#Current Affairs

What the Muslim Community is Saying about Trump’s Win

Published

November 9, 2016

Today, Muslims in America woke up to the news of Donald Trump winning the presidential election with an overwhelming feeling of shock. While his victory speech was moderate, and while we all know that he’s not an ideologue, the emboldening and normalizing of the racist and xenophobic rhetoric as well as individuals who espouse such views of hate is alarming. We hope and pray for the prosperity of our country and for the safeguarding of the civil and human rights of all its citizens.

Below is a small sample of what’s being said by Muslim leaders.

Dr. Hatem El-Hajj | Facebook Page

Alhamdulillah, Those who counted on Clinton, they now have Trump. Those who counted on Allah, they still have Allah. Those who will not focus now on building a sound infrastructure and thriving institutions for the Muslim community in America will bear the disgrace of inaction. Those who will continue the infighting and bickering that are fueled by feeble intellects, haughty egos, and ignorance (or the more dangerous limited knowledge) will deserve whatever punishment they may receive.
وَعَسَىٰ أَن تَكْرَهُوا شَيْئًا وَهُوَ خَيْرٌ لَّكُمْ
But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you

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Shaykh Omar Suleiman | Facebook Page

America lost.

Not because Hillary did, but because bigotry won. This country just elected an openly racist, sexist, obnoxious xenophobe to lead it. Gone are the days in which we could lecture any other nation on extremism or immorality. This leaves the nation bare for the world to see it for what it is. Donald Trump doesn’t just represent the fringe of America, he represents a chunk of it. Have I lost hope? No. I’m not going anywhere. I, and millions of others who envisioned a better nation, will continue to fight to redeem it. We thought we ditched our ugly past only to realize that our present is just as horrid. Now that it’s undeniable, our response needs to be unparalleled. We’ve got work to do people. But God willing, we’ll get there. #electionnight

—–

Shaykh Walead Mosaad | Facebook Page

Donald Trump has won this election and it would be a mistake on our part to attribute it merely to the racism, sexism, and xenophobia of uneducated rural whites. Many people came out to vote for him in unprecedented numbers because they are fed up with a system that continually enriches a ultra-small elite at the expense of the masses who no longer have adequate access to well-paying jobs, healthcare, and education. The neoliberal system that has been in place for much of our history is showing signs of wear and is probably long beyond its expiry date. Yes, Trump may be a false prophet, but when people have to choose between the continuance of a status quo that has impoverished them and between the false promise of a conman, desperation has a way of finding hope in the dimmest of places.

—–

Shaykh Mohammad Elshinawy | Facebook Page

My eyes see poll results. My heart sees Allah’s promise. No contest. I believe in a God that, when His believing servants ignore the verse, He modifies the universe – helping them snap out of apathy and delusion; helping them rush back to Him. Alhamdulillah; Allah is Most Kind. I believe in a Prophet (saws) who embraced insurmountable odds; one who foretold prophecies in the darkest hour; prophecies of glory and sunshine; prophecies that were never wrong; prophecies that history continues to watch unfold. Alhamdulillah. And whoever accepts anything but Allah and His Messenger (saws) as their anchor, they will be uprooted by every wind. Alhamdulillah.

—–

Shaykh Omar Husain | Facebook Page

Earlier today I spoke at a private Christian school to a group of Muslims and non-Muslims. Of course, almost the entire hour was spent discussing what happened during last night’s elections. At the end of the session, the head clergy of the school came in and addressed us. He has not come into the sessions before. His message was simple. He said that he loved us all and that he was there for us if we needed anything. A fairly standard statement you may expect from someone in his position. Only this time, it was different. It felt so genuine and sincere because there was now a legitimate concern. A concern of the direction our country is heading. While we always appreciate the help and support of anyone, we realize that nothing will happen without the will of Allah. It doesn’t matter how difficult it may seem.

Ponder this powerful hadith of the Prophet, peace and blessings upon him: Abu al-‘Abbas ‘Abdullah bin ‘Abbas (ra) reports “One day I was riding (a horse/camel) behind the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, when he said, ‘Young man, I will teach you some words. Be mindful of God, and He will take care of you. Be mindful of Him, and you shall find Him at your side. If you ask, ask of God. If you need help, seek it from God. Know that if the whole world were to gather together in order to help you, they would not be able to help you except if God had written so. And if the whole world were to gather together in order to harm you, they would not harm you except if God had written so. The pens have been lifted, and the pages are dry.’ ”

This is a time to return back to Allah. This is not a time to run away and hide. It is time to strengthen our relationship with the Quran. No more waiting. We will have even more opportunities to convey the beautiful teachings of Islam. Will we accept the challenge, or back down? The Muslim community in America is more diverse, vibrant, and creative than it ever has been. We have the tools to change the narrative. Keep your head up and keep going. Realize Allah’s promise when he says “Verily, whoever has Taqwa of Allah and is patient, Allah will not let the reward of such good people go to waste.” This life is temporary, and our ultimate goal is eternal.”

—–

Linda Sarsour | Facebook Page

I was gonna say I woke up, but then I remembered I haven’t slept yet and guess what? I am still unapologetically Muslim American.

