Solidarity
But the good news is that man is a ‘social animal’; we have a natural disposition to reaching out to one another and showing support and caring for one another.
This is also one of the Islamic virtues we witness here and there as the COVID-19 pandemic rages on, with many beautiful pictures of health workers risking their lives in the course of saving others and preventing calamities, with many religious institutions and charity houses doing all their best to provide succor to those in need.
In Islam, it’s not enough to proclaim Shahadah, or a declaration of faith; action must follow this declaration. One of the conditions that guide this action is Ikhlas (sincerity), i.e. “for Allah’s Sake.”
A true Muslim never does anything merely for winning people’s hearts or for show-off:
{We feed you for the sake of Allah alone: no reward do we desire from you, nor thanks.} (Al-Insan 76:9)
So, even in the course of reaching out to help others, it’s very important to demonstrate Ikhlas.
Responding to COVID-19 with Ihsan
This will motivate you to strive for ‘Ihsan” (excellence); the highest level of faith, and the closest (in rank) to Allah.
Ihsan, according to Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) definition, is to worship Allah as if you are seeing Him; while you do not see Him, He certainly sees you.
Solidarity must be within the purview of these tenets. In responding to this Covid-19 pandemic, it’s highly commendable to see people in different communities, and across all faiths rallying round this cause of humanity, spreading beauty of Ukhuwat (brotherhood) for the welfare of humanity.
We should continue this practice of looking out for each other, providing physical and emotional support when needed. This sense of solidarity will definitely help mitigate the negative effects of the crisis, and fill hearts with hope and comfort.
This article is from our archive, originally published at an earlier date, and now republished for its importance.
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