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As rapid changes continue to drive cultural shifts and challenges, the urgency to reconnect with your core values that promote unity, resilience, and purpose has never been greater. Recognizing this, the Azeem Educational Conference Regd. organized its 44th annual event, the Enlighten Islamic Values Conference 2024. At this esteemed gathering, Dr. Muhammad Azeem Farooqi, Patron in Chief AEC, delivered an inspiring presidential address that underscored the enduring relevance of Islamic principles. His address, marked by sincerity and depth, emphasized the timeless relevance of Islamic principles, which have the potential to guide individuals, communities, and societies toward enlightenment, unity, and resilience in a rapidly changing world.
The address began with an invocation of blessings, setting a reverent tone for an exploration of Islamic ideals and virtues. Dr. Farooqi spoke passionately about the dawn of a new era- an era of enlightenment and knowledge that he envisions spanning from the east to the west. According to Dr. Farooqi, this era of enlightenment is to be fueled by individuals deeply committed to Islamic principles, including distinguished scholars and experts from various fields who can act as beacons of faith, wisdom, and progress.
A core theme of Dr. Farooqi’s address was the importance of adhering to Islamic values, especially in challenging times. He underscored the need to follow the Sunnah (practices of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and the Shariah (Islamic law) as foundational to confronting adversity. In support of this, he drew upon quotes from revered Islamic figures that highlighted the essence of Islam, the Quran, and the role of faith in sustaining the human spirit.
He shared personal observations of extraordinary faith demonstrated by certain individuals, whose devotion was so intense that they experienced miraculous events and signs of divine approval. These remarkable instances of faith, he noted, serve as powerful reminders of the potential within each individual to connect with the divine and lead lives guided by deep spiritual commitment. By recounting such experiences, Dr. Farooqi illustrated the unique and uplifting power of Islamic faith and values.
In his address, Dr. Farooqi further elaborated on the purpose of life as guided by Islamic teachings. He drew attention to the fact that Muslims have a duty to fulfill their responsibilities with sincerity and to seek guidance from Almighty Allah and Prophet Muhammad (SAW). He reminded the audience that this commitment involves integrating Islamic values-such as honesty, integrity, responsibility, and compassion-into everyday life. These values, he explained, are the cornerstones of personal and societal well-being.
According to Dr. Farooqi, Islamic values hold transformative power that goes beyond personal conduct to positively impact broader social structures. He stressed that embracing patience, humility, and gratitude fosters resilience and harmony in communities, particularly in difficult times. Such qualities, he argued, not only uphold individual character but also promote collective strength and solidarity.
Dr. Farooqi spoke with great reverence about the status of Islam as a religion and the Quran as the ultimate guide for humanity. He put stress on that no other religion or book compares to the depth, wisdom, and guidance provided by Islam and the Quran, with Prophet Muhammad (SAW) serving as the ideal model for all. His reflections on the beauty and completeness of Islamic teachings served to remind the audience of the profound blessings and responsibilities of being Muslim.
Moreover, Dr. Farooqi expressed his belief that Islam will one day prevail as the dominant religion globally. He predicted that, within the next century, Islam will remain the guiding light for humanity, driven by its inherent strength, purity, and relevance in addressing human needs and aspirations. This conviction, he explained, underscores the importance of preserving Islamic identity and passing down these values to future generations.
Dr. Farooqi took time to reflect on the humility and respect that defined Prophet Muhammad's character. He shared the story of how, after the conquest of Makkah, the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) chose to sit with an oppressed individual in the Ka’aba rather than alongside his most prominent companions. This action exemplifies the Islamic values of humility and respect, qualities that are as relevant today as they were over a millennium ago. Dr. Farooqi highlighted that the Prophet’s compassion toward the marginalized and oppressed serves as a timeless lesson in upholding human dignity and justice.
Dr. Farooqi also honored the contributions of various historical Islamic figures, such as Hazrat Usama bin Zaid (R.A) and Hazrat Imam Hasan Basri, who, despite humble origins, achieved high status through their devotion to Islam. These figures, he argued, exemplify the egalitarian nature of Islam, which grants honor and respect based on piety and character rather than lineage. He called attention to the lives of other renowned Islamic personalities, like Siddiq Akbar (R.A), Farooq Azam (R.A), and Hazrat Ali (R.A), whose commitment to justice and truth shaped the foundational principles of Islamic governance and society.
In addressing the current challenges faced by the Muslim world, Dr. Farooqi invoked the exemplary leadership of Abu Bakr (R.A) and Umar e FArooq (R.A). He urged the audience to look to these figures for guidance on moral and ethical principles that remain relevant today. By studying the lives of these early leaders, he argued, Muslims can find effective solutions to modern issues while staying true to the values that have sustained the Muslim community for centuries.
Dr. Farooqi’s address at the Enlighten Islamic Values Conference was a profound call to action for Muslims worldwide. He reminded listeners of the timeless relevance of Islamic values, such as integrity, compassion, and humility, in both personal and public life. Through these values, Muslims can contribute to a world grounded in justice, unity, and respect for all.
His words served as an inspiration for those present, urging them to uphold the principles of Islam as a guiding force in times of adversity and change. Dr. Farooqi’s address highlighted the need for continued faith, resilience, and unity in the pursuit of a harmonious society that reflects the best of Islamic teachings. As he concluded, he expressed hope that Muslims everywhere would rise to this challenge, becoming torchbearers of a brighter future for generations to come.
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