ISLAM: A RELIGION OF TOLERANCE — SUNNI & SHIAISM, A BRIEF OVERVIEW; MILITANCY; IRAN AN AXIS OF RESISTANCE  By Najmuddin Ahmad Farooqi

Islam is regarded as the most tolerant religion, and this belief is supported by its principles and historical trajectory. Tolerance is a cornerstone of Islamic teachings, rooted in the Qur'an and the life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Despite the existence of diverse schools of thought and the claim of 72 sects within the Indian subcontinent, Islam unequivocally forbids passing judgments against others. The Qur'an emphasizes that the ultimate judgment rests with Allah alone, who will determine every individual’s fate on the Day of Judgment, irrespective of their religious affiliation or beliefs. This divine principle underscores the omnipotence and omnipresence of Allah, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe.

Muslims universally share an unshakable belief in the Oneness of Allah, the Qur'an as His final revelation, and His messengers, from Adam (AS) to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. They believe in angels, the Day of Judgment, and the eternal life of the Hereafter. Remarkably, the Qur'an has remained unaltered since its revelation over 1400 years ago. This preservation reflects its divine protection and the meticulous care taken by the Prophet ﷺ and his companions (Sahaba), who recorded and safeguarded its verses. Today, the Qur'an continues to guide the lives of Muslims worldwide, ensuring its teachings endure until the end of time.

A Brief Overview of the Two Largest Muslim Sects: Sunni and Shia

Sunni Muslims

emphasize the teachings and practices of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, particularly those observed by his closest companions, the Khilafat-e-Rashidun (the Four Rightly Guided Caliphs). These caliphs — Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, and Ali (RA) — are revered for their piety and their roles in implementing divine laws after the Prophet ﷺ. The term "Khalifa," meaning successor or representative, holds special significance for these individuals as they were seen as representatives of Allah and the custodians of unadulterated faith.

Hazrat Ali, a cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet ﷺ, holds a unique position among the four caliphs. The third caliph, Uthman (RA), was also the Prophet's son-in-law, married to two of the Prophet’s daughters at different times. Tragically, all but the first caliph were assassinated during their tenures, reflecting the turbulent circumstances of the early Islamic period. The family of the Prophet ﷺ, known as Ahl-e-Bayt, includes all his wives, and Islam mandates equal treatment for them. Disparaging or discriminating against any of the Prophet’s wives is a violation of Islamic teachings.

Shia Muslims prioritize their devotion to the Prophet’s family, particularly his daughter Fatima, his son-in-law Ali, and their descendants, the Twelve Imams. Shia theology asserts that leadership in the Muslim community should have remained within the Prophet’s family, and they regard Ali (RA) as the rightful successor. The martyrdom of Imam Hussain in Karbala is a central event in Shia history, observed with profound mourning during Muharram.

Shia Muslims believe that the Imams, beginning with Hazrat Ali, possess divine guidance and receive spiritual insights from Allah. This belief forms a key part of Shia theology. However, a contentious aspect of Shia practices is their criticism of the first three caliphs and Hazrat Ayesha, the Prophet's ﷺ wife. Practices such as Azadari (mourning) and invoking the intercession of Imams are also integral to Shia faith. Cursing Yazid and others responsible for Imam Hussain's martyrdom is considered an expression of loyalty to the family of the Prophet ﷺ.

Iran: An Axis of Resistance

The Iranian regime faces complex internal and external challenges that threaten its stability and sovereignty. In response, Iran has reportedly adopted a strategy of supporting Shia militant groups to project power and influence across the region. These groups often destabilize non-Shia governments or reinforce Shia-led regimes, aligning with Iran’s geopolitical interests. Iran is accused of indoctrinating, training, arming, and funding these organizations.

Shia Militant Groups Allegedly Supported by Iran

1. Houthis (Yemen): Known for their insurgency against the Yemeni government, backed by Iranian logistical and military support.
2. Hezbollah (Lebanon): A well-established group that exerts significant influence in Lebanon and engages in conflicts with Israel.
3. Sipah-e-Mohammad (Pakistan): Alleged to promote Shia militancy within Pakistan.
4. Tehreek-e-Jafria (Pakistan): Advocates Shia interests in Pakistan.
5. Liwa Fatemiyoun Brigade (Afghanistan): Recruited Afghan Shias to fight in Syria.
6. Zainebiyoun Brigade (Pakistan): A similar group recruiting Pakistani Shias for Syrian conflicts.
7. Kata'ib Hezbollah (Iraq): An active paramilitary group involved in regional conflicts.
8. Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq (Iraq): Known for its ties to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.
9. IRGC-Quds Force (Iran): The elite unit of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, central to its foreign operations.
10. Mahdi Army (Iraq): Played a significant role in Iraq’s insurgency.
11. Al Badr Brigade (Iraq): Another Iran-aligned Shia militia.

Sunni Militancy and Wahhabism a False Narrative

In contrast to Shia militant groups, Sunni affiliated groups like Al-Qaeda and ISIS often operate independently, lacking formal state sponsorship. Many of these groups emerge from impoverished backgrounds and are driven by radicalized interpretations of Islam. While the term "Wahhabism" is often linked to these groups, it is historically inaccurate. Wahhabism originated as an 18th-century reform movement led by Muhammad ibn Abdul Wahhab, emphasizing a return to pure Islamic principles. It bears no inherent connection to modern terrorism. Similarly, the Deoband school of thought, established in 19th-century India, is unfairly implicated in global Sunni militancy despite its focus on Islamic education and reform.

The word terrorism was first introduced to French dictionary in 1798 after French Revolution. Though the term "terrorism" has been widely used on international fora and gained attention in 1970s during the troubles in Northern Ireland and Israel - Palestine conflict. In India the first insurgency by any Muslim entity manifested in erstwhile J & K almost after the end of Punjab terror in mid 1990s. Even the U.S. Congress didn't pass the Terrorism Risk Insurance Act before 2002. Moreover international insurers incorporated "terrorist activities" cover not before 1990. it is an established fact that there was no Muslim terrorism upto 200 years after the death of Abdul Wahab and upto 130 years after the establishment of Darul uloom Devband.

Sunni Militant Groups

1. Al-Qaeda (Afghanistan): A global terrorist network responsible for numerous attacks.
2. ISIS/Daesh: Known for its extreme violence and attempts to establish a caliphate.
3. Lashkar-e-Taiba (Pakistan): Active in the Kashmir conflict.
4. Sipah-e-Sahaba (Pakistan): Promotes Sunni dominance in Pakistan.
5. Al Qassam Brigades (Palestine): The military wing of Hamas.

Conclusion

The divisions within the Muslim world, fueled by sectarianism and geopolitical rivalries, have led to numerous conflicts. However, the essence of Islam remains rooted in peace, tolerance, and unity. The Qur'an and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ provide a framework for coexistence and mutual respect, emphasizing the universal values of justice and compassion. Despite the differences between Sunni and Shia traditions, both share a profound reverence for Allah and the foundational principles of Islam. A deeper understanding of these principles can help bridge divides and promote harmony within the Muslim community and beyond.

By Najmuddin Ahmad Farooqi