By Narjis Nichole Abdul-Majid
In “Letter4U & Rules of Engagement” Sheikh Usama AbdulGhani, an American born, Caribbean descended Shia Sheikh explains the role of Muslims in response to the message addressing the youth of North America and Europe sent out by Ayatollah Sayed Ali Khamenei on January 21, 2015. In order to understand the context of this short 6-minute video it is recommended that you read or watch the message from Ayatollah Khamenei here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CiH4elb2uo
In this straightforward video Sheikh AbdulGhani clarifies the notion that the message to spread true Islam is not new. He encourages all Muslims to spread the true basic beliefs of Islam and discourages Muslims from presenting one’s opinions as true Islam. He advocates that Muslims rely on the works of scholars and encourages both Muslims and non-Muslims to learn about Islam from its original sources. Muslims often reiterate the teaching that even a smile can be dawah, but in this video Sheikh AbdulGhani champions Muslims to share what they do know about Islam and avoid itjihad which could potentially set up a Muslim to make false statements about Allah and Islam. Sheikh AbdulGhani emphasizes that this is a historical time and Muslims can actively change the tide and be a part of the change and greater plan Allah has for Islamic understanding in the world.
This message is timely in light of the repeated attacks on Islam in the media domestically and internationally. This video is part of a 3-part series in which Sheikh AbdulGhani addresses the role of Muslims to know and spread Islam as it relates to the message from Ayatollah Khamenei. In the other two 5 to 6 minute videos Sheikh AbdulGhani addresses ahadith about the signs of the return of Imam Mahdi (a.j.f.) and emphasizes the role of the Muslim, particularly young Muslims in acting on their responsibility to Allah to dispel falsehood about Islam. These videos can be viewed here:
The Forces of TruthVS Falsehood
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DF7mWYDv2u8
Letter 4U & Reappearance
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jfWBZLRJbfM
Narjis Nichole Abdul-Majid is a part-time lecturer in the departments of Pan African Studies and Humanities at the University of Louisville. Her research interests focus on the African American and Native American Islamic experiences (Slavery-Melungeons-20th Century Islamic Movements-Present Day) with emphasis on minority voices.
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