Recently we have been seeing more and more demonstrations by some Muslims throughout the world. Especially since 9-11, there are some Muslims who are just waiting for something to happen, so they could set up a demonstration. In addition to the demonstrations, we have also started seeing violence. Such violence and demonstrations are signs and actions of uneducated and ignorant people. In fact, it is not Islamically recommended to hold demonstrations. Muslims should not follow people of the secular world who initiate and stage demonstrations. We should adopt the teachings of the Qura’an and Sunnah of the Holy Prophet Muhammad {S.A.W}. Muslims should use media conferences, educational seminars and the Friday sermons to voice their opinion.
Prophet Moses, Prophet Jesus and Prophet Muhammad {P.B.U.T} never initiated or held demonstrations, even though they were oppressed, persecuted and attacked physically. The Messengers of God {P.B.U.T} preached the words of Allaah with their peaceful characteristics, to get the message to the world. We should stay away from such demonstrations, which are barbaric and un-Islamic. We are in the age of technology and intellectualism. Therefore, knowledge and wisdom should be used within the guidelines of the Qura’an and the pattern of the Holy Prophet Muhammad {S.A.W}.
Prophet Moses {P.B.U.H} and the Israelis did not stage a demonstration in front of Pharaoh’s palace. Instead, Moses {P.B.U.H} used knowledge, wisdom and prayer to conquer Pharaoh and his armies.
Prophet Jesus {P.B.U.H} did not command his followers and disciples to stage demonstrations against those who wanted him to be crucified. Instead knowledge, wisdom and prayer were used to conquer the enemies.
Prophet Muhammad {P.B.U.H} and his followers did not stage demonstrations against the chiefs of Taif, who persecuted and stoned him. Instead, he also used knowledge, wisdom and prayer to change the hearts of the people. Leaders and Imams should discourage the lesser educated Muslims from staging such un-Islamic demonstrations, otherwise the backlash would then be harmful to the entire Muslim world.
In conclusion, if we are the followers of Islam, then we should use the Qura’an and the style of the Holy Prophet Muhammad {P.B.U.H}, to express our point of view.