Building Bridges of Faith and Reflection: Commemorating Key Islamic Events

Introduction

In the ever-evolving tapestry of modern life, moments of reflection grounded in our Islamic heritage provide spiritual renewal and guidance. This issue of Friday Bulletin offers a rich array of events from our sacred history that invite us to delve into their meanings and apply their lessons in today’s context. From the establishment of the first prayer in Islam to the birth anniversaries of revered figures, as well as the global recognition of interfaith harmony, these occasions inspire action, unity, and introspection.

29th January – 28th Rajab: Holding the First Prayer in Islam

The establishment of the first prayer marks the inception of one of the most vital practices in Islam. It was during these early days of revelation that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him and his family) and Imam Ali (peace be upon him) offered the first Salah, solidifying prayer as the cornerstone of Islamic worship. This event underscores the transformative power of Salah in shaping a believer’s character.

In this issue of Friday Bulletin we reflected on one of the beautiful verses of Holy Quran about the true prayer:

اتْلُ مَا أُوحِيَ إِلَيْكَ مِنَ الْكِتَابِ وَأَقِمِ الصَّلَاةَ إِنَّ الصَّلَاةَ تَنْهَى عَنِ الْفَحْشَاءِ وَالْمُنْكَرِ وَلَذِكْرُ اللَّهِ أَكْبَرُ وَاللَّهُ يَعْلَمُ مَا تَصْنَعُونَ (سوره العنکبوت، آیه ۴۵)

“Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer restrains one from indecency and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows what you do.” (Qur’an, 29:45)

Message for Today: For contemporary Muslims, prayer is not merely a ritual but a mechanism for inner transformation and societal betterment. Amid virtual distractions and challenges, it remains a grounding force that nurtures discipline and ethical conduct.

2nd February – 3rd Shabaan: Birth of Imam al-Husayn (a)

The birth of Imam al-Husayn (peace be upon him), the epitome of sacrifice and steadfastness, marks an occasion to reflect on his unparalleled contributions to Islam. Known as the saviour of the religion, his stance at Karbala remains a timeless lesson in upholding truth and justice.

In this issue of Friday Bulletin we reflected on one of beautiful teachings and narrations of Imam Hussein as following:

مَنْ أَحَبَّكَ نَهَاكَ، وَمَنْ أَبْغَضَكَ أَغْرَاكَ

“The one who loves you will prevent you (from wrongdoing), and the one who hates you will entice you (to wrongdoing).”

Message for Today: Imam Husayn’s legacy inspires courage to stand against oppression and uphold Islamic principles in the face of adversity. His advice reminds us to surround ourselves with those who guide us toward righteousness and away from harm. This guidance is particularly crucial in navigating the challenges of modern relationships and societal pressures.

3rd February – 4th Shabaan: Birth of Abbas-ibn Ali (a)

The 4th of Shabaan marks the birth of Abbas-ibn Ali, the brother of Imam al-Husayn, known for his unparalleled loyalty and bravery, especially during the Battle of Karbala. Al-‘Abbas is often referred to as the “Moon of Bani Hashim.” His unwavering support for Imam Husayn at Karbala is a testament to the importance of devotion and selflessness in the path of righteousness.

Message for Today: In a world increasingly dominated by self-interest, Abbas’ life calls us to embrace loyalty, humility, and service to righteousness. These values are essential for nurturing strong, harmonious Muslim communities.

4th February – 5th Shabaan: Birth of Imam al-Sajjad (a) and the Day of Sahife Sajjadiyeh

Imam al-Sajjad (peace be upon him), renowned for his deep spirituality and eloquent supplications, left a lasting legacy through the Sahife Sajjadiyeh. This profound compilation of prayers addresses themes of repentance, gratitude, social justice, and the human connection with Allah SWT. The Sahife Sajjadiyeh offers invaluable guidance for Muslims, especially those living in the West, where challenges to faith and identity are prevalent.

Key Themes in the Sahife Sajjadiyeh are but not limited to:

1. Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness: Encouraging believers to acknowledge their shortcomings and turn to Allah for mercy.
2. Gratitude for Allah’s Blessings: Cultivating a mindset of thankfulness in all circumstances.
3. Social Justice and Responsibility: Emphasising the importance of justice and care for the less fortunate.
4. Spiritual Reflection: Guiding individuals to deepen their relationship with Allah through contemplation and sincerity.

Message for Today: For Muslims in the West, the Sahife Sajjadiyeh serves as a manual for navigating life’s complexities while maintaining faith and ethical principles. It reminds us to balance worldly responsibilities with spiritual growth and to seek Allah’s guidance in every aspect of life.

1-7 February: World Interfaith Harmony Week

This global initiative encourages communities to transcend differences and foster mutual respect and understanding among diverse faiths. Islam, as a religion of peace, offers numerous teachings that promote harmony and cooperation. The Holy Qur’an, in various verses, invites the followers of Abrahamic religions to engage in dialogue and focus on their shared beliefs. It holds that this emphasis on commonalities can bring the followers of these religions closer to the ultimate goal of their prophets, which is the call to monotheism and the worship of the One God. One such passage from the Qur’an states:

قُلْ يَا أَهْلَ الْكِتَابِ تَعَالَوْا إِلَى كَلِمَةٍ سَوَاءٍ بَيْنَنَا وَبَيْنَكُمْ أَلَّا نَعْبُدَ إِلَّا اللَّهَ وَلَا نُشْرِكَ بِهِ شَيْئًا وَلَا يَتَّخِذَ بَعْضُنَا بَعْضًا أَرْبَابًا مِنْ دُونِ اللَّهِ (سوره آل عمران، آیه ۶۴)

“Say, O People of the Book, come to a word that is equitable between us and you: that we worship none but Allah, and that we associate nothing with Him, and that none of us takes others as lords besides Allah.” (Qur’an, 3:64)

Message for Today: In a world rife with division, initiatives like World Interfaith Harmony Week are vital. Muslims can lead by example, engaging in respectful dialogue to build bridges and promote shared values of compassion and justice.