By: Binta Jaiteh
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Students Association held its 1st National Peace Symposium geared towards the need to promote peace and tolerance in today’s multicultural society.
Speaking during the discussion held at Nusrat Senior Secondary School, Amir said this is a very historical event as the National Ahmadiyya Muslim Students Association holds its first symposium.
“When we talk about Peace and Tolerance, we will all agree that for any society to move forward, its members may come from different religions, tribes, beliefs, backgrounds, etc. but need to possess the qualities of tolerance towards each other and also respect each other and celebrate their diversities to maintain the peace and harmony in their societies.
“We can say that the biggest example that was left behind for us when it comes to the promotion of peace and tolerance was left for us by our dear Master and Prophet Hazrat Muhammad Mustapha (SAW).”
According to Amir, the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW) lived side by side with the Jews, pagans, and idolaters in Medina without any problems. Had the power to persecute anyone who is of a different faith from the Muslims, but he never bothered anyone and never forced anyone to accept Islam. Allowed a visiting Christian group to offer their prayers in his mosque and welcomed them with great hospitality.
However, he advised the people to love, help and wish well for each other just like the Hadith says and he quoted “None of you can become true believers until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself. Let us be kind, just in our dealings, and above all let us love our country and strive to give back.”
On his part, Imam Baba Leigh, also highlighted the importance of peace as he said it is through peace and tolerance, one can achieve all they yearn for and therefore commended the Jamat on their stance in promoting peaceful co-existence.
Imam Leigh called on the people to avoid being arrogant and accept whenever they are at fault, as that will promote peace and for people to be peace ambassadors.