I am sad as hell, disappointed as hell. I ain’t even gonna lie, I shed a tear or two. But other than that and for reasons I am not exactly sure of, I am feeling alright. God is the best of planners. He wants us to look a little deeper. There’s something there for us. We just have to look a lil harder, that’s all. Trust.

Let’s give some extra love to the children. Most important thing we can do.

—–

Shaykh Zaid Shaker | Facebook Page

America today is no different than it was yesterday. The sun will shine, the birds will chirp and the clouds will still roll across the sky. We need to move beyond the cycle of panicked reactions to crises, real or perceived, and begin working more systematically to address issues concerning us and our fellow citizens.

Although the prospect of the Alt-Right entering the mainstream poses clear challenges for Muslims and racial minorities in this country, every swing state Trump won yesterday was won by Obama in 2008 so it is not simply racist angst at work here. People are insecure and unsettled and Muslims should begin working to position ourselves to be a voice of reason, comfort and direction when Trump fails all of the people Obama failed after his landslide victory in 2008 (most popular votes ever). He will fail them – God knows best.

As alluded to above, there is of course a dangerous racist fringe that feels it is empowered by Trump’s victory. We have to attempt to mitigate its attractiveness by working with others to develop a language of political discourse that creates the psychological space for those desiring a change to actually change in real, deep and perceptible ways. The radical left cannot provide us with that language. Far too many Muslims have adopted the language and politics of the radical left in our efforts to advance the interests of our community. We need to begin speaking confidently in the language that has helped to forge a tradition that has brought more disparate racial, ethnic and national groups together than any force in history. If not now, when? If not us, who?

In conclusion, perhaps the shock so many are dealing with will prove beneficial. There is a higher plan and logic governing these events. Do not despair, work hard and be patient. The passing days will reveal to us realities we are currently ignorant of.

May Allah bless, help and protect us all.

—–

Shaykh Suhaib Webb | Facebook Page

Towards the end of the Meccan period things were not looking good for the Prophet (sa) and his fledgling community: they faced bone-crushing opposition, a social boycott, the loss of lives and property, and it seemed as though things just kept getting worse. Added, is that common sense sided with the Prophet, but the Meccans chose to ignore it, acting in ways that went against their own best interests and logic. Then, Allah revealed the following verse:

فَٱسْتَقِمْ كَمَآ أُمِرْتَ وَمَن تَابَ مَعَكَ وَلاَ تَطْغَوْاْ إِنَّهُ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ بَصِيرٌ
“Stay upright as God has commanded you, you and those who follow you. Do not disobey because God is aware of your actions.” Qur’an 11:112

The implications of this verse were riveting. In mainstream books dedicated to explaining the Qur’an, scholars mention that Ibn ‘Abbas said, “There is not a verse of Qur’an that God revealed to the Prophet (sa) more difficult and burdensome on him (sa) as this verse.” In fact, the Prophet (sa) is on record saying about the chapter (Hud) that this verse is found, “It aged me.” Numerous companions (God be pleased with them) stated that they saw the Prophet (sa) in their dreams, and when they asked him, “How did that chapter (Hud) age you?” He mentioned the verse above, “Stay upright as God has commanded you, you and those who follow you..”

As we awaken to a Trump presidency, knowing that many in America turned off their logic and voted for racism, bigotry, sexism and xenophobia, what Van Jones correctly called a “White lash” we must stay strong and dedicated. It feels a little like Mecca. And that is why this verse is important to you.

As you move through the day, remind yourself of this verse:

1. If you get scared, “Stay upright as God has commanded.”
2. When you worry about your kids, “Stay upright as God has commanded.”
3. Organize with other communities and oppose this President, “Stay upright as God has commanded.”
4. When you fear for the immigrants, the underserved and the weak, “Stay upright as God has commanded.”

Let that command echo in your soul, fill your heart and embolden you to face the next four years with bravery that is sourced from your trust, dedication and love to Allah. Allah is greater than Trump! And since you do not trust in Trump or time do not let them move you to give up on the truth because Allah is Akbar. Let us set upon this era with a renewed dedication and passion, clinging to our duties to Allah, dedicating ourselves to Muslim unity, organizing with others to oppose this administration and staying brave, not wavering.

“Say upright as God has commanded you, you and those who follow you, and do not deviate because God is aware of you.”

—–

Shaykh Yasir Qadhi | Facebook Page

Searching through the Seerah of our beloved, there are so many instances and occasions where the Muslims felt that something had happened to their disadvantage, but in each of those cases, Allah used that disadvantage to bring about good. In the most obvious of those instances, the Treaty of Hudaybiyya was viewed as a major loss and was a moral defeat for the believers, yet Allah revealed, at a time when the believers were demoralized and dejected, “Verily, We have given you a massive and clear victory!” And the faith of the Companions was so strong that, despite the fact that none of them could understand or comprehend how Hudaybiyya could possibly be a victory, they believed with all their hearts and souls that it WAS a victory, merely because Allah had told them so. Alas, we do not have any explicit Scripture revealed to us in particular to console us about this tragedy! But we DO have revealed texts that tell us that our Lord is with us; that He shall aid and support the righteous; that everything that happens is willed by Him, and for our good; that if we put our trust in Him, we shall prevail, and, most importantly, that He and He alone is in charge of our affairs, and He and He alone will judge us and grant the righteous paradise. So, with that in mind, we refocus on our primary goal, and renew our faith, and reengage with ourselves, our families, and our communities, until we meet our Lord.

