This is probably one of the most important subjects in the world at the moment with the on-going events in countries around the globe. The purpose of this article is to clear any misconceptions people may have about Islam and racism. Some people think that Islam promotes racism because it is pro-Arab due to promotion of things Arabic and/or the Arab customs.
Some people also think Islam is pro-black and anti-white due to groups such as the Nation of Islam.
The Quran makes it very clear that the most important differentiator when it comes to people, is that who is most righteous. As we can read in the following two verses:
Surah 49 Verse 13
“O mankind, We created you from a male and female, and We made you into nations and tribes, that you may know one another. Surely, the most honourable among you in the sight of God is the most righteous. God is Knowledgeable, Expert.”
Surah 30 Verse 22 “And from His signs is the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the difference of your languages and your colours. In that are signs for the knowledgeable beings.”
It should be noted that everywhere in The Quran, the phrase "His (i.e. God's) signs" are always spoken of positively and serve to remind us of God and are intended for those who think/reflect.
And lastly, The Quran portrays Arabs like any other people, some are good and some are bad as per the following surahs and verses: 9:90, 9:97, 9:98, 9:99, 9:101, 9:120, 33:20, 48:11, 48:16, 49:14.
The primary reason why Arabic is promoted is that the original Quran is in Arabic, thus having knowledge of Arabic is helpful thus often promoted.
The Quran further elaborates on topics such as tolerance, justice, equality and harmony in the following verses:
Tolerance - The Quran teaches us to respect all.
Surah 29 Verse 46
And do not dispute with the followers of the book...except those of them who act unjustly, and say: We believe in that which has been revealed to us and revealed to you, and our God and your God is One, and to Him do we submit.
Justice - The Quran teaches that justice applies to all humankind, of all faiths:
Surah 5 Verse 8
O you who believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness. And fear Allah. Indeed, Allah is [fully] aware of what you do.
Equality - All people, regardless of their origin, are equal in Islam and the only thing that distinguishes them is their level of commitment to their religion
Surah 49 Verse 13
O mankind, indeed, we have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noblest of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Aware.
Harmony - The Quran states that people should be fair with each other to help achieve a balanced and harmonious society:
Surah 60 Verse 8
Allah does not forbid you from showing kindness and dealing justly with those who have not fought you about religion and have not driven you out of your homes. Allah loves just dealers.
In summary, racism in any form is considered unacceptable and wrong. Muslims believe that all people share in common humanity. They believe that racism, whether as prejudice or discrimination, undermines the dignity of people.
Watch the podcast on Does Islam Promote Racism below...
Please verify the verses with the Quran.
Peace and Respect!
References:
2- bbc.co.uk
Comments