The recent arrest of 11 young men on suspicion of being part of a terrorist sleeper cell, has brought an oft-asked question into sharp focus: Why do educated youths turn to terrorism?
Here is one explanation. “Around the 2nd century Hijri, there emerged a group that tried to interpret Islam using its own logic instead of understanding the Shariat in the light of the Quran and Hadith. These fringe elements tried to impose their will on others. However, the Sufi saints, solely through their love of God and humanity, managed to ensure that these elements never gained the upper hand. Though the influence of these Sufi saints continues to hold sway, Wahabi forces, with their aggressiveness backed by petro-dollars, are now managing to influence and misguide youngsters. The result is there for all to see,” said Maulana Mohammed Yahya Ansari, director, Shayk-ul-Islam Academy, Hyderabad.
“Every Muslim picked up on suspicion of violence, anywhere in the world, has been influenced by Wahabism. Islam has got nothing to do with terrorism. Only a fringe group is using Islam to push its agenda and impose its beliefs on the world,” said Maulana Syed Khaja Moizuddin Ashrafi, Khateeb of Jama Masjid Mohammadi, Kishanbagh.
“Acting against humanity is acting against Islam and contrary to Islamic teachings,” he added. “While the essence of Sufism is love for God and His creation, Wahabis try to impose their interpretation of the Shariat on everyone. They also question the authenticity of every Hadiths (sayings of the Prophet) and urge others to do so. When a person begins to question his faith, he falls prey to the hardliners who influence him with their smooth talk. They also project the entire Muslim community as victims of aggression,” said Maulana Mahbub Alam, director Darul-uloom Imam Ahmad Raza.
“Sufism advocates an inclusive approach. On contrary, Wahabism advocates aggression. The petro-dollar gives Wahabi propaganda further impetus, leaving Sufism on the back-foot,” said freelance journalist Habeeb Ali al-Jeelani. He adds, “Sufism teaches us not to question Allah’s decisions, but to accept them as they are. However, Wahabis accept only those Hadith that suit their designs.”
“The influence of Sufi saints is still seen at every Khankhwa (Sufi order), where Muslims and non-Muslims throng. With the influence of extremism growing, it is time that Sufis stepped up and countered it. As Sufiism is non-aggressive, it is becoming increasingly difficult to counter the extremists. Sufi scholars need all the help they can get. This is the only way to effectively counter terrorism. Terror can only be countered if its concept is nipped in the bud,” said Maulana Ashrafi.