Dive into ‘Rights of minorities in Islam & Pakistan,’ a comprehensive exploration by Dr. Maulana Sarfraz Awan, featuring audio, a YouTube video, and an English description, all aimed at shedding light on the Rights of minorities in Islam & Pakistan.
YouTube Video
Rights of minorities in Islam & Pakistan- 8th September 2023 – YouTube Video
Table of Contents
Audio Summary 🎥🔊
Title: Islam Mein Aqliton Ke Haqooq
English Title: Rights of minorities in Islam & Pakistan 📖🕊️
Topic In Urdu: 📖🕊️ اسلام ميں اقلیتوں کے حقوق
Date: 8th September 2023 🗓️ Safar 21, 1445 Al-Jum`ah 📅🌙
Rights of minorities in Islam & Pakistan – 8th September 2023
English Article
Dr. Maulana Sarfraz Ahmad Awan Main Lecture
Arabic Introduction to the Rights of Minorities in Islam
الحمد لله، الحمد لله رب العالمين والصلاة والسلام علی سید الانبیاء وخاتم المرسلین وعلى آله وصحبه ومن تبعهم بإحسان إلى يوم الدين. أما بعد فأعوذ بالله من الشيطان الرجيم بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم.
Arabic Introduction/Bayan
Introduction and Recent Events
Today, it is a matter of great honor for me, in fact for all of you, that today, in our mosque, the deputy minister of faith, Mr. Aniq Ahmed, has come. May Allah reward him with goodness. We are indeed grateful for his love. After a few words, I would like to request him to address our Friday Sermon. For many days now, the media has been talking about the incident that took place in Jaranwala. Today, the Supreme Court has decided to issue an appeal on behalf of a Christian religious leader regarding the incident in Jaranwala.
Muslim Stance, International Reactions, and Promoting Harmony
No Muslim can or is doing or is not supporting the actions of the Jaranwala or the perpetrators. However, we are certainly opposed to the actions of the Christian community to create a stir in Muslims. The Christian community in the world is also bringing this issue under discussion. However, Western countries and India have been trying to undermine the personal freedom of Muslims and the world’s human rights organizations. These organizations and the silence and disregard from these institutions are clearly showing the two sides of the coin. We are certainly opposed to this. You hear that many leaders of the ruling party of India are saying that Hindus and Muslims can’t live together. Although Muslims have been ruling India for 800 or 1000 years, if such a special approach were adopted by the Muslims, then perhaps today there would be no Hindus left in India. India, where there are many religious believers, is a minority in comparison to them. But there is a constant spread of hatred against Muslims.
Attacks on Christian Communities and the Need for Unity
More than 150 people have been killed in the Christian community. Their communities are being set on fire, and their mosques and schools are being set on fire. And there is a constant spread of hatred against Muslims. This comprehensive discussion sheds light on recent events, media coverage, the stance of Muslims, international reactions, and the urgent need to promote harmony and coexistence in the face of rising tensions and incidents targeting the rights of minorities in Islam.
Injustice and Discrimination: Rights of Minorities in Islam in Western Countries
Not only here, but in Western countries, the right-wing extremist groups in Switzerland have demanded restrictions on mosques and minarets. In Islamic centres, restrictions are being imposed on Arabic language teaching, despite the Arabic language’s significance for Muslims in every respect.
France, in particular, has imposed laws restricting the hijab of Muslim men and women, a move that challenges the fundamental right of every person to wear the clothes of their choice. Additionally, there’s resistance to the import of halal food in France.
What’s surprising and concerning is that these injustices against Muslims go largely unmentioned and uncriticized. Furthermore, religious discrimination, which leads to incidents like Jaranwala, isn’t fully condemned.
There’s also a pervasive propaganda campaign that attempts to portray Muslims as terrorists. To counteract this conspiracy and reveal the true nature of Muslims, the Muslim community must engage with electronic, print, and social media platforms. This is because our religion is a blessing for non-Muslims just as it is for Muslims, and Allah grants us rights that no other system in the world provides for a minority of people.
