Participation

By Abdal Hakim Murad, Travelling Home - Essays on Islam in Europe^[1]
The original text has been edited^[2], footnotes are by the web editor.

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Participation in non Muslim-majority Societies

a.
Muslims need to create a thoughtful and active approach to spiritual care and guidance, especially in light of growing atheism and populist movements.
The idea is to develop a way of responding to these challenges that stays true to Islamic values and morals. In other words, it suggests that there should be a framework for addressing modern issues while staying grounded in Islamic teachings.

b.
The proper response for Muslims, especially in non-Muslim majority countries, should not be to angrily oppose or to meekly submit to the way they are viewed by outsiders. The "social gaze" from the majority can sometimes be arrogant or oppressive, expecting Muslims to be excessively humble or feel ashamed.
It’s unreasonable and unjust for the majority to demand that Muslims constantly apologize or act as if they are guilty for simply being who they are or for crimes committed by extremists with an islamic veneer. Instead, Muslims should stand with confidence and dignity without either being defensive or submissive.

c.
A strong, fearless response to those who deny absolute truths and label faith as false should involve Muslims accepting the opportunity to participate in public discussions about the common good.
This means that Muslims should engage openly in the national conversation, alongside others, about how society can be better for everyone. The idea is to be part of the larger dialogue in a liberal state, where all citizens are invited to contribute their ideas and perspectives.

d.
As a matter of fact, people of all faiths should be more vocal and persistent in challenging the idea that atheism and secularism^[3] are better for society.
Believers are essentially called to actively argue that faith and religion also offer valuable contributions to the public good, rather than allowing atheism or secular viewpoints to dominate the conversation without question.

e.
This is about calling upon and encouraging secular states to favor religion over materialistic worldviews—not because religion is necessarily "true,"^[4] but because it offers proven benefits.
These include better physical and mental health outcomes for individuals and enhanced social cohesion, both within communities and in broader society.

f.
Policymakers need to recognize the downsides of secular individualism^[5], especially in societies where social systems are weakening and contributing to the breakdown of community structures—a process often referred to as social disintegration.

g.
It's important to remember that pre-modern Islamic civilization had a proven ability to safeguard a wide variety of knowledge systems, religions, and cultures.
This diversity contributed significantly to human progress and well-being.

h.
Liberal politicians who seek to enforce a single set of social beliefs should be encouraged to explore more pluralistic approaches. Islamic history, while not perfect, provides many valuable examples of accommodating diverse perspectives and ways of life.