—–

Dr. Shadee Elmasry | Facebook Page

“Patience is at the first blow,” said the Messenger peace be upon him. Let’s be honest, we’ve had it easy for eight years. We’ve seen Muslims being included everywhere from the name “Husayn” at the swearing in to a woman in hijab extra in a Coke commercial that aired on Super Bowl Sunday. Things were rosy. But this morning, the clock turns back. To give some perspective: we have not hit a new low. Tribalism has always been around, and millions before us have been on the wrong end of the stick. I hate to see Muslims complaining. Firstly, if people fight us for our deen, isn’t it worth it? Secondly, nothing’s happened yet. And if it does, 99% chance it will not be worse than what Blacks and Jews have faced in the past. “Regarding your dunya, look at those who have it worse.”

One of my favorite old sayings is: When the going gets tough, the tough get going. Toughness in the discourse of the prophets is not by personality, wealth, power, or institutions. It’s by trust in Allah. That trust calls for two things: We prioritize our worship over our action. #2 We don’t skip a beat in our action. The Prophet said, “If you hear the trumpet of the end of time being blown and your planting a tree, continue planting it.” Keep up action.

Lastly, can we learn some lessons here? Are we relyng on the liberal left for our safety? The Trump election is a good test for that. There’s a spiritual flaw called tawakkul ala al-khalq, relying on creation. Creation is not going to be there for you forever. We can’t rely on this crutch. The White House, the Senate, the House, and probably the Supreme Court (he’s appointing a justice + two justices are hovering around 80 years old)—all of these are now Red. They can run the table however they want. As my friend put it: all of this is rigged…by the Lawh al-Mahfuz, a destined test to see if we will trade in our deen or if we will be patient.

I’m seeing so many pertinent reminders coming from the various institutions, blogs and imams that I’m confident we will buckle down and pass the coming test by Allah’s permission.

Patience is the word of the day, but how is it attained? It is a slow process that begins with knowledge which is made into a reality by dhikr.

The knowledge is this: where does hardship come from and why? We’re taught in aqida: The good and the bad both come from Allah. Why? “So that He can purify what is in your hearts” (4:154). This is the number one purpose behind tests. Nothing happens without a reason. Bad things are bad for us who live minute by minute, second by second. But to the Creator who sees the entire picture spanning eons, there is a great wisdom in all bad happenings, and we will see that wisdom in this life or the next.

The beauty of this religion is that it shows us how to take an abstract idea like the above and transform it into a feeling, which eventually becomes a state of being. And that’s by solitude and dhikr. Did you know that we are the only umma to be given the phrase inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi rajioon. To Allah we belong, and unto Him we shall return. If we belong to Him, we know He is the Compassionate, the Merciful, the Wise. We are in good hands. The reward for saying this is “blessings, mercy, and guidance.”

Another one that is critical which we should be saying daily: HASBUNA ALLAH WA NI’M AL-WAKEEL.

Allah is enough for us and what an excellent one to take over our affairs. This is what the Companions were given when ten thousands enemy troops surrounded their city. “People said, ‘They’ve gathered around you, so fear them!’ They replied, ‘hasbunallah wa i’m al-wakeel.’ So the trial passed over them by the blessings of Allah and they returned with bounty. No harm touched them. They followed what pleases Allah, and Allah has much bounty to give.”

Regarding our inner states when things turn sour, this is our way forward.

—–

Shaykha Muslema Purmul | Facebook Page

Masajid and other community institutions which foster congregational and spiritual connection should consider having all-day “Community Healing Hours” with tea, coffee, and pastries. Even if it can only be for a few hours…People want to be together today, they want to sit and feed off each other’s energy and strength. It would be ideal for some religious teachers and counselors to be present and available as well. After Isha it would be nice for everyone to gather for a “Pray-In” in the prayer space. Maybe a short spiritual reminder followed by some extra units of prayer followed by a long heartfelt supplication. People are yearning for some togetherness and divine remembrance. Those with the keys to such spaces, your hospitality and leadership is needed today. Those who don’t hold the keys, consider contacting your institution and volunteer your services in setting this up.

—–

Hena Zuberi | Facebook Page

What will I tell my children if Trump is elected the President of the United States?

I will tell them to trust the Highest Power. I will tell them that Never fear anyone but God. Sweetie, we have to be kinder and gentler to each other because the world will be a lot meaner. We will hold each other and feed off each other’s power. We will turn off the TV and make family time sacred. Mama will spend less time on Twitter and more time with friends and allies. We will read from Seerah on the era of the boycott and gain strength from it. Remember “Do not cry, my daughter,” the Beloved said, “for God shall protect your father.” Just remember that. Sometimes, what goes around comes around and sometimes the Creator tests us and sometimes He punishes us, but The Source of Peace always Loves us. He is always in control, even when things look like they are out of control.

