My dear Brothers and Sisters in Islam, through this small article, I would like to discuss an important issue with you that is blocking us from attaining our true potential and hindering our growth and prosperity in modern Western society. 

We are all aware that in order for a society to function at its best and be productive, it is imperative that all the different components of it are healthy and well coordinated. Like the analogy of the different systems of a body or its limbs. Although each part of the body is entirely different in its anatomy and physiology, it is crucial that all are working together at its optimum to allow for the body to function and complete its end goal. Similarly we as a society with its differing sectors (e.g: family, school / masjid/ madrasahs, Islamic movement) must be strong individually but also know how to work harmoniously towards becoming the ideal role model society. Until this happens, our attempts at prospering in the Western World are futile. 

This begins with a change in mindset and thinking. To ponder: how we can do the work that the Messenger of Allah (saw) did today? This reminds me of a profound saying of Islamic Scholar Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qardawi: ‘The main intellectual problem of Muslims is not in their religion but their lack of understanding of the times in which they live.’ The inherent beauty of Islam lies in its ability to be applicable to any society in any time. This means using our knowledge to personalise our faith and gain a deep-rooted understanding of what Islam means to us and the way it guides our way of life. A beautiful way to do this is discussing our opinions and values with a broad mind and critical thinking and using everyone’s interpretations to gain a wider understanding as Allah has directed us in the Quran: “This is a blessed Book which We revealed to you, that they may reflect upon its verses, and those with understanding may take heed.” (38:29). 

We can all agree that Islam is the same but perspective is what differs. It is implementation of that Hidaya which differs between nations and must be adapted to allow for integration without dilution of values. In this same vein, as first generation Sri Lankan Muslim Migrants we can’t expect the same Sri-Lankan culture to be applied here, we must use our knowledge of Islam to fit within British Society. This is especially significant when it comes to bridging the gap with our children who are already trying to navigate their complex identities and look to us for guidance.

If we just take ‘basic’ concepts such as Khalimah Shahadah, Ibadah etc, or the purpose and importance of a nuclear family unit, for example, and delve deeper, taking time to reflect on its profound meaning and implications on our daily life, we can see the potential that it has to propagate many psychological and social changes. These principles of Islam are what lay the foundations of that which we claim to guide us and will allow us to taste the sweetness of Iman. 

In conclusion, I want to remind us of the actions of the Prophet (saw) in Arqam’ s (ra) house (Darul Arqam) where he trained his companions and imparted his wisdom upon them. What we are in need of is our modern day Darul Arqams dispersed through our society, a place of tarbiyyah, wisdom and betterment. Led by experts in every field working together to align our visions and create a new culture that helps us to prioritise that which is important: attaining the pleasure of Allah and Jannatul Firdaws. May Allah make us of those who are able to fulfil those duties and become the role model society we endeavour to be.

Ameen.