Anyone wishing to study some aspects of secularism and its history is advised to read ‘Islam and Secularism’. (ISTAC, Kuala Lumpar, 1993). The author, Syed Muhammad Naquib Al-Attas, the Founder-Director of the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilisation and University Professor of Islamic Thought and Civilisation at International Islamic University Malaysia, explains the history and definitions of secularism. In a particular profound section of the book he defines the word din and explains the essence of Islam as a complete way of life. Below are some excerpts from chapter three, ‘Islam: The concept of religion and the foundation of ethics and morality’, which readers may benefit from: Continue reading The concept of religion in Islam

Hajjaj Ibn Yusuf al-Thaqafi was a harsh and a ruthless tyrant. His famous debate with the great scholar and Mujahid Saeed Ibn Jubayr epitomises his rule as an unforgiving viceroy of Iraq who killed innocent and pious people. It is said that when he was on his deathbed, his prisons were filled with 50,000 men and 30,000 women –  of which 16,00 were stripped naked Continue reading Amusing story of a drowning tyrant

The Prophet in his capacity as a political and spiritual leader personified the quintessential spirit of a successful leader. The leaders of the Islamic Movement are those who strive to emulate the characteristics of their Master and Guide so that they can bring about social and spiritual change. Those who are in positions of leadership, or those who may acquire some form of leadership in the future may also want to consider seven principles of transformational leadership to create a synergy of energy within their organisation:

1. Principle of Simplification– Successful leadership begins with a vision, which reflects the direction of the common course. This means, the ability to articulate a clear, practical, transformational vision which answers the question, “Where are we going?” The stone cutter’s tale illustrates this idea: The first stone cutter says, “I’m cutting stone,” the second says, “I’m carving a cornerstone,” but the third says, “I’m building a conference hall.” The third has a vision Continue reading Principles of transformational leadership