Baby, we cannot live blindfolded, pretending that bad does not exist. A strong person looks evil in the eyes and carries forward. Nothing can harm you if it was not meant to harm you. We will double our prayers of protection. We will check in on our neighbors more often. We will defend each other. We will give more. We won’t just think about ourselves we will think of others who may suffer more. We will be like Moses in the land of Pharaoh. We were never living in a post-racial America. This country was not ready for a woman president. We needed to wake up, get our acts together. Maybe now our communities will realize this. We will build community power, and community resilience. We will fill our houses of worship. Now is the time to shine even more brighter. We were chosen for this time and this place. Now to live up to our potential. We will continue being who we are because we are good people. Don’t you let anyone tell you otherwise.

Remember, this land does have a constitution. And it has good people too. So we will look for the good, search for it. We will keep our eye on the bad but we will look out for the good. We all prayed for the best. Did we not? Maybe this is for the best for us.

—–

Umm Zakiyyah | Facebook Page

My only thoughts on the election results are my prayer that I, along with my Muslim brothers and sisters, are among the believers whom Allah describes in this ayah of Qur’an that I posted on my social media this morning:

“Those [believers] unto whom the people said, ‘Verily, the people have gathered against you [a great army]; therefore, fear them.’ But it [only] increased them in Faith, and they said, ‘Allah (alone) is Sufficient for us, and He is the Best Disposer of affairs [for us].”

—Qur’an (Aali ‘Imraan) 3:173

—–

Shaykh Tahir Anwar | Facebook Page

For all of us that haven’t done anything in the last 15 years since 9/11, but became slaves of our careers and lifestyles, letting a very few do ALL the work, this should be a wake up call for you. Go. Go. Go. Get involved. In any capacity. Fill your weekends with non-profit work, not parties. Fill your afternoons by volunteering, not fancy lunches. Spend your money on causes, not things. Support those around you who actually DO the work. Life is passing us by. Make it count.

—–

Mobeen Vaid | Facebook Page

People need to relax. Donald Trump is not Dajjal and this is not the Day of Judgment. I get that long-winded cries of pain and emotional outpouring is cathartic, but some people just need to get a grip.

What provides comfort to the heart is the remembrance of Allah and that is what we should maintain in times of ease and difficulty. Part of a lengthier dua that the Prophet (pbuh) was described as seldom leaving a gathering without making by Ibn ‘Umar (ra):

اللهم لا تجعل مصيبتنا في ديننا، ولا تجعل الدنيا أكبر همنا، ولا مبلغ علمنا، ولا تسلط علينا من لا يرحمنا

O Allah, let no misfortune afflict our Deen; let not worldly affairs be our greatest concern nor the ultimate limit of our knowledge, and let not those rule over us who do not show mercy to us.
Ameen.

Allah Knows Best.

—–

Chereen | Mental Health Specialist

As someone whose ancestors were part of a difficult plight and lost their homes, I dealt with an identity crisis as soon as I hit my teens. By the age of 13, I decided that I was both Arab and American, because I learned so much from both. I had an identity. I developed a home within my heart. There was comfort and ease, and I felt like I could overcome any prejudice and racism at school. But now, I wonder. With bullying being okayed, will I ever feel at home? Home to me means ease, zero anxiety, a place where I can be myself, and a haven where laughter comes naturally. Sadly to say, many people went from feeling excited to feeling fearful. I went from feeling at ease, to feeling displaced and wondering how to redefine home.

While your home and mine might feel shaky right now, being unaccepted for simply being who we are should not ruin the foundation that took years of dedication and many years of effort. I have come to realize that home goes past being a place. My definition of home is not shaken by others disdain towards me. Home comes from the self-confidence I have in remaining true to myself, and true to my Creator who will never let me down.

There are people and places who occupy rooms within my home (my home being my heart), but at the end of the day my home is built upon faith in God and faith in the good that comes from believing in Him. While my foundation might crack, I refuse to allow it reach an irreparable state. Amid feeling unwelcome, I will always have my heart to support me. I will always have a place to call home. Insha’Allah.

—–

Kameelah Mu’min Rashad | Facebook Page

Trump is one man. One man who has emboldened and deputized folks like David Duke and organizations like the Ku Klux Klan.

Praying for myself and all who are feeling shock, disbelief, despair and rage. Those who have had to comfort terrified, sobbing children. Those who are afraid of being assaulted and harassed in the streets. Those afraid of going to work or school in predominantly white settings, wondering how many of your colleagues/peers cast a vote for a despicable racist.
You have the right to “be in your feelings”. Full stop.
Give yourself time to process all of it. You deserve that – you deserve to be kind to yourself. You deserve to be honest with yourself. To be mad as hell.

Yes, I have no doubt that we will struggle on. We will keep the faith and move forward. But right now? Right NOW, I’m haunted by the sound of my daughter crying at 4am, asking “when are we leaving, it’s not safe for us here”.

Healing begins with acknowledgement of pain and suffering. I’m here to witness and affirm.

—–

Zeba Khan | Facebook Page

When I dropped my children off to school this morning one of their little friends, who is six and in first grade, ran out of line to ask me a question.

“Hey! Iman’s mom!”

“Yes dear?” I answered.

“Are you leaving the United States of America?”

