Illuminating the Present through the Light of Our Heritage

Introduction

As another week unfolds, we turn our attention to moments that shaped the intellectual, spiritual, and ethical journey of the Muslim Ummah. Each of these days carries lessons that bridge our sacred history with the moral and social challenges of today. From the wisdom of our scholars to the sacrifices of our saints, and from battles to compassion for humanity, the legacy of Islam continues to guide our path.

9 Jumada al-Awwal – Birth of Mulla Ṣadrā (Sadr al-Din al-Shirazi)

Born in 979 AH (1571 CE), Mulla Ṣadrā revolutionised Islamic philosophy through his “Transcendent Theosophy” (al-Ḥikmah al-Muta‘āliyah), uniting reason, revelation, and mysticism. His thought reshaped the relationship between intellect and faith.

In an age of fragmented knowledge, his integration of intellect and spirituality reminds us that true understanding harmonises mind and heart. Islam encourages reflection:

قُلْ هَلْ يَسْتَوِي الَّذِينَ يَعْلَمُونَ وَالَّذِينَ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ

“Say: Are those who know equal to those who do not know?” (Qur’an 39:9) 

Message for Today:

Let us revive a culture of deep reflection, where faith and intellect strengthen rather than oppose one another.

10 Jumada al-Awwal – The Battle of Jamal

The Battle of Jamal (the Battle of the Camel) occurred in 36 AH between forces supporting Imam ʿAlī (a) and those opposing his leadership, marking one of the first internal conflicts in the Muslim community. It was instigated by individuals whose worldly interests and misguided expectations were challenged by the just governance of Imam ʿAlī (a).

This painful event teaches that division within the Ummah weakens its mission. The Qur’an warns:

وَلَا تَنَازَعُوا فَتَفْشَلُوا وَتَذْهَبَ رِيحُكُمْ

“Do not dispute, lest you lose courage and your strength depart.” (Qur’an 8:46)

Message for Today:

Let unity, dialogue, and justice prevail over discord and political ambition within the Muslim world.

11 Jumada al-Awwal – Birth of Khwāja Naṣīr al-Dīn al-Ṭūsī

Born in 597 AH, al-Ṭūsī was a polymath: philosopher, mathematician, astronomer, and theologian. His works in ethics and science enriched Islamic civilisation and influenced global scholarship. In a world craving ethical science, al-Ṭūsī’s integration of moral responsibility with rational inquiry reflects Islam’s call to pursue beneficial knowledge:

Message for Today:

Pursue knowledge that uplifts humanity and aligns with divine purpose.

13 Jumada al-Awwal – Martyrdom of Lady Fāṭimah al-Zahrā (a)

According to one narration, Lady Fāṭimah (a), the beloved daughter of the Prophet Muḥammad (s), was martyred seventy-five days after his demise in 11 AH. She remains a symbol of purity, justice, and steadfastness in defending truth.

Her life exemplifies courage against oppression and devotion to divine justice. The Prophet (s) said:

فَاطِمَةُ بَضْعَةٌ مِنِّي، مَنْ آذَاهَا فَقَدْ آذَانِي

“Fāṭimah is a part of me; whoever harms her has harmed me.” (Bihār al-Anwār, vol. 30, p. 353)

Message for Today:

Defend truth with compassion and dignity, as Lady Fāṭimah (a) did.

29 October – International Day of Care and Support

Established by the United Nations, this day celebrates the global recognition of care work and social support systems that sustain families and communities.

Islam places immense value on compassion and mutual care. The Prophet (s) said:

الرَّاحِمُونَ يَرْحَمُهُمُ الرَّحْمَٰنُ، ارْحَمُوا مَنْ فِي الْأَرْضِ يَرْحَمْكُمْ مَنْ فِي السَّمَاءِ

“The merciful are shown mercy by the Most Merciful. Be merciful to those on earth, and the One above the heavens will be merciful to you.” (Awālī al-Laʾālī, vol. 1, p. 361)

Message for Today:

Extend care beyond words; let mercy define our families, communities, and institutions.

Closing Note

The lives and events commemorated this week remind us that faith is not confined to worship but flows into knowledge, unity, compassion, and justice. Let every day of our service as Imams and cultural leaders be guided by these eternal lights.