The Holy Prophet’s Emphasis: Protecting the Rights of Non-Muslims
The Holy Prophet (PBUH) said,
Al-Sunan al-Kubra lil Bayhaqi – 8/31
أنا أحق من أوفى بذمته
Al-Sunan al-Kubra lil Bayhaqi – 8/31
which translates to “Protecting the rights of non-Muslims of my state is my most important duty.”
Allah’s Division of Disbelievers
Allah has divided the disbelievers into two parts. In Surah Al-Mumtahanah, Almighty says:
One is the disbelievers who oppress Muslims and expel them from their homes and cities, forcing Muslims to migrate from their country.
Allah’s Guidance on Treating Disbelievers Well
Allah has instructed us not to unite with those disbelievers who oppress Muslims. However, Allah does not forbid treating disbelievers who do not engage in hostility with kindness and fairness, as stated in Surah Al-Mumtahanah – Ayat 8:
Allah emphasizes the importance of justice, even in the face of enmity. Allah loves those who uphold justice, as mentioned in Surah Al-Ma’idah – Ayat 8:
In Quran Karim, Allah has stopped the Muslims from abusing the disbelievers even in a state of war. This profound message is conveyed in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 190:
Even during defensive warfare, when you are fighting against those who are forcing you to fight, and it’s the end of oppression and the quest for justice, the Quran commands, “وَلَا تَعْتَدُوٓا۟” – “Even then, don’t abuse them.”
Peace and Fulfillment of Treaties
If the disbelievers are willing to make peace, the Holy Qur’an commands Muslims to reciprocate peace. Surah Al-Anfal – Ayat 61 states:
Thus, Muslims are bound by agreements made with disbelievers, and their lives, property, and honor are to be protected in the same way as Muslims.
The Prophet’s Emphasis on Protecting Non-Muslims
The Holy Prophet (PBUH) emphasized the importance of protecting non-Muslims who have given their lives, wealth, and honor to the protection of the Muslim state. He stated in Sahih al-Bukhari 6914 – Book 87, Hadith 52:
Whoever kills a non-Muslim citizen who has given his life, wealth, and honor to the protection of the Muslim state, he will not even smell the fragrance of Paradise. The fragrance of Paradise is spread over a distance of forty years.
Syedna Umar’s Strict Directive
On one occasion, Syedna Umar (ra) learned that an army had called the people of the enemy who were running to protect the mountain, “Do not fear, come down.” The commander of the army betrayed them and killed the people hiding when they came down. Hazrat Umar (R.A.) wrote a letter to him and said, “By Allah, if such an incident happens again, I will cut the head of the person who does the incident.”. Because we have protected him, he is our citizen.
Protection of Civilians in Islamic Warfare
In the state of war, our religion has given special rules. There is this hadith in Abu Dawud Sharif, the Prophet (PBUH) said that Even in war:
Sunan Abi Dawud 2614 – Book 15, Hadith 138
لاَ تَقْتُلُوا شَيْخًا فَانِيًا
“Do not kill an old man”
(Sunan Abi Dawud 2614 – Book 15, Hadith 138)
وَلاَ طِفْلاً وَلاَ صَغِيرًا
Don’t kill a child or women.
Syedna Siddiq Akbar’s Commandments
When Syedna Siddiq Akbar (ra) decided to send an army to Syria, he said to the commander of the army, Hazrat Usama Ibn Zaid, “Look,
(Muwatta Malik – Kitab Jihad – Book 21, Hadith 10)
“Wherever you go, there will be people who have dedicated themselves to worship and they are limited to the villages. They are not ready for war. Do not bother them. They are in the church of their Christian community. They can do whatever they want.”
“I give you a will of ten things, a strong command,
لاَ تَقْتُلَنَّ امْرَأَةً
Be careful not to kill any woman of the enemy
وَلاَ صَبِيًّا
No child is to be killed
وَلاَ كَبِيرًا هَرِمًا
No old man is to be killed
وَلاَ تَقْطَعَنَّ شَجَرًا مُثْمِرًا
“Do not cut the fruit tree on the enemy’s land.”
وَلاَ تُخَرِّبَنَّ عَامِرًا
“Do not destroy the population.”
