Islam and the protest culture THE PEN IS MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD

Islam and the protest culture
THE PEN IS MIGHTIER THAN THE SWORD
Muslims are obliged to adhere to the teachings of the quran and Sunnah in every facet of their endeavours, ranging from the ordinary to the utmost consequential. The esteemed Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) imparted profound wisdom to his Ummah (the collective body of believers), enlightening them on the various aspects that would lead them towards triumph in the present existence and eternal bliss in the hereafter. Simultaneously, he cautioned them against any actions or matters that could inflict harm upon them and steer them towards the perils of the infernal abode. The esteemed Messenger (may peace be upon him) refrained Muslims from engaging in public demonstrations within the confines of Makkah,despite enduring a protracted period of oppression and persecution alongside his devoted companions for a span of thirteen years. They refrained from obstructing thoroughfares, engaging in acts of civil disobedience, or conspiring to carry out acts of targeted killings.
The virtue of patience assumes paramount significance during periods of adversity. The profound sagacity underlying this notion stems from the profound magnitude of violence and disorder that ensues when one dares to challenge the democratically elected government and political figures running it. According to Islamic doctrine, engaging in protests, demonstrations, and challenging the authority of rulers is not deemed permissible, Furthermore, it is imperative for Muslims to adopt strategies that accommodate them in governance structures through bureaucratic offices and advocate policies beneficial for the community, Muslims need to adopt constructive measures like joining civil societies or utilising the media to highlight their developlmental, economic, and educational backwardness. Additionally, it is important to record that socio-political awareness and knowledge of constitutional rights and legal knowledge are enablers for rectifying the various deficiencies. Muslim students in particular are obliged to streamline their thoughts and consciousness towards making their community attain education rather then engage in measures that are adversarial for themselves and the community. It is better to stay focused on higher goals than to give adversaries the option to trample on your goals and let antagonests triumph.
Mudassir Hayat, Precident of the Delhi chapter of Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association/AMUOBA recently issued a statement requesting the students of jamia Millia Islamia and Aligarh Muslims University to refrain from joining any sort of protests in future. He issued the statement in the aftermath of Nuh violence. His statement focused around the central point that it is better to be at a leadership position and make your voices heard rather than joining unorganised violent protests which is not only against islamic teachings but also against the laws of the land. The Muslim youths need to remember the old phrase that the Pen is mightier than the Sword. Let’s fight with the pen and leave the sword for those having politically motivated intentions. Let’s never forget that Propht Muhammad agreed to the Hudaybiyyah Treaty even having the military might, as he preferred peace over violence. Let’s not fall for the political trap and focus on the bright future ahead.

Mohd. Saleem
PhD Scholar,
Jamia Millia Islamia