The life and times of Umar (r.a)

This is the second part of a four-part series covering the life of Umar-Ibn-Khattab (r.a) – Umar (r.a) life is one which is relatable for people from different warps of life, be it Muslim or Non-Muslim. This blog will go in to further detail of how influential his life was as a person, believer and a leader. The truth is, the life of Umar (r.a) is so interesting, it can prove a difficult task, in choosing, what should be put in to this blog and what should not. I will try to do justice to Umar (r.a) Inshallah.

Please note- These blogs are bite-size pieces of information regarding the lives of the Sahabas. I strongly recommend reading a Sira (biography) of his life, or maybe listening/attending a lecture to get more information about their lives.

Umar-Ibn-Khattab early life and pre-ignorance-

Umar Ibn Khattab (Umar son of Khattab) born in Mecca to the Banu Hadi Clan. His father’s name was Khattab ibn Nufayl and his mother, Hantama Bint Hashim. Not much is discussed about his childhood, however, it is known that his father was very harsh with him during his early years. A young Umar would tend to his father’s camel and he was often beaten or forced to work long hours which would lead him to exhaustion.

Growing up in Mecca not many people were literate. However, Umar (r.a) was amongst a few that were literate. He was also an admirer of poetry but there is no mention of whether he was actual a poet himself. Umar (r.a) was also a fond wrestler and was noted to enter many wrestling competitions. Unfortunately, like the others of Quraysh, Umar (r.a) was involved in drinking and other such deviant activities of pre-ignorance.

*Please note that the fitnah which often lingers with Umar (r.a), is that he killed and buried babies alive. This story has not been verified, rather to the contrary, this tradition of killing babies was a frowned practice amongst those of the Banu Hadi clan.

As a young adult he was a merchant. Like many other merchants he applied his trade across different empires. His career as a merchant was not as successful, nevertheless, he was heavily respected amongst his clan and was one of the main leaders of Quraysh.

Umar (r.a) Physical appearance-

Umar (r.a) was very tall, big boned and known for being tall. So much so, he would stand out when he was in populated areas. He was bald, bearded facial hair with an extremely long and thick moustache.

Umar opposition to Islam

After Muhammad (pbuh) had proclaimed himself as the messenger of Allah (swt) and called for his people to worship Allah (swt) alone. People of Quraysh felt insulted and were in opposition to his calling. They believed that these pagan gods were responsible for bringing prosperity and wealth; plus, the idea of moving away from their forefather’s traditions was un-thinkable. Initially the call to Islam was met by mockery, however, with the growing number of people answering the prophets call, the Quraysh’s position changed. Initially the Quraysh tried to reason with him; when reasoning failed, they tried to bribe him, when the bribes did not work, they resorted to violence and persecution.

Like many other’s in Quraysh, Umar (r.a) was heavily opposed to the prophet (pbuh) calling. Umar (r.a) who was heavily feared due to his high status amongst the Quraysh, often was the one who initiated many attacks against the prophet (pbuh) and his followers.

Umar (r.a) embraces Islam- The victory for Islam.

After six years of persecution, Muhammad (pbuh) sent his followers to Abyssinia. The growing hatred for Muhammad (pbuh) had spilled-over and only his blood would satisfy the people of Quraysh. Umar (r.a) decided to take it upon himself to settle this matter by taking the prophet’s life. Umar (r.a) was on route to kill the prophet, when he was met by Nuaim bin Abdullah (who was a Muslim in secret), he asked Umar where he was going with such anger, Umar (r.a) disclosed his plan to him. Nuaim (r.a) then advised him that he should fix his own home first before attempting to kill the prophet (pbuh). Umar (r.a) quizzed him on this and Nuaim (r.a) informed him that his sister and brother-in-law accepted Islam. Umar (r.a) was fuelled with rage went marching to his sister’s house.

