LETTER | In the quiet reflection of dawn

LETTER | In the quiet reflection of the dawn, as many Malaysian children ready themselves for the journey back to school this week, their minds filled with the excitement of learning and the joy of seeing friends, it is imperative to pause and consider the contrasting reality faced by countless others across the globe and here in Malaysia.

In places like Gaza and amongst the stateless communities here, children are ensnared in a struggle far removed from the innocence of childhood, deprived of education, safety, and the basic sustenance of life through man-made policies and deep-rooted hate, many times, by God-fearing men no less!

This stark disparity beckons a poignant reflection on mercy, love, and compassion, virtues deeply ingrained in the teachings of the Quran, and how these principles compel us to act in the service of those less fortunate.

The Holy Quran eloquently advocates for mercy, love, and compassion, virtues that transcend mere words and demand action.

Surah Al-Balad (90:12-16) poses a profound question: “And what will explain to thee the path that is steep? (It is:) freeing the bondman; Or the giving of food in a day of privation to the orphan with claims of relationship, Or to the indigent (down) in the dust.”

This verse not only emphasises the importance of helping those in bondage, the hungry, the orphan, and the destitute but also highlights the challenging nature of this path, a steep one, requiring sacrifice and genuine commitment.

As we reflect upon the conditions of children in conflict zones like Gaza or those rendered stateless, devoid of nationality, rights, and often hope, it becomes evident that the call of the Quran is not merely to sympathise from a distance but to engage actively in alleviating their suffering. The essence of compassion lies not in passive concern but in the tangible steps taken to mitigate the pain of others.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The merciful are shown mercy by the Most Merciful. Be merciful on the earth and you will be shown mercy from Who is above the heavens (Tirmidhi).”

This Hadith beautifully encapsulates the reciprocal nature of mercy in Islam, suggesting that our own receipt of divine mercy is contingent upon the mercy we show to others.

Amid the comfort of our homes and the assurance of safety, it is all too easy to become desensitised to the plight of those who, through no fault of their own, find themselves in dire circumstances.

Yet, the Quranic call to action is clear and unequivocal. In Surah Al-Insan (76:8-9), Allah describes the righteous as those who, despite their own need, feed the needy, the orphan, and the captive for the love of Him, saying: “We feed you for the sake of Allah alone: No reward do we desire from you, nor thanks.”

This verse underscores the purity of intention required in acts of charity and compassion - they are to be performed for the sake of Allah, without expectation of worldly recognition or reward.

In this moment of global disparity, as children in Malaysia embrace the opportunities of a new academic year, let us not forget our brothers and sisters in humanity who are deprived of these very essentials.

Our shared human experience is marked not by the wealth we accumulate or the success we achieve, but by the compassion we extend to those in need.

Let the plight of the poor, the homeless, the stateless, and especially the suffering children around the world serve as a call to action. Let it awaken in us a profound sense of duty and a passionate commitment to embody the Quranic virtues of mercy, love, and compassion.

The teachings of the Quran and the example of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) serve as a beacon of light, guiding us towards a path of empathy, action, and hope.

It is through our collective efforts, driven by the core Islamic values of mercy, love, and compassion, that we can begin to mend the fabric of a fractured world, ensuring that every child, regardless of their circumstances, is afforded the dignity, safety, and opportunities they rightfully deserve.

In doing so, we not only adhere to the divine commandments but also contribute to a legacy of kindness that transcends geographical, religious, and ethnic divides, embodying the true spirit of humanity.

As we observe this holy month, a time of reflection, prayer, and community, let us also unite in a call for mercy and compassion by decoupling the proposed amendments and opposing the regressive amendments which further marginalise the already vulnerable segments of our society.

It is a moral imperative, deeply rooted in our faith, to stand against policies and practices that exacerbate the suffering of the poor, the homeless, the stateless, and especially the children who bear the brunt of our collective inaction.

The Quranic virtues of mercy, love, and compassion are not passive ideals; they demand bold action and unwavering commitment to justice and human dignity.

Let this holy month amplify our voices against injustice and strengthen our resolve to act with kindness and generosity. It is not merely an act of faith but a fundamental human duty to extend our support to those in need, to advocate for their rights, and to ensure their well-being.

This is the essence of the Quranic message, a call to embody the highest standards of morality and compassion in our lives. Let us heed this call, not because we seek reward but because it is the right thing to do.

In the spirit of mercy and compassion, let us strive to create a world where every child can look forward to a future bright with the promise of education, safety, and the opportunity to thrive.

Selamat Berpuasa! May Allah have mercy on all of us, especially all children in Malaysia!

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.