By HAROON BALOGUN

The dire consequences of violence and terrorism are taking its toll on Muslims. The erroneous link with Islam has made some Muslims to conceal the Islamic personality in them, while some have paid dearly for it.

In a society like ours where misconceptions about Islam are the order of the day, where violence and terrorism have been perceived to be synonyms of Islam, Muslims face quite a lot of embarrassment as some of them battle with complex.

Most times and in public places, Muslims experience pejorative remarks or attitudes from non-muslims. Recently, a beard young man, decked in flowing Islamic kaftan, with traditional turban clutching to a black polythene bag was recently called a Boko Haram by a co-passenger as they alighted from a bus in Berger area of Lagos.

This apparently upset this young Muslim and he decided to assert his right. He held this co-passenger and demanded for a proof that made him a ‘Boko Haram’.

Within a few seconds, a crowd had surged forward, curious to know the ‘Boko Haram’ and threatening to pounce on him. Sometimes, it pays to damn all consequences to assert your right! But what else could he have done at that particular time, to save his dear life?

The young Muslim would have been battered before his innocence was proved. But thank God with the intervention of the security operatives, the situation was brought under control where it was clear that he was just another good Muslim. Thereafter, the deprecatory statement was withdrawn and apology tendered.

Like it was written on this page last week, Islam shouldn’t be judged through the negative practices of terrorists but according to the teachings of the Holy Quran and the traditions of Prophet Muhammad. (s.a.w) The very meaning of Islam is peace, security and giving a guarantee of protection against all forms of evils. Sincerely, though, this element of Islamophobia is common with people mostly not informed about the teachings of Islam.

Without deviating from the topic, we know some Muslims are victims of terrorism and extremism perpetrated by some the so-called Muslims, but it is not enough to conceal your identity as a Muslim at any forum or public place no matter the indignation. Thegood ones will show themselves just as there is no hiding place for the bad eggs.

Again, some parents out of sheer absence of Islamic culture which is manifesting itself in all aspects of our lives today, they disregard Islamic etiquette on dressing even to their children and wards.

They will not instil the consciousness of hijab on their children just because they don’t want to be percieved as Boko Haram. It is not the look but the attitude that explains who you are.

Some Muslim parents even shun good Islamic schools and prefer to educate their children in non-Islamic schools. Truly, there is nothing more painful than seeing our youth grow up in a non-Islamic environment leading, in some cases, to Muslim youths losing their Islamic identity, their values and even their Deen.

Friendship

The fact remains that most of the deviant youths were brain-washed by their friends and acquaintances. The task of choosing the right friends and companions is essential to preserving our identity.

Friendship with righteous and virtuous Muslims is one of the prerequisites for staying on the straight path and not becoming deviants to the society.

As parents, we should not overlook who our children associate with so that they don’t become victims of bad doctrine against the religion. Islam has given us a road map to navigate through our lives in order to succeed both in this world and the hereafter. We must always abide by the it in all aspects of our lives.

Parents’ role

Parents should always strive to promote in their kids the Islamic standards of dos and don’t s as the natural reference point in their lives.

The most common mistake Muslim parents make is limiting their own roles in the family to only that of the provider which leads, in so many cases, to dysfunctional relationships with their teens as it leaves the youth vulnerable to the influences and pressures from their peers.

Islam bases ties and relations not on benefiting each other in worldly affairs but rather in our struggle for success in the hereafter by seeking the pleasure of Allah. It recognizes the importance of such relationships and has set guidelines for us to follow and how to maintain them.

That is why the Prophet said, “A person follows the Deen (way of life) of his close friend; therefore let each of you look carefully at whom he chooses for friends.” [Tirmidhi]

It has been narrated by al-Bukhari that the Prophet said, “If one of you loves his brother for Allah’s sake, then let him tell him since it causes familiarity to endure and firmly establishes love.” [Bukhari]

The Prophet said: “Whoever would like to taste the sweetness of Iman (belief) then let him love a person only for Allah’s sake.” (Ahmad)

Sharing of Love

Love is exemplified by sharing of wealth with others. This is greatly encouraged in Islam. It builds trust and closeness amongst people. It may be difficult for non-Muslims to grasp this principle especially when by the misconception of violence and terrorism is widespread.

Imam Bukhari narrated that the Prophet said, “None amongst you believes (truly) till one likes for his brother, that which he loves for his himself.” [Bukhari]

Giving gifts has also been recommended by the Prophet and he explained that it strengthens the relationship between people.

Kindness to our friends, helping them in times of need and consoling them in times of grief should become our duties for everyone needs a shoulder to cry on and someone to share their joy.

Instead of making friends with the misguided people that could lead you to perdition, why not cultivate friendship with the righteous and treat others in a gracious and just manner, with your real identity as a Muslim? That is the teaching of Prophet Muhammad. (s.a.W). Be proud of your religion no matter what others say.