Reasons for the weakness of Muslims

17-2-2004 | IslamWeb

Question:

As Mr. Mahathir pointed out, "Muslims do not know how to think." Is it the result of cross-breeding and it will take generations to correct? Will Muslims now begin?

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Answer:

All perfect praise be to Allaah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

There is no doubt that the Muslims have become weak and underdeveloped in many fields of life. The Prophet has indeed said the truth about them as he said: "The nations are close to invading you from all horizons as the eaters rush calling one another for their receptacle.” We (the Companions) said: "Is this due to our small number at that time?" The Prophet, sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam, said: "You are numerous at that time but you will be like the foam of the sea. Your enemies will no longer venerate you (veneration will be taken out of their hearts) and Wahan will be set in your hearts". Someone asked him "What is Wahan, o Prophet of Allaah?" The Prophet replied: "It is the love for this worldly life and the fear of death" [Ahmad and Abu Dawood]

The reasons for this weakness are numerous. They include being neglegent and away from the religion, being divided into small groups, taking the enemies as allies and taking side with them, not takilng the means for material progress and civilizational development, and so forth.

Therefore, it is obligatory upon every Muslim to do everything he/she can to support the religion of Allaah and raise high the Word of Allaah. He/she should endeavour to guide the Muslims to anything that can increase their strength and enhance their development even if this lasts for years or generations, and Allaah informed us of this. But it is important that every Muslim should do his best in this regard.

Allaah Knows best.