وَلاَ تَعْقِرَنَّ شَاةً
وَلاَ بَعِيرًا إِلاَّ لِمَأْكُلَة
Animals are slaughtered as per the need for food, except that the animals of the enemy are not to be slaughtered
وَلاَ تَحْرِقَنَّ نَحْلاً
وَلاَ تُفَرِّقَنَّهُ
“Do not burn the trees.”
وَلاَ تَغْلُلْ وَلاَ تَجْبُنْ
And see that you do not betray their property
Not to hide their wealth without any reason and not to show cowardice
The command to treat prisoners of war kindly has been given repeatedly in the Holy Quran
Conclusion
I am not extending my speech because I want to talk to our guests who have come today. I rather all of us welcome the Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Mr. Aniq Ahmed Sahib And I request the government to punish the perpetrators of the Jaranwala. I request the government to respect the sacred books of the Muslims. And respected Muslim figures in the unfortunate pursuit of political asylum abroad And those who desecrate the holy book like the Holy Quran should also be held accountable I thank you all and request Mr. Aniq to come and address the audience. Thank you.
Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony Mr. Aniq Ahmed
Arabic Bayan/Lecture
آعوذ باللہ من شیطان الرجیم، بسم اللہ الرحمن الرحیم، إن الله وملائكته يسنون على النبي، يا أيها الذين آمنوا، سلوا عليه وسلموا تسليمه، اللهم صلينا سيدنا ونبينا وشفينا ومولانا محمد، وعلى آل محمد وبارك وسلم.
Arabic Introduction/Bayan
Respected Dr. Sarfraz Ahmed Awan and Esteemed Guests
First and foremost, I extend my greetings to you all. It’s an honor to be present here today, and I must emphasize that my primary purpose in being here is to listen to and learn from the esteemed Dr. Sarfraz Ahmed Awan.
I hold the esteemed doctor’s knowledge and guidance in high regard, and it is by his request that I address you today. Complying with his wishes, I stand before you to share some thoughts.
Allow me to clarify that my presence here is primarily driven by a deep desire to gain knowledge from Dr. Sarfraz Ahmed Awan, who has consistently served as one of my esteemed teachers.
Drawing inspiration from Dr. Sarfraz Awan’s teachings, I would like to reference some verses from the Quran during the course of my speech. Dr. Sarfraz Awan has provided me with valuable insights into matters of religion and the underlying philosophy. He has illuminated how religion envisions us, and more importantly, how Allah and His Messenger envision our role and place in this world.
In great detail, Dr. Sarfraz Awan has expounded upon our responsibilities as Muslims. As believers, we carry a profound responsibility.
Understanding Our Role as Muslims
Surah Ali ‘Imran – Ayat 110
“كُنتُمْ خَيْرَ أُمَّةٍ أُخْرِجَتْ لِلنَّاسِ”
(Surah Ali ‘Imran – Ayat 110)
This verse poses a fundamental question: Why have we been chosen as the best of communities for mankind? We must ponder upon this selection.
It’s imperative to recognize that there will be no other Ummah after us. We stand at a unique juncture in history, where there are no more messengers, prophets, or revelations to follow.
The seal of Prophethood has been placed. However, the mission of Prophethood continues. It falls upon our shoulders as Muslims to carry forward this mission.
Our role, as illuminated by Dr. Sarfraz Awan, is to understand and fulfill our duties as Muslims, contributing positively to society and upholding the teachings of Islam.
O My Messenger (PBUH) – A Divine Message
In this discourse, we emphasize the divine message directed towards the Messenger (PBUH) to disseminate the revelations he receives from Allah. This directive is not exclusive to the Prophet alone but extends to every member of the Ummah, making it their collective responsibility to spread the teachings of Prophethood to the world.
Today, our discussion will revolve around the significant event of Jaranwala. We will delve into the details of how this event unfolded, shedding light on its historical context.
But before we proceed, let us turn our attention to what the Quran communicates to the People of the Book. The Quran extends a welcoming hand to the People of the Book, addressing them with the words:
“یا اہل کتاب”
“Come, let us gather around common ground and engage in fruitful dialogue.”
