On "The Jewel of Medina"

October 25, 2008

Shamas-ur-Rehman Toor

I am truly saddened by this yet another episode of propaganda that has been systematically launched against Islam. Everyone who has read even a fraction of Islamic history knows that Muslims regard the wives of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) as mothers of momineen (the believers). It is outrageously insulting to read anything about our mothers that even non-Muslims regard as "offensive" and "stupid" piece of work that is likely to offend Muslims.

However, I feel that it is a great opportunity for us Muslims to bring the truth to the world. We must show our anger but we need to respond intellectually as well. Where we can launch protests against this idiotic book, we can engage ourselves and our non-Muslims brothers and sisters in understanding the actual and authentic history of Islam. We can form discussion groups, organize seminars, and conferences in which the true history of Islam can be revealed. We can also remind ourselves and tell our non-Muslims brothers and sisters the values of Islam and the great message that Islam gives.

I understand that the Muslims should consider such offensive episodes as opportunities to spread the truth about Islam. The image of Islam has been distorted by the propaganda launched and patronized by the certain elements. However, to defeat such evil forces, it is necessary that the Muslims engage in a healthy discourse and tell the world what Islam really stands for and what it really offers.

Media is a powerful tool in the world we live today. We can organize talk shows and hold debates and dialogues on the life of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) and his companions. We can take the responsibility to educate one of our non-Muslim friends about the history of Islam and the message of Quran. We can publish magazines, journals, newspaper articles, pamphlets, and online blogs to tell the world how much we love our Prophet (PBUH) and how much we respect and honor his wives and his companions.

But above all, we will need to show it all by our actions. If we are not proving to be better human beings because we are Muslims, we are not doing our jobs. We have to lead by example and therefore show that actions speak louder. Our behaviors, actions, decisions, interactions, and communications should be refined so that our non-Muslim friends are inspired by our daily life. Our life should become example for others around us.

If we are merely doing a lip-service, we are doing only a part. We must come out of our shells to tell the world that Islam is the most refined way of life. This can only be done by practicing, and not merely preaching.