Umar (r.a) sister (Fatima bint-al Khattab) and brother-in-law (Saeed ibn Zaid) were learning the Quran from Khabbab (r.a) when Umar shouted and demanded that they open the door; Khabbab (r.a) quickly hid knowing what Umar (r.a) was like. He interrogated his sister and it was then disclosed that they both accepted Islam. A fight broke out between Umar (r.a) and his brother-in-law, which lead to Umar (r.a) beating him up, Fatima came to interjection , Umar (r.a) slapped his sister for her interference. Out of guilt he stopped fighting and asked to see what they were vehemently defending. Umar (r.a) was asked to clean himself first before he could read the Quran. After washing himself he read verses of Surah Ta-Ha, at that point he wept and declared himself a Muslim. Khabbab (r.a) came out of hiding and embraced Umar (r.a) acceptance with joy and disclosed the prophecy of Umar (r.a) of accepting Islam.

It was noted that the prophet (pbuh), a week earlier made supplication to Allah, ‘Oh Allah strengthen Islam by the conversion of either Umar (r.a) or Abu Jahal, the prophet (pbuh) du’ah was accepted by Allah (swt).

Knowing of the impending arrival of Umar (r.a), Hamza (r.a) and a couple of Sahabas were waiting with their swords ready to kill Umar (r.a) in the event he attacked the prophet (pbuh). The prophet (pbuh) patiently waited for Umar (r.a) at Arkam ibn Arkam (r.a) house. Umar (r.a) then embraced Islam in front of the prophet (pbuh), this was considered the first victory of Islam.

Umar (r.a) open declared his faith to the chieftains of Quraysh. They were all shocked as learning of Umar (r.a) embracing Islam. Umar (r.a) set a challenge to any member of Quraysh that had an issues with Islam. Muslim’s were now coming out public professing their belief in Islam and they were now openly praying in front of the Kab’ah.

Migration to Medina

After the constant persecution at the hands of Quraysh, the prophet made plans to migrate to Medina with his followers. When the Quraysh had learnt of the prophet (pbuh) plans to migrate they were looking to attack the Muslims. Umar (r.a) had openly challenged members of the Quraysh should they obstruct the Muslim’s from leaving Mecca. None of the Quraysh accepted Umar’s challenge.

Umar (r.a) had migrated to Medina with 20 other sahabas and stayed in Quba until the prophet’s arrival. It was noted that he used his skills as a merchant to deal with the Jewish settlers who lived in in Medina. During his time in Medina, he was popular amongst the Jews and they were always keen to communicate with Umar (r.a) in comparison to the other companions.

Battles that Umar (r.a) was involved in:

Makkah as mentioned in previous blog was a trade haven in the Najd. The Quraysh were one of most powerful tribes and it was not too long before other tribes and cities within the Najd region learned about Muhammad (pbuh) rebellion. Rumour and gossips had made the rounds and the Quraysh were mocked for not being able to control this situation. The Quraysh chieftains were seething in rage and they had to restore their pride as the most powerful tribe within the Najd region. The attack on Islam was a must!!!

The Quraysh had made their intention to attack the Muslims in Medina which led to the battle of Badr. The might of Quraysh brought their chieftains and their most championed soldiers. During the early battle, the Quraysh lost three key men Utbah ibn Rabi’ah, Walid Ibn Utbah and Shaybah ibn Rabi’ah, and the rest of the army were systemically defeated by the prophet (pbuh) and his companions. Umar (r.a) played a crucial role in leading the early Muslims in to victory.

Umar (r.a) was involved in several battles including the battle of Uhud, Battle of the Trenches, Battle of Hunayn, Battle of Khaybar, Battle of Taif and the battle of Tabuk. It would be unnecessary to mention every battle that Umar (r.a) was involved in. For further information regarding these battles, a recommended read would be his Sira (biography) written by Dr Mohammed as-Sallbi.

Death of Muhammed (pbuh)

After the conquest of Mecca and completing the final Hajj with prophet (pbuh), the prophet (pbuh) passed away. Umar (r.a) was overcome with grief and was not in the right state of mind, he began to threaten anyone, who mentioned the prophet’s (pbuh) death. Luckily Abu Bakr (r.a), spoke with a firm voice confirming, that in fact the prophet (pbuh) passed away, and that those who believe in Allah (swt) will know that he is the all-living. Although Umar (r.a) was grief struck, this brought him closure and calmed the fear of Muslims who were in his presence.

