31/12/2024
After reflecting on the core message of this call to action, I wholeheartedly stand in agreement and invite others to join this important cause.
“The Power of One Step: Start the Journey to Change”
Together, we can form a united front against the destructive force of blind tribalism (asabiyyah) and work toward building stronger, healthier relationships that bring our people together, guiding them to a brighter, more just future. Remember, every monumental journey begins with a single step. Let us take that step now, fostering unity, justice, and compassion, as we strive to create a society that uplifts all. Together, we can make a lasting difference.
Tribal and communal structures have historically played a significant role in societies worldwide, serving as sources of social support, protection, and identity. Across diverse regions and cultures, tribes have functioned as the backbone of communities, offering systems of governance, mutual aid, and cultural preservation when applied rightly.
Islam, while recognizing the importance of these structures, sought to elevate them by aligning their values with universal principles of justice, equity, and unity.
The Prophet Muhammad -peace be upon him-emphasized the balance between the positive contributions of tribal or communal ties and the dangers of blind loyalty or chauvinism. This guidance remains relevant not just for Arabian tribes of his time, but for communities worldwide, highlighting the universal applicability of his teachings.
In its mindful context, tribes primarily used for identity in two essential ways.
First, they serve as a means to recognize individuals who may engage in misconduct within society, ensuring accountability.
Second, they provide a framework for collective support, enabling communities to assist the less fortunate among their members. Any other use of tribalism falls outside its intended purpose and reflects backwardness and shortsightedness. It often allows others to exploit shared lineage for personal gain, using tribal affiliations to elevate their socio-economic status while undermining unity and fairness within the community.
The Right Use of Tribal and Communal Ties.
When rooted in justice, compassion, and shared responsibility, tribal or communal affiliations can contribute significantly to societal well-being.
1. Promoting Social Welfare
•The Prophet Muhammad -peace be upon him- encouraged the use of tribal networks as a means to support the vulnerable and uphold social welfare. For example, his own tribe, Banu Hashim, extended protection to early Muslims even before they embraced Islam, demonstrating the positive role of tribal solidarity in fostering care and compassion.
In a modern context, this principle remains highly relevant. Extended family or communal networks, both in rural and urban settings, often act as informal welfare systems, providing critical support to members in need. Similarly, leveraging tribal contributions through initiatives like Qaraan—a collective pooling of resources—offers a practical and meaningful way to assist the less fortunate in our communities.
This approach reflects the best use of tribal lineage, transforming it into a tool for positive impact. By uniting to provide financial or material support to those in need, we uphold the values of compassion, justice, and mutual aid, aligning with the higher ideals of our faith and cultural heritage.
2. Encouraging Constructive Pride in Identity
Islam redirected pride in lineage or community from arrogance to a sense of responsibility, emphasizing that true honor comes not from one’s tribal or familial affiliation, but from one’s character and actions. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “The best among you in the Days of Ignorance are the best in Islam, if they gain understanding of the religion” (Sahih Bukhari, 4689). This hadith highlights that the qualities that may have been esteemed in pre-Islamic society, such as noble lineage, are not the ultimate measure of a person’s worth. Rather, it is one’s understanding and practice of Islam, and the moral excellence derived from it, that truly defines a person’s value. Islam calls on individuals to honor their heritage not through prideful display but by upholding the ethical values of justice, compassion, and responsibility towards them.
The Dangers of Destructive Tribalism (Asabiyyah).
Blind loyalty to tribes or communities, often at the expense of justice and unity, is a destructive force condemned in Islam.
1. Excessive Loyalty and Divisiveness.
Exalting one’s tribe or community above others fosters division and conflict, undermining the unity and harmony essential for a just society. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings with him) strongly condemned such behavior, highlighting its destructive nature by stating, “He is not one of us who calls for tribalism, fights for tribalism, or dies for tribalism” (Sunan Abi Dawood, 5121). Such attitudes not only fuel dishonesty and destruction but also erode societal values and trust. Leaders, whether figures like Hassan Sheikh, Ciro, or Mustafa, serve as the hearts of their communities. Their actions and character directly influence their people, as what resides in the heart is inevitably reflected outwardly. When leaders embody justice, compassion, and unity, and avoid instigating or engaging in conflict, they set a powerful example. This inspires their communities to uphold these values, fostering a society grounded in integrity, harmony, and peace.
2. Favoritism and Injustice.
•A profound lesson in justice was demonstrated when tribal favoritism sought to protect a woman from the Banu Makhzum tribe from facing punishment for her actions. In response, the Prophet Muhammad -peace be upon him- made it clear that justice could not be compromised, regardless of tribal affiliation or personal connections. His unwavering stance reflected the essence of Islamic teachings on fairness and accountability.
He firmly stated, “If Fatimah, the daughter of Muhammad, were to steal, I would cut off her hand.” This declaration underscored the principle that justice must prevail over all forms of bias, including tribal loyalties.
The Qur’an reinforces this message in Surah An-Nisaa (4:135):
“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just.”
These teachings serve as timeless reminders that true fairness requires impartiality, integrity, and adherence to moral and ethical standards, ensuring equality for all members of society.
Conclusion.
Tribal and communal ties, when aligned with justice and compassion, serve as a powerful force for good, fostering solidarity, mutual support, and cultural identity. However, blind loyalty to such structures, as condemned by the Prophet Muhammad -peace be upon him- can lead to injustice, division, and societal decay. His teachings offer timeless wisdom for navigating these dynamics, urging individuals and communities to prioritize universal values over narrow affiliations.
In light of these teachings, I call on all those involved in conflicts, such as those in Dacawaley and across the Somali region, to reflect deeply and reconsider their actions. Violence and killing based solely on tribal affiliation are not only unjust, but also a path to earning the wrath of Allah and bringing about destruction and suffering. It is imperative that we abandon this destructive path and embrace unity, compassion, and the values that elevate humanity above petty divisions. Let us work together to build a society grounded in peace and justice, as envisioned by our faith and shared moral conscience.
We must not allow ignorance and manipulation to drive us to violence. No tribe or group will elevate an individual’s social standing through violence or divisive tribalism. It is time to correct the misguided doctrine of tribal affiliation and reject its destructive consequences. Let us offer assistance to those in need within our communities, ensuring that no one is left behind due to tribal differences. We must hold accountable those who exploit tribalism for their personal gain, using it as a ladder to power and prosperity at the expense of others.
We aspire to see all Somali tribes live in peace, safety, and prosperity, and we cannot stand idly by while innocent lives are lost. It is time to tell the warmongers to step aside and allow the path of peace and unity to prevail. Together, we can build a stronger, more just society for all.
