There is a famous Hadeeth concerning the unity of the Muslims, in which the community of the believers (ummah) is compared to the human body. The Prophet (PBUH) pointed out that any issue affecting a part of the body transforms it as a whole. If one is suffering a fever, his entire body will experience aches, fatigue, and weakness.
This analogy emphasizes how Muslims should always be together in every state. One’s joy is another’s joy, and one’s sorrow is another’s sorrow. It is unbecoming of a Muslim to disregard the state of his fellow Muslims.
Indeed, if a Muslim is oppressed or wronged, one should not turn a blind eye and undermine his predicament. Conversely, one must appreciate another’s success and share his joy, rather than harboring jealousy and resentment. Hence, it is of importance for every member of the Ummah to be unselfish and caring. Unity is a core component of the Muslim nation.
According to a Hadith in Sahih Muslim, the Muslims are like one body. When one part of it experiences pain, so does the rest. There is a Hadith in Sahih Al-Bukhari and Muslim in which the Prophet (PBUH) hopes his followers will comprise half of the people in Heaven.
The Prophet PBUH was also known to cry My Ummah, my Ummah in his duas, as mentioned in Saheeh Muslim. This indicated how strongly he cared about the state of the believers, especially concerning the Afterlife.
The significance of the Ummah
In Islamic belief, all believers are part of the Ummah. Our unity stems from our faith in Tawheed (Allah’s oneness), which sets us apart from non-believers. Physical distance and differences in appearance among Muslims are irrelevant.
Maintaining unity within the Ummah is crucial for the strength and well-being of the Muslim community. When believers are united, they form a powerful force. A unified Ummah, comprising over a billion believers, can counter any threats to Islam effectively.
If we fail to support our fellow Muslims and abandon them, we weaken ourselves significantly. This division allows non-believers to gain an advantage. As Muslims, we must not ignore the suffering of our co-religionists or oppose them for worldly gains. In Surah Al-Mu’minun, Allah emphasizes that the Ummah is one and that believers should fear none but their Lord and Cherisher.
Characteristics of the Ummah
Islam embodies monotheism in its purest form. Believers on the right path adhere to the Quran and Sunnah, following the example of the pious predecessors without deviation. These individuals make up the Ummah.
In a Hadith from Sahih Al-Bukhari, the Prophet (PBUH) stated that a group of believers will remain steadfast in their obedience to Allah. This group will remain unaffected by those who oppose or neglect them until the Last Day, remaining true to their path.
Surah Al-An’am directs us to follow the Prophet’s (PBUH) straight path, avoiding other paths that lead us astray. This guidance is essential for Muslims to practice righteousness.
A defining feature of the Ummah is its unparalleled diversity. While modern communities often unite based on nationalism, ethnicity, or sports, the Ummah stands out by uniting people through its noble cause. This unity highlights Islam’s inclusive and unbiased nature.
Everyone in the Ummah is equal, except by piety
The unification of Muslims is particularly evident during Hajj. Muslims from all walks of life, regardless of race, status, or nationality, circumambulate (Tawaf) around Al-Kabah, dressed in identical clothing. These pilgrims show no distinction; they unite in their common goal of seeking Allah’s pleasure through this sacred duty.
Surah Al-Hujurat further instructs us that Allah created us from males and females and made us into nations and tribes to know one another. The most honorable among us are those who are the most righteous, as Allah knows all.
In conclusion
In Islam, racism has no place, and no one is deemed superior based on race. Additionally, there is no discrimination based on gender. Rich and poor alike stand shoulder to shoulder in prayer, with no special privilege given to the wealthy. Indeed, according to Allah, all individuals are equal, and superiority comes only from piety.
As an Ummah, it is our duty to integrate Islam’s pure values into our lives. By embracing these principles, we can reflect the true essence of equality and fairness taught in Islam.
