Redifining Islam (by Bashir Abid)
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What is Islam? Apparently, it looks pretty odd to
raise this question after 1500 years of the advent of
Islam because by now its answer should be as plain and
simple as this "The religion that is followed by the
Muslims is called Islam" but, unfortunately, this is
not true. In fact, during this long period Islam has
lost its virginity and pristine purity. The clergy had
disfigured the divine beauty of its teachings and
polluted them with their lowly desires. Islam that is
followed presently by a billion Muslims all over the
world is not the real Islam. It is as much corrupted,
as are Judaism and Christianity -rather more. Hence,
we need to redefine Islam.The above noted definition of Islam is not enough
because it does not answer many important questions.
For example, it does not distinguish between Sunni and
Shia - two major sects of Islam who, in their beliefs
and practices, are pole apart. It should be remembered
that sectarianism is strictly forbidden in Islam
(3105). Similarly, it does not answer why the Muslim
nations have drawn strict geographical borders
contrary to their Faith, which teaches fraternity and
the unity of Ummah? (4910; 3103).Moreover, while reading Quran we find that the Muslim
rulers are enjoined to run the state's affairs with
the consent of their people, democratically (3159).
We also find that the rich Muslims in the society are
enjoined to feed the poor (Combat Poverty) as a divine
duty without seeking any reward or self-interest (76;
8-9). Ones wonder where are these noble values now? We
do not see them being practiced in any Islamic
Society. The rulers are worst kind of despots and the
rich are worst kind of scrooges. Present version of
Islam has no answer to these contradictions.The question arises then where we can find the true
Islam, which is free of contradictions? The answer is
simple. The true Islam is in the Quran because it is
this source alone where we can get true and perfect
guidance (179). Let us see what it says about Islam?The Quran says;
"Inn ad deena hind allah al islam" - 'Al-Deen' before
God is Islam..." (319)Again it says;
"...al yoma akmaltu lakum deena kum wa atmamtu alaikum
na'mati wa radheetu lakum Islama deena..." - This day
have I perfected your 'Deen' for you, completed My
favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your
'Deen'..." (54)And again it says;
"Wa mann yabtaghi ghair-al-Islama deenan fa layn
yuqbal minho wa howa fil akhera minnal khaserin" - If
any one desires a 'Deen' other than Islam, never will
it be accepted of him, and in the hereafter (also
here) he will be in loss. (385)These verses tell us that Islam is a 'Deen'. There
could be many 'Deen' but Islam is the only acceptable
'Deen' with God. Moreover, Islam is a perfect 'Deen'
whereas other 'Deen' are imperfect. Islam's Values
System is for the benefit of whole mankind (262). Any
nation, irrespective of race and religion, who adopts
the Quranic values system in its true spirit would get
due reward in the form of a prosperous and peaceful
society; a society which would be free of all fears
and grief (23.It is a system which benefits all
human beings equally. Therefore, those who follow
other 'Deen' instead of 'Deen-al-Islam' they would be,
at the end of the day, in loss (385). Their efforts
for establishing a welfare state and a peaceful
society will not bear fruits.No doubt, everyone knows that Islam is 'Al-Deen'. This
is a simple fact. But, unfortunately, very few people
have the true concept of 'Al-Deen'. The true concept
of 'Al-Deen', as it should be, is in the Quran whereas
what the clergy teaches about 'Al-Deen' that is
radically against the Quran. Paradoxical though it may
sounds, but it is a truth. 'Al-Deen' is understood and
practiced, everywhere as religion. The difference
between religion and 'Al-Deen' lies in their out look
on life. Religion focal point is life in the
hereafter. It finds no solution to human problems in
this world and delivers no material goods except to
entice the votaries with 'Hoors' and 'Qasoors' in the
hereafter. Contrarily, 'Al-Deen' encompasses life as
an organic whole and gives a values system which
ensures both a decent life in this world as well as in
the hereafter (7156). This concept of 'Al-Deen' (A
State's System) is very clearly stated in the Quran. I
will deliberate on a few verses for the sake of
convenience as follow;In Sura Yousef, we are told the story of prophet
Joseph (as) and his brothers. He was appointed as
governor of land resources by the king of Egypt.
During an incident he wanted his younger brother to
stay back but by the law of the king he could not take
him. Quran narrated this incident as follow;"...kazalika kidna le yousaf" - thus did We plan for
Yousef - "ma kana le yakhuza akhaho fi Deen
Al-Malik..." - he could not take his brother by the
Law of the king. (1276)This verse gives us a crystal clear definition of
'Al-Deen'. In fact, 'al-Deen' is the Law of the Land
whether it is given by a King 'Deen Al-Malik' or given
by God Almighty 'Deen Allah'. It is not religion at
all.In some verses the word 'Al-Deen' is used for orderly
functioning of various cosmic bodies and occurrence of
natural phenomena. For example, in verse 936 after
stating creation of the universe and number of months
in a year it is said; "Zalika Al-Deen ul Qayyem". In
such verses the Quran is not referring to religion but
to immutable Laws of nature (also see v.3030). -
This definition of 'Al-Deen', when applied to other
verses, gives a much better understanding of the
subject than religion. For instance, in verse (4026)
the Pharaoh, while inciting his people against Moses,
said"...Inni akhafu unyubadil Deenakum..."- what I fear is
lest he should change your 'Deen'.Prophet Moses was struggling against Pharaoh for the
liberation of Bani Israel (7105). The importance of
Bani Israel in the slave-based economy was obvious.
