We are all susceptible to worrying. Yet worrying as the song goes, is like trying to solve an algebra problem by chewing bubble gum. So why do we worry.
Islamically, everything is in good hands. In the hands of the Almighty. All that is in the heavens and the Earth belong to Him. All that occurs in the world is by His permission. Part of belief in the shahadah or proclamation of faith is really the giving up of ones control and therefore one's worries. If all is indeed in the hands of the Almighty what is there to worry about? Surely that is the true test of faith.
It would be such a pleasure to have you come along with me
I accept your gracious offer
Kindness and company
But as we walk along young man
And as you help me with my load
I've only one request as we travel down this road
Don't talk to me about Muhammad
Because of him there is no peace
And I have trouble in my mind
So don't talk to me about Muhammad
And as we walk along together
We will get along just fine
As we walk along together
We will get along
That man upsets me so
So much more than you could know
I hear of his name and reputation everywhere I go
Though his family and his clan once knew him as an honest man
He's dividing everyone
With his claim that God is One
So don't talk to me about Muhammad
Because of him there is no peace
And I have trouble in my mind
So don't talk to me about Muhammad
And as we walk along together
We will get along just fine
As we walk along together
We will get along
He's misled all the weak ones
And the poor ones and the slaves
They think they've all found wealth and freedom
Following his ways
He's corrupted all the youth
With his twisted brand of truth
Convinced them that they all are strong
Giving them somewhere to belong
So don't talk to me about Muhammad
Because of him there is no peace
And I have trouble in my mind
So don't talk to me about Muhammad
And as we walk along together
We will get along just fine
As we walk along together
We will get along
Thank you now young man
You've really have been so kind
Your generosity and smile are very rare to find
Let me give you some advice
Since you've been so very nice
From Muhammad stay away
Don't heed his words or emulate his way
And don't talk about Muhammad
You will never have true peace
And trouble is all you will find
So don't talk about Muhammad
And as you travel down life's road
You will get along just fine
Now before we part and go
If its alright just the same
May I ask my dear young man
Who are you, what's your name
Forgive me what was that?
Your words weren't very clear
My ears are getting old
Sometimes its difficult to hear
It's truly rather funny though I'm sure I must be wrong
But I thought I heard you say
Your name is Muhammad
Muhammad
Ashaadu allah ilaha illalla
Wa ashadu ana muhammadur rasululla
O talk to me, Muhammad
Upon you I pray for peace
For you have eased my troubled mind
O talk to me, Muhammad
And as we walk along together
We will get along just fine
As I travel down life's road
I will get along
Just fine
Dawud Wharnsby Ali
This song has been written based on hadith (stories or saying of the prophet). It is one of the nicest examples I have come across of kindness, compassion and humility in the face to abject criticism and hostility.
Initially I was completely unaware of the story behind this song. Still the message of the song captivated me. The song even without the hadith, shows how our actions are the greatest form of da'wa to Islam. Instead of preaching about the goodness of Islam or Muhammad our best form of da'wa would be to be good and worthy human beings. To act in a compassionate and kind manner no matter what the circumstances. I know, it is easier said than done. Even as I write this right now, I remember earlier this morning, I had a fervent argument with a close friend over the impact of the hijab, leading to an unpleasant amount of animosity. Ultimately, it was futile, because really both of us. If I had behaved with humility and kindness there would not have been a fowl after taste from the interaction. Over the next couple of weeks I am determined to deal with everyone with kindness, compassion and humility even in the face of criticism and hostility. That is the example of Muhammad (pbuh). Of course I shall update on how that goes.
Muhammad (pbuh) is important, not superior or inferior to the other messenger but an equal. He is particularly important in today's world since much is documented and known about his life and his sayings. There is a strong collection of Hadith available that deals with everything from how to brush one's teeth, eat, pray, give, resolved disputes etc. Unlike many messengers before him, his life in a large part an open book. Thus in a practical manner, the example of Muhammad (pbuh) would be far easier to follow than that of Jesus or Noah or any of the other messengers, simply on the basis that much more of his life is known and his actions documented.
However, Muhammad (pbuh) is one of the messengers of God. He is an example and much is known about his life and actions. Due to the oral and written tradition during his life, we have tremendous knowledge of his day to day existence and his practice of faith, unlike the many of the previous messengers.The Quran mentions several messengers of God. These include, Moses, Noah, Jacob, Abraham, Joseph amongst others. In addition it mentions that there are many more messengers who have brought the same message but have not been mentioned in the Quran.
"So (you believers) say, ' We believe in God and what was sent down to us and what was sent down to Abraham, Ishmael, Issac, Jacob and the Tribes, and what was given to Moses, Jesus and all the prophets by their Lord. We make no any distinction between any of them and we devote ourselves to Him.' " 2:136
Thus the Quran makes it crystal clear that there have been numerous messengers of God that have come to humanity and there is no hierarchy amongst them. Each of the messengers are equally important. Each of them have come here to spread the same message. Each of them are part of the tradition of Islam. Thus when Muslims in conversations Christians or Jews or any people of faith should have high regard for the teachings therein, for all the messengers that have come before have brought the same message that is in the Quran. Since only some of the messengers are mentioned in the Quran and others are not, we must assume that there are many who are rightly guided by the messengers that have come to their community. This is further substantiated by the Quran. " The Muslim believers, the Jews, the Christians and the Sabians- all those who believe in God and the Last Day and do good- will have their rewards with their Lord. No fear for them, nor will they grieve." 2:62
Thus we can further infer that not only is there no hierarchy between the prophets or messengers of God, but furthermore God is not brand conscious. He is not concerned with the worldly labels we hold, whether we are Christians, Jews or of another label, the key point is that we do good, not for the sake of worldly gains, but for the sake of God alone and remember that we will be held accountable on the Last Day. The Quran brings a unifying message without labels, focused on good deeds alone.
