The Greatest Champion of Human Rights

[ummtaalib]

The Greatest Champion of

Human Rights

 

Human rights are the basic, indisputable rights that every human naturally possesses. These rights are not privileges granted by any ruler or government. They are rights divinely bestowed on all human beings. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam was so particular about these rights that he stated that Islam is to be a well-wisher of others. His magnanimity went so far as to include the enemy combatants captured on the field of battle. In regards to these prisoners of war, He Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam  issued the verdict, “I urge you to treat the prisoners kindly .” The Sahaabah would then content themselves with dry dates and feed their bread to the prisoners.” (Tabraani)

 

This sublime conduct did not end at humans, but even the right ofanimals to live unharmed was taught by the Messenger of Allah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam.During a journey with Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam, some Sahaabah Radhiyallahu Anhum came across a bird’s nest containing a few newly hatched birds. One of them removed the nestlings which caused the mother of the birds to beat her wings frantically in distress. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam  noticed this and questioned the Sahaabah, “Who has caused distress to this bird by (removing her) nestlings? Return them to her.”

 

Today we are witnessing one of the most tyrannical eras in human history. Atrocities of the worst kind are plastered daily on the headlines of the media. The need of the hour is the revival of the Islamic spirit of not only justice and equity, but also of compassion and mercy. A global change is the last step of the journey. The first step is for us to embrace this spirit within our own lives, a step which we all have the capability to do.

 

The life of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam brimmed with kindness, compassion and love for Allah’s creation. Whether it was the nobilities of the time or the lowliest of servants, the Prophet’s example was always one of unrivalled mercy. Even the animals and insects were not overlooked by his encompassing nature of mercy. Perhaps the ultimate display of this mercy was at the Conquest of Makkah...

Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam , standing as victor and conqueror over his greatest of enemies who for 20 years did all they could to terminate Him and the religion of Islam, does not unsheathe the sword, rather he bestows general forgiveness and amnesty. Such forgiveness was and is without similitude in human history.

 

Profound was his example and profound are his words:

 

The best of men is he who brings the greatest benefit to Mankind. (Musnad Shihaab)

 

Those who are merciful will be afforded mercy by Rahmaan (the Most Merciful). Show mercy to the dwellers of the earth and the One in the heaven will be merciful to you. (Abu Dawud)

 

The creation is the family of Allah. Thus the most loved person by Allah is the one who is the best to His family. (Shuabul Imaan)

 

 

 

Jamiatul Ulama (KZN)

Council of Muslim Theologians