This call emphasizes the importance of discussing shared concerns and building bridges of understanding. On one side, we have the followers of the Messiah, and on the other, the Ummah of the Prophet (PBUH). But are we truly enemies? The Quran, known for its compassion, calls us to a different path.
So, what should be the Muslim attitude towards the People of the Book, and reciprocally, what should their attitude be towards us? Do their religious teachings align with animosity?
Let’s consider the Christians, for instance. Their faith, as represented by the Messiah, preaches love and advocates turning the other cheek when faced with adversity. This message is directed towards their own Ummah, imparting a lesson in forgiveness. Indeed, our religion too emphasizes forgiveness as a virtue.
Are we, as Muslims, harboring love for the People of the Book in our hearts? Are we drawing closer to the teachings of the Quran? Is the Quran’s wisdom truly resonating with our understanding?
These are the profound questions we aim to explore and contemplate further in our discussion.
A Lesson in Faith and Character
Allow me to share a valuable lesson from the life of the great philosopher-poet, Allama Iqbal. During his matriculation years, his father, a prominent scholar of his time, approached him with a profound message. He advised young Iqbal, “My son, complete your matriculation; I have something of great importance to share with you.”
Upon receiving this advice, Iqbal diligently pursued his matriculation studies, driven by the anticipation of his father’s wisdom.
Once he had successfully completed his matriculation, Iqbal approached his father, Noor Muhammad, and inquired, “Father, as you instructed, I have completed my matriculation. What is the important matter you wished to discuss with me?”
His father’s response held a timeless lesson. Noor Muhammad urged his son, “Whenever you read the Quran, imagine that it is being revealed to you personally.”
Iqbal, deeply moved by these words, understood that true spiritual enlightenment came from internalizing the Quran, making it a living revelation within one’s heart.
The character of a believer is a reflection of their faith, as emphasized by Hazrat Ali (ra), who stated, “The best man is the one whose character is the best.” Words alone are insufficient; genuine faith is mirrored in one’s actions and conduct.
It is essential to ponder upon this teaching, for even those with ill intentions can articulate virtuous words. Hence, the quality of faith is truly measured by one’s character.
As believers, we must strive for a harmonious alignment of our words, actions, and beliefs. Allah calls upon us not to be ungrateful, reminding us of our commitment to faith. Let us contemplate these lessons and endeavor to embody them in our lives as followers of faith.
The Path of Love and Devotion to Allah
As believers, we proudly declare our unwavering faith in Allah and His Prophet (peace be upon him). In Surah Al-Baqarah, we are reminded that true believers hold profound love for Allah:
Surah Al-Baqarah – Ayat 165
وَٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓاْ أَشَدُّ حُبّٗا لِّلَّهِ
(Surah Al-Baqarah – Ayat 165)
“And those who have believed are stronger in love for Allah.” But do we truly understand what it means to love Allah with all our hearts?
Loving Allah wholeheartedly requires a deep understanding of how to follow the path of our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him). It is the Prophet who said in Arabic, “Follow me, I will love you, and Allah will love you.” This profound statement holds the key to becoming beloved to Allah.
To become beloved to Allah, there is no other way but to follow the teachings and example of the Prophet (peace be upon him). This love for the Prophet (peace be upon him) is a means by which we draw closer to Allah, our ultimate goal.
Indeed, the love we have for our Prophet (peace be upon him) is beautiful and admirable, but it should also lead us to seek a meeting with our Lord, Allah. Our supplications should include requests to draw closer to Allah, to be in His presence, and to become His devoted servants.
Our hearts, dear brothers and sisters, should become the dwelling places of Allah. In the Arabic language, we say, “My heart is the residence of Allah.” In a heart that hosts Allah, there is no room for negative emotions like jealousy, envy, or anger. The purity of the heart is a prerequisite for inviting Allah to reside within.
The teachings we have received from esteemed scholars and Dr. Maulana Sarfraz have illuminated the path of love and devotion to Allah. Let us strive to understand and embody these teachings, knowing that the love for Allah and His Prophet (peace be upon him) is the most beautiful journey of our lives, leading us to our ultimate destination – the closeness and pleasure of Allah.
