Skip to main content

No Place For Racism In Islam

Islam is the second-largest religion in the world. Muslims account for over 1.8 billion people worldwide. Islam is an Abrahamic religion that shares many similarities with Judaism and Christianity.

What is Racism in Islam?

Racism in Islam refers to systematic discrimination against people based on their race or ethnicity. It includes, but is not limited to, discriminating against black people, Jews, Christians, and other religious minorities in Muslim-majority countries. Islam explicitly forbids any form of racism and condemns all forms of discrimination. Muslims must fight against all forms of racism and hatred.

The message of Islam was not solely meant to address the mental health issues that racism exhibited. Rather, it depicted the social decay in pre-Islamic Mecca that the Prophets conveyed through their messages. He also addressed this issue by winning disciples to a new political project aimed at moving beyond the old, ignorant social order.

Racism before Islam:

Until the early years of Islam, there was little to no legislation or convention against racism. Mosques and Islamic schools were often hubs for propagating xenophobic attitudes, which were reinforced by traditional Islamic teaching that views all other religions as heretical. This hostility towards non-Muslims became pronounced during periods of political instability or war when it was easy for extremists to scapegoat minority groups to gain popular support.

Despite this general atmosphere of intolerance, certain figures within early Islam - notably the Prophet Muhammad and his companions - made significant efforts to discourage racism and promote interfaith understanding. Muhammad himself reportedly preached tolerance towards other religions, regardless of their 'adherents' beliefs or practices. 

Islam is the only faith that forbids racism. It is highlighted in the Quran, where Allah says: 

"Do not make friends with anyone based on their race or religion. Do not say to one people, 'We are your friends,'' 

and to another, 

"We are enemies.'' You are all equal before Allah." (Quran 5:51) 

Muslim leaders have long campaigned vigorously against religious bigotry and promoted civic engagement as a cornerstone of Islam. It is seen in efforts such as building mosques and schools and participating in community events. Islam teaches us we should live together peacefully and honour our differences.


Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) teachings about racism 

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was an uncompromising opponent of racism. His teachings unequivocally condemn discrimination against people because of their race, colour, ethnicity, or national origin. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) firmly believed that no person should be treated unfairly because of religious beliefs or affiliations.

In his Last Sermon, delivered in 632 A.D. on Mount Arafat, the Prophet (PBUH) said that;

"O, people! You are all to Adam, and Adam was made of dust. No Arab is preferred over a non-Arab except by his piety."

Islam is the only religion that condemns racism and discrimination based on any attribute. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught that all people are equal in Allah's eyes and should be treated with respect and compassion. He urged Muslims to live harmoniously with those who differ from them in faith, culture, or race, regardless of how distasteful they may find such differences to be.

Mental Effects of Racism:

Racism has a mental and emotional effect on people of all races.

·         It is a belief system that associates one race with better or worse qualities.

·         It can lead to feelings of inferiority and cause people to treat others unfairly.

·         Racism can also lead to feelings of anger, frustration, and even hatred.

·         It can hurt relationships, career opportunities, and physical health.

physical Effects of Racism:

Physical Effects of Racism can Include:

·         Increased Risk for Environmental Injuries, such as Drowning and Firearm Accidents

·         Increased Risk for Violence, including Domestic Violence and Hate Crimes

·         Lower Quality of Life

Conclusion:

Islam is the only religion that condemns all forms of discrimination. Islam is the only religion that advocates for human rights.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Ramadan- Few Key Points that Shouldn’t Miss

Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a time of fasting and prayer. The month starts with the sighting of the new moon, which marks the beginning of Ramadan. Ramadan is a time for Muslims to focus on their spiritual lives and break their fast with light but satisfying meals. During Ramadan, Muslims are encouraged to spend time with family and friends, read religious texts, and give charity . 10 Facts about Ramadan:  The  Key Points about Ramadan  are mentioned below: • Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, and it marks the annual fasting month. • Muslims must abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and sexual activities from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan. • Ramadan begins at dawn and ends at night. • Muslims are encouraged to learn about Islam. • Ramadan is a time for families to spend time together. • Muslims are expected to be kind and respectful to others during Ramadan. • Ramadan is a ...

Truthfulness and honesty of the Holy Prophet (SAW)

Prophet Muhammad (saw) was the most honest and truthful person ever. He never lied or deceived his followers. The Qur'an has several verses which emphasize the importance of truthfulness and honesty . One such verse is:  "Tell the truth, even if it hurts." (Qur'an, 49:12) This Qur'anic injunction reflects the fundamental principle that honesty is essential for successful interpersonal relationships. Honesty also plays a vital role in maintaining communal harmony. The Qur'an stresses no one should ever deceive others or speak falsely to gain an advantage. The Prophet Muhammad was a model of honesty and integrity. He never lied or deceived anyone, even when it could have benefited him politically or financially. His example set a substantial standard for his followers to follow. The Prophet Muhammad was always truthful with his companions, family members, and enemies alike. Honesty and Truthfulness of Prophet Muhammad (saw) Honesty and truthfulness...

FAQs about Ramadan

What is Ramadan? Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is when Muslims abstain from food and drink, including water, during daylight hours. The Arabic word "ramadān" means "to be thirsty." Ramadan is the month in which Muslims believe the Qur'an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Qur'an says that fasting was prescribed for those who live where it's hot and dry (Qur'an 2:185). But it also says that people can fast for three days every month (Qur'an 2:184). Muslims fast from dawn to sunset each day for 30 days. They must abstain from eating, drinking, and sexual activity during this time. Fasting helps them become closer to God by restraining their desires and feelings of hunger or thirst. Why is Ramadan Celebrated? Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and Muslims worldwide observe this month by fasting from sunrise to sunset. Ramadan is a time when Muslims are encouraged to read more about Islam and Quran...

Recite Quran and Ascend

  The Quran is a Muslim scripture that contains revelations received by the Islamic prophet, Muhammad. It is the central religious book of Islam. Muslims believe it to be the literatim word of God. What is the Quran? The Quran is the holy book of Islam. It was revealed to Muhammad over approximately 23 years, starting in 610 CE and concluding in 632 CE. It is the central religious text of Islam and the only source of religious guidance for Muslims.  The Quran comprises 114 chapters (or surahs), which are arranged into six main sections (or "books"). Each chapter is divided into verses, some short and others long. The Quran also contains statements known as hadith, which were reported by Muhammad's companions or other Muslim authorities from his mouth. What are the different parts of the Quran? The Quran is a book of guidance and instruction from God. It is divided into 114 surahs, and it is estimated to have been written down over approximately twenty-three ye...

Best ways to do Sadaqah

Sadaqah, or charity, is one of the essential things a Muslim can do. It is giving away something that you own to help someone else. There are many different ways to do sadaqah. In this article, we will discuss six ways to do sadaqah.   Sadaqah al-Fitr: Sadaqah al-Fitr is a particular type of charity that Muslims perform during Ramadan. It is a voluntary act of giving that helps the poor and needy. There are many ways to do Sadaqah al-Fitr, but some standard practices include donating food, money, or time to charity organizations.   Sadaqah al-Qadir: It is also known as a charity. There are six ways of doing Sadaqah al-Qadir: a donation of wealth voluntary fasting almsgiving pilgrimage to the sacred sites offering one's self in service to others and founding a charity or humanitarian organization.   Sadaqah al-Sāliha: Sadaqah al-Sāliha is an act of charity that Muslims are commanded to do. There are six ways in which one can perform Sadaqah ...