I blinked a few times. I must’ve blinked a few more. She asked again. “Are you leaving? Like, leaving the country?”

“Not, ummm…”

“Not now you mean?” she offered helpfully, “You mean like maybe you’re leaving in a month or so?”

My brain was forced into a gear not typical for 8am on a school morning. It went from 0-60, starting at He Can’t Do That and zooming towards People Thought Hitler Couldn’t Either.

I thought about the way people stare at my eight year old when she wears her favorite hijab, the pink one with the cat ears. I thought about the cashier who reminded me that I was in America, as if I could have possibly forgotten what country I was from or currently in.

I thought about my son, whose classmates tried to call him “Kevin” because Khalid, a name with two syllables and larger-than-life social media star to front it, was “too hard” to say.

I don’t know, to be honest, where my future will be. I had been living abroad for sixteen years before this previous one, and I was happy with the expat life. I came back for the same reason that many move here for in the first place- for opportunity. I have a child with special needs whose future depends on the kind of education and treatment not currently available where I was living. All three of my children have a rare disease whose specialists are concentrated in a handful of countries, and unsurprisingly, America is one of them. I turned back to our little friend.

“No dear. We’re here.”

She grinned and ran off the join her class, mingling with the rest of the six year olds sharing pencils and fears of deportation.

For now, we’re here.

Shaykh Hasib Noor | Facebook Page

To our brave Muslim Women in an era of Trump

– Fear is natural. Anxiety of the unknown is human.

We are here to not disregard your natural fears & your questioning to maintain your hijab.

But this fear should not translate to feeling helpless & hopeless.

You have many examples in your struggle, you are not alone.

Sumayyah who stood firmly for her faith.

Um Ammarah who defended the Prophet peace be upon him.

Um Sulaym who took care of believers.

Aisha the outspoken scholar of scholars.

Zaynab a quiet mountain in the care of the weak, orphans, & poor.

Umm Salamah among many advisors.

Seek your strength in Hope in God & His protection.

Seek your resolve & steadfastness knowing He is worth it… & THEY are not.

Our faith guides us even in our emotion & founded in trusting God:

‘Do not fear them, but fear Me, if you are true believers.’ Quran 3:175.

God has purpose that we trust in.

‘God always prevails in His purpose, though most people do not realize it.’ Quran 12:21

We are here to protect.
We are here to defend.
We are here to support all of our sisters and do our OUTMOST in doing so.

Our faith is one of compassion for all of humanity.

But it is also a faith of standing our ground against oppressors.

Cowards intimidating innocent are met with strength.

As Brother Malcolm, may God have mercy on his soul, said “Be peaceful, be courteous, obey the law, respect everyone; but if someone puts his hand on you, send him to the cemetery.”

I advise myself, my sisters, & my brothers with:

Unshakable trust in God
Prayer
Activism
Standing strong in a time we need all on board.

This is not the time to sit
It’s time to stand.

Never question your resolve because of the barking threats of cowards.

“We have no idea whether evil is intended for those on the earth, or whether their Lord intends them to be rightly guided.” Quran 72:10

‘Say, ‘Only what God has decreed will happen to us. He is our Master: let the believers put their trust in God.’ Quran 9:51

“Say I believe in Allah and stand firm.” – Our beloved Prophet peace be on him

“God is with those who are mindful of Him and who work with excellence.” Quran 16:128

Consciousness
& Excellence

God is with us. And He is enough for you & I.

Rise up

Unapologetically Muslim.

All day.
Every day.

May Allah continue to bless & protect you all.

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Hena Zuberi

Hena Zuberi is the Editor in Chief of Muslimmatters.org. She leads the DC office of the human rights organization, Justice For All, focusing on stopping the genocide of the Rohingya under Burma Task Force, advocacy for the Uighur people with the Save Uighur Campaign and Free Kashmir Action. She was a Staff Reporter at the Muslim Link newspaper which serves the DC Metro. Hena has worked as a television news reporter and producer for CNBC Asia and World Television News. Active in her SoCal community, Hena served as the Youth Director for the Unity Center. Using her experience with Youth, she conducts Growing Up With God workshops. hena.z@muslimmatters.org Follow her on Twitter @henazuberi.

20 Comments

Orland (Yunus)

November 9, 2016 at 5:11 PM

Well maybe we hate a thing that is good for us and love a thing that is bad for us. America got the president it deserved with all its racial, tribal and class warfare…. Incredibly among the very so call minorities themselves, I. e. Muslims hating each other, blacks killing each other and Latinos etc. Everything in life serves a purpose it’s all in Allahu ta Ala’s qadr ….Maybe Hillary when in power would have started bigger wars against Muslims Allahu Alim. We must be careful we don’t stress our children and also keep our eyes and ears open to the possibility (tide your camel) of a very hateful and vindictive man abusing his power against Muslims and all other minorities in this country…. The wave of change has truly arrived and shaytans seeks to solidify his ranks and power on this earth. Muslims used this time to retrospect our own discreet racism and bigotry to each other based on skin color, origins, status, schools of thought and so call born muslim versus convert. There is a saying from the 60s the hate that hate built we were partially responsible for Trump it was not just the Republican Party who created him it was our complacency and own secret biases towards each other. Maybe Allahu Alim it’s the results of our own deeds?