Umar (r.a) influence in establish Abu-Bakr as-Siddique (r.a) as the first caliph of Islam:

As mentioned briefly above panic and chaos erupted in Medina after the prophet (pbuh) death. Abu Bakr (r.a) and Umar (r.a) heard that the Ansar were looking to appoint a new caliph amongst them. The Muhaji’roun and the Ansar disputed which group should appoint the new caliph. After hours of dispute Umar (r.a) put forward many strong point’s why Abu Bakr (r.a) should be the Caliph, after delivering his points, Umar (r.a) raised Abu Bakr (r.a) hand and pledged allegiance. The Muhaji’roun and the Ansar quickly rushed to pledge allegiance.

Death of Abu-Bakr (r.a), Umar (r.a) appointed next caliph:

Umar (r.a) was a close advisor to Abu Bakr (r.a) during his two and half years as caliph. He spent most of his time assisting Abu Bakr (r.a). Amongst other things, it was through the assistance of Umar (r.a) that Abu Bakr (r.a) prevented those that memorised the Quran to participate in wars, there were now given the task to assist Zaid Ibn Thabit (r.a) to compile the Quran.

Unfortunately, Abu Bakr (r.a) passed away due to falling ill with fever. On his death bed he appointed Umar (r.a) as the next caliph.

Due to his very strong personality people felt Umar (r.a) would be a harsh ruler. So, Umar (r.a) who was self-conscious about this, did his best to ensure that he reduced his harshness, to make himself approachable to the ummah. As and when required, Umar (r.a) was firm with his followers, but his approach was normally measured by the scale of the issue that he was faced with.

Umar (r.a) as Caliph

Umar (r.a) reign as caliph was to be the longest of the Caliphitul Rashidun. His reign lasted 12 years and those 12 years brought in a great deal of success to Islam. It is narrated that the prophet once had a dream, in which he saw Abu Bakr (r.a) drawing buckets of water out of a well, it was described to have been very laboured; when Umar (r.a) had taken over, he drew water out of the well with great ease and strength, Umar (r.a) continued to do this for a long time. This dream would draw an image of how both Abu Bakr (r.a) and Umar (r.a) leadership would pan out in terms of years spent as caliph.

Expansion:

After Abu-Bakr (r.a) success in unifying the Najd under one religion, the job of expanding the empire became easier. After 12 years of successful military campaigns, Islam had spread from West (Tunisia) to the East (Khorasan aka Afghanistan, covering 25 countries. Islam was now a world power and had finally stamped it’s mark on the world under the leadership of Umar (r.a).

It was reported that an ambassador of the Roman Empire came to Medina bearing gifts. When the emperor had brought gifts for Umar (r.a), a letter was provided with these gifts, referring to him as the King. Umar (r.a) was very quick to address the matter that he was not a king rather he was a servant of the Muslims, who served as their leader. In any case, the gifts were accepted; however, the gifts which were full of gold and other such treasures, were directed to the Bayt-al-mal, for distribution for the ummah. Our Muslim rulers and ‘Kings’ should look at the leadership of Umar (r.a) to remind them how Muslim rulers would

Umar (r.a) – The Genius

Umar (r.a) without a doubt was a visionary and a pioneer. During his leadership, Umar (r.a) created many important institutions (Governments, Governors, Police, Courts, Tax Collector, and Administrations) which have been used as a model in all modern governments. The concept of Common Law in the UK was inspired by the works of Umar (r.a). A system which embellished justice for all its citizens

Umar (r.a) as leader created courts so that both applicants and defendants had a place to have their matters settled in front of a judge. Anyone that had undertaken a civic role were paid by Umar (r.a). Umar (r.a) would pay high salaries to ensure that people who were in those post would not be corruptible. Whilst he himself had reduced his own wages, even though his wage was chosen amongst the people.

Umar was also responsible for creating major roads leading to cities so that people looking for the city would feel assured that they were heading towards the right direction due to the area being built up. This was masterful and something new in Najd at the time.

The people of Qufa (City in Iraq) once requested that Umar (r.a) consent that he allow the citizens to increase the size of their houses. Upon surveying the situation, Umar (r.a) rejected their request, his reasoning was that, should the people increase the size of their houses, the more worldly they would become and ultimately their deen would be compromised.

