Without a doubt, society has the potential to control one's behavior and feelings. Sometimes, especially in people’s teenage years, it leads them down different paths. Many young people in the Western societies who have reached critical stages in their lives find themselves in urgent need of guidance. Hussein Revivalism interviewed young people living in Australia in an attempt to discern the true solution for this crisis.
Hussein Revivalism started with Ms. Mariam Radhawi, asking her to shed some light on the best way for Muslims to lead their lives amongst other religions and cultures. Ms. Radhawi explained that society has the potential to change the courses of our lives when we are young, because most of us are open to the influence of the many temptations which life offers us. It is for this reason that we attend religious and cultural lectures in Imam Hussain Islamic Center (IHIC) in Sydney, especially on important days in the Islamic calendar, to become better acquainted with the ethics of the Prophet Muhammad and his pure progeny.
Opportunities to Disseminate Wisdom
Regarding how one can benefit fellow Australian citizens with the knowledge and wisdom of Ahlul- Bayt, Radhawi said “Embodying the true principles of Islam is one of the chief duties not only for young people but for everyone to follow. Organizations should expand their cultural programs to educate young minds in the true ways of the Ahlulbayt, explaining the true beauty of their teachings and publicizing why we have such devotion and love for the Ahlulbayt.”
Meanwhile, Muhammad Jabber said,Participating in interfaith groups which educate non-Muslims about Ahlulbayt, involving people in our celebrations, having available fact sheets and brochures and providing people to give lectures in government schools are some of the best ways that help to show others the meaning of Islam.
Islamic Ceremonies and their Benefits
Regarding the benefits of the Islamic ceremonies, Jabber added “I regularly attend Islamic ceremonies at IHIC that deal with Islamic and cultural matters. By doing so, I learn more about my religion, which invites human beings to live in peace, not in tolerance, and to feel love for the Prophet Muhammad who taught us these principles. This enables me to carry on with my life using Ahlulbayt as an inspiration in my work, my studies and my other daily activities.”
For her part, Marzia Radhawi remarked, “The Islamic and cultural programs benefit me as well as other young people in many ways, as they help us to learn who our Ahlulbayt were, and inspire, motivate and teach young people to stay on the right path while living in a Western society.”
The Media and the Challenges Faced by Pilgrims
Marzia commented “The media has a great impact in Western society, and often displays Iraq in a negative manner. This made me uncertain about coming to Iraq. But once I arrived my perspective of Iraq changed, and I felt a sense of comfort in my heart knowing that the heroes of Karbala were with me. I saw people in peace and harmony from many backgrounds all sharing in the same love.”
Layla Jabber explained the main challenges saying,“People in Western societies are always influenced by what the media says, which discourages them from visiting Islamic countries, however it was my firm intention to visit the holy sites of Iraq.”
Difficult Obstacles for Muslim Youth
Regarding the obstacles faced by Muslim youth, Jabber stated, “Media is a major factor. We have both good and bad material passing in front of our eyes every day, and most of the time the bad is more enticing for the younger generation, not least as it is easier to obtain, whereas going to Islamic functions, programs, classes and lectures are a struggle since these are not the norm in Western society. Many young people come to believe that prayers, fasting or wearing the Hijab are not important, thinking that they are fanatical practices which forced upon us. We are often stereo typed as terrorists. Although Australia has freedom of religion, there is still discrimination and racism. Every day we face the indirect enforcement of assimilation to Western culture. Within the Australian community, there are plenty of people who are open to understanding who we are and what we stand for, for example we have teachers who go to public schools to teach Islamic scripture, as well as inter faith programs for all where we learn about one another's beliefs. We also have non-Muslims who stand side by side with us in protesting against the hatred against Muslims.
Intellectual, Cultural, and Religious Activities at the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine
Asad Mehdi said “I admired the programs at the holy shrine which educate communities in foreign countries, and which cater specifically for the youth, providing a direct connection between these young people and the shrine of Imam Hussain by means of seminaries, social media, magazines, camps and visits to Iraq. This helps encourage young people to visit the holy sites in Iraq by helping to arrange accommodation and transport.”