THE CHRISTIAN MODEL

function. At this time, Muslims ought to have put a complete end to their policy of hatred and violence against the West. Then, a fresh positive mindset would have developed in them and they would have realized the great supporting work done in their favour by the West. One aspect of this support has been mentioned in the Quran in these words: We shall show them Our signs in the universe and within themselves, until it becomes clear to them that this is the Truth. (41: 53) ‘Signs of God’ in this verse refers to the scientific truths that have come to human knowledge through efforts of the West. These scientific discoveries are immensely beneficial to Islam and Islamic dawah in a number of ways. In some respects, the Islamic revolution that came about in the seventh century was the beginning of a new process in history. This process continued through many phases. The revolutions brought about in Europe following the Renaissance was the culmination of this historic process. For instance, intellectual openness of thought, religious freedom, irrelevance of the method of violence, replacement of monarchy with democracy, the age of the printing press, etc. These developments, introduced in the world through Western civilization, were all beneficial to Islam. Through them it became possible to provide purely rational arguments to prove the veracity of Islam. Modern technology and communication have rendered the propagation of Islam possible at a global level. There are innumerable such developments that are totally in favour of Islam and they have all been the products of Western civilization. Conclusion The history of the Muslim ummah is now in the 21st century. Now, the time has come for the entire Muslim community to change its mindset and ‘turn all together towards God in repentance’ as mentioned in the Quran. They must change their internal approach. This is the only solution to the problems of the Muslim ummah. There is no other possible or desirable solution. The circumstances produced over the last few centuries have resulted in a negative mindset amongst all the Muslims of the world. As a result, Muslims have forgotten their position, that they are dayees of God’s religion, while the position of all other peoples is that of madu. In reality, the relation between Muslims and others is that of dayee and madu. But owing to the negative mentality of Muslims, this relationship turned into one of rivalry and enmity. The most urgent task to be done today is to improve the relationship between Muslims and others.