Religious scholars occupy a highly respected position in society. Their words influence thousands of people. For this reason, speeches delivered from religious platforms must be guided by wisdom, patience, and a sincere desire to strengthen communal harmony. The pulpit should be a place where hearts are united, not divided.
Amanullah Khan
At a time when the Muslim community faces numerous social, educational, and economic challenges, the need for unity and mutual respect has never been greater. Unfortunately, discussions surrounding sectarian identities often overshadow the many values and beliefs that Muslims hold in common. While differences in interpretation and religious practice have existed throughout Islamic history, they should never become a reason for hostility, mistrust, or division among believers.
As a follower of the Hanafi school of thought, I firmly believe that every Muslim has the right to adhere to his or her religious understanding while respecting the beliefs and sentiments of others. The diversity that exists within the Muslim Ummah should be viewed as a matter of scholarly discourse rather than a cause for conflict. What binds Muslims together is far greater than what separates them.
In recent days, a statement attributed to Maulana Mushtaq Ahmad Veeri in a video circulated on Facebook has sparked discussion among sections of the Muslim community. Many listeners have expressed concern that such remarks may deepen sectarian differences at a time when unity and mutual respect are needed. Whether intended or not, public religious discourse should promote understanding and brotherhood rather than create further divisions among Muslims.
Religious scholars occupy a highly respected position in society. Their words influence thousands of people and often shape public attitudes. For this reason, speeches delivered from religious platforms must be guided by wisdom, patience, and a sincere desire to strengthen communal harmony. The pulpit should be a place where hearts are united, not divided; where differences are addressed with knowledge and courtesy, not with language that may be perceived as dismissive or provocative.
One of the greatest challenges facing the Muslim world today is not the existence of differing viewpoints but the inability of some people to coexist respectfully despite those differences. Sunni and Shia Muslims have lived side by side for centuries in many parts of the world, sharing neighbourhoods, marketplaces, educational institutions, and social responsibilities. They have celebrated together, mourned together, and worked together for the betterment of society. This spirit of coexistence must be preserved and strengthened.
It is important to remember that both Sunni and Shia Muslims share belief in the Oneness of Allah, the finality of the Prophethood of Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), the Holy Quran, the Day of Judgment, and the fundamental pillars of Islam. These shared beliefs form the foundation of a common religious identity that transcends sectarian labels. When viewed from this perspective, it becomes evident that the points of agreement far outweigh the points of disagreement.
As Muslims, we must also acknowledge and respect the personalities who played a pivotal role in the early history of Islam. Hazrat Abu Bakr (RA), Hazrat Umar (RA), Hazrat Uthman (RA), and Hazrat Ali (RA) are revered figures whose sacrifices and leadership contributed immensely to the preservation and expansion of Islam. Their lives offer valuable lessons in justice, courage, humility, and devotion to faith.
Similarly, love and respect for the family of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition. Hazrat Ali (RA), Hazrat Fatima (RA), Imam Hasan (RA), Imam Hussain (RA), and other members of the Ahl al-Bayt occupy a cherished place in the hearts of Muslims across different schools of thought. Their legacy should serve as a source of inspiration and unity rather than contention.
The younger generation, in particular, deserves an environment free from sectarian hostility. They should be taught to engage with differences through dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect. Constant exposure to divisive rhetoric can create unnecessary tensions and distract young people from pursuing education, social service, and personal development. Our responsibility is to leave behind a community that is stronger, more educated, and more united than the one we inherited.
History repeatedly demonstrates that communities prosper when they remain united and decline when internal divisions consume their energies. The Muslim Ummah today requires collective efforts to address poverty, unemployment, educational challenges, and social issues. These pressing concerns cannot be effectively tackled if Muslims remain occupied with disputes that widen existing divisions.
The Holy Quran calls upon believers to hold firmly together and avoid division. This timeless guidance remains as relevant today as it was centuries ago. Respectful disagreement is possible, but it must never come at the cost of brotherhood. One can remain committed to one’s beliefs while also respecting the dignity and sincerity of others.
The need of the hour is not sectarian rivalry but mutual understanding. Scholars, community leaders, educators, and ordinary citizens all share the responsibility of promoting an atmosphere of peace and respect. Instead of emphasising differences, we should focus on the common values that unite us: faith in Allah, love for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), respect for his companions and family, and commitment to the welfare of society.
Let us therefore reject hatred, avoid inflammatory language, and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among all Muslims. Unity does not mean abandoning one’s beliefs; it means recognising that, despite our differences, we belong to one Ummah. The future of our community depends not on who wins an argument, but on whether we can preserve the spirit of respect, compassion, and brotherhood that Islam teaches us.
In an age marked by increasing polarisation, let our response be one of wisdom, restraint, and unity. The message of Islam is a message of peace, justice, and human dignity. By upholding these values, Sunni and Shia Muslims can continue to live together with mutual respect and contribute positively to the progress of society as a whole.
The writer is an engineer and a social activist from Shopian
am*******@***il.com