Shamsi Ali Al-Kajangi
There's an English saying that goes, "Enough for evil to thrive when good people do nothing."
In Islam, calling for good and forbidding evil is one of its fundamental principles. The Quran links the collective glory of the Ummah, making it the best Ummah, to the duty of amar ma'ruf (commanding good) and nahi munkar (forbidding evil).
As stated in the Quran:
- "And let there be among you a group of people who call for good, enjoin what is right, and forbid what is wrong. They are the ones who will be successful." (Al-Imran: 104)
- "You are the best Ummah that has been brought forth for mankind. You enjoin what is right, forbid what is wrong, and believe in Allah." (Al-Imran: 110)
A Hadith narrates that once, Allah commanded an angel to destroy a village. However, upon reaching the village, the angel found a pious person devoted to worship and remembrance of Allah. The angel became hesitant and returned to Allah, saying, "There is a righteous person in the village." Surprisingly, Allah instructed the angel to destroy that person first because, despite being aware of the village's sins, he did nothing to stop them.
The Importance of Amar Ma'ruf and Nahi Munkar
In today's world, filled with turmoil and trials, this fundamental Islamic duty needs to be taken seriously. Remaining silent in the face of evil is, in itself, a form of evil. Silence towards those who commit wrongdoings is a form of complicity.
The Challenge of Amar Ma'ruf and Nahi Munkar
The challenge lies in implementing amar ma'ruf and nahi munkar while maintaining noble character and adhering to constitutional boundaries. This means that the approach must be positive and constructive, not negative or destructive. It requires careful consideration to prioritize benefits and avoid greater harm. In the national context, this process must also adhere to the Constitution and the land laws. In other words, the struggle to uphold amar ma'ruf and nahi munkar must be constitutional.
Conclusion:
Every individual with even a spark of faith in their heart is obligated to resist injustice and oppression, regardless of who the perpetrator is, including those in positions of authority. A well-known Hadith states:
"Whoever among you sees an evil, let him change it with his hand. If he is unable to do so, then with his tongue. And if he is unable to do so, then with his heart. And that is the weakest of faith."
Remaining silent in the face of evil and injustice is a sign of a severe crisis of faith. One needs to seek spiritual repair before the heart succumbs to spiritual death.
Jamaica Hills, 14 April 2025
Director of Jamaica Muslim Center, President of Nusantara Foundation