ROLE OF ULEMA IN THE CONTEMPORARY TIMES

head of the state, the Amir-ul-Momineen (Commander of the Faithful). But, very soon, serious differences developed, to the point where local Muslims set about killing the representatives that Sayyed Ahmad had appointed in their areas. And so, this ‘Islamic government’ collapsed almost as soon as it had been established! Today, Muslim leaders have launched various movements for the enforcement of Shariah in various countries. But even after a long struggle, these movements have failed to achieve their goal. All they have succeeded in doing is create traditions of violence and coercion. The reason was that religious scholars have sought to impose these laws without the willingness of the populace to accept Islamic laws. Had the Muslims in question followed the method of the Prophet, they would have opted for the way of status-quoism regarding the political system of the country. They could have subordinated matters of politics and government to the democratic process. They could have given the people the opportunity to elect their representatives by the peaceful, democratic procedure of voting, thus giving them their share in governance. Further, they would have understood that the right way of working was to begin their work from the non-political field. By imparting peaceful training, these leaders could have reformed the mind and character of the people. Opting for the prophetic wisdom of gradualness, the religious scholars could have changed the thinking and character of individuals, so they would become ready to accept Islamic laws. Advice to Religious Scholars If ulema or religious scholars have to perform their role in contemporary times, I would like to offer them the following advice: 1. The ulema of Islam must, first of all, decide to completely dissociate from practical politics. Their real work is in the fields of knowledge, scholarship, Dawah, and intellectual reform. They can, when it is necessary, express their views on political issues, but it is not proper for them to play a practical role in politics under any circumstances. 2. Along with contemporary religious education, the ulema must be made aware of trends in modern thought. Without this, they will The ulema must cultivate a spirit of tolerance, and, despite their differences, must work towards promoting unity. Without this, the Muslim community can achieve no major progress.