All praise belongs to Allah alone, and may His peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah
As the second round of the Turkish presidential election approaches on 28 May – determining the country’s leader for the next five years – it is of utmost importance for Muslims, especially du’āt, to unite and rally behind the victory of Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.
It is evident that the other candidate, Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu, has an anti-Islam agenda. This can be seen in what he is calling for, who is backing him, and his party’s history. Let alone the fact that he is defining himself as an Alevi Muslim.
Our du’āt should not hesitate or simply adopt a diplomatic stance when it comes to Turkish affairs. They have been bestowed with a tremendous responsibility by Allah, which is the ability to reach millions of young individuals.
It is crucial for them to remember that they will be held accountable for every gift and power granted to them by Allah.
Allah states,
“When Allah took a covenant from those who were given the Scripture to make it known and clear to mankind and not to conceal it, they cast it behind their backs and exchanged it for a small price. And wretched is that which they purchased.” [1]
Educating the youth
Du’āt, both within Turkey and abroad, who actively engage on social media platforms, should play a significant role in educating young Turks about various aspects of their lives, enabling them to make well-informed decisions, particularly in matters concerning the governance of their country.
This education should encompass the decision-making process, their firm Islamic identity and beliefs, the fundamental Islamic obligations, their rich history, the essence of the Alevi aqīdah, the basics of what is permissible and prohibited (halal and haram), and the challenges associated with politics.
Path of da’wah and preaching not always favourable
Dear du’āt and social media activists, I understand that many of you desire to safeguard your achievements and status, among other things.
However, the path of preaching is not always easy or favourable. The prophets, peace be upon them all, had to confront falsehood and make immense sacrifices for their mission.
For Muslims, and du’āt in particular, it is not an option to stand up for justice and to defend it.
Allah says,
“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.” [2]
Brothers and sisters who are proficient in translation should contribute by promoting such educational materials.
The Messenger (ﷺ) of Allah said,
“Whoever among you sees an evil, let him change it with his hand. If he is unable to do so, then with his tongue. And if he is unable to do so, then with his heart. And that is the weakest level of faith.” [3]
It is considered one of the gravest sins to witness a situation where a country is about to be governed by someone who will distance it from Islam. Muslims, scholars, du’āt, and activists must exert maximum effort to prevent this.
In the next nine days, there are abundant opportunities to counter anti-Islamic and anti-Erdoğan campaigns through collective endeavours. Du’ā (supplication) should continue alongside activism, until we attain victory.
“And Allah will surely support those who support Him. Indeed, Allah is Powerful and Mighty.” [4]
Source: Islam21c
Notes
[1] al-Qur’ān, 3:187
[2] al-Qur’ān, 4:135
[3] Sahīh Muslim
[4] al-Qur’ān, 22:40