President-Executive Message – July 2024
It is Not Time to Give Up but to Keep Seeking Justice
Assalamu alikum wa rahmatullah wa barakatu
My dear brothers and sisters,
As we witness the daily atrocities in Gaza and the positions the forces of evil and darkness are taking in support of the ongoing genocide, I urge you to take a few moments to study and reflect on verses 137-148 from Surah Ali ‘Imran (chapter 3). These powerful verses examine history and civilizations, encapsulating the timeless struggles between truth and falsehood throughout human history;
“هَٰذَا بَيَانٌ لِّلنَّاسِ وَهُدًى وَمَوْعِظَةٌ لِّلْمُتَّقِينَ”
“This is a clear statement to humanity (all people) and a guidance and lesson for those conscious of Allah.” (3:138)
Be assured that
“وَاللَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ الظَّالِمِينَ“
“Allah does not like the wrongdoers” (3:140)
How do we respond as a community to these painful circumstances we are in?
In short, we keep our heads high, our hearts hopeful, and continue our struggle for freedom and justice for our brothers and sisters. We remember that Allah (swt) will grant this justice one day, and we remember that what is required from us is the effort and not the results, which are always in the hands of Allah (swt).
As Yasir and Sumayyah (RA), the first martyrs of Islam, endured torture for their steadfast belief in Allah, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) instructed their family to be patient and persevere. He promised them the eternal reward of Jannah for their unwavering faith.
As the companions faced defeat and annihilation in the battle of Al-Ahzab, the Prophet (pbuh) instructed them to exert their full effort. When they were at their most difficult moments, he offered them glad tidings and provided them with hope. Not a delusional false-hope, but a hope grounded in the trust of Allah (swt) and His promise.
When the companions were defeated in the battle of Uhud, the Prophet (pbuh) instructed them to get back up, on the very next day, and march again towards Quraish in Hamra Al Asad, and not accept defeat or humiliation because of their loss.
The Prophet (pbuh) consistently taught believers to be steadfast and resilient in the face of pain and difficulty. We don’t accept or surrender to oppression, and as the struggles and challenges increase, so does our resolve and determination. No matter what the physical challenges may be, our hearts should remain hopeful and confident in the ultimate promise of our Lord.
“وَلَا تَهِنُوا۟ وَلَا تَحْزَنُوا۟ وَأَنتُمُ ٱلْأَعْلَوْنَ إِن كُنتُم مُّؤْمِنِينَ”
“Do not falter or grieve, for you will have the upper hand, if you truly are believers.” (3:139)
Remind yourself of this, remind your children of this, and remind your friends of this.
Continue to focus on your roles and religious duties, on how to support your brothers and sisters and those who are oppressed in many corners of the world. Continue your dua, steadfast for justice and freedom. Continue raising awareness. Continue holding politicians accountable. And continue financially, supporting with whatever you can.
Keep your head high and your heart hopeful.
Your brother,
Abdullatif Bakbak
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