Intellectual response to the film ‘Innocence of Muslims’ by the President of WAAG UK, Shaykh M I H Pirzada in his detailed and thorough analysis of the film and the global situation.
The present time is certainly one that revolves around reflection for the Muslims the world over. With millions gathered at the plains of ‘Arafah during the day surrounding the mount of mercy covered in simple white sheets calling upon the Lord to forgive past shortcomings and seeking divine grace for the time yet to come forth. Standing during the day in that holy land and at this very instance wandering in the valleys of Muzdalifah; each individual there must be going through moments of sheer reflection. As for Muslims all over the rest of the world, for them their feelings of joy and sacrifice on the occasion of Eid al-Adha are beginning to set in. No doubt, the Muslims are tonight engaged in contemplation and devotion no matter where they be.
That would certainly be the case in an individual capacity, yet Muslims collectively have also had the past week and months overwhelmed with sentiments and emotions enraged as an entire community has felt singled out with their beliefs, teachings and the centre of their lives becoming the object of merciless torment and provocative slander. That central figure to be the object of such grotesque onslaught is the beloved Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and grant him peace), the great one who we love so sincerely and deeply, and even more than ourselves.
The film ‘Innocence of Muslims’ has incited religious hatred and deliberately attempted to provoke a population by targeting the symbol of their religious identity towards a reaction that may become the headline story for commercial and ideological media outlets. Muslims have come out into the streets in their thousands to register their protest and demonstrate their hurt and anger all over the world.
However, the film despite being full of mockery and indecent slander; nevertheless, the content of the film expounds upon dangerous and misleading narratives and the entire spectacle of the film, its release and content as well as the consequent worldwide reaction have presented a need for firm intellectual and public leadership to assist in steering the masses towards the true understanding necessary. There has not been a detailed, intellectual and credible response as of yet.
Those who are aware of the nature of Shaykh Muhammad Imdad Hussain Pirzada’s work and have studied his ‘Reflections – a quest for answers to today’s questions’ will no doubt be aware of his ability to hit the nail on the head when it comes to contemporary issues of concern to the Muslim community, as well as the non-Muslim seekers of a better understanding. Many have expected since the past few weeks that Shaykh Pirzada will provide his guidance on the immediate and future matters resulting from this global episode. As such, it is with great pleasure and humbleness that I have the opportunity to present to you Shaykh Pirzada’s meaningful and publicly accessible discourse concerning this film titled ‘Reality of the Film ‘Innocence of Muslims’ and Challenges of the Twenty First Century’ available in three languages; English, Arabic and Urdu.
To view in English, please click here
To view in Arabic, please click here
To view in Urdu, please click here
It is hoped this essay will be an essential read for people of all backgrounds and will contribute towards a more better and enlightened understanding in these times of confusion that we find ourselves in. It is hoped this effort represents one ray of light among many to guide us during these dark troublesome times. May Allah accept these efforts and grant Shaykh Pirzada a long and healthy life so that he may continue to bless us with his wisdom and guidance. Amin.
Bakhtyar H Pirzada al-Azhari
Vice President, UK Branch of the World Association for Al-Azhar Graduates
Vice Principal, Jamia Al-Karam