They were the backbone. Their liberation meant not
only the collapse of the economy but the whole system.
So, when Pharaoh said; "lest he should change your
'Deen'" he did not mean the change of religion. Bani
Israel were not worshiping Pharaoh. Therefore, their
liberation was not a threat to religion. Change of
'Deen' means change of law of the land. Pharaoh was
afraid of this change. Moses was threatening his rule
and authority. (See also v.7110, 1078, 28;19)In Surah Tauba we come across the resistance offered
by the 'Mushrikeen' to the newly formed Islamic State
in Medina. Before the advent of Islam the power and
economy of Medina was in the hands of 'Mushrikeen'.
They considered Islam a great threat to their power
and economy. Therefore, they used all tactics to
destabilize the Islamic State. In this regard, Quran
said"Howallazee arsala rasoolahu bil hudda wa Deen-al-Haqq
le yuzheraho 'ala Deen-e-Kulleh walo Karehal
Mushrikoon" - It is He Who has sent His messenger with
Guidance and 'Deen-al-Haqq' to establish its supremacy
over all 'Deen' even though the 'Mushrikeen' may
detest it. (933)We know that the Jews, the Christians and the Pagans
of Arabia faced no threat to their religions from
Islam. The Quran enjoins upon Muslims not to force
anyone to change religion (2256). Also, it enjoins on
them not to insult the deities of other religions
(610. On the contrary, Quran accepts the freedom of
religion as a birth right of every individual (763)
and give protection to various religion and their
places of worship in the Islamic State (2240).
Therefore, it would be wrong to think that Muslims
were there in Medina to change and dominate other
religions. They were there to change oppressive laws
and to end the exploitation of man by man. The Quran
gives a values system, which is friendly to human
beings and ensure peace and prosperity. In the above
referred verse (933) 'Deen-al-Haqq does not means the
religion of truth but it clearly means The System of
True Values i.e. The Quranic Values System.The fact that 'Al-Deen' is a set of absolute values,
which are essential for the foundations of a truely
progressive and peaceful society, and that its
relation with religion (if any) is merely a cultural
issue, is more explicitly stated in the following
verses.The Quran opens with the praises of God Who nourishes
everything in the universe (11). This nourishment of
things takes place through a wondrous system, which
consists of perfect and immutable laws. The biological
development of man is similar to other living creature
and takes place under the same laws of nature.
However, in some aspects the creation of man is
different among the living things (2314). The most
outstanding difference is that he posses 'Nafs' which
is, unlike biological body, indestructible if tended
properly (917-10). The laws and values governing the
development of human 'Nafs' are given in the Quran
(449). These laws need implementation through a
system in the society because these do not function,
spontaneously, like physical laws in the universe. The
period, during which this system is in power in the
society, the Quran terms it 'Yom-ud-Deen'. The Quran
says"Wa ma adraka ma Yom-ud-Deen" - And what will explain
to thee what the 'yom-ud-Deen' is ? (8217)"Thuma ma adraka ma Yom-ud-Deen" - Again, what will
explain thee what 'Yom-ud-Deen' is ? (821"Yoma la tamleku nafsun le nafsen shai ah wal amro
yomaizen lilah" - It will be the day when no person
shall have any power for another; And, the command,
that day will be wholly with God. (8219)Accordingly, 'Al-Deen' is something, which is
concerned with power and command in the society. It is
a system. It is not a religion because religion does
not hold power and command in the society. The primary
subject of religion is man's spiritual life and
morality. It concerns itself with problems of life
after death. It does not interfere with the political
system or socio-economic system in the society; nor it
offers any solution to problems facing man due to
wrong systems in this world. On the contrary, the
primary objective of 'Al-Deen' is to establish itself
firmly in the land and to ensure a systematic
provision of socio-economic justice for every
individual.(4017). It puts an end to exploitation of
man by man and make certain that every individual must
get full reward of his labor (2015). It promote
fraternal cooperation in the society as an article of
Faith (Eeman) and provide equal opportunity to
everyone for the development of his specific abilities
and enable him to play a better role in the growth of
economy and culture (3200;1671).The fact that 'Al-Deen' is not religion and that it is
a very wrong and damaging notion of 'Al-Deen' is
explicitly explained in the above discourse. We cannot
say at this moment (1500-years after the birth of
Islam) that who had defined 'Al-Deen' as religion?
