This is a side of the Prophet's (peace be upon him) life that we very rarely get to see or get told from our religious teachers. Of how he skilfully dealt with potential dangerous situations and prevented bloodshed amongst the most divided of societies, and built upon that a foundation of peace and clarity. Upon having recognition of this it seems almost incomprehensible how the active participation of Muslims in politics and society, upon working for the greater good can be removed from our identity. More noticeably, in Medina, the progression was conducted in the environment of Non-Muslims under the banner of Islam. A situation somewhat similar to our own.
Both of these examples helped to establish the basic social and judicial fabric that we know in Islam. These are principles and attitudes that are applicable to every age and relation to a human being, as it was applicable to one of the worst of situations. And if we do follow this Sunnah, we are collectively standing up for the good of this world, in the name of Islam. How can we expect to be able to spread Islam in the best of manners without following it? And shouldn’t we as Muslims, aspire for the greater good and development in our lives, communities and societies?
Aside from looking at our duty (although I cannot stress how important it is), if we look at what is possible for us as Muslims, it was this basis of working for the good for others that caused the light of Islam to be as it was during medieval times. That caused the space for intellect, innovation in a social, just and harmonious society. That caused people to come to Muslim cities, for the opportunity and sheer quality of life that the Islamic system brought. And that caused Islam to show the world how truly great it is.
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