From glory to revival: unleashing the power of knowledge and unity in the Muslim world

By Yusuf Ali Bulafu
Continued …
The Quran frequently encourages believers to reflect: “Do they not look at the heavens above them—how We have built and adorned them?” (Quran 50:6). This verse, like many others, calls Muslims to examine the world around them, to question, and to think critically. Such Ayat inspired generations of scholars to seek answers in fields as diverse as mathematics, medicine, architecture, and astronomy, considering their work a form of worship that allowed them to appreciate Allah’s creation more deeply.
The Prophet Muhammad’s teachings on knowledge served as a catalyst for the achievements of the Islamic Golden Age. His insistence on the balance of spiritual and practical wisdom created a society in which scholars felt inspired to push the boundaries of human understanding. This legacy is a reminder that knowledge, when pursued earnestly and used responsibly, has the power to transform lives, empower societies, and bring humanity closer to Allah’s wisdom.

Understanding Allah’s two laws: Religious and universal principles
Islam distinguishes between two categories of divine law: religious obligations, such as worship and ethical conduct, and universal laws governing nature and society. While adherence to religious laws is essential for spiritual growth and salvation, respect for universal principles, like hard work and social harmony, determines worldly success and well-being.
These divine laws form a harmonious blueprint for life, with religious laws guiding spiritual and moral conduct, while universal principles govern the natural and social worlds.
Religious obligations (shariah) provide a structured framework for worship, ethics, and social relations. These laws encompass acts of worship (Ibadat) like prayer, fasting, zakat, and pilgrimage, along with rules for daily conduct that uphold justice, compassion, and honesty. The purpose of these religious duties is to cultivate taqwa (God-consciousness) and spiritual purity, strengthening the believer’s connection to Allah and setting moral boundaries that foster harmony and social justice.
By adhering to religious laws, Muslims cultivate a sense of purpose and accountability that aligns their actions with Allah’s commands. For instance, prayer (salah) not only serves as a reminder of one’s dependence on Allah but also nurtures discipline, time management, and community spirit. Similarly, zakat (almsgiving) promotes social welfare and economic balance, addressing inequality and fostering a culture of charity and empathy within the community.

In addition to religious obligations, Islam teaches that Allah has established universal principles, also known as “sunnatullah” (laws of Allah in creation), which govern the physical, social, and natural worlds. These laws include the cause-and-effect relationships we observe in nature, such as gravity, physics, and the biological processes of life, as well as social and economic dynamics, like the consequences of injustice or the benefits of hard work and cooperation. The Quran frequently invites believers to observe these patterns, emphasizing that they reflect Allah’s wisdom and design.
Allah’s universal laws are unbiased and apply equally to all people, regardless of faith. Just as one cannot disregard the law of gravity, Muslims are encouraged to respect the natural and social principles that influence worldly outcomes. For instance, the Quran states, “Indeed, Allah does not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves” (Quran 13:11). This verse highlights a universal principle: change and progress require effort, self-discipline, and proactive steps.
The Prophet Muhammad demonstrated a keen awareness of these universal principles, especially in his leadership. For example, when the Muslims faced drought, he encouraged them to work collectively in resource management, demonstrating the importance of both supplication and practical action.
The two sets of laws are not mutually exclusive; instead, they reinforce each other. When religious obligations are prioritized without regard for universal principles, individuals and societies may experience stagnation and decline. Ignoring the importance of education, economic resilience, or community welfare—while strictly focusing on acts of worship—can lead to imbalance, rendering the community vulnerable to external challenges.
On the other hand, adhering to universal laws without spiritual and moral guidance can lead to materialism, moral decay, and ultimately societal collapse. For instance, societies that prioritize economic growth without ethical considerations often experience widening inequality, corruption, and environmental harm.
To be continued …