Rulers today tend to be worse in character than the people they rule and this can be demonstrated by our present rulers. Umar (r.a) was the epitome of how a ruler should conduct himself. Umar was known for his harshness and would hold himself to the highest standard so that he could be held accountable to his people.

Umar (r.a) would spend the nights patrolling the street, visitor’s coming to Medina would be shocked when they found the ruler patrolling the street.

During the year of famine, Umar (r.a) came across a widow and her children who lived on the outskirt of Medina, she was visibly upset by her condition and even more concerned her children’s hunger, she complained about Umar (r.a) without knowing who Umar (r.a) was. He who was consumed by his guilt and the desire to honour his role as leader, personally walked all the way back to the city and personally carried loads of oat, barley and other provisions to the widow’s house. He personally cooked for the family and fed her children. The women later learned that the man was Umar (r.a)

Umar (r.a) visit to Jerusalem and improving Judo-Islamic relations!!

After successfully military expansion in to Jerusalem, Umar (r.a) worked on the Judo-Islamic relationship. Umar (r.a) visited the city and ordered the Temple Mount to be cleaned. This was a huge honour for the Jews as their holy-site was going to be renovated after 600 years. The Byzantines had previously left the Temple Mount in rubbish. Umar (r.a) and Umar (r.a) retained their dignity. He also ordered Jew families to move back to Jerusalem to co-habit with their Christian and Muslim brothers. Umar (r.a) commissioned the building of the mosque in Al-Aqsa and also sanctioned the extension of the prophet’s mosque in Medina and the Haram in Makkah.

Death-

Whilst leading Fajr Salah in Medina, Umar (r.a) was stabbed by his assassin. Umar (r.a) was stabbed several times, the most inflicting wound was to his stomach, Umar (r.a) died from his wounds three days later. Abu Lut-Lut (the assassin) who tried to escape, killed nine others and Injuring three whilst taking his own life. Little is known of his motives due to Lut-Lut taking his life. Uthman Ibn Affan (r.a) was elected the next caliph.

What we learn from Umar (r.a) life.

The life of Umar (r.a) is relatable for any age and generation. Umar (r.a) life teaches us that is never too late to change and it’s never too late to learn and be the best that you can be. From being the biggest enemy of Islam to becoming the immortalised. Umar (r.a) life demonstrates the power of du’ah, how du’ah changed the course of history, Umar (r.a) role in Islam has paved the way for Islam for the last 1400 years and continues to inspire both muslim’s and non-muslins. One last story which ultimately defines Umar (r.a) life is, is his fear of Allah (swt). The prophet (pbuh) once narrated that, one of the sahabas would be destined for hell-fire, the name of the Sahaba was not mentioned; however, the prophet (pbuh) had disclosed the name of the sahaba to Abu Hudaifa (r.a), but he was sworn to secrecy. Knowing that he (Umar r.a) was one of the promised 10 granted paradise, Umar (r.a) would still pester Abu Hudaifa (r.a), if it was him that was destined for hell fire. This story demonstrates to us that we should always try our best to strive for piety and always seek Allah (swt) pleasure. Never live your life as though you are owed something, surely those who seek Allah (swt) favour always strive humility rather than arrogance.

Malcolm X-  A life which can engage a new generation of thinking Muslims

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*This blog is dedicated to my good friend Aimal Yousafzai Khan, may Allah (swt) keep you steadfast in faith and knowledge.

*A copy of Malcolm X’s Biography can be purchased from Kindle or most bookstores.

Malcolm X in the United Kingdom- Malcolm was invited to Smethwick, Birmingham to champion the right for ethnic’s to buy properties. This particular area in the UK had this problem.

The issue!!

In my observation, the issue with the modern-day Muslim is a concoction of ignorance and a lack of interest. Considering the sensitive times that we live in, one would imagine that the Muslim community should be the most pro-active thinkers in society. The rise in Islamophobia has spiked considerably since 9/11 and other terror-related incidents have further strengthened the negative stereotype of the average law-abiding citizens that wishes to co-exist in this society.

