Change in the Field of Action

(33:13), which contradicts this interpretation. To reconcile this, some scholars have explained, based on personal conjecture, that the Quran is merely quoting the words of non-Muslims. (Ibn Hajar, Fath al-Bari, Vol. 4, p. 105) If we move beyond imitative thinking and approach this Hadith with independent reasoning, it becomes evident that the Prophet Muhammad was outlining an important principle of the Islamic method. This principle can be summarized as the “change of the field of action.” It highlights that when the situation in Makkah became difficult for Muslims, God commanded them to migrate to another city, Yathrib, where conditions were more favourable. Yathrib then became the centre of Islam and was called Madinat al-Rasul (the City of the Prophet) or Madinat al-Islam (the City of Islam). In contemporary times, this principle is invaluable for achieving practical success. It can be referred to as migration (hijrah). It emphasizes that if favourable conditions are not found in one place, one should move to another. If an objective cannot be achieved through confrontation, it should be sought through reconciliation. If success is not attainable through violence, it should be pursued through peace. Historical events reveal that many Muslim leaders in the present era, due to their imitative mindset, have failed to grasp this profound wisdom. As a result, they