Also, we cannot blame whether he was a naive friend or
a clever enemy of Islam? Nor, it would be of any help
in solving the problems, which the Muslim Ummah is
suffering due to wrong understanding of 'Al-Deen'
today. However, we can argue that the one who had
defined 'Al-Deen' as religion; surely he had given a
fatal blow to its progressive and forebearing
characteristics. He had opened the darkest chapter in
the history of 'al-Deen, which was later used by the
privileged classes and religious fanatics to gain
self-interests against the interest of common man.It may not be important to know what people had
brought this fatal change, but certainly, it is
essential to analyze and understand the way how it had
been accomplished? Although, to convert a dynamic and
pragmatic system (Al-Deen) into dead ritual and dogmas
was an impossible task but thanks to the Arabic
language they (the clergy) done it, easily.We know that Arabic is a rich and meaningful language.
Its vocabulary is so deep, solid, and comprehensive
that it can serve the intellectual needs of all
classes in the society and it can meet the linguistic
challenges in all stages of development of human
knowledge and culture. The root meanings of its words
are wide and extensive. These can be used to convey
simple thoughts as well as highly developed concepts
with utmost clarity. This property is unique to Arabic
language and keeps the system dynamic and progressive.
The system can review and discard obsolete ideas and
worn out practices without problem and replace them
with fresh thoughts and ideas. This language was the
right choice to descend the final Divine Message for
the guidance of mankind.Unfortunately, the religious scholars did not use this
property of Arabic for the benefits of the system.
Instead of, benefiting the system, they exploited this
property in their own interest and in the interest of
privileged classes (the rulers and the rich). It is a
well-known fact that the meanings of words and
concepts have profound effect on human attitude and
behavior. For example, when a child asks for a car you
don't go to the cars showroom. You understand the
childish language. So, you go straight to a toys shop
and get him a beautiful limousine. What they did is
that they simply changed the meaning of words and the
rest is taken care of by itself. Pick up any
translation or interpretation, you will find, even at
a sketchy look, that they assigned the simplest
meaning to some of the most important terminologies
and major concepts in the Quran. -
The meanings assigned to the language of Quran by
religious scholars were quite childish. It was the
language of a great system 'Al-Deen Al-Islam' which
was meant to produce a class of noble, brave and
magnanimous people a people who cares more for
others than themselves (599). But with the change in
meanings the lofty ideals of 'Al-Deen' were reduced to
frivolous ritual and beliefs followed by a class of
people who are self-centered, intolerant, parochial,
and devoid of vision. Indeed, it was a great tragedy
not for Muslims alone but for the whole mankind. A few
references from the Quran would be enough to
understand what the hell they have done?THE CONCEPT OF RECITATION
God says; "We have sent this Quran in a clear language
so that you can use your intellect in its light"
(122). Also He says; "We have sent among you a
messenger to educate you in divine knowledge and
wisdom and let your talents grow and develop".
(2;151;1644). Accordingly, it was important for every
Muslim to learn Quran and know its values and
principles in order to live a successful life. The
Quran should have been taught in schools like other
subjects in the syllabus. But the religious scholars
ignored the clear lesson in these verses and came up
with the concept of recitation (Talawat-e-Quran). They
thought that learning of the Quran is the job of
scholars and as far as masses are concerned, it is a
matter of 'Thawab'(Reward in the hereafter) for them.
They will get the reward if they read or listen Quran
even without understanding it. This deadly concept
alienated the Muslims from the Quran. Although, it
increased their emotional attachment but they could
not develop intellectual relation with the Quran.
Thus, the Quran, which was sent to bring out the
people from the darknesses of ignorance into the light
of knowledge, turned into a religious book for earning
'Thawab'. Being thus alienated from the Quran, Muslims
needed something to do in the name of 'Al-Deen'. The
clergy found a cure for this and came up with another
deadly concept - the concept of 5-pilllars.THE CONCEPT OF 5-PILLARS
The Quran enjoins upon Muslims to follow 'Al-Deen' as
a whole from A-Z, whole-heartedly (220. Its every
command (Amer) is important. When it says; "Don't
enter a house without permission" (2427); it is as
much important as when it says; "Don't kill a person
except by the law" (6151). It was an absolutely right
thinking and a great vision. God has sent 'Al-Deen' to
function as a system covering all aspects of life.
