Reviving Purpose: What Our Legacy Demands of Us Today

Introduction

In a world full of confusion, where values are often distorted and ethical clarity is lost, returning to our Islamic legacy offers not only remembrance but also guidance. Each historical occasion in the week ahead brings a lesson, a moral compass for today’s believers, particularly for imams and cultural leaders striving to raise awareness and guide Muslim communities in the West. These events remind us that Islam is not merely about the past; it is a light for living rightly in the present.

13 Ṣafar: The Arbitration Incident and the Deception of ʿAmr ibn al-ʿĀṣ (37 AH)

This marks the political turning point in the Battle of Ṣiffīn, where arbitration was used deceitfully by ʿAmr ibn al-ʿĀṣ to undermine Imam ʿAlī (a). It reminds us how truth can be manipulated through clever words. Imam ʿAlī (a) exposed this in his famous statement:

“كَلِمَةُ حَقٍّ يُرَادُ بِهَا بَاطِلٌ“

“A word of truth, used with the intent of falsehood.” (Nahj al-Balāghah, Sermon 40)

Message for Today: Muslims in the West must learn to recognise when religious language is being misused to cover personal or political agendas.

14 Ṣafar: Birth of Mullā Muḥammad (Muḥsin) Fayḍ Kāshānī (1007 AH)

Fayḍ Kāshānī was a scholar, philosopher, jurist, and mystic who authored nearly 200 works across 65 years, contributing to theology, ethics, and Qur’anic interpretation.
He remained humble despite his knowledge, avoiding titles and worldly recognition. His life reminds us that the pursuit of Islamic knowledge must be holistic and sincere, aiming to transform both heart and society, as Quran says:

“قُلْ هَلْ يَسْتَوِي الَّذِينَ يَعْلَمُونَ وَالَّذِينَ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ“

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

Message for Today: Muslim leaders in the West must revive the model of scholar-saints who combine knowledge with humility and action.

18 Ṣafar: Martyrdom of Uways al-Qaranī in the Battle of Ṣiffīn (37 AH)

Uways al-Qaranī, though he never met the Prophet (s), was praised for his deep faith and devotion, and he ultimately gave his life fighting for truth alongside Imam ʿAlī (a).
He embodied silent loyalty and spiritual integrity without seeking fame. His example teaches us that unseen devotion and sacrifice are not forgotten by Allah, as Quran says:

“إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يُضِيعُ أَجْرَ الْمُحْسِنِينَ“

“Surely Allah does not let the reward of those who do good go to waste.” (Qur’ān, 9:120)

Message for Today: In the West, where recognition is often sought, Muslims should value sincerity over status and truth over popularity.

12 August: International Youth Day

Designated by the United Nations, this day highlights the importance of empowering young people across the globe. The Qur’an offers timeless advice to youth in the words of Luqmān to his son:

يَا بُنَيَّ إِنَّهَا إِنْ تَكُ مِثْقَالَ حَبَّةٍ مِنْ خَرْدَلٍ فَتَكُنْ فِي صَخْرَةٍ أَوْ فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ أَوْ فِي الْأَرْضِ يَأْتِ بِهَا اللَّهُ إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَطِيفٌ خَبِيرٌ

“O my son! If it be even as small as a mustard seed, and it be hidden in a rock or in the heavens or in the earth, Allah will bring it forth. Surely Allah is Most Subtle, All-Aware.” (Qur’ān, 31:16)

In an age of digital exposure and moral distractions, youth must understand the weight of their actions, no matter how small.

Message for Today: Muslim youth in the West must develop self-awareness and accountability rooted in their faith and not just social norms.