The Essence of the Holy Qur’an
A Muslim Observes Moderation In All Matters
“We have appointed you a middle nation (ummatan wasatan), that you may be witnesses against mankind, and that the messenger may be a witness against you”.
(Al Quran, Surah Al-Baqara 2:143)
Dear brothers and sisters!
In this verse, Allah (SWT) has commanded and ordained Muslims to be a nation of the middle path. The term ‘Wasatan’ refers to the central point right in the middle between two ends and away from the two extremes. Islam is the religion of temperance. It orders us to be restrained and balanced in all spheres of life. It advises us to avoid extremes, remain firm on the true path, and behave with common sense and consistently. People will be happy as long as they can balance matter and meaning, body and soul, and life in this world and life hereafter. Peace and tranquillity can prevail on earth only through the maintenance of the divine equilibrium. Going to extremes in shopping, entertainment, eating, drinking, dressing, speaking and writing, and even in religious matters will harm both individuals and society.
The essence of being a Muslim is to follow the ‘middle path’, which is, in effect, the ‘straight path’ towards Allah almighty. Islam upholds a balance between the spiritual and intellectual, theory and law, combining these elements to find the middle path. The Islamic faith is moderate, balanced and equitable. This message is central to the Islamic practice and is seen to be addressed in all aspects of our daily lives. There is moderation in every deed, creed and trait.
Therefore, it is evident from this command that Muslims must remain steadfast in committing themselves to the middle way. Muslims must not be lax or be negligent (tafrit) in their practice and must be free from being too extreme or excessive (ifrat). This ultimately is described as paving the way for the ‘best’ nation. How happy are those who lead a life in moderation as commanded by our Lord (swt)! And who avoid extremes and remain firm on the straight path!
Jobayer Al Mahmud
Recent Comments