Honouring Our Values: Reflections on Key Occasions This Week

Introduction:

As we journey through the Islamic calendar alongside global events, we find opportunities to deepen our understanding of faith and its relevance to contemporary life. This week’s key occasions—the International Women’s Day, the appointment of Imam Ali al-Ridha (AS) as the crown prince, and the passing of Lady Khadijah (RA)—each offer profound lessons for Muslims navigating today’s challenges. By reflecting on these moments through the lens of Islam, we can strengthen our ethical foundations and contribute positively to our communities.

8th March: International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day provides a moment to acknowledge the remarkable contributions of women throughout history and to reflect on the ongoing struggle for understanding women’s roles in society. Islam, from its inception, has championed the rights and dignity of women, granting them rights to education, spiritual growth, work, and participation in public life. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasised the importance of treating women with kindness and respect, stating:

خَيْرُكُمْ خَيْرُكُمْ لِنِسَائِهِ

“The best of you are those who are best to their wives.”

This saying of the noble Prophet of Islam holds great significance in highlighting the importance of kindness, compassion, and honouring women in Islamic culture. In our contemporary context, this day serves as a reminder to challenge stereotypes and advocate for justice, ensuring that women are afforded the respect and opportunities they deserve. We are reminded of the general perspective of the Quran about men and women:

 “يَا أَيُّهَا النَّاسُ إِنَّا خَلَقْنَاكُمْ مِنْ ذَكَرٍ وَأُنْثَىٰ وَجَعَلْنَاكُمْ شُعُوبًا وَقَبَائِلَ لِتَعَارَفُوا ۚ إِنَّ أَكْرَمَكُمْ عِنْدَ اللَّهِ أَتْقَاكُمْ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ عَلِيمٌ خَبِيرٌ”

“O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted.” (Quran, 49:13).

This verse reminds us that superiority in the sight of God is not based on being male or female. Islam has a uniform view of men and women in terms of humanity and spirituality, and states that the criterion of superiority is divine piety, not gender or tribe.

Message for Western Muslims: International Women’s Day provides an opportunity to reaffirm Islam’s stance on justice, respect, and support for women in society. As Muslims, we must challenge both cultural biases that undermine women’s rights and Western narratives that misrepresent Islam’s position on gender equity.

Practical Challenge: Engage in a discussion or educational session in your local mosque or community centre about the role of women in Islamic history, ensuring that both men and women participate in shaping a more inclusive society.

7th Ramadan: The Appointment of Imam Reza (a.s.) as Crown Prince

In 201 AH, Imam Ali al-Ridha (AS) was forcibly appointed as the crown prince by the Abbasid ruler, Ma’mun. Despite the political motives behind this decision, the Imam used his position to advocate for justice, knowledge, and the true teachings of Islam. This appointment serves as a profound example of leadership and service in the face of political complexity. Imam Reza (a.s.) accepted this position not for personal gain but to safeguard the interests of the Muslim community and to promote justice and knowledge. His willingness to engage with those in power, while remaining steadfast in his principles, offers valuable lessons for Muslims living in Western societies. In a world often driven by self-interest, Imam Reza’s example reminds us of the importance of using our positions to serve the greater good.

Message for Western Muslims: Seek opportunities to engage in civic life and contribute to the betterment of your communities, embodying the spirit of service exemplified by Imam Reza (a.s.).

Practical Challenge: Identify a local cause or organisation that aligns with your values and find a way to volunteer your time or resources.

10th Ramadan: The Passing of Khadijah (r.a.) – A Legacy of Faith and Sacrifice

The passing of Khadijah (r.a.), the beloved wife of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), during the month of Ramadan, is a poignant reminder of her unwavering faith and support for her husband’s mission. Khadijah (r.a.) was the first women to accept Islam and her sacrifices played a crucial role in the early development of the Muslim community. Her life exemplifies the virtues of loyalty, generosity, and unwavering belief in the face of adversity. In our modern world, where materialism and individualism often prevail, Khadijah’s example inspires us to prioritise faith, family, and service to others.

The Prophet (PBUH) said of her:

وَ اَللَّهِ لَقَدْ آمَنَتْ بِي إِذْ كَفَرَ اَلنَّاسُ وَ آوَتْنِي إِذْ رَفَضَنِي اَلنَّاسُ وَ صَدَّقَتْنِي إِذْ كَذَّبَنِي اَلنَّاسُ (کشف الغمة في معرفة الأئمةُ ۱، ۵۱۲)

By Allah, she believed in me when people disbelieved, she sheltered me when people rejected me, and she affirmed my truth when people called me a liar.

Her unwavering faith and dedication remind us of the power of loyalty, sacrifice, and service in strengthening a community.

Message for Western Muslims: Lady Khadijah (RA) teaches us that real success is not measured by material wealth but by the impact we have on others. In an age of individualism and consumerism, her legacy calls us to prioritise faith, family, and social responsibility.

Practical Challenges: 1. Take time to learn more about the life of Khadijah (r.a.) and identify one specific quality that you can cultivate in your own life. 2. Support a charitable cause or community initiative, whether by donating, volunteering, or mentoring someone in need, honouring the spirit of Lady Khadijah (RA).