Since the rise of Islamophobia, we are seeing a spike in the number of Islamic-hate preachers rising to prominence, individual’s like Tommy Robinson and groups far-right groups like Britain’s First have manipulated the situation to forward their own agenda. People like Tommy and Britain First have an audience that have genuine concerns about Islam. Unfortunately, the media (narrative creators) have also fuelled the fire in supporting this rhetoric. With the growing popularity of the right-wing fascist, what should young Muslim’s be doing?

The thought process with the average human is, if it’s not on my doorstep, it is not my concern? The question is, why wait for danger when you have every chance of averting it? Considering we (Muslims) call ourselves the standard bearers, we are not as pro-active as we should be in knowing our own responsibility towards our society.

The other issue that we have with the Muslim community, is that we either have people who excel academically or those that solely focus on Islam. Notwithstanding the above, there are Muslims within our community that can balance both, but those brothers and sisters are few and far between.

The wider society lacks emotional intelligence. However, in our communities, there is an endemic issue with the way we deal with one another. As a community, we are very quick to judge a person/situation, rather than taking a step back to observe the situation to find a pragmatic solution. Being judgemental is innate in all humans, however, the degree in which we make these judgments, and the way we manifest our thoughts on those judgements, is essentially the measuring stick of how judgemental we are.

It was not too long ago that I spoke to a well-reputed Sheikh. I had a question for the him. After forwarding my question to the sheikh, he responded back with a question to my question. The Sheikh’s question was quite patronising as it was based on a preconceived judgement of how I look. Had it been someone who looked more Muslim, would the sheikh have answered my question straight away, or would he have asked a patronising question? I guess the latter is neither here or there? I think the greater question is, what does a Muslim look like? Maybe that’s a response for another blog. The crux of this situation Is that our youth have become disenfranchised by the learned within our community because they dress or look a certain way?

Selective Outrage endemic!!!

The last issue that I would like to touch upon is society’s craze for celebrities. Throughout the last decade, celebrities have used social-network as their platform to address socio-political and economic issues. The Kony and the ALS Ice Bucket challenge being two that have struck out for me in recent times.. People were in their numbers sharing their outrage of Peter Kony, and millions were spent nominating five names throwing buckets of Ice Cold water over themselves, in the aid of raising awareness of ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). Like millions of others, I was unaware of what ALS was. The question is why the selective choice of awareness?

Saying that I don’t doubt any of these celebrity’s intentions but the question remains, why do we need celebs to raise awareness? Should we not be more self-aware, or do these concerns only make sense if a celebrity champions the cause?

We as a community need to be more holistic in our understanding of the world and its problems. The issue that we currently face as an ummah, is that we are not pro-active in our understanding of Islam, yet we want to be ‘bastions’ for our faith when it comes under criticism.

Malcolm X:

Malcolm X was a leading figure in the Civil Rights movement during 1950 to 1960s in America. Malcolm first shot to fame when he was part of the NOI (Nation of Islam), his presence had a rippling effect across the country with loads of black-African/American converting to NOI.

Considering his overreaching influence within the Nation, many within the hierarchy of NOI became envious of Malcolm’s popularity. It was not too long after, Malcolm would be ousted by Elijah Mohammed for violating orders, in respect of speaking about President Kennedy’s death.

The famous ‘chicken’s coming home to roost’ statement was an act of defiance in the eyes of Elijah Mohammed. The Chicken coming home to roost fiasco had very little part to play in Malcolm’s removal, however, this was only a subtext to Malcolm’s removal from the nation. The fear of Elijah’s extra marital affairs was known amongst the hierarchy of the NOI (including Malcolm), if this had become common knowledge amongst his followers, people would have revolted against the NOI. And here lay the issue?

Rags to Riches?

Malcolm was one of 10 children of Earl and Helen Little. Both his parents were activist against white oppression. Whilst Malcolm was 6 his father was allegedly murdered by the black legion (white supremacist group), shortly after his father’s death, Malcolm’s mother was sectioned in a mental institute. Malcolm’s siblings were separated and they were all adopted in to different homes. Malcolm whilst adopted, excelled in school, however, he had dropped out of school at an early age; a race related incident played its part. It was not too long before Malcolm left Lansing Michigan to pursue a life in New York. Malcolm adapted to New York street life and engaged in all sorts of criminal activity, ranging from prostitution to armed robbery etc. Malcolm criminal life ended abruptly when he was sentenced to 10 years in prison for armed robbery and other such demeanours.

