Religious Fervor and Extremism

By Mohd Prasad Hanif, Secretary, PAS Kawasan Klang, Selangor

I was immersed in books and learning throughout my teenage years. I read everything under the sky except my required textbooks. I eventually read them, just so that I can go to college. Books were much more interesting than people anyway. Nevertheless, one book I read when I was seventeen came to my mind after the recent events concerning a mosque, a temple and a cow head occurred.

Extremism, as defined by Yusuf Qardhawi, means being situated farthest away from the point of center. In our case, it indicates remoteness in religion and thought as well as behavior. Extremism’s greatest consequence on our society is its ability to create insecurity and instability. For the record, before we continue, keep in mind that Allah s.w.t says in the Quran:

“Thus have we made of you an Ummah justly balanced, that you might be witness over the nations and the Messenger a witness over yourselves…(2:143) “

It is clear that Islam promotes moderation and a balance in everything. More importantly, the Quranic verse clearly indicates that the Muslim Ummah is a nation of justice and moderation. Based upon this, the characteristics of muslim behavior and actions is defined clearly. That is, the role of the muslim to be tolerant, moderate and uphold justice in all its form towards every living being. Imam Ghazali clearly states that the role of the muslim is to realize a system whereby injustice is detailed and judged, whether perpetrated by rich or poor, high or low.

We have established that extremism is indeed unjust and therefore, clearly against the teaching of Islam. Due to the recent events, it becomes imperative to look at extremism itself. Islam classifies extremism in three major types: ‘ghuluw’ (excessiveness), ‘tanattu’ (transgressing, meticulous religiosity) and ‘tashdid’ (strictness). Excessiveness relates to overzealousness in performing an insignificant action such that it develops unwittingly into a menace. Transgression is another type of extremism which refers to “those who go beyond the limit in their utterance as well as their action. Strictness refers to the extreme position of excessive prayers or ibadah.

Our concern today is the transgression extremism delineated above. The Prophet s.a.w. says, “Ruined were those who indulged in tanattu”. It is evident that the actions of the Cow Head Protestors are a clear violation of the principles of Islam. More importantly, it is an insult to Allah and His Prophet. Islam seeks to create a balance of the life in this world and the next. Yusuf Qardhawi aptly puts it:

“Islam has laid down certain forms of ibadah to purify the human being both spiritually and materially, individually and collectively, thereby establishing a harmonious community in which feelings of brotherhood and solidarity rule, without hindering man’s duty to build culture and civilization.”

Khalid Samad and Khalid Ibrahim made the right choice by engaging the locals. The two Khalids created a forum to encourage a dialogue and an outlet for solutions. Instead, the behavior and attitude displayed by the protestors was most horrendous. Imam Ghazali advises muslims to think steadily every moment as a true believer, to do what is in the hand with perfect and simple dignity and feeling of affection, justice and a mind that is free from all other thoughts. Furthermore, the Imam also adds that,

“A man’s true greatness lies in the consciousness of an honest purpose in life, founded on a just estimate of himself and everything else, on frequent self examination, and a steady obedience to the will of Allah.”

It is my contention that the two Khalids behaved as required by Islam. By portraying honest purpose, piety, perfect and simple dignity, and a free mind, they won the larger war against injustice, extremism, intolerance and provocation. The Cow Head Protestors should sincerely reevaluate their purpose in life and consider whether a “just estimate” of themselves will ensure Allah’s pleasure.

The Cow Head Protestors might cry out loud that they are not extremists. Instead, they might shout slogans that they are defenders of Islam. Therefore, it becomes essential for us to look at the characteristics of extremism. Mainly, there are four.

The first indication of extremism is that it includes bigotry and intolerance. The person becomes adamantly devoted to his own opinions, rigidity and prejudices that he becomes impervious to the needs and interests of other human beings, the purposes of Shar’ia or the circumstances of the situation. More importantly, he does not allow the opportunity for dialogue with others as he is fearful to compare his opinions with others. He will also try his best to suppress the opinions of others. I believe the Cow Head Protestors exhibited these qualities during the forum.

The second indication of extremism is aptly put by Yusuf Qardhawi:

“…a perpetual commitment to excessiveness and attempts to force others to do likewise, despite the existence of good reasons for facilitation and the fact that Allah s.w.t. has not ordained it.“

It becomes clear that the Cow Head Protestors neither heeded the call for facilitation by the State Government nor observed the fact that Allah s.w.t will be displeased by their actions of insulting another religion.

The third characteristic of extremism is the out of time and out of date religious excessiveness and overburdening of others. This is a basic tenet of Islam whereby muslims are not allowed to be a burden to others. More importantly, muslims should not cause unjust and unnecessary burden on others. Even if it was a highly charged controversial issue, the feelings of others should be taken into consideration. The Cow Head Protestors not only hurt other’s feelings, but also caused much anxiety and insecurity among the community and society.

The fourth characteristic of is the harsh treatment of others, roughness in their approach method, and crudeness. Allah s.w.t says in the Quran:

“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching, and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious.(16:125)”

The Cow Head Protestors clearly violated the Quran verse above and therefore, did not heed Allah’s command. Furthermore, they have shown harsh treatment of Khalid Samad and Khalid Ibrahim by hurling insults at them. The epitome of roughness and crudeness occurred when one of them pulled the chair from underneath a man, which caused him to fall.

It is clear that the Cow Head Protestors have violated Islamic principles from every point. It is my opinion that they should judge themselves during this month of Ramadhan and ask for forgiveness from Allah s.w.t. and from those whom they insulted.

Finally, it is my opinion that the temple should stay where it is, if the Hindus wish so. Under an Islamic state, its right to exist and operate is guaranteed. The temple should not be moved. Instead, it must be preserved and Hindus be given the right to practice their religion in peace and freedom. This should apply to all religions.

Furthermore, the Cow Head Protestors have created a sense of insecurity and instability. They have sowed the seeds of suspicion and distrust. It is imperative for us to think objectively to avoid falling into their trap. Their role is to create discord amongst us. They are mere pawns of “tyrants who have used their powers over men’s lives with terrible insolence.” These Masters of the Cow Head Protestors are nothing but lifeless packs of decaying elements. Let’s not give them an inch. Stoic Resolve! Unwavering Determination! Let’s bury them for good.