Differences in Islamic thought should unite, not divide, says Wan Ji
Islamic preacher Wan Ji Wan Hussin said that viewing diversity as an opportunity for wisdom fails when societal issues arise, such as differing schools of thought.
SHAH ALAM - The diversity of Islamic schools of thought should not be viewed as a threat but rather celebrated to showcase Islam as a remarkable religion.
Islamic preacher Wan Ji Wan Hussin said that viewing diversity as an opportunity for wisdom fails when societal issues arise, such as differing schools of thought.
He said these schools of thought include Al-Asyairah, Al-Maturidiah and Salafiyyah.
“In fact, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was accepted in Medina because of the religious and ethnic diversity there, unlike in Mecca, where he initially faced challenges in gaining acceptance.
"I am not one to argue over differences in thought, including the issue of Muslims labelling each other as disbelievers," Wan Ji said.
He highlighted the experience of the former Minister in the Prime Minister's Department, Datuk Dr Mujahid Yusof, who faced accusations of disbelief due to political differences, with those defending him also being labelled in similar ways.
Wan Ji said these views while speaking as a panellist on Sinar Harian's Wacana Sinar program, edition 464, titled "Unpacking the Confusion of the Mufti Bill," broadcast live across Sinar Harian’s platforms on Thursday.
The discussion was moderated by Azlan Shah Nabees Khan and included two other panellists, Malaysian Syariah Lawyers Association President Musa Awang and Senator Datuk Dr Mujahid Yusof.
Wan Ji noted that Malaysia indirectly acknowledges the Salafiyyah school, as some states adhere to its teachings.
“In Perlis, for example, Salafiyyah is widely recognised, to the extent that the state is often labelled as Wahhabi, though Wahhabism and Salafism are two distinct concepts,” he added.
Wan Ji urged religious scholars to avoid the practice of condemning one another as disbelievers due to differing beliefs.
“We should foster a culture of dialogue, known as 'muzakarah,' rather than debate.
“By meeting and discussing common ground, much can change. Imagine if the Yayasan Dakwah Islamiah Malaysia (Yadim) could unite these Islamic schools to better represent the beauty of Islam,” he said.
