The Great Divide

Even for those not involved in discussions regarding contemporary issues in the Muslim world, it is becoming increasingly common for the average Muslim to be introduced to a question that is very much so loaded and sectarian. And that question is "Do you celebrate the Mawlid?". The infamy of this question holds its reputation. Because really, what the asker is trying to find out is, "Are you one of them or one of us?" "Are you a wahabi (yuck!), or are you a sufi (yuck!) (yuck font??)? [Depending which camp the questioner is from, the opposite option seems yucky just rolling it off their tongue ie. mentioning it]". Alas, while the ummah has progressed from the pointless and unjustified enmity between differences madhahib and aqeedah that our predecessors have fallen into, it seems we are never free of internal conflict. While the Muslim world in the past was strong, and could tolerate fierce arguments, what makes matters worse is that we are fighting when the ummah is at it's weakest - both in politics (externally) and faith (internally). In this post, inshaAllah I will bring you through both sides of the divide. While it may seem sectarianism I am merely providing the start for anyone to be aware of such issues so they can better navigate the reality of our practiced faith. At the end of it all, I also believe that there is a silver lining to a seemingly bleak future.

Part 1: Sufism

Sufism (tasawwuf) essentially started off as the branch of knowledge regarding zuhd and tazkiyah. It is the focus on ascetism: purification of the heart and detachment from worldy matters, to be spiritually alive and close to Allah. In that way, 'sufism' has always been a part of Islamic tradition, as our Prophet, peace be upon him, being a role model for us, practiced ascetism. He gave away his wealth as donation and led a very simple lifestyle. Despite being the leader of the Muslims, he hardly had a full belly and his house was bare and simple.

May Allah help the oppressed and guide the oppressors, amin.

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