This is one of the most common statements that is made on many occasions and is normally used to pacify a situation.

There have been many incidents in the past which give an idea of the continuous and never ending attacks on Islam, however, Muslims were always told, ‘no harm meant to Islam’. 

We can take a look at many of the incidents which took place in the past. From among them is the mass destruction of many Islamic cities, Mosques, Islamic Institutes and the thousands of innocent lives lost. We can also look at the caricatures depicting the Prophet Muhammad (SA), and we can also look at the statements of the Pope, who, until now has not apologized to the Muslims for his wrong and misleading statements.

Although these incidents seem to give a clear message of what is taking place against the Muslims, yet all those who have been connected to these have been very proud to say ‘no harm  meant to the Muslims’.

Before our readers can judge the truth of such statements, we would like them to take a look at the most recent development.

The new eye-opener in the market today is about a film which was recently produced by a Dutch lawmaker Geert Wilders. The name of the film is ‘FITNA’ and it portrays the Holy Quran as a book of violence while the Holy Prophet (SA) is shown as a terrorist.

Attacks of this nature are not new to Islam and the Muslims have seen similar mischief done in the past. The question however, is ‘What is the purpose of this film? Is it another mistake? Or does it have a clear intent?’

Unlike others, who have pacified different situations in the past, saying ‘no harm meant to the Muslims’, Geert Wilders has made it very clear that, ‘This film will prove to the world that the Quran is a guide to terrorist attacks’.

The film has already caused havoc in the Netherlands and other parts of the world, and it would continue to create uneasiness and tension among many. It may even bring about much violence.

With this, it is clear that many wicked-minded people are taking the attack on Islam to a higher level and have gained much support for their evil intentions from the international market.

Those who wish to wage a war on Islam, would continue to do so at any cost. Such people are prepared to take the criticisms, condemnations and taunts from others. They are even prepared to face charges for such wrongdoings. However, with all these, they have set their minds firmly upon the destruction of Islam and would go to any extent to accomplish it.

Until now, the film has not really come to the forefront, however when it does, we will see the reactions of many Muslims as well as non-Muslims.

From among the non-Muslims, those who bear hatred against Islam will love this film, while others who are of moderate temperament may dislike it.

From among the Muslims, it is impossible to think that any one would support it, if there are such people, then these are the ones who are void of the true faith.

With the variety of mixed feelings and reactions which have been seen in many parts of the world, it is important for Muslims to learn how to respond to situations of this nature.

In the past, we have seen Muslims turning to extreme cases of violence against innocent people. They have attacked Government offices and have attempted to destroy public places. Some have gone to the extent of burning flags of different countries, while shouting slogans that may convey meanings of violent actions.

All these and many more have been seen in the past, but they have not produced any good results. Instead, because of such behavior, Muslims have been further accused of inciting hate, dislike and attacks on innocent lives.

As such, there is no apparent benefit of these actions, and Muslims should avoid behaving in this manner.

As for the Islamic ruling of such conduct, it is very clear in the teachings of Islam that a Muslim is not allowed to behave in this manner.

The perfect example of the Messenger of Allah (SA) is before us and we are well aware of his struggles and his response to the attacks made on his life and on Islam.

Books of his biography tell us that he was persecuted, taunted, mocked at and made to suffer at the hands of those who disliked him. He was slandered in the worst manner and called by humiliating and degrading nick-names.

Notwithstanding these, he continued to preach the truth in a calm and peaceful manner. Although the people treated him with scorn, he treated them with respect. When they cursed him, he smiled with them. When they spoke to him in a harsh manner, he spoke to them in a soft manner. He never repelled an evil with an evil , instead, he repayed it with kindness and goodness. The people showered their hatred and dislike upon him, however, he granted them his love and compassion.

It is on account of his beautiful conduct and noble traits, Allah made his lifestyle the most perfect  model for us.

Muslims should therefore understand that whatever may come to them, the Prophet (SA) received worse than that, and when confronted with situations of that nature, he responded in a manner that brought good to Islam and the Muslims.

As such, it is upon us as Muslims to react and respond to situations in a manner that will bring about goodness to Islam and the Muslims. It will be the most hated thing in the sight of Allah for any Muslim to do such actions which bring about harm to the Muslims and Islam.

Therefore, in light of what is taking place today, Muslims need to think before acting hastily. Instead of behaving like others, with violence and bad conduct, let us follow the way of the Prophet (SA) by spreading Islam through our beautiful conduct and manners.

It is not sufficient to simply tell the world that Islam is a peaceful religion, but instead, it is more important to show how peaceful Islam is. 

The people at the time of the Prophet (SA) hated him and made every effort to end his life. They never liked what he said, nor did they listen to what he preached. However, notwithstanding such negativity, he was able to win their hearts through his love, benevolence and kindness.

Insha Allah, if we begin to adopt his ways, then most certainly, Islam will rise and the attacks on Islam will be extinguished.