaries of some discussions held at the 2^nd Imam Nanotwi Award Conference  in Azaadville, 17-20 January 2014.

Ml Muhammad Rafi’ Usmani (Karachi) – Strategies for Muslims living as minorities to preserve the Deen in their respective territories

1.  Learning and studying of both secular and religious education.

This means Muslims strive to excel in what will benefit them in the worldly life and the hereafter, not giving preference to one above the other. The establishment of Muslim schools and colleges where Muslim’s can be nurtured learning and practicing the basic laws of cleanliness and prayer isn’t a trivial matter, rather a way of retaining an Islamic identity amidst the chaos of the other. Muslim parents should give importance to this matter.

2. Staying close by to the masajid, the houses of Allah.

This is the only way a link will remain to a community of Muslims and their assistance can be sought in matters Islamic and ritual, for example burial etc. Staying away or a distance away from a masjid isolates one from punctual worship and any aspect of learning and community building that occurs.

3. Joining the company of the pious, those connected to Allah.

4. Consistent study of books of Deen in any language and building a library of them for future generations.

Whatever the translated language may be, creating a reading space within the home is a valuable repertoire future generations will refer to. This will be of what was taught or not taught, what they are in doubt regarding, long after parents’ die.

5. Staying away from unlawful earnings and unlawful wealth.

This is a primary cause of duas and prayers not being accepted and rejected, and a way for depression and dismay to set it. Earning and eating halal occupies volumes in the Fiqhi’ laws of our religion, and it is of utmost importance that all forms of haram income are shunned.

6. Retaining the language of your country of origin or home language.

It goes without saying that as an immigrant one should master the language or languages of the country of residence, but there are enormous benefits of belonging and retaining an Islamic legacy by retaining a home language.

7. Fulfilling the rights of fellow humans regardless of their religion or backgrounds.

This is a base form of ihsan and adl – Kindness and Justice required of Muslims regardless of a person being poor or wealthy or their race, social standing etc. We have been commanded to do this in the Quran together with the command to worship Allah and not ascribe partners to Him. That’s how important it is. Neighbours, near and far need to feel the glow of our character and goodness.