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In a world characterised by diversity, Muslims have played an integral role in shaping history and continue to make valuable contributions in the present day. This article explores the remarkable influence of Muslims throughout history and their positive impact on society today. We will delve into Islamic principles such as zakat and the teachings about looking after neighbours, showcasing the beauty of Islam through real-life stories of harmonious relationships between Muslims and non-Muslims.
Muslims in History: Architects of Civilisation
The Islamic Golden Ages marked periods of immense cultural, scientific, and artistic advancements. Muslims, inspired by their faith, made groundbreaking contributions in astronomy, medicine, mathematics, philosophy and more.
Muslim scholars played a crucial role in preserving, translating and adding to classical Greek and Roman texts, safeguarding knowledge that would later contribute to the Renaissance in Europe.
Muslims in the Present: Building Bridges and Fostering Understanding
Muslims today continue to excel and contribute in diverse fields such as science, technology, medicine, and education, contributing to the betterment of society on a global scale.
Real stories abound of Muslims building strong bonds with their Muslim and non-Muslim neighbours alike, dispelling misconceptions and fostering mutual understanding have had a profound impact on communities around the world. inspired by Hadith's encouraging Muslims to look after and feed their neighbours, millions of Muslims worldwide made great strides in fostering a community spirit.
Islamic Principles: Zakat and Neighbourly Love
The concept of zakat, or charitable giving, is deeply ingrained in Islam. Muslims worldwide contribute to alleviating poverty and supporting community development through this fundamental pillar of Islam. In fact there were periods within Islamic history where abject poverty was eradicated by this simple measure, reducing wealth inequality and fostering a healthier and more equitable economy by wealth redistribution directly to those in need, instead of the rather apparent ineffective concept of trickle down economics which has only worsened wealth inequality world wide.
O believers! Donate from the best of what you have earned and of what We have produced for you from the earth. Do not pick out worthless things for donation, which you yourselves would only accept with closed eyes. And know that Allah is Self-Sufficient, Praiseworthy. [Quran 2:267]
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “He who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him show hospitality to his guest; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him maintain good relation with kins; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent.”
The rich history and ongoing contributions of Muslims reflect the beauty of Islam, emphasising knowledge, compassion, and community engagement. Through the principles of zakat and teachings about looking after neighbors, Muslims continue to build bridges of understanding and harmony with people of diverse backgrounds, by embodying the true spirit of Islam. As we celebrate the positive contributions of Muslims, let us embrace the collective strength that arises from diversity, fostering a world where mutual respect and appreciation thrive.
References:
An-Nawawi, Riyad As-Salihin, Book 1, Hadith 26.
Saliba, George. (2007). Islamic Science and the Making of the European Renaissance. MIT Press.
Huff, Toby E. (1993). The Rise of Early Modern Science: Islam, China, and the West. Cambridge University Press.
“Muslim Scientists Who Shaped the World.” Islamic Finder, www.islamicfinder.org.
Khan, Faisal. (2018). “Building Bridges: Real Stories of Interfaith Harmony.” Islamic Relief USA, www.irusa.org.
Quran 2:267–273.
Sahih Bukhari, Book 73, Hadith 42
Ahmed, Fatima. (2021). “Stories of Harmony: Muslims and Non-Muslims Living in Peace.” IslamicFinder, www.islamicfinder.org
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