While the success of religion depends on how craftily
it fascinates people with charms of life in the
hereafter, the credibility and truthfulness of a
system depends upon the accomplished results and no
system produces results unless it is implemented
exclusively. People living under a system want their
problems to be solved here in this world. But the
religious scholars changed this great vision. They
came up with their own thinking - the concept of
5-pillars. They said that there are 5-basic and most
important pillars of Islam. These are; "Kalima, Salat,
Saum, Zakat, and Hajj". Whosoever follows these with
due sincerity he is a good and righteous Muslims.This non-Quranic distinction in the Quranic
commandments had a great psychological impact on the
Muslims' mind. They started, unconsciously, paying
more attention to these 5-pillars than rest of the
Quran. They performed them as an obligation to earn
'Thawab' for salvation in the hereafter without
having, even a slightest idea that these pillars are
part of a great system. Due to this change in the
attitude of Muslims, there occurred a polarization in
the society. Those who performed the 5-pillars with
regularity they came to be known as 'Deendar'
(religious) and those who performed them occasionally
they came to be known as 'Duniyadar' (secular). The
rulers and the rich used this polarization for their
own benefit. They took over the control of secular
affairs and managed them according to their own
desires and interests. The religious affairs left to
be managed by the 'Mullahs' according to their own
desires and interests. Both of them threw away the
Quran behind their backs. This polarization still
exists in the present day societies. 'Al-Deen' has
ceased to function as system. It got to be practiced
everywhere as religion.There was no justification for short-listing the
5-pillar and laying un-wanted emphasis on recitation
(reading and listening the Quran without
comprehension). These concepts were absolutely against
the clear teachings of the Quran as well as against
the spirit of 'Al-Deen Al-Islam'. The scholars of Bani
Israel did same mistake with the Book of God and
earned His Wrath. They shredded the Book into pieces;
showing little and concealing most of its contents
(691). God warned the Muslims not to repeat this
mistake again in the following verses;"And say, I am indeed he that warns openly and without
ambiguity. (Of just such wrath) As We sent down on
those who divided (the scripture into arbitrary
parts). (So also on such) As have made Quran into
shreds (as they please). Therefore, by the Lord, We
will, of surety, call them to account. For all their
deeds". (1589-93)While the concept of recitation alienated the masses
from the Quran the concept of 5-pillars alienated them
from 'Al-Deen' as a system. These two concepts have
gradually transformed 'Al-Deen' into a religion. The
concept of 'Al-Deen' went first, out of sight and then
out of mind. The domain of the Quran which during the
time of the prophet (pbuh) and the righteous caliphs
extended to the whole life got divided between the
rulers and the priests. Henceforth, the rulers
developed their own insight and ways of ruling the
Muslims masses while the clergy developed their own
terminology and methods of practicing 'Al-Deen'.TERMINOLOGY OF THE QURAN CHANGED
The bifurcation of 'Al-Deen' into state affairs and
religious affairs necessitated a new meaning to the
Quran. The language of the Quran does not support
religion because it is the language of a system based
on reason (4174;752) whereas all religions are based
on ignorance and deception. The religious scholars
used the same foundations for converting 'Al-Deen'
into a religion. Reading and listening the Quran
without comprehension, as discussed above, have sent
down the masses deep into the sea of ignorance and
concentrating on 5-pillars out of whole corpus of the
Quranic injunctions have put them into a great
deception. 'Al-Deen' became synonymous with religion.
The terminology of the Quran is given new meanings to
meet the requirements of religion. We will deliberate
some of these as follow;MEANING OF THE CREED CHANGED
The creed of a system is very important because it
describes the whole philosophy of the system in a
nutshell. People keep it on the tip of the tongue and
remain conscious of their obligations within the
system. The success of the sytem depends on how better
the people understand their creed and how faithfully
they follow it. A slight change in the meaning of the
creed causes a radical change in masses' behavior and
outlook. The creed of 'Al-Deen' is "La illaha
illalah".The Arabic word 'illah' is very meaningful. Its root
meanings imply power, command, respect and obedience.
It is used in the Quran in various contexts. In verse
(7123) it refers to pagans' deities. In verse (2543)
it refers to human desires. And, in verse (2629) it
refers to the rule of Pharaoh. Although, these look
different contexts but the root meaning of 'illah' is
implied to all in various shades. Whether these are
deities or human desires or human beings themselves,
when they act as an 'illah', they rule hearts and
minds of people and win their allegiance.The creed 'la illaha illalah' is the basis of
'Al-Deen'. Its correct understanding is very important
because it determines the status of 'Al-Deen'in the
society. If it is understood; "There is no god worthy
of worship but God alone" then 'Al-Deen' fell down to
a level as low as of a religion. Firstly, the concept
of worship is related to religion alone. And secondly,
comparing gods with God is similar to comparing a
religion with a religion. On the contrary, if it is
understood; "There is no ruler worthy of obedience and
respect but God alone" then 'al-Deen' ascend to the
level of a powerful system because now the objective
is not worship but obedience of law and the comparison
is not between God and deities but the rulers.The religious scholars (for reasons best known to
them) took the concept of worship and put all their
efforts to inculcate the masses that 'La illah
illalah' means; "None is worthy of worship except
God". They condemned the worship of deities as
'shirk'. Consequently, the masses developed strong
hatred for idol worship. They smashed them wherever
they found them and focused all their attention to the
worship of God alone. The concept of God's rule
vanished from their mind. They did not mind who rules
them but they never tolerated idols. They blasted them
even if these are found in the desolate mountains of
Bamiyan (Afghanistan).http//www.galaxydastak.com/cgi-bin/forum/webbbs_config.pl?read=314123119137056
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MEANING OF 'SHIRK' CHANGED
'Shirk' is a comprehensive term. Idol worship is its
simplest form. In fact, people worship idols because
they think these got the power to changes their
destiny. However, it is an inferior thinking of man.
