BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – As Brunei ushered in the Islamic new year of 1440, His Majesty the Sultan called on Muslims to uphold justice by condemning tyranny where it takes place in the world.
Speaking in a televised address on Monday, the sultan stressed the importance of all Muslims engaging in muhasabah (self-reflection), with regards to where they stand on domestic and global issues.
“There are parties who do not care as their [Muslim] brothers suffer under oppression, their lives and property destroyed.”
He added than when justice is forsaken, “tyranny and atrocities take its place”.
“This is a situation we must never accept. Islam forbids tyranny and condemns anyone who commits it.”
Muslims must go back to the history and lessons of Hijrah, he said, to emulate how brotherhood was forged between the Muslim migrants of Mecca and the Ansa Muslims in Medina.
“Was the bond of brotherhood ever been broken or tainted by fighting or bloodshed? The answer is no. Allah’s mercy was bestowed upon them so they could live in peace and harmony, free from the harassment of their enemies,” His Majesty remarked.
The sultan said all people should strive to emulate the leadership style of prophet.
“What this means is that if Muslims are on the side of Allah — righteous in their leadership, governance and their struggles — then Allah promises them victory in this world and in the hereafter.”
In the Islamic calendar, Hijrah was the migration of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) and his companions from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE, symbolising their willingness to suffer for their faith, and their refusal to lose hope in the face of persecution they suffered in Mecca.
As widespread propagation of the religion began, the event was a turning point in the history of Islam and thus marks the start of the Islamic calendar.
Hijrah celebrations took place at all mosques and prayer halls across the country on Monday, with His Majesty and male members of the royal family joining worshippers at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah in Kampong Kiarong.