Readers’ Forum

Where has gone winter?

The month of November has begun, the weather should have been cool and pleasant but instead it is hot, humid and sultry, people are feeling suffocated. The political situation of the country is turbulent, it seems that the weather is reflecting the mood of the people. It cannot go on like this, urgent steps must be taken to save the country from falling apart.
Nur Jahan
Chittagong

Political divides amongst the Muslims

The Prophet Muhammad (SM) died on 12th Rabiul Awal (June 8 in 632 AD) in Medina and since he was the Seal of Prophets, question arose who would take the charge of the Republic of Medina? As the Prophet did not nominate anyone as the Administrator (Caliph), the influential members from the different races and tribes held discussions separately. Some from the Banu Hashim said that Hazrat Ali (RA) was the right person to be the Caliph. They in defence of their statement referred to a Hadith quoted by Saad bin Abi Wakkas (RA).
One day, the Prophet said to Ali: You are in such a position with me as was Haroun with Moses. But after me, there will be no prophet. Nevertheless several powerful members of the Banu Tamim and the Banu Umayyah opposed the proposal and met at a place outside the city of Medina. One of them said that the Prophet Muhammad (SM) performed 17 wakto(times) of prayers behind Hazrat Abu Bakar (RA) and hence he should be the Caliph.
Hazrat Umar (RA) proposed his name and swore allegiance, which others followed. But the Prophet’s some close associates, including Hazrat Ali and Hazrat Abdullah ibn Abbas, (RA) did not endorse the selection. And also did not his youngest daughter Hazrat Fatima (RA).
The division or rift whatever is called was political by nature. The Karbala Tragedy is the sad product of the political rivalry and it still continues. Those who supported Hazrat Ali (RA), they are identified as Shiite and those who opposed them are called Sunnih.
Abdullah Akber
Dhaka