The 33rd Annual International Sunni Ijtema, a major three-day congregation organized by Sunni Dawate Islami, concluded in Mumbai with a powerful message for the modern world. Scholars and leaders emphasized the urgent need to counter societal hatred with unwavering love, high moral character, and selfless service to humanity.
A Call for Moral Victory and Universal Brotherhood
Addressing a vast gathering of Sunni Muslims, the scholars outlined a path for the community that focuses on leading a vice-free life. They stressed the critical importance of practising genuine brotherhood and fostering peaceful co-existence with people of all faiths, particularly non-Muslims. The central theme revolved around achieving victory not through conflict, but through superior ethics and compassion.
World-renowned Islamic scholar Allama Qamruzzaman Khan Azmi delivered a poignant address titled "The Islamic System of Love and Brotherhood." He urged Muslims to respond to oppression and animosity with patience and exemplary conduct. Allama Azmi presented the Prophet Muhammad's bloodless conquest of Makkah as the definitive example of this principle in action.
The Ultimate Example: Forgiveness in Victory
Allama Azmi reminded the audience of the profound moment when the Prophet entered Makkah as a conqueror, possessing absolute power over those who had persecuted him and his followers for years. Facing his former oppressors, who trembled in fear, the Prophet asked what they expected of him. They appealed to his nobility, calling him "a noble brother, son of a noble brother."
In response, the Prophet declared a historic general amnesty, stating, "Go, you are all free today. There is no reproach upon you." Allama Azmi highlighted the depth of this mercy, noting that forgiveness was even extended to his most bitter enemies, including Hinda and Wahshi, who were responsible for the death and mutilation of his beloved uncle, Hamza.
"This was not just a military victory," Allama Azmi emphasized. "It was a victory of Morals and Love that turned bloodthirsty enemies into devoted followers." He asserted that if Muslims today embody the same patience (sabr) and high character in the face of challenges, the prevailing "clouds of hatred" in the world would dissipate.
Service to Humanity: The Core Purpose
Maulana Shakir Noorie, the president of Sunni Dawate Islami, elaborated on the fundamental purpose of human creation. He stated it is twofold: the worship of the Creator and service to humanity. He remarked that if service to others is removed from religion, only ritualistic worship remains, for which angels would have sufficed.
Maulana Noorie outlined three key signs of true humanity:
- Humility in Wealth
- Forgiveness in Power
- Selfless Charity
He further expanded the concept of mercy, stating that it must extend to all living beings, including animals. Maulana Noorie also underscored the immense value of hope in a believer's life. "A hopeless person loses even a good opportunity," he said, "while a hopeful person finds an opportunity even in difficulty."
The congregation served as a significant platform for reinforcing Islamic values centered on compassion, tolerance, and social responsibility, urging the community to be beacons of peace and love in a conflicted world.