Reply
Kristy

November 9, 2016 at 5:22 PM

If these are typical of the reactions of Muslim leaders, Islam in America is in bigger trouble than it thinks.
Where is their complete faith and hope and trust in Allah? Doubt bordering on despair and disappointment overshadows those who expressed guarded confidence in Allah while chiding the believers who must not have organized enough, campaigned enough, participated enough or prayed hard enough.

And where is the confidence in the American system which attracted Muslims to come here in the first place? Trump is but one white arrogant man who stated he has done nothing in his life to repent to God about. Yet of the 77% white America, the overwhelming majority are Christian repenters, born-again, believing Almighty God is Absolutely on the throne, man is not. Called Evangelicals, they know bigotry, hatred, racism, persecution and prejudice are evil sins of Satan, not admirable virtues indicative of good leadership skills for presidential candidates.

So how about waiting until we who some Muslims refer to as Islamophobes or kuffir, begin forcing Muslims into the status of dhimmis: forbidding the building or repair of mosques and the public display of the Quran, the Islamic call to prayer, and other such persecutions styled after those inflicted upon Christians and Jews by the Pact of Umar? But fair warning: You may be waiting a long time; “an eye for an eye” was replaced by love and forgiveness over 2,000 years ago.

In the meantime, reach out and take the welcoming hands believing Christians offer you. It’s about time the stereotypes come down and those believers of real religious substance show the audience of racists, haters, bigots, the prejudiced, and persecutors what the UNITED States was designed to be: One nation, under GOD, with liberty and justice for all.

Your own Quran even says the People of the Book are close to you– maybe closer than you would like to think.

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- Hatem
  
  November 9, 2016 at 7:21 PM
  
  First, I thank you for reaching out to our community and showing support. We will act upon your advice and reach out to our fellow Americans that are fair and kind. There are many of those. We know them because we already work with them.
  Second, I would like to point out a few things I don’t agree with you on. It is easier for you to be judgmental of the sentiments in the statements above and find fault in them (despite being mostly positive) when you don’t belong to a community whose clergymen get shot down in the middle of the street on their way to prayer and their prayer places face vandalism on regular basis and their children suffer from nightmares because of extreme bullying and because of the news they watch.
  The pact of Umar is not authentically established as a religious narration. There are other pacts by Umar himself that were different from the one you are alluding to. However, regardless of its authenticity, it is historically established that the different Christian factions celebrated the justice they enjoyed when Umar “liberated them” from what, they called, “the tyranny of the Romans” (who happened to be a different type of Christians). You did not compare Umar’s treatment of religious minorities to any of the existing states during his time. Many authorities in history recognize his period as an era of great tolerance.
  You also talk about “an eye for an eye” being replaced 2000 years ago. That sounds like accusing God of having been cruel and then repenting or using two scales for justice. Jesus (peace be upon him) came to “uphold the law” but to also infuse spirituality into its implementation. And while there are kind people in all religious communities, and there are many of those within the US and global Christian community, there had been also, during those 2000 years, many devout Christians who did a lot worse than “an eye for an eye,” often in the name of God. You don’t need to go far back to the forceful conversions, crusades, inquisitions, etc., but President Bush was one of those evangelicals, and what he did to the people of Iraq (who never did anything to America) is well known to all people.
  Trump may be as you said “one arrogant man,” however, half of America voted for him to become president despite his unkind, divisive, inflammatory rhetoric. This is the problem.
  The leaders’ statements above are mostly calling on the community to move on, work hard for the betterment of their condition, and most importantly place their trust in God. I am disappointed that you did not notice that.
  Once again, thank you for visiting and please come again!
  
  Reply
  - Shakir M.
    
    November 11, 2016 at 12:14 AM
    
    Hope and trust in Allah is to always be there. I personally don’t think anyone above has shown despair in Allah. You called for ‘…confidence in the system that has attracted many to the USA..’? Well that system has changed. Everyone in America will attest to the fact that things have changed. Look at France, Sweden, and see that what brought them to those countries has now changed to xenophobia by popular vote. It is coming an ever-so moving target..while still sighting that the American people are overwhelming honest and simple.
    
    You praised the standards of faith that ‘evangelicals’ have. But at the same time it is perplexing to many analyst and fellow Christians what merits of morality and values did they find in the man that they overwhelmingly supported in the election against Hillary, and in the primary over two well-suited candidates of Latina heritage, and yes they were both Evangelicals. It was said that they chose Trump and his anti-abortion stance over Hillary and her freedoms for abortion. Perhaps also the LGBT issue they don’t like. But the ethnic candidate was better suited to them on paper.. would color be the reason why they said ‘no’ to those evangelical shoe-ins? Or maybe they just liked The Apprentice and Trump Steaks.
    
    The US people can vote in and enact any laws they wish. It is the democracy.. moving goal post. Noam Chomsky has written on the illusion of it all. In Sweden they have banned building minarets. Hijab (and other overt shows of religiosity) has banned the Hijab in the government buildings and schools. And you can’t even cover your body as you wish on their beaches. ‘Show us your body if you want to stay.’ And Germany has banned all people who dress as people of faith from teaching in schools. So it is pushing Muslims (and other faithful) away from their faith or.. out of education. But if they want to make laws against Muslims so be it. Just don’t claim it is equal for everyone and make it be known that that is what they are doing to us, alone.
    
