Imam Zijad’s Corner: MESSAGES OF HIJRAH

What are the messages of the Hijrah for the Contemporary Muhajir? What can we learn today from this pivotal event in Islamic history?

The Hijrah institutionalized three important aspects of life of the community of Muslims: i) the social/religious dimension, including the establishment and construction of religious identity; ii) the economic dimension, or helping one another and alleviating need in material ways); and iii) the political dimension, especially matters concerning freedom of religion and human rights.

i) Identity Construction:

It was only after the event of Hijrah that people began to see clearly that Islam is a complete way of life which pays attention to every aspect of human activity, providing direction for every moment of one’s conscious time. And it was only after the Hijrah that people could see Islam’s example of social decency and success.

ii) Helping one another:

For us living in Canada the economic aspect of the Hijrah (helping one another) is of major importance. Ansar (helpers) provided not only shelter and a peaceful home for the migrating Muslims – or Muhajirs (emigrants) — but out of love for their new brothers and sisters, helped them in all ways and by all means.

iii) Freedom of religion and respect for human rights:

The third reason why the Hijrah is so important is due to the freedom Muslims attained in Madinah. Before the Hijrah, early Muslims had no say in any matter, internal or external. The Hijrah turned those few hundred followers of Muhammad (S) into a highly successful society. Thus, the Hijrah became a new direction towards the sphere of Halal and justice for all.