Whilst still un-repentant in prison. Malcolm came across a fellow black prisoner who was different from any black man that he had come across. This man never touched alcohol, never smoked and did not engage in worldly matters like the rest. Rather he was eloquent in speech, well informed and extremely disciplined. This man was a member of the NOI and had made a huge impression on Malcolm; it was not too long after that Malcolm embraced the NOI.

A new revamped Malcolm, with a new purpose for life; Malcolm was thirsty for knowledge. The remaining seven years of Malcolm’s time in prison was invested in reading and learning. Malcolm’s eyesight became affected by the vast volume of books he was reading, resulting in Malcolm being prescribed glasses. In addition to reading, Malcolm consciously worked on his writing skills; Malcolm’s writing style was compared to that of a professor.

After Malcolm’s release from prison. An incident had taken place in Brooklyn, in which a fellow NOI brother was assaulted by a police officer and later taken to police custody. Malcolm managed to use people power and his own influence to have his fellow brother released from prison and to be treated at a local hospital for his wounds. Never had the NYPD seen a black man have a co-ordinated influence over a group of black people in this state. Malcolm became a person of interest in New York. It would not take Malcolm too long to leave his mark on the world!

Elijah used Malcolm’s influence to forward his own agenda. Malcolm was up and down the country in lecture halls, radio station and TV studios conveying his views and debating his opinion. Through Malcolm’s efforts, the nation rapidly expanded across the U.S. People within the nation grew envious of Malcolm’s position and it was not to long after that he would be ousted by Elijah Muhammed.

Malcolm was now out in the wilderness with his wife and four children. It had taken years for Malcolm to find something and now he was removed by this ‘divine’ man that he once loved and trusted the most. Any other person, under those circumstances, would have deviated, not Malcolm though. Malcolm went to Hajj (Saudia Arabia) to seek the real Islam. What he found was in stark contrast to the black supremacist Islam that Elijah had falsely preached.

Malcolm’s pilgrimage through the holy lands taught him that Islam has no colour-bias, prejudice or discrimination. These were only Western issues. Malcolm’s conviction of his faith was revived and he was now a believer of the Sunnah. What also helped Malcolm was his travel through Africa. Africa taught Malcolm how rich Africa was in sense of culture, history and religion. Africa was always civilised, the imperialist masters decivilized, a civilised continent. This brought absolute resolve for an absolute man.

Not too long after returning. Malcolm X movement was about black betterment through black efforts. Malcolm was now willing to work with other civil-right’s leaders like Martin Luther King to solve black issues. Prior to this, Malcolm did not engage with other prominent black civil rights leaders, as Elijah had restricted him. Malcolm also accepted that not all whites were part of the problem.

Malcolm X departs:

Elijah was not very happy of Malcolm’s new-found belief in Islam, it wouldn’t be too long before Elijah would try to silence Malcolm forever, in the fear that people would follow Malcolm towards the Sunnah. On 21 February 1965, after 16 attempts of his life in one year, Malcolm was assassinated by members of the NOI.

Malcolm’s Legacy, similarities to Umar (r.a)?

*By no stretch of the imagination would I compare Malcolm X’s life to Umar (R.A), however, it would be crazy not to observe the similarities.

For one, both Malcolm and Umar were involved in jahiliya (ignorance) lifestyle prior to embracing their respective faiths. When Malcolm and Umar (r.a) did finally embrace the faith, they were the best of followers. Their convictions in faith were unshakable and not comprisable, these men rose amongst their peers. Both Malcolm and Umar (r.a) in their respective faiths became influential figures over such a short period of time. Malcolm’s influence lead to millions following him across the USA, and Umar (r.a) influence oversaw 25 countries during his caliphate.

Ultimately Malcolm’s popularity in spreading the truth came at a price. A price which ultimately cost him his life. In one calendar year, 16 attempts were made at Malcolm’s life, one which would eventually bring an end to his life. Both Malcolm and Umar would be martyred.

Malcolm’s death, nearing similarities to Uthman (r.a) death.