God has created man as superior being among many of
His creatures (1770). It is not proper for him to
submit to anyone who are either inferior to him (idols
or his lowly desires) or who are mortal beings like
him self (priest and rulers). Man should submit
himself to the authority of God alone. He is the
creator and He knows what the purpose of man's
creation is? (6714). Therefore, no one could think
better than God what is best for man. When Quran says;
" authority belongs to God..." (657) or when God
condemn 'Shirk' as the biggest and un-pardonable crime
(3113;44, it does not mean that God dislikes
deities and asserts Himself as a sovereign. He is far
above emotions and far above what we associate with
Him. If man associates hundreds of deities, it does
not affect God's sovereignty in the universe.
Secondly, He Himself has condemned compulsion in
'Al-Deen' (2256). So, how could He threat or force
human beings against their will, to follow a
particular path? Actually, these admonitions are meant
to inculcate the truth that man can accomplish his
goals by no other means except God's laws. He can
reach his destination by following God's path alone.
Therefore, the real 'shirk' is not the worship of
idols or deities but it is the following of paths
other than the one, which God has recommended. These
paths (in other words, various man-made systems)
misguide man and take him far away from his
destination (4116). Values and principles in man-made
systems are not enough to guide man in the right
direction. By following man-made systems, he cannot
emancipate from animal-instincts and lowly desires; He
cannot rise to become a noble and dignified human
being. It is possible only by following the value
system of the Quran (2885). It is stated in the
Quran"God wants to raise man to the exalted ranks of
humanity through the value system of the Quran. But,
man follows the earthly desires which eventually
brings him low to the position of beasts and worse."
(7176). This downfall is exclusively attributed to
'Shirk' in another verse, which reads as follow;"Hunafaa lillahe ghaira Mushrikeena beh - Being true
in faith to God, and never assigning partners to Him -
Wa manyushrik billahe - if anyone assigns partners to
God - Fa ka ann ma kharra minusamai - he is as if he
had fallen from heavens - Fa takhtafh-o-tairo au
tahvee behir reeho fi makanin saheeq - and been
snatched up by birds, or the wind had swooped and
thrown him into a far-distant place." (2231)God's given value system grooms human personality. It
imparts enlightenment, and excellence of taste through
intellectual and aesthetic training. It provides him
protection against the spontaneous forces of nature
and the society.Accordingly, we conclude that real 'Shirk' is to
follow values and principles, which are against the
Quran. The real 'Shirk' is to follow the systems,
which are based on non-Quranic values and principles.
Quran has emphatically stated"La yushrik fi hukmehee ahada - God does not share His
Command (values & principles) with anyone whatsoever".
(1826)This definition of 'Shirk' is much more important and
practically related with the welfare of the society.
If understood rightly and taken care of, it would have
liberated the masses from the evil's systems, which
exploit national resources and man's labor to
safeguard the interests of privileged classes against
the common man's interests. The masses would have
never submitted to such systems because submission to
these man-made systems is no less a big crime than
'Shirk'. But the religious scholars did not pay due
attention on this concept and laid undeserved emphasis
in condemning idol's worship as a form of 'Shirk'.
They diverted the focus of attention of the people
from a dangerous and fatal form of 'Shirk' towards a
simple and harmless form of 'Shirk'. Consequently, as
earlier said, the Muslim masses can tolerate and bow
their heads before any evil ruler no matter how much
his rule is against the rule of God's Will; they can
live in any man-made system no matter how much its
values and principles are degraded and against the
noble values of the glorious Quran, but they would
never tolerate bowing before an idol. They hated
idol's worship like they hate pigs whereas idols has
no power either to harm or to benefit them. The
religion's opium has worked rightly on them. They
forgot their primary obligations to strive hard
against ignorance, poverty, and undemocratic values.
They never realized that idols of human desires are
worst than stone's idols. These noble ideas never
touched them but they dream to be known as
'Butshikan'. They have become the true embodiment of
what the Quran said in this verse"And most of them believe not in God without
associating (others as partners) with Him". (12106) -
MEANING OF 'IBADAH' CHANGED
When 'illah' came to be misinterpreted; "The one who
is worshiped", instead of, "The one who is the ruler",
and 'Shirk' came to be misinterpreted; "To associate
idols in the worship of God", instead of, "To
associate others in the rule of God" then, naturally,
the meaning of 'ibadah' has to be misinterpreted; "The
worship of God", instead of, "The rule of God". This
change in the meanings of words along with the
introduction of other non-Quranic concepts such as
'The concept of recitation' and 'The concept of five
pillars' had played a key role in the transformation
of 'Al-Deen' into religion.The Quran has given a very clear concept of 'ibadah'.
