This is How to React to a Provocative Situation
In recent years, some individuals and influenced media have belligerently transcended the limits of respect and tolerance. Striking the roots of our faith; blaspheming our beloved prophet and even Allah. These provocative periodicals have continued to demonstrate utter contempt for Islam, Muslims and their beliefs. The right to freedom of speech has been grossly abused by showing total disregard for the sensitivity of the Muslim faithful. Even in some instances, Muslims have been physically abused. Does this then call for violence or a reprisal attack?
There are three simple ways to respond to these ugly situations:
- Ignore foolish people: It’s only a fool that makes a jest of other’s belief and way of life. We sometimes empower such people unconsciously by giving them attention or responding to their actions. I recall sometime last year, a man made a call to dedicate a day to punish Muslims around the world. The day passed by in oblivion because many of us failed to engage in such a conversation. The more you panic and pay attention to such events, the more popular it becomes. Allah The Most Gracious says:
Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the foolish (i.e. don't punish them). — Qur’an 7[Al-A’raf]:199
2. Engage the reasonable ones: In situations like this, there are a few who are ignorant and just believe dogmatically. While there are some others who care to know the other side of the story. This category of people deserves to be engaged and enlightened. And that’s why Allah said:
Invite to the Way of your Lord with wisdom and fair preaching, and argue with them in a way that is better. Truly, your Lord knows best who has gone astray from His Path, and He is the Best Aware of those who are guided. — Qur’an 16[An-Nahl]:125
3. Remain patient and steadfast: You can’t shy away from it, people will provoke you and even indulge in blasphemy. But restraining yourself and not losing your head is very important in such situations. The early Muslims suffered persecution that was worse than what we see today. The reward of their steadfastness was a garden underneath which rivers flow and they will abide therein forever.
You shall certainly be tried and tested in your wealth and properties and in your personal selves, and you shall certainly hear much that will grieve you from those who received the Scripture before you (Jews and Christians) and from those who ascribe partners to Allah, but if you persevere patiently, and become Al-Muttaqoon (the pious) then verily, that will be a determining factor in all affairs, and that is from the great matters, (which you must hold on with all your efforts). — Qur’an 3[Al-Imran]:186
We ask Allah to increase us in patience, good deeds, and steadfastness. Ameen!
