Matter of faith & It’s Matter of Allah…

There has been an uproar over the comments made by the ex-spokespersons of the ruling party of the country over the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) for the last sometime now. So much has happened, and so much is happening as we jot down these lines. The countries in the Gulf have lodged a strong protest, seeking action from the Government as well as a public apology. Back home, after protests that rocked several parts of the country, several lives were lost even as we now see that the houses of the people who, as per the authorities, planned the protests which turned violent, have been demolished—especially in Uttar Pradesh. The situation at hand, which has emerged out of a vicious circle of abuse, counter abuse, is almost on the brink of getting out of control, demanding immediate measures from sane voices on both sides, with the Government playing an important role.The matter of making unwarranted comments on the religious figures will not end if a prick here, a prick there continues unabated and the cycle goes on. The derogatory comments from one community will result in a similar counter from the other, which can then become quite dangerous, causing tension in the country which has a tradition of accommodating people from every religion; rightly termed as a country of thousand religions.Islam does not teach revenge, or violence, rather, it makes a perfect case for pardon, and peace even as Hadith informs us how the Prophet (PBUH) pardoned those who passed choosiest of comments on his personality. Instead of punishing them, the Prophet (PBUH) forgave them. He (PBUH) even advised his companions not to abuse their (non-Muslim) religious figures, even if unwarranted comments were being made on Islam. Does not need any more explanation!Even the Quran commands the faithful: “And whoever is patient and forgives – indeed, that is of the matters [worthy] of resolve.” (Quran 42:43). Further, is it said: “Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the foolish (i.e., don’t punish them).” (Quran 7:199). There are so many examples that can be quoted in which the faithful have been commanded to do the right; forgive and leave the matter up to Almighty Allah. We often read about the incident of Taif where the Prophet (PBUH) was subjected to humiliation; stones were thrown at him, so much so that the feet of the Prophet (PBUH) drenched in blood. Despite that, the Prophet (PBUH)—the King of the Universe—did not wish bad for the people of Taif, rather, prayed for them. The circumstances demand pardon; leaving the matter to Almighty Allah; at the same time, the Government needs to ensure that there are no more provocations: something which the Government is duty-bound to do. But if it prefers not to see; gives a free hand to the “fringe elements,” again, then, may God save us from the worst.