Islamic Fundamentalism

Although al-Islam is the fastest growing religion in these United States, and the entire world- this greatest and most true religion is constantly being attacked by the Western media. Islamic principles and those who follow them(Muslims) are constantly being depicted in a negative light. The reason for this is clear and simple; to camouflage the truth of Islam in the hopes of slowing its growth.

The media employs various methods, but the most common method is to characterize a person or group by the term Islamic or Muslim "fundamentalist", or describe a movement by Islamic "fundamentalism". Whenever these words appear in a newspaper or periodical, it brings negative connotations to mind; the non-Muslim is filled with visions of gun-toting, bomb-carrying men. For example, on July 30th of 1995, the Richmond Times-Dispatch began a series of articles entitled "The New Cold War: America & Islam," in which they reported "Islamic Fundamrntalists are nothing more than ruthless, violent power-mongers."

Now, even the Muslim and Muslimah shudder at the mention of the phrase "Islamic Fundamentalism". Despite the image the Western media gives, this is a phrase all Muslims should stand up for and proclaim. Why, some may ask? To understand, let us go to Webster's collegiate dictionary. The word "fundamentalism" is defined as "strict adherence to the fundamental beliefs of a theology or ideological system". According to this same dictionary, "fundamental" means "one of the minimum constituents without which a system would not be what it is".

The "fundamentals" of Islam are none other than the five pillars: Shahada, Salat, Zakat, Siyam, and Hajj. Therefore, an "Islamic Fundamentalist" is not a terrorist as the media would have you believe, but a Muslim steadfast in his devotion to Allah(SWT). We, as Muslims, should adopt the attitude of fundamentalism as defined in the dictionary- for it will be by these pillars that humanity may find salvation. We, who accept Allah(SWT)'s last Revelation and Messenger are the vanguard of humanity's future.

If we are not able to proclaim the Absolute Oneness of Allah(SWT), and belief in His Prophet(SAWS) without any taint of shame, then we are not fundamentalists.

If we are not striving to perfect our salat, if we pray only to be seen of men, then we are not fundamentalists.

If we pay no zakat, and give no sadaqa, then we are not fundamentalists.

If we do not fast the month of Ramadhan, then we are not fundamentalists.

If we have not made Hajj, and have no intention of doing so, then we are not fundamentalists.

And dear brothers and sisters in Islam, if we are not fundamentalists, then we are a weak Muslim Ummah!