“There is no one worthy of worship except Allah (God) and Mohamed is the final Apostle (messenger/prophet) of God.”
One not only has to say these words but should also believe in this testimony of faith to be a Muslim.
Having a Muslim name, living in a Muslim country, having Muslim parents cannot make anyone a Muslim. It is the fundamentals and principles that you follow which can determine whether you are indeed a Muslim or not. You cannot be judged by your words but only and only by your actions.
Apart from the religious obligations, the 5 pillars of Islam, we as Muslims also need to have the Islamic character within ourselves. Quran, the last words God, remains unaltered and the life and living of Mohamed (peace be upon him), which can be learned from his Sunnah are the fundamentals of Islam, therefore it is the belief and practice of every Muslim. The teaching of Islam tells us the important characteristics of a Muslim.
A Muslim is someone who can be trusted, truthful and not dishonest. A Muslim is Humble and not arrogant, moderate and not extremist. A Muslim has a balanced personality. And is one who respects all despite their age, religion or ethnicity. A Muslim does not talk behind ones back and does not talk of lies or steal from any other. A Muslim upholds the social and moral values of the society and community they live in. They are peace minded people who are brothers and sisters to all.
A Muslim is helpful and not troublesome, a Muslim is not aggressive but is calm and peace minded. A Muslim is one who appreciates and acknowledges.
A Muslims personality is made up from many positive characters and social values. But the question in our 100% so called Muslim society Maldives is still the question “Are you a Muslim?” How many of us actually have these Islamic values and characters within ourselves? How many of us understand the importance of the Shahaadah ? How many of us have the Islamic character in ourselves?
The sad reality in today’s Maldivian society is that we have forgotten our Islamic morals and values. Yes, we have developed, and we have succeeded in a material world. But can you call yourself a Muslim?
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