Islam and Community
Community is an Integral Part of Islam and Muslim Life
Community has been an integral part of Muslim life and culture from the commencement of Islam. When the Prophet (SAW) was asked why he loved his first wife, Khadija so much. He answered, “She believed in me when no one else did.” It simply shows she significance of the relationships to humanity.
Community is significant to preserve Islam
Islam survived in Makkah, and Quraysh amid the infidels who were persecuting and prosecuting anyone who followed Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Muslims arranged meetings in private at the home of al-Arqam to read and learn the Quran. The Prophet (SAW) had a close circle of friends and confidantes around him who played a key role in preserving his life and his teachings. And that company of loyal friends made a community of Islam.
In the same way when the Muslims migrated from Makkah to Madinah. The Ansar (the people of Madinah) shared their homes, money and wives with the Muhajir on (the migrants who came from Makkah). That was one of the most selfless acts that a group of people could do for one another. This is all to consolidate a community.
Prayers in Congregation is the Basis of an Islamic
Community
The first act the Prophet (SAW) did upon moving to Madinah was building a masjid (Masjid-e-Madina) to become the center of Muslim life and community.
Salat is the key act which a Muslim must do. But, it is highly recommended to be performed in congregations.
Hajj is another beautiful display of humanity. All people become equal to one another without any regard of race, ethnic, culture and creed. It reminds Muslims of their shared faith, morals and ideals. It knit the Muslims into such a brotherhood relationship that it makes the Muslim Ummah.
Tauba and Emaan provide the opportunity to connect with a brother or sister in faith once again. Everyone after leading a life of dishonor and sinful may resord to Allah Almighty at any time.
The Prophet (SAW) said:
“A believer to another believer is like a building whose different parts support each other.” The Prophet then clasped his hands with the fingers interlaced while saying that.”
He also said:
“The believers in their mutual kindness, compassion and sympathy are just like one body. When one of the limbs suffers, the whole body responds to it with wakefulness and fever.” [Bukhari and Muslim]
Most of the Islamic Rituals and Worships are Done in Congregation
Salat
Jumma prayer
Eid prayer and sermon
Janaza prayer
Azza: it is the three days of mourning and gathering to pray for the deceased.
Visiting the sick
Breaking our fast
Hajj or umrah
Marriage
Aqiqa: it is the slaughtering of a sheep to feed one’s loved ones and give to charity upon birth of a child.
Muslim Ummah is a form of Muslim Community
Any person who embraces Islam becomes a member of the Muslim ummah. It is, therefore, obligatory for us to maintain the environments that are welcoming and inclusive to everyone regardless of their age, race, gender or mental health.
In building community, the Prophet (SAW) declares that our brothers and sisters in Islam have rights over us.
Abu Hurairah said that he heard the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) says:
“The rights of one Muslim over another are five: Returning the greeting of salaam, visiting the sick, attending funerals, accepting invitations, and saying yarhamuk Allah (may Allah have mercy on you) to one who sneezes.” [Al-Bukhari (1240) and Muslim (2162)]
The Role of Community in Islam
Muslims as members of a community must have:
Mutual respect
Love and compassion
Both of these will unite them like a human body.
Islamic Injunctions About Community Service
Volunteering must be the important part like that of the other pursuits. Muslims must offer their services to the needy humanity voluntarily.
Contribution of Islam to Community
Islam champions the cause of responsible citizenship. It fosters tolerance and cooperation. It teaches that the human rights for all people, regardless of religion, race and gender