Timeless Lessons for Empowering Communities: Reflections on Four Milestones

Introduction

In this week’s issue, we reflect on four significant occasions, each carrying profound lessons and inspirations for scholars, educators, and leaders of Islamic centres and cultural organisations. From the commemoration of steadfast devotion to the celebration of scholarship and sacrifice, these events remind us of the timeless values deeply rooted in our faith. This issue’s Ayah of the Week focuses on the strength and patience of mothers and wives of martyrs, Hadith of the Week highlights the role of education and teaching for the sake of Allah SWT, and Book of the Week delves into the historical and ethical dimensions of the Battle of Jamal. Let us explore these milestones and their relevance to our mission of empowerment and spiritual growth.

1. The demise of Lady Umm al-Banin: Honouring the mothers and Wives of Martyrs (13th Jumada al-Thani)

The demise of Lady Umm al-Banin (peace be upon her) on this day is an opportunity to honour her unparalleled sacrifice and devotion. She offered her four sons, including the noble Abbas ibn Ali, to support Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) in the battle of Karbala. Her legacy serves as a beacon of strength for all mothers and wives who endure the pain of loss with dignity and faith. Recognising her sacrifice, this day has been dedicated to honouring the mothers and wives of martyrs who embody patience and resilience.

الَّذِينَ إِذَا أَصَابَتْهُمْ مُصِيبَةٌ قَالُوا إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُونَ. أُولَٰئِكَ عَلَيْهِمْ صَلَوَاتٌ مِّن رَّبِّهِمْ وَرَحْمَةٌ وَأُولَٰئِكَ هُمُ الْمُهْتَدُونَ.

“Who, when disaster strikes them, say, ‘Indeed we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.’ Those are the ones upon whom are blessings from their Lord and mercy. And it is they who are the [rightly] guided.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:156-157)

These verses remind us that patience in the face of loss elevates individuals spiritually, as Allah Himself bestows blessings and guidance upon those who endure. Mothers and wives of martyrs reflect this divine principle, teaching us that patience is not passive but an active acknowledgment of Allah’s will. In the Ayah of the week, these two verses are discussed further, and their educational messages are elaborated.

2. Celebrating the Legacy of Mulla Ahmad Naraqi (14th Jumada al-Thani)

The birth anniversary of Mulla Ahmad Naraqi reminds us of the transformative power of knowledge coupled with action. As a prolific scholar and moral philosopher, Naraqi’s works, particularly in ethics and jurisprudence, have left an indelible mark on Islamic scholarship. His life exemplifies the integration of deep knowledge, piety, and service to the community, making him a role model for educators and leaders.

مَنْ تَعَلَّمَ اَلْعِلْمَ وَ عَمِلَ بِهِ وَ عَلَّمَ لِلَّهِ دُعِيَ فِي مَلَكُوتِ اَلسَّمَاوَاتِ عَظِيماً فَقِيلَ تَعَلَّمَ لِلَّهِ وَ عَمِلَ لِلَّهِ وَ عَلَّمَ لِلَّهِ.

“Whoever learns knowledge, acts upon it, and teaches it for the sake of Allah, is called great in the kingdom of the heavens, and it is said: ‘He learned for Allah, acted for Allah, and taught for Allah.’”

This narration perfectly aligns with Naraqi’s legacy. It highlights the cycle of acquiring, practising, and imparting knowledge as a path to spiritual greatness. Mulla Ahmad Naraqi’s dedication to this principle inspires us to approach education as a divine responsibility that extends beyond ourselves to uplift others. In the Hadith of the wee, this Hadith and its educational messages are further discussed.

3. The Martyrdom of Ayatollah Dr. Mofatteh (17th December)

The martyrdom of Ayatollah Dr. Mohammad Mofatteh is a testament to the profound impact of combining scholarship with activism. A visionary educator and reformer, he championed unity among Muslims and worked tirelessly to address the challenges faced by Islamic societies. His life and ultimate sacrifice underscore the importance of commitment to justice and education in the face of adversity. Imam Sadeq (peace be upon him) said:

إِنَّ مِدادَ العُلَماءِ أفْضَلُ مِنْ دِماءِ الشُّهَداءِ.

“The ink of scholars is more sacred than the blood of martyrs.”

This Hadith resonates deeply with Dr. Mofatteh’s legacy. His scholarly contributions and activism continue to inspire generations, highlighting the pivotal role of knowledge in shaping just societies. This day serves as a reminder to pursue education and advocacy with sincerity and courage, just as he did.

4. Reflecting on the Battle of Jamal (15th Jumada al-Thani)

The Battle of Jamal, fought in the year 36 AH, stands as one of the most consequential and heart-wrenching moments in Islamic history. This conflict between Muslims, involving notable figures such as Imam Ali (peace be upon him) and some of the Prophet’s companions, left a lasting impact on the Muslim community. Its lessons in leadership, unity, and justice are as relevant today as they were then.

إِنَّ الْحَقَّ لَا يُعْرَفُ بِالرِّجَالِ، اِعْرِفِ الْحَقَّ تَعْرِفْ أَهْلَهُ ( روضة الواعظین، الجزء۱،  الصفحة۳۱)

“Truth is not known by men; know the truth, and you will know its people.”

This profound statement from Imam Ali (peace be upon him) serves as a reminder to prioritise truth over personalities or affiliations. The Battle of Jamal highlights the importance of discernment and adhering to justice, even in the face of challenging decisions. Imam Ali’s leadership in this event underscores the necessity of aligning with principles of truth and integrity, making it a lasting lesson for leaders and communities today. This week’s Book of the Week, The Battle of Jamal by Shaykh al-Mufid, provides a detailed exploration of these events and their implications for leadership and governance.

Last Words

These four occasions offer valuable lessons for scholars and leaders, encouraging them to embody patience, pursue knowledge, promote unity, and act justly. As we draw inspiration from the lives and teachings of these remarkable individuals, let us renew our commitment to the principles of our faith. Through reflection and action, we can ensure that their legacies continue to guide us in serving our communities with wisdom and sincerity. May this issue of Friday Bulletin serve as a source of enlightenment and motivation for all.