It simply means "obedience to God's command". In
verse (18110) it says; "wa la yushrik be-ibadateh
rabbehe ahada - nor does he associate anyone in
'ibadah' of his God. And in verse (1826) it says; "wa
la yushrik fi hukmehe ahada"- nor does He share His
Command with any person whatsoever". These verses have
clearly defined the relation between 'hukm' and
'ibadah' and left no room for confusing 'ibadah' with
worship. Neither God wants to share His Command with
anyone nor His Messenger like to obey anyone except
God.The concept of worship (Ibadah) is alien to 'Al-Deen'.
It is a creation of religion. 'Al-Deen' is a
goal-oriented system, which follows certain rules and
principles. It is not a dogma but a guide to practice.
Whatever, it claims or promises for the welfare of
people that is concrete and achievable in this world.
On the contrary, religion consists of beliefs and
dogmas based on wistful thinking of those people who
fail to establish God's Authority against the
authority of oppressive forces in the society. While
the followers of 'Al-Deen' sacrifice their persons and
goods to win the blessings and the pleasure of God
(9111) the religious folks have nothing to please Him
in this world except to offer their praises and
prayers (worship).We may not know when? And where? The transformation of
'Al-Deen' into religion took place because social and
cultural changes are evolutionary in nature and
difficult to monitor. These are, like a clock's hour
needle, remain in motion invisibly for a long period
of time before they become mature and attain
perfection. However, in the light of above discussion,
we are certain that Islam is no more 'al-Deen'.
Although, we call it 'Al-Deen' but everywhere it is
practiced as religion.A religion cannot prove its truthfulness nor it can
prove its superiority over other religions. Firstly,
all religions are based on fear and ignorance.
Secondly, they do not have concern with the management
of worldly affairs such as politics and economy. The
primary subject of religion is spirituality. In this
regard, in order to see which one is true and
superior, one has to wait till doomsday. On the
contrary, a system has to prove its worth in this
world. It is based on well-defined principles and
policies. Its results and achievements are concrete
and comparable. For example, when a system promises
social justice it has to deliver it. Islam as a system
had remained very successful. Islamic state was the
embodiment of peace and justice. It had delivered all
the goods to its people. But when Islam reduced to
religion it became a pandemonium of chaos, confusion,
and contradictions. It failed badly to deliver what it
claimed. This situation persisted till now and will
continue to persist till Islam is redefined as a
system.We have pointed out earlier that there are many
contradictions found in Islam. Muslims believe in
unity but they are the most disunited folks in the
world. They believe in fraternity but they are not
fraternal to each other. They believe in peace but
known to others as terrorists. They believe in human
equality and dignity but these noble values are
nowhere found in Muslims' societies. These and many
other contradictions are found in Islam because it is
not practiced as a values system. What the Muslims are
practicing in the name of Islam that is purely a
religion consisting mostly of biblical dogmas and
Zoroastrian junk. It has very little, if any,
teachings from the Quran or the life of the Prophet
(pbuh). Therefore, when we talk about the failure of
Islam, in fact, we talk about the failure of Islam as
a religion.Dear Readers; this is just a brief review of a Great
Tragedy. A tragedy which turned a system of great
values and principles into dust of religious dogmas
and rituals. This unwanted transformation brought in
its fold many drastic consequences to the Muslims
world. The most prominent was the curse of
factionalism and sectarianism. Al-Deen-al-Islam, which
during the first half-century of its foundation, have
worked as a coherent and dominant system on the map of
the world got divided into secular Islam and religious
Islam. This division never stopped. The secular Islam
got further divided into various political and
cultural factions and the religious Islam got divided
into various religious sects such as sunni, and shia.
Clash of Interests, which is an essential outcome of
sectarianism, took them into its bloody grip and the
scourge of mutual vengeance became their destiny.
