Iman was born and raised in London. She is a former teacher who taught English as a Foreign Language in Saudi Arabia for almost a decade. Iman loves walking in central London with her sisters, visiting galleries and museums, reading, writing, travelling, and learning about other cultures.
In our glorious and illustrious history, we have been honoured by The Almighty with the gift of Islam. How blessed are we to have been given such a beautiful treasure – a way of life, a code of conduct that no other living nation has, except the Ummah of Prophet Muhammad (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him).
Despite the growing prejudices and misconceptions about our dear religion, Islam continues to be the fastest-growing religion. This is unsurprising as the materialistic and consumerist nature of this world leaves people searching for more; thus, many of the masses seek what Islam contains. The oneness of God, the teachings of our Prophet Muhammad (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him), spirituality, charity, and kindness to family, neighbours, and those we encounter. It is the religion for all, irrespective of wealth or race.
Islamophobia is not something new – the dear Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) and his companions were subjected to the most severe forms of it. They were shunned, abused, tortured, and some were even killed. Much like what happens to the believers today, as seen in the sad events facing the community worldwide, they face oppression and injustice simply for saying and believing in La illaha illa Allah wa Muhammad Ar-rasoullah (there is no god except Allah, and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah).
It is a great comfort that Allah (SWT) has promised reward to sincere believers despite the Islamophobia they may face in this world. This gives us comfort during good and bad times, whether that is in our own lives or terrible events such as those in Gaza, Sudan, and elsewhere. The strength of Allah (SWT)’s promise means that even when believers are subjected to the worst atrocities where their faith is tested, they are still able to say ‘Alhamdulillah’ and praise The Lord, Most High! Their suffering is due to Islamophobia, yet they cling to their belief. Many non-Muslims, seeing the faith of our brothers and sisters in Gaza, have read the Qur’an to understand where Muslims gain their strength and deep conviction – several have embraced Islam as a result. Allahu Akbar.
“And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient.” (Qur’an: 2:155)
This Ummah will always be tested; that is the nature of worldly life. That does not mean we should accept Islamophobia. We should do what we can to counter it civilly and legally. Never should we feel inferior. How can we? Allah (SWT) has gifted us with the greatest honour by choosing you and me to be followers of this great religion!
Experiencing Islamophobia is extremely hurtful, whether it comes from family, friends, strangers, online, or the mass media. It is okay to feel grief, anger, and other emotions when something so dear to us – our faith and identity – is denigrated. However, it is important not to let these unkind words and actions cause an inferiority complex, especially regarding our children. Let us and our children be proud of who we are. This does not mean we should avoid reporting hate crimes to the authorities as well as Islamic organisations and charities that fight against Islamophobia.
Reading the Seerah (biography of the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him), learning about Islamic history such as the companions and classical scholars of Islam, and increasing our knowledge of Islam can all act to comfort us and counteract the effects of Islamophobia.
We can be an example to non-Muslims, such as our neighbours, family members, friends, colleagues, and the general public. No good deed is too small. The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) told us that even a smile is charity. Let us hasten to do good deeds, helping others with kind words, general assistance, and being all-around good people. Acts like these show others the true Islam, not the false and distorted one portrayed by the mass media.
“Do the people think that they will be left to say,”We believe” and they will not be tried?” (Qur’an: 29:2)
Take comfort in the fact that Islam is the straight path and in the honour that comes from being on it. As Muslims, we know that tests will always come our way, and Islamophobia is just one of those tests we encounter. As long as we follow The Almighty’s path, His protection is with us. Allah (SWT) has assured us that His Promise is true.
“So be patient. Indeed, the promise of Allah is truth. And let them not disquiet you who are not certain [in faith].” (Qur’an: 31:60)