    The UK had BRexit and now we have Trump. That is the wave that Trump used to get into office. But it isn’t what made those Once-Obama-Voters turn into Trumpeters. They were looking for Change. That is what Obama offered them. Now Trump offered them it.. with a little bit of his own special herbs and spices. Many said that he was ‘just talking’ when he said the outrageous things he said. Now it is the only resort of Muslims to say/hope now that he was ‘just talking’ as well. And he did take down stuff on the Muslim Ban from his website. We’ll see. But sad that he stepped on the necks of many who make up America on his way to the Oval Office. But better than most knows how to get ratings, and a sale.
    
    People resoundingly voted for a guy named Barak Hussain Obama, twice. And they simply voted no on Hillary this time.. while holding their nose for Trump. That’s about it.
    
    Reach out yes. Take part yes.
    
    Peace Out
    
    Reply
Samson

November 9, 2016 at 6:35 PM

Allah has spoken! Muslims must realize that they need to assimilate better in Western democracies. It it not acceptable for Americans to coexist with those who believe in 7th century face veiling, honor killings, child marriages, shariah law and all the restrictions that islam places on individual liberties. This was a vote against your ideology, which is completely damaging to our American way of life. We don’t want little Dearborns or Mollenbeeks in America. We cherish our freedoms, especially freedom of speech, where we can draw images of muhammad without fear of death. I am a liberal male that voted for HRC, but islam in America frightens me much more than Trump.

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- Shakir M.
  
  November 10, 2016 at 8:22 PM
  
  I’d say that the people who once voted for Barak Hussain Obama voted for Change. And now that is what Trump represents. Those same people who voted for a guy with a name that sounds like Osama, and voted him in twice. Not voting him in would have been a perceived ideological rejection. But those same Osama, I mean Obama voters now flipped from Democrats (Hillary) to Trump and not Hillary. Many Trumpites said they wanted change and an outsider. Obama was that the first time. And Trump is that all the way. And now Trumps people took off of his website mentioning of any Muslim ban. Go figure. – But that’s my take on it, and you gave yours.
  FYI.. Muslims in regards to Trump being elected or any happening in life would more readily say “Allah has willed it”.. not “Allah has spoken”. But stating the fact of what God clearly willed to happen is still not as authoritarian and simple in a way to Muslims as you have stated it. Example: “Your wife ran off with your brother and left you with the kids, Allah has spoken.” Erm.. no. And perhaps you are saying it facetiously anyway.
  
  Peace Out
  
  Reply
Ahmed

November 9, 2016 at 8:43 PM

I honestly think that the people are over reacting. I for one am more happy to see trump than clinton. Why? Several reasons, hillary is a warmongerer. She could make things much worse for the bretheren abroad. Trump however seems to focus on america and not so much on the outside.

Also Trump might (hopefully) stop our bretheren from coming in to america which i think is good. We dont need muslims going to the west. We have already seen what the west has done to muslims. The way muslim go astray there or “modernize”. And Allah has said in surah baqarah that fitnah(shirk etc) is greater than killings. So ita better to die muslim in the east rather than living and going astray in the west.

Yes i know that not everyone goes astray in the west, but not everyone gets killed in the east either!

Wallahi i for one have had enough of seeing muslim sisters immigrants coming in fully dressed, then one year later wearing tight jeans etc. Wallahi i have had enough of muslim immigrant men, coming in to the country masha Allah firmly establishinh prayer, but one year later stops attending jumuah because “school is more important”.

Ya Allah stop my beloved bretheren from coming to the west and protect the muslims in the east from oppression and give them izza aaaaammmiiiiiiiin.

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- Zunaira Zahid
  
  November 10, 2016 at 4:01 AM
  
  I totally agree with you. Trump is far better than Hillary. Why would Muslims vote for Hillary… she will give them nothing except what Obama gave them… WAR!!!
  
  Reply
- Raad
  
  November 10, 2016 at 1:31 PM
  
  yes, the west, root of all evil
  Just kidding, but if you hate the west and “modernity” so much, then stop using modern western technology as you are now, hypocrite
  
  Reply
  - Ahmed
    
    November 10, 2016 at 2:01 PM
    
    Technology? Unless you didnt read what i said i clearly was talking about religion. So if i hate a countries politics and lifestyle does that mean i cant use their technology and items? Lol then USA better find oil from elsewhere other than the middle east and stop using items “made in china”.
    
    Clearly when i said “modernize” i was talking about the religion. Like people trying to modernize islam by saying things like “homosexuality is okey”. Thus trying to “modernize” islam. Has nothing to do with technology.
    
    Reply
  - Raad
    
    November 10, 2016 at 3:02 PM
    
    so what’s with the West bashing?
    
