‘Oman is an example of peaceful coexistence’

Sheikh Ismail Menk, grand mufti of Zimbabwe, draws large crowds to his lectures on faith and its modern-day challenges

Last weekend, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque was abuzz with thousands of people turning up to hear internationally acclaimed Islamic scholar Sheikh Ismail Menk from Zimbabwe. Popularly known as Mufti Menk, he speaks on issues of faith and its modern-day challenges.

The scholar is loved by millions around the world who know him for his balanced approach, deep knowledge, wisdom and wit. He also engages in humanitarian and educational activities in Zimbabwe and lectures internationally.

The grand mufti of Zimbabwe, he delivered three lectures at the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, as part of the annual cultural programmes of Sultan Qaboos Higher Centre of Culture and Science.

Mufti Menk spoke on 'True Message of the Prophets', 'Islam in the Modern World: Opportunities and Challenges', and 'Role of Woman in Islamic Civilisation'.

He praised how the people of Oman live in the true sense of brotherhood despite various differences. “Oman is an example of peaceful coexistence, especially in the present times,” Mufti Menk said.

In his lecture on the true message of Prophets, he said it is important to understand that none of the messengers were sent except that they came with the very same message as the one who came previously and that there was none other to be worshipped except the one living Allah. “Let it be Jesus, Abraham, Noah or Mohammed. They came with the message of worshipping Allah alone and being kind to humanity in general,” he said.

Speaking about the modern world, he said, “We are living in a world of technology which should be used correctly. If we use gadgets correctly, we will benefit a lot and it will also help humanity,” Mufti Menk said.

“Parents should understand the challenges in today's world and be kind and build a strong relationship with their families because the way children were handled many years ago is not applicable now; technology has changed the entire world.”

Mufti Menk has a strong social media presence and inspires people from all walks of life to do good, help others and reach out to humanity while preparing for the Hereafter. He is outspoken against terrorism, extremism, intolerance and injustice.

Calling out to women, Mufti Menk said, “You play a very big role in the world. Women have been the strength of our communities for decades and continue to be - from taking care of the home and family to being great doctors, great engineers and more. We need to respect them,” he said.

He strongly urged the creation of strong bonds between spouses and for women to be treated kindly owing to their contribution towards society being invaluable.

Acknowledging the fact that divorce rates are rising, he urged men to take care of their wives and be kind to the entire family, supporting them to the best of their ability considering the fact that women and men are equal in every aspect and the majority of instructions as per Islamic law are addressed to both men and women. “So gone are the days when women were overlooked,” he said.

He also spoke about efforts in spreading cultural awareness among members of society, supporting various cultural, scientific and artistic fields and spreading a culture of dialogue and coexistence among human beings, besides promoting trust, mutual respect and understanding.

“There is need to build peace among ourselves and love for one another. No matter what the problem, people should have smiling faces. It is important for us to be smiling at all times. We should all be good to one another and especially to our families. The best men are those who are good to their families,” Mufti Menk said.

Many in Oman were excited about his visit and said they learnt a lot from his lectures during the three days he was here. “I thank the Diwan of Royal Court and the Sultan Qaboos Centre of Culture and Science for presenting Mufti Menk. I have been waiting for this great opportunity to see him live; it was an amazing weekend. I managed to attend all three talks. His is inspiring and the best example of young Muslims and all of humanity. Be good and do good was his message, and submit the best to your submitter,” said Al Khuwayr resident Saada al Nuumani.

For Seeb resident Salim Amur al Sinawi, the most important message to take away from the lecture he attended was to be kind not only to your Muslim brothers and sisters but also non-Muslims and other creatures of Allah.

Nasser al Habsi, said, “I learnt that some of the ways we are taught to treat women come from our cultural background, but Mufti Menk explained the status of women in Islam reflecting on how they should be treated Islamically.”

Another attendee Hassan Mohammed, a part time student and resident of Amerat, said most young Muslims come to know about Mufti Menk through different social medial platforms, including YouTube and Instagram. “The main benefit of listening to Mufti Menk is this feeling of peace, tranquility and calmness in our heart,” he said.

Moza Mohamed, another Al Khuwayr resident, said, “I attended all three lectures and it's the best thing I did for myself. I learnt more than what schools teach.”