Allama Sayyed Abul Hasan Nadwi, may Allah have mercy on him (Part 22)
Meeting with the Scholars of Kabul
Our second meeting was dedicated to scholars; a large number of them accepted and attended the invitation of the Saudi Embassy, which holds a great deal of respect among the religious circles and Islamic assemblies of the country. We gathered in a very simple atmosphere, free from burdens.
During this evening, the main focus of my speech was on the responsibility of science towards Da’wah (invitation to Islam) and the direct communication with the nation. I emphasized the special importance of two groups: the general public and the youth. I presented experiences from various groups and their invitations in this regard, particularly referencing the Jama’ah Tabligh movement in the Indian subcontinent – its methods of invitation and how it succeeded in reaching the homes and workplaces of ordinary Muslims. I discussed the impact of this movement on awakening religious consciousness and the call to return to Allah, urging a determination to devote all efforts to His path, self-sacrifice, reforming the existing situation, and refining morals and actions.
I pointed out that the survival of the nation is at great risk without proper guidance, Islamic education, and a comprehensive understanding of issues and situations, which are seen as tempting opportunities for every corrupt individual, irreligionist, and destructive ideology that contradicts Islam.
I then addressed the need to pay special attention to the youth, particularly university students. They are the leaders of tomorrow and the future generation that will take control of affairs, lead the country, create laws, determine education policy, and shape lives. The interests of the country depend on the competence, honesty, and stability of the youth, and the strength and sovereignty of Islam depend on their confidence in Islamic principles, values, and concepts.
The lack of trust among the youth that Islam is worthy of leadership, along with their hopelessness regarding its future, creates ideological anxiety. Many of them believe that the progress achieved through Western civilization represents the pinnacle of development, freedom, and happiness. All of this can lead to the decline or marginalization of Islam in public life, intellectual apostasy, and cultural transformation, resulting in a widespread disillusionment that affects the entire nation—from rural homes to scientific institutions, leaving no place, including monasteries, untouched.
I explained the fate of some Islamic countries whose scholars failed to engage with and gain the trust of the youth, leaving them to fend for themselves. The purveyors of atheism, destruction, communism, and existentialism captured these young minds. I added that both secular and religious individuals, whether extreme nationalists or proponents of religious communism, have exerted influence over these youths, particularly targeting universities and the military as their fields of activity. Consequently, within a few years, they managed to control the affairs of the state and influenced the country’s policies.
I also reminded attendees that engaging with the youth requires a new approach that employs contemporary language and a thorough understanding of their struggles and concerns. In this regard, it is essential to follow the advice attributed to Hazrat Ali, may Allah be pleased with him, who said: “Speak to people according to their understanding and wisdom. Do you want them to deny Allah and His Prophet?”
I emphasized that what is crucial in the context of Da’wah is to restore the youth’s confidence that Islam has the ability to endure and lead—not only keeping pace with contemporary developments but also leading ahead of them. It would be beneficial to write, publish, and offer or translate books that resonate with young people’s interests and convince their intellects. Professor Ahmad Mohammad Jamal also delivered a speech highlighting various important aspects.
Following this, discussions and negotiations commenced with the attendees, where several esteemed individuals, led by Professor Bashar, Director General of Islamic Guidance in the Ministry of Culture and Information, along with Professor Mohammad Hashim Mujadidi, analyzed the speeches and elucidated significant points. The meeting concluded with satisfaction and excitement evident on the faces of the participants, their hearts filled with joy.