    Reply
- Saeed
  
  November 10, 2016 at 4:17 PM
  
  You really believe thst all muslim men un all muslim cou nteries pray Jummah and not miss it die to work or study commitments? Do really believe that womenin muslim counteries dont wear skin tight ethnic clothing? Bigotted statements. Do you think hijab and jilbab protects muslim women in muslim counteries from mysogyny, assault and rape? Fully covered women are kidnapped and raped by gangs to shame male members of the community. Do you honestly human beings in the East are different from human beings in the West. What planet do you live on? There is as much corruption in the East as in the West. Stop West bashing. Its biggotry.
  
  Reply
  - Ahmed
    
    November 11, 2016 at 5:18 AM
    
    Did i claim that? All those things you mentioned are absolutely minor if you compare with the west. People in the east are not perfect no doubt. But its harder to do haram over there and since things like adhan and salah, hijab, jilbab is a normal thing over there most laymen will do them. Here in the west there is more pressure so you will find more sisters dropping clothes, more young men skipping jumuah and salah etc. Its a fact you cannot compare them at all. But im not claiming the muslims in the west are all misguided or that the muslims in the east are perfect. What im saying is if you compare statistics and use common sense and real incidents you will realize that the religion is stronger over in the east.
    
    Reply
- Shakir M.
  
  November 11, 2016 at 12:58 AM
  
  Compared to Hillary? Who knows? He is what he is. What got him now. Still there are many unknowns of his plans for the world, and Muslims. Look up Frank Gaffney, he is Trump’s policy man on the Muslim world. The ‘Muslim Ban’ came from him, and ideas that Obama is a hidden Muslim and a secret member of the group Muslim Brotherhood.
  
  Reply
Badr

November 10, 2016 at 7:49 AM

Assalamu Alaikum,
Dr. Hatem El-Hajj hit the nail on the head !
With all due respect to Sheikh Omar Suleiman, I believe America never ever had any right lecturing other countries on extremism or immorality since after WWII. They have been and still are an Empire of Tyranny.
Ref: https://williamblum.org/books/killing-hope/
A vote for Hillary would have been a vote for more shedding of innocent Muslim blood to add to her bloodied hands in Palestine, Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Somalia, Yemen and Libya.
My dear brothers and sisters in America, as Mobeen Vaid said it’s not the end of the world (Yet!)….hold onto the rope of Imaan and you’ll be fine.

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Riz Khan

November 10, 2016 at 12:42 PM

I think Donald would be better compared to Hillary.
1. He is the outcome of a Democratic process and I believe in Democracy.
2. I have watched their debates and I think Hillary was on receiving end. The Donald’s accusations about forming of ISIS look logical.
3.While I have reservations about the moral standards of Donald but at least he seems to me a bit more truthful than Hillary.
4.If we look at history we see nations rise , reach a peak and then decline. Unfortunately if a man of such a low moral standard as Donald Trump can become the President of USA then I think after reaching a peak it is the DECLINE. Any sane mind would be looking to move to somewhere else i.e Canada or Australia for a start. Donald Trump is better than Hillary Clinton but in the land of George Washington and Abraham Lincon; he is an alien. I don’t think Geoge Washington would have even consider him for a low rank clerical job. He is a man who wants to run the country like a company i.e USA CORPORATION or LLC, with a slogan of having a feel for money. For me that is the Decline.

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Haroon

November 10, 2016 at 1:21 PM

I love the direction this discussion is taking very much. Allow me to add a small comment on another verse in the Holy Quran. This verse was also revealed in the early Meccan period when Muslims were facing severe difficulties. In this verse Allah set for us the criteria for evaluating true success and failure!

By the Soul, and the proportion and order given to it; And its enlightenment as to its wrong and its right;-
Truly the one who purifies it has succeeded! And one that instills in it corruption has failed!
Surat As-Shams 91:10

Comment

In this extremely difficult moment, you may be feeling sad and defeated! But do not let Shaitan confuse you by trying to redefine true success and failure! For Shaitan is your enemy and his only wish is that you may go astray and forget what truly matters. Instead let us go back to the Quran to reflect. Inshaa Allah, you shall find the true meaning of all events in this temporary world.

Allah your Lord and my Lord has already defined true success and failure. If you do something to purify your heart and soul and draw closer to Allah today, regardless of your circumstances and your apparent difficult situation, you have succeeded. If you neglect your duty to your Lord and cherisher, you have failed. And Allah speaks the truth!

You are not a loser until you lose your faith in Allah!

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- Haroon
  
  November 10, 2016 at 1:30 PM
  
  I think the verse quotation is Surat Ash-91:7-10 Sorry Salaam
  
  Reply
Henna

November 12, 2016 at 5:48 AM

I think one thing we should all do in addition to everything else is to pray for Allah to guide Trump to Him. Allah guided Umar ibn al Khattab (radi allahu anhu) who wanted to kill the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam). Nothing is too big for Allah, and at the end of the day, no matter how much power he has, Trump is just another creation of Allah.

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Abubakar N. Kasim

November 12, 2016 at 7:52 PM

Assalaam Alaikum, I wrote an article on this subject, what should be the Muslim’s response in light of this stunning news

TRUMP’S VICTORY: WHAT SHOULD BE A MUSLIM’S RESPONSE?
http://www.wardheernews.com/trumps-victory-what-should-be-a-muslims-response/

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