Islam Rediscovered
18. Islamic Activism
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terms of this treaty, the Prophet accepted the
Makkan position exactly in accordance with their
demands. By his acceding to their position, the
Prophet was able to utilize all the opportunities for
da’wah
work offered by the situation. This resulted
in what the Qur’an called an ‘open victory.’ (48:24)
5.
Positive Status Quoism in Post Related Affairs:
Throughout a significant part of his life,
Muhammad, may peace be upon him, was a
messenger of God as well as the head of state. After
his death the question arose as to who should be
chosen to fill the latter position. This issue was
settled by following the guideline given by the
Prophet: “The head of state will be selected from
amongst the Quraysh.”
Ostensibly, it was an unusual injunction, for,
according to the teachings of Islam, all human
beings are equal. None enjoys any superiority over
another. As such, this advice to select the leader
from amongst the Quraysh was a form of
discrimination. But it was realistic rather than
discriminatory. This was another example of
positive status quoism. In fact, over the centuries, in