(665)To sum up, I would say that if the Muslims want to
redeem the past glory of Islam; if they want to see
Islam triumphant in the world; if they want to enjoy a
self-satisfied life under Islam then they have to
redefine Islam as a system. For, it is the system,
which can deliver these good to them - not religion. -
Wa ma 'alaina illal balagh
REFERENCES
? The Glorious Quran
11- Praise be to God, The Cherisher and Sustainer of
the worlds
238- ?whosoever follow My guidance, on them shall be
no fear, nor shall they grieve.262- Those who believe (in the Quran), and those who
follow the Jewish (scripture), and the Christians and
the Sabians, - Any who believe in God and the Last
Day, and work righteousness, shall have their reward
with their Lord; on them shall be no fear, nor shall
they grieve.2151- A similar (favor have ye already received); In
that We have sent among you an apostle of your own;
rehearsing to you Our signs, and sanctifying you, and
educating you in the Book and Wisdom, and in new
knowledge.2208- O you who believe! Enter into Islam
wholeheartedly; and follow not the footsteps of evil
one; for he is to you an avowed enemy.2256- Let there be no compulsion in religion Truth
standout clear from falsehood?319- The religion before God is Islam (submission to
His Will). Nor did the people of the Book dissent
there from except through envy of each other, after
knowledge had come to them. But if any deny the sign
of God, God is swift in calling to account.385- If any one desires a religion other than Islam
(Submission to God) never it will be accepted of him,
and in the hereafter he will be in the ranks of those
who have lost (all spiritual good)3103- And hold fast, all together, by the rope which
God (stretches out for you), and be not divided among
yourselves; - ?.3105- Be not like those who are divided amongst
themselves and fall into disputations after receiving
clear signs; for them is a dreadful penalty.3159- It is part of the mercy of God that you deal
gently with them. Were you severe or harsh-hearted,
they would have broken away from about thee; so pass
over (their faults), and ask for (God?s) forgiveness
for them; and CONSULT THEM IN AFFAIRS. Then, when you
have taken a decision put thy trust in God. For God
love those who trust Him.3200- O ye who believe! Persevere in patience and
constancy; vie in such perseverance; strengthen each
other; And obey God that you may prosper.448- God forgives not that partners should be set up
with Him; but He forgives any thing else, to whom He
pleases; To set up partners with God is to devise a
sin most heinous indeed.4116- God forgives not (the sin of) joining other
gods with Him; But He forgives to whom He pleases
other sins than this One who joins other gods with
God; had strayed far, far away (from the right path).4174- O mankind! Verily there has come to you a
convincing proof (rational) from your Lord For We
have sent unto you a light (that is) manifest.54- ?this day have I perfected your religion for you,
completed My favor upon you, and have chosen for you
Islam as your religion. - ?657- ?the command rest with none but God; He
declares the truth, and He is the best of judges.665- Say; He has power to send calamities on you,
from above and below, OR TO COVER YOU WITH CONFUSION
IN PARTY STRIFE, giving you a taste of MUTUAL
VENGEANCE ? each from the other?.!691- ? the Book which Moses brought ? A light and
guidance to mankind; but you make it into (SEPARATE)
SHEETS for show, while you conceal (much of its
contents) ??!6108- Revile not ye those whom they call upon besides
God, lest they out of spite revile God in their
ignorance?!6151- ?take not life, which God has made sacred,
except by way of justice and law?!
752- We had certainly have sent unto them a Book,
BASED ON KNOWLEDGE, which We explained in detail, - A
guide and mercy to all who believe.7105- One for whom it is right to say nothing but
truth about God. Now have come unto you (people), from
your Lord, with a clear sign So let the CHILDREN OF
ISRAEL DEPART ALONG WITH ME.7110- His (Moses) plan is TO GET YOU OUT OF YOUR
LAND then what is ye counsel.?
7156- And ordain for us that which is good, IN THIS
LIFE AND IN THE HEREAFTER?!
7176- If it had been Our Will (and it was), WE
SHOULD HAVE ELEVATED HIM WITH OUR SIGNS; but he
inclined to the earth, and followed his own vain
desires.
933- It is He Who has sent His apostle with guidance
AND THE RELIGION OF TRUTH, to proclaim it over all
religion, even though the pagans may detest it.936- The number of months in the sight of God is
twelve (in a year) ? So ordained by Him the day He
created the heavens and the earth; of them four are
sacred; THAT IS THE IS THE STRAIGHT USAGE?.!9111- God has purchased of the believers THEIR PERSON
AND THEIR GOODS; for theirs (in return) is the garden
(of paradise)?!1078- They said has thou come to us to turn us from
the ways we found our fathers following, - in order
thou and thy brother MAY HAVE GREATNESS IN THE LAND;
but not we shall believe in you.122- We have sent it down as an Arabic Quran, IN
ORDER THAT YOU MAY LEARN WISDOM.
1589-93- And say; I am indeed he that warns openly
and without ambiguity. (of just such wrath) as We sent
down on those WHO DIVIDED (Scripture into arbitrary
parts). (So also on such), AS HAVE MADE QURAN INTO
SHREDS (as they please). Therefore, by the Lord, We
will, of a surety, call them to account. For all their
deeds.
1644- (We sent them) with clear signs and Books of
dark prophecies; And We have sent down unto thee
(also) the message; THAT THOU MAYEST EXPLAIN CLEARLY
TO MEN WHAT IS SENT FOR THEM, AND THAT THEY MAY GIVE
THOUGHT.
1671- God has bestowed His gifts of sustenance more
freely on some of you than on others; those more
favored are not going to throw back their gifts to
those whom their right hands posses (employees), SO AS
TO BE EQUAL IN THAT RESPECT. Will they then deny the
favors of God ?
179- VERILY THIS QURAN DOES GUIDE TO THAT WHICH IS
MOST STRAIGHT (OR STABLE), and gives the glade
tidings to the believers who work deeds of
righteousness, that they shall have a magnificent
reward.
