"The Lion's Roar: A Call to Courage and Wisdom"
As we navigate the complexities of our faith and the world around us, let us not be distracted by the criticisms of those who seek to be alpha jackals. The jackal, by its very nature, is a scavenger, feeding on the leftovers of others, never capable of hunting and providing for itself like the majestic lion.
As the great Sufi poet, Rumi, once said, "The lion's roar is not for the jackal's ears." The wisdom and courage of the lion are lost on the jackal, who can only respond with snarls and snips.
To the one who reads this, you will know who you are, and so will everyone who knows you as a jackal. Your actions and behaviour have earned you this reputation, and it is not for me to judge. However, I will say that the company you keep and the ideologies you promote are a reflection of your character.
As the great Islamic philosopher, Ibn Rushd (Averroes), wrote, "The truth is not revealed to those who are not worthy of it." The jackal's limited understanding and lack of wisdom make it unworthy of the truth, leaving it to prowl in the shadows, seeking to tear down rather than build up.
Unfortunately, some of our scholars have fallen into this trap, seeking to be alpha jackals rather than lions. They prioritise their own ego and desire for power over the pursuit of knowledge and wisdom. As the Quran warns us, "And do not be like those who forgot Allah, so He made them forget themselves" (Surah 59:19).
Let us not be fooled by the pretensions of these scholars. Instead, let us strive to be like the lion, courageous, wise, and just. Let us seek knowledge and understanding, not for personal gain or recognition, but to serve the greater good and to bring people closer to the truth.
As the great Islamic poet, Al-Khansa, once said, "The lion's strength is not in its roar, but in its heart." Let us cultivate hearts that are strong, compassionate, and wise, and let us not be swayed by the criticisms of those who are merely seeking to be alpha jackals.
-Whalid Safodien
The Feather Pen
