Arafah sermon calls for unity, rejection of extremism and division

New Straits Times

2 days ago

MAKKAH: The haj pilgrimage is a powerful platform for unity and a symbol of universal solidarity that can restore the strength of the Muslim ummah if it is embraced with sincerity and deep understanding.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar said as Muslims around the world face increasing division due to narrow-minded ideologies and a fading sense of brotherhood, the spirit of haj must be embraced to rekindle the values of love, mutual respect, and fraternity among the faithful.
"If we reflect with open hearts, we will see that haj is a commanding symbol of unity for Muslims worldwide. Look at the millions of people from different races, skin colours, cultures, and languages gathering in one place, facing one qiblah, calling out one name, Allah SWT.
"There are no titles, no castes, no worldly pride. All that remains are two pieces of white cloth and hearts humbled before the Creator. Here, Islam abolishes discrimination and upholds true justice, that a person's worth lies not in appearance or wealth but in piety and righteous deeds.
"This is the social objective (maqasid) of haj, to unite the hearts of the followers of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Without unity, the ummah will remain weak, marginalised, and lost," he said in the Arafah sermon titled 'The Call of Tawhid and Unity of the Ummah,' delivered in conjunction with Wukuf Day on the plains of Arafah today.
Muslims are also urged to embrace the noble values emphasised throughout haj to ensure that the pilgrimage is not only valid but also leaves a profound impact in shaping one's character and personal development.
Mohd Na'im also reminded pilgrims to safeguard their safety, belongings, and families to avoid negligence that could jeopardise their entire pilgrimage.
"Pilgrims are also reminded to fulfill the rights of fellow human beings by practising tolerance and mutual assistance and to avoid any kind of dispute that may undermine the spiritual essence of haj," he said.
He also encouraged pilgrims to frequently seek forgiveness (istighfar) and to let haj be a turning point in their lives, one that leads them back to a state of spiritual purity, deep reflection, and renewed devotion to Allah SWT.
Earlier, Mohd Na'im spent time visiting the accommodation tents and mingling with Muassasah pilgrims here.