1770- We have honored the sons of Adam; provided them
with transport on land and sea; given them for
sustenance things good and pure; AND CONFERRED ON THEM
SPECIAL FAVORS, ABOVE A GREAT PART OF OUR CREATION.
1826- Say; God knows best how long they stayed; with
Him is (the knowledge of) the secrets of the heavens
and the earth; how clearly He sees; how finely He
hears (everything); they have no protector other than
Him; NOR DOES HE SHARE HIS COMMAND WITH ANY PERSON
WHATSOEVER.18110- Say; I am a man like yourselves, (but) the
inspiration has come to me, that your God is one God;
whosoever expect to meet his Lord, let him work
righteousness, and, IN THE WORSHIP OF HIS LORD, ADMIT
NO ONE AS PARTNER.2015- Verily the hour is coming ? My design is to
keep it hidden ? FOR EVERY SOUL TO RECEIVE ITS REWARD
BY THE MEASURE OF ITS ENDEAVOUR.2240- ?Did not God check one set of people by means
of another, there would surely have been, PULLED DOWN
MONASTRIES, CHURCHES, SYNAGOGUES, AND MOSQUES, in
which the name of God is commemorated in abundance
measure. God will certainly aid those who aid His
cause?!2314-Then We made the sperms into a clot of congealed
blood; then of that clot We made a (fetus) lump; then
We made out of that lump bones and clothed the bones
with flesh; THEN WE DEVELOPED OUT OF IT ANOTHER
CREATURE. So blessed be God, the best to create.
2427- O ye who believe! Enter not house other than
your own UNTILL YE HAVE ASKED PERMISION AND SALUTED
THOSE IN THEM. That is best for you, in order that ye
may heed (what is seemly).2543- See thou such a one as takes for his god HIS
OWN PASSION OR IMPULSE ? Could thou be a disposer of
affairs for him ?2629- (Pharaoh) said; ?If you did put forward ANY GOD
OTHER THAN ME, I will certainly imprisoned you.2819- ?Thy intention is none other than to become A
POWERFUL VIOLENT MAN IN THE LAND, and not to be one
who sets things right.2885- Verily He Who ordained the Quran for you, WILL
BRING THEE BACK TO THE PLACE OF RETURN. Say; My Lord
knows best who it is that brings true guidance, and
who is in manifest error ?3030- So set thou thy face steadily and truly to the
Faith And (establish) God?s handiwork according to
the pattern on which he has created mankind. No change
(let there be) in the work (wrought) by God THAT IS
THE STANDARD RELIGION, but most among the mankind
understand not.3113- Behold; Luqman said to his son by way of
instruction; ?O MY SON, JOIN NOT IN WORSHIP (OTHERS)
WITH GOD FOR FALSE WORSHIP (SHIRK) IS INDEED THE
HIGHEST WRONG-DOINGS.4017- THAT DAY (DURING THE DIVINE RULE) WILL EVERY
SOUL BE REQUITED (PAID) FOR WHAT IT EARNED (HIS
LABOR). No injustice will there be that Day. For God
is swift in taking account.4026- Said, Pharaoh; leave me to slay Moses; and let
him call on his Lord, WHAT I FEAR IS LEST HE SHOULD
CHANGE YOUR RELIGION OR LEST HE SHOULD CAUSE MISCHIEF
TO APPEAR IN THE LAND.4910- THE BELIEVERS ARE BUT A SINGLE BROTHERHOOD So
make peace and reconciliation between your two
(contending) brothers.599- But those who before them, had homes (in
Medina), and had adopted the Faith, show their
affection to such as came to them for refuge, and
entertain no desire in their hearts for things given
to the (later), BUT GIVE THEM PREFERENCE OVER
THEMSELVES, EVEN THOUGH POVERTY WAS THEIR OWN LOT. And
those saved from the covetousness of their own souls,- they are the one who achieve prosperity.
6714- SHOULD HE NOT KNOW, - HE THAT CREATED ? And He
is the one that understands the finest mysteries (and)
is well acquainted with them.
7123- And they have said (to each other), ABANDON NOT
YOUR GODS ABANDON NEITHE WADD NOR SUWA; NEITHER
YAGUTH NOR YA?UQ NOR NASR.763- We showed him the way WHETHER HE BE GRATEFUL OR
UNGRATEFUL (REST ON HIS WILL).768-9- And they feed, for the love of God, the
indigent, the orphan, and the captive,- Saying; ?We
feed you for the sake of God alone; NO REWARD DO WE
DESIRE FROM YOU, NOR THANKS.917-10- By the soul, and the proportion and order
given to it; And its enlightenment as to its wrong
and its right; TRULY HE SUCCEEDS THAT PURIFY (DEVELOP)
IT. AND HE FAILS THAT CORRUPT (UNDEVELOPED) IT.http//groups.yahoo.com/group/IslamicDawn/message/5709