Life and Teachings of the Prophet Muhammad
12. The Relevance of the Quran and Sunnah in Modern Times
~ 158 ~
matter. For instance, on the Indian subcontinent Maulana Husain
Ahmad Madani and Maulana Abul Kalam Azad said that since in
modern times the nationality was linked with the homeland, Islam
would also follow the same principle. That is to say, in whichever
country Muslims lived, they would be regarded as
co-patriots like other citizens. And they would not insist on a
separate nationality for themselves.
The aim of Ijtihaad is that in all ages the gap between Islam and
the age may continue to be filled. In no circumstance should the
impression be formed that Islam has become irrelevant in the
changed circumstances. It was due to the importance of this matter
that the Prophet of Islam encouraged Muslims to continue the
process of Ijtihaad, even at the risk of making mistakes. In no
circumstance was the door of Ijtihaad to be closed.
The actual goal of Islam is to bring about an intellectual
revolution among the people. Such a task is eternal in its nature.
That is why along with eternal laws goes the principle of flexibility
in Islam. Along with
azimah
(commands) Islam gives ample space
for concessions and exemptions. Along with the observance of
form Islam gives equal importance to the spirit.