Cultivating Allah’s Morals Within
A fundamental question we must ask ourselves is: How do we cultivate the morals of Allah within our hearts and actions?
One of the divine attributes of Allah is Ar-Razzaq, the Provider and Sustainer. Allah provides for us and sustains us. But do we, as His servants, become a means of providing for others? Do we act as instruments of His mercy and sustenance to those in need?
Another divine attribute of Allah is His boundless love and forgiveness. We seek Allah’s forgiveness and mercy, and we implore, “Forgive me, Allah.” In Arabic, we read,
A supplication taught to us by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Our faith is not stagnant but constant. Just as Allah loves to forgive, we should strive to embody this divine quality. Have we learned the art of forgiveness, following the example of our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him)? When someone wrongs us, do we seek revenge, or do we forgive, knowing that Allah’s forgiveness is our ultimate goal?
In the Quran, Allah describes the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as having sublime character:
Surah Al-Qalam – Ayat 4
“And indeed, you are of a great moral character” (Surah Al-Qalam – Ayat 4). The Prophet’s character is a reflection of the highest morals, not just good but great. When someone hurts us, we have a choice. We can respond with bitterness, or we can choose to forgive, seeking Allah’s pleasure.
By forgiving others, we not only embody the morals of Allah but also demonstrate our pursuit of His pleasure. Let us remember that cultivating these divine qualities within ourselves is an ongoing process, and it brings us closer to the boundless mercy and love of Allah.
The Moral of Forgiveness
In the eyes of Allah, all of His creation is just that—His creation. As believers, we should strive to emulate the divine attribute of forgiveness, following the example of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
وَ اِنَّكَ لَعَلٰى خُلُقٍ عَظِیْمٍ
We have given you the moral of greatness.
The Quran reminds us of the Prophet’s exceptional character: “And indeed, you are of a great moral character” (Surah Al-Qalam – Ayat 4). The moral of greatness is to forgive, to pardon with grace and humility.
Surah Al Qalam – Ayat 4
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) once stated that he was sent to perfect moral character. This mission reflects the divine qualities of Allah, and it calls upon us to cultivate these qualities within ourselves. “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar.”
But what does it mean to embody the moral of greatness?
The Prophet’s return to Mecca, eight years after being forced to leave, provides a profound lesson. He entered the city not as a conqueror seeking revenge but with his head bowed in humility and forgiveness. He said, “O Mecca, if your people had not expelled me, I would never have left you.”
On that day, a day marked by suffering and bloodshed, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) chose to forgive. He was the second messenger to forgive the first being Hazrat Yusuf(AS):
Surah Yusuf – Ayat 92
“لَا تَثْرِیْبَ عَلَیْكُمُ الْیَوْمَ”
(Surah Yusuf – Ayat 92)
This ayat is emphasizing the importance of forgiveness.
Hazrat Yusuf (AS) forgave his brothers, no matter how badly they had wronged him, simply because they were his kin. Similarly, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) forgave even his enemies.
“فَأَنْتُمُ الطُّلَقَاءُ” (Surah Yusuf – Ayat 92) – “There is no compensation required from you.”
In this act of forgiveness, we see the moral of greatness embodied. May we all strive to cultivate this divine quality in our hearts and actions, following the path of Allah’s beloved Messenger, Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Guidance from the Quran
Surah Al-Isra – Ayat 81
In Surah Al-Isra (Ayat 81), we find a profound message. The Quran metaphorically describes the process of cleansing and purification. The idols, symbolizing falsehood and impurity, are being removed. This act signifies the removal of impurities from the hearts and minds of individuals, making room for truth and purity.
Allah, in His infinite wisdom, advises us not to mix truth with falsehood. The Quran is a pure source of guidance, and we are reminded not to dilute its teachings with falsehood or misconceptions.
This message reflects the attitude of some Christians during the time of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). While some embraced the guidance of the Torah, others remained skeptical or disbelieving. It serves as a reminder of the diversity of beliefs and attitudes within different communities.
Our religion, Islam, offers valuable lessons from the Quran. It teaches us to seek truth, remove impurities, and embrace the purity of faith.