Uthman (r.a) was martyred in his own house. The murder of Uthman was writing on the wall. Muhammed (PBUH) prophecised that Uthman (r.a) would be martyred whilst he was a leader. Years from that prophecy, Uthman (r.a) would be martyred by his own people. Uthman could have survived the plot as the whole of Medina would have protected him, however, he refused to divide an Ummah and refused to be the reason of initiating the first fitnah in Islam. The brutal murderers eventually had taken Uthman’s (r.a) whilst he was in his house.

If we were to examine Malcolm’s death you could draw similarities to Uthman’s (r.a) death. Once again, the time, reason and situation for the two deaths are worlds apart. What we can extrapolate from these two great individuals, is that they did not fear their death and their belief (Imaan) was unshakable even from death itself. Malcolm was in the middle of a lecture when three men from the NOI had sprayed several bullets through Malcolm. The impact of the shots resulted in Malcolm being pronounced dead at the scene of the incident. What is fascinating about this situation is that Malcolm could have prevented his own death. However, Malcolm refused to have anyone searched which ultimately resulted in his death.

Those closest to Malcolm realised that he felt that the end was near. A week prior to his death, Malcolm declared himself a dead man on a radio station. Similarly, Uthman (r.a) himself had a dream in which Muhammad (PBUH) had invited him to break bread with him, Umar and Abu-Bakr (r.a). It is evident that both martyrs were relentless in their belief and were not in fear of being murdered.

How many players do you know?

Going back to the beginning, a lot of the role-models in today’s society are people within the entertainment industry. Other than filling their own pockets and providing entertainment, what have they provided for the betterment of society? The question I always ask the brothers who have an interest in football, how many players do you know from your football team and where do they come from? Then pose the next question, how many sahabas do you know and what were their qualities?

This is not a superiority contest of Islamic knowledge, rather it is a way to reflect; as to where we are, and where we need to be.

What is my proposal?

My issue has always been the celebrity craze that we all follow. It would also be a lie to say that am also subject to this as well.

For the mentioned reasons. I would propose that Muslims should make an active engagement in reading. Reading is quintessential to the existence of a Muslim. There is wisdom behind reading; not only does it enhance your understanding but it also reduces our ignorance.

Allhumdulilah, our primary source is the Quran. However, Allah (SWT) also instructs us to learn from our brothers in humanity (people of all faiths and non-faiths). When we learn from our brother’s; it is important to take the good and reject which is bad from them.

The first verses revealed to Muhammed (PBUH) was Iqra (read). Now the word Iqra is mentioned twice in this verse. Allah (SWT) orders Muhammad (PBUH) to seek knowledge from the Quran and man himself. This verse goes back to what I was mentioning earlier in this blog. We as Muslims either go one way or the other. It’s either we lose ourselves in the dunya (world) or we overburden ourselves with the deen.

There is nothing worse than a person who is ignorant. For when an ignorant person is provided with the Haq (truth) he will still appeal to cognitive dissonance or illogical fallacy. A seeker of knowledge will never turn away from the truth.

Brother Malcolm X in the last ten years of his life achieved so much because he wanted to make that change. His life is a lesson that we can all strive for greatness should we make the effort. Granted we may not scale the same heights, but we can make a conscious effort of making that change. If, every one of us, was to make the effort to change, as a community we could achieve great things, whilst also bridging the gap within our communities.

I often hear a lot of Muslims saying, ‘it is too late for me am old now’ or ‘I have sinned too much’. Brothers and Sisters look at the lives of Malcolm X and Umar (r.a), they both found their path’s in their 30’s, surely this is a sign, that too late is never.

To all our younger brothers who are still impressionable. Do not feel like you have failed. Continue to enjoy your life to the fullest but be steadfast in your belief and never stop reading and searching for the truth.

Let’s not resort to violence and forward the media narrative. Let our actions and mouths speak the kindest and wisest of words so that we can change the hearts of those who have ill-feeling towards our faith. The golden years were only successful because the Muslim’s were the best amongst the knowledgeable in all aspects of life. They never limited themselves to one understanding, they could accommodate their understanding across various sects of society to spread the message. Malcolm X is the perfect example of a 20^th century Muslim, who had his fair share of 20th-century struggles and could change it around in all fronts.

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