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| May 17, 2003 | Saturday | Rabi-ul-Awwal 14, 1424 |
Nation urged to follow Islamic precepts
ISLAMABAD, May 16: Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali on Thursday urged the nation to strictly adhere to the teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) by showing respect to humanity and rendering sacrifices.
Inaugurating the National Seerat Conference, the prime minister here said that it was incumbent upon all Muslims to adhere to the Islamic precepts which called for exercising tolerance in all worldly affairs.
Respect for others and a wish to render sacrifices to seek the blessings of Allah Almighty and His Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) can lead us on the path to becoming a real Muslim, he said.
“No human is free from weaknesses, but those who overcome these are amongst the better,” Mr Jamali said. He cited the LFO controversy, he posed a query: “Can’t we tolerate and sacrifice for the country?”
He added: “We call ourselves Muslims, but where is the spirit of tolerance and sacrifice?”
“We have to put our own house in order first, before trying to rectify others,” he said.
Prime Minister Jamali was critical of those political leaders who overlooked the problems being faced at home, but were ready to offer advice to others.
These leaders in the past were vociferously against the rule of a woman. However, later they readily agreed to hold talks with her, he said.
He said: “I am not a religious scholar, but I do know for sure that Islam gives a high status to women.”
He said since the creation of Pakistan a number of systems under different names had been enforced by different rulers. However, there was no will to really implement them.
“We don’t have the will to follow what we preach. The real solution is to follow the religious teachings and practically implement them.”
He said Islam is a religion for the entire humanity and gives due respect to those who follow it.
“We must not show disrespect to anyone, do not deprive someone of his source of livelihood and take someone’s life,” he advised. Only if we adhere to these basic principles, we can bring about a positive change in our lives.
Mr Jamali referred to the young generation which avoids following religious teachings, and urged the parents to realize their duty and ensure that Islamic concepts were imparted to them.
He directed the ministry of religious affairs to hold similar events throughout the year. “One event a year to spread this important message is not enough. This process should continue round the year,” he said.
He asked the people to work selflessly, without any greed, lust or selfish interests.
He said those who have been rewarded in this life should always bear in mind that the position they hold today is a reward from Allah Almighty which can be unlimited. But if they transgress limits, no one can protect them from His punishment. —APP
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