Lewisham Islamic Centre has a long established tradition of speaking out against atrocities and acts of terrorism. Sadly the world has witnessed yet another masterclass in barbarity with the use of chemical agents against a defenceless people – among them women, children and babies in Idlib, northern Syria, for no crime other than opposing tyranny.
We watched with horror and that sinking feeling in the pit of the stomach at the horrific aftermath of lifeless bodies unceremoniously presented and of dead children huddled en masse, seeing in every one of their faces our own sons and daughters. The sight of one of these pure and martyred children with his head reared back and rigored arms raised by his side as though asking ‘why?’ must serve to remind the Muslim of his obligation to supplicate to Allah the Almighty for his brothers and sisters killed and oppressed for the sake of Allah. We pray He accepts their sacrifice, grants them the highest places in His Paradise, and instils in their families and loved ones the greatest patience and fortitude.
Think not of those who are killed in the way of Allah as dead. No, they are with their Lord receiving provision.
[The Qur’an, Surah Al-E-Imran (Ch. 3), V169]