Some Muslims insist on calling themselves Salafi. Others, Sunni, Shii or Sufi. I say: leave all that. It’s just politics. No, just I am, I am, I am. All ego. That’s not what we’re called to.
We’re called to feed the poor, clothe the destitute, free slaves, care for widows and orphans, establish justice, oppose tyranny, witness to truth, give full measure, promote fairness, raise up the helpless, give hope to the hopeless, make a home for the homeless, mend broken hearts, sow seeds of peace, reconcile the estranged, forgive those who wronged us.
Dividing into factions and sects, each rejoicing in what it has, stands severely and unequivocally condemned by our Book. It is all there for those who care to read its verses for themselves.
If you encounter a Salafi who is just, you stand with them. If you encounter a Sufi who bears witness to the truth, embrace them. These are our only criterion. We are not judged by the labels assigned to us, but only by how we live our lives.
Do we prioritise truthfulness? That is a measure of faith. Do we prioritise justice? That too. These are the criterion of the path. If you have to pick a side, choose to stand with those who are true, just, charitable, generous, kind and humble. That alone is our criterion.
Last modified: 13 December 2022
