Crime Wave

Murder, looting, plundering, fraud, corruption and the seemingly never ending list of misery and torment that has become the order of the day. The prevalence of such conditions have become a way of life. Unless the victims were near and dear, sensational headlines depicting murder and mayhem also do not evoke shock and disbelief. While the crime rate continues to spiral out of control, debates, discussions and conferences abound as to what are the factors leading to this deplorable condition. The debates and discussions will continue but unless the only real solution is not adopted, no difference will occur in the prevailing situation. The question is who has the solution and what is it?

In order to understand the solution, we need to examine the root of the problem. The problem can only be resolved by treating the root cause. Otherwise there may be some temporary symptomatic relief, but over time the problem is bound to get much worse.

To understand the root of the problem and search for the solution, a Mu`min (Believer) will first turn directly to the Qur’aan and Sunnah to see what guidance is to be found therein. In this regard, Allah Ta’aala declares: “Corruption has appeared on the land and seas due to what (actions) has been perpetrated by man.” This then is the starting point. The crux of this aayah is that in this world of cause and effect, actions of man have a direct effect on the conditions that prevail. Good actions bring down good conditions while evil actions draw down calamities. This is a simple reality as clear as the reality that fire burns and that rain causes the vegetation to grow. Thus if one ignores the reality and places his hand into the fire, the obvious consequence is that he will get burnt. Likewise if we ignore the reality and perpetrate evil actions, the calamities will come.

What are the evil actions which bring down calamities? Rasulullah (Sallalahu Alayhi Wa Sallam)  has given many details in the Ahaadith, some of which are discussed hereunder:

The most important pillar of Islaam after Imaan is Salaah. Punctual and proper performance of Salaah is of fundamental importance. Neglecting to perform it or performing it haphazardly is a serious matter which draws down Allah Ta’ala’s wrath. Rasulullah (Sallalahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) is reported to have said that when a person performs his Salaah but does not take due care to perform it correctly, the Salaah is wrapped like a dirty rag and thrown back at him. The Salaah then curses him saying: “May Allah U destroy you as you have destroyed me.”

The general condition of our Salaah is well known. Let alone the aspects of concentration and devotion, even the postures are not fulfilled in the Sunnah manner. Thus if our Salaah will curse us daily, why then will calamities not engulf us. Furthermore, if this is the consequence of performing Salaah haphazardly, the more severe consequences of not performing Salaah at all can well be imagined.

Perpetration of vice is always a means of loss and deprivation for the perpetrator. At the least, it snatches away his peace of mind and contentment. Barakah is removed from his life and wealth. As a result, even if he owns all the wealth in the world, his life is still in constant turmoil. This is the least effect in this world on the perpetrator himself. However, when many people openly and blatantly flaunt the commands of Allah Ta’ala and those who have the ability to stop them do nothing to change the situation, the subsequent calamity engulfs the entire community. Hazrath Huzaifa bin Yamaan (Radiallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallalahu Alayhi Wa Sallam) said: “By the oath of  that Being who controls my life, you must most certainly enjoin the right and forbid the evil, or else Allah will engulf everybody in the punishment. Then you will beseech Him but He will not answer your duas.” (Tirmizi). Hence Hazrath Umar bin Abdul Aziz (Radiallahu Anhu) would declare: “It used to be said (by the Sahaba Radiallahu Anhum) that Allah Ta’ala will not punish everyone due to the sins of specific people. However, when vices are committed openly, everybody becomes deserving of the punishment” (As Sunnan al Waarida fil Fitan).

Among the serious flagrant violations of Shariah is the shameless and immoral dressing being adopted, especially by Muslim women. It is most tragic that the type of shameless and immoral attire which Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) cursed, is adopted with pride. Parents, grandparents, husbands and brothers also generally condone this open violation or merely turn a blind eye. The Arsh (throne) of Allah Ta’ala must be shuddering on account of the shamelessness being displayed. Such immorality and shamelessness is bound to invite calamities.

Many narrations have highlighted other serious acts which invite the wrath of Allah Ta’ala. Hazrath Ibn Abbas (Radiallahu Anhu)  is reported to have said: “When zina becomes rife in a community, excessive deaths will take place. When people cheat in weight and measure they will be afflicted with droughts. When they will break their promises, their enemies will overpower them” (Jami-us Sagheer).

It has also been reported in various Ahadith that when the following acts will be committed, difficulties and problems will descend:

The object of highlighting these issues is that we take heed and save ourselves from becoming involved therein. Otherwise, we will have only ourselves to blame for the severe consequences that come as a result of our evildoings.

May Allah Ta’ala forgive us and save us from His chastisement in this world and the Hereafter. Aameen.

Source: Alhaadi (adapted)