The Importance of learning Modern Muslim history by A.R.
Many scholars of reputable knowledge but lacking in the ability to view history with a transcendent eye haves educated their students and followers by stressing the importance of ancient Islamic history while neglecting the events which have occurred not too long ago. No Muslim would say that the life of the Prophet (s), the Sahabah (first Muslims), and the pious ancestors are not worthy of learning, yet to neglect current affairs of the Muslims of the world in recent times is in opposition to what the great beloved prophet (s) had preached all his life.
Neglecting to learn is inexcusable from whatever source it may originate from. The Prophet (s) stated that it is incumbent on all Muslims to seek knowledge even if it be as far as China. The most striking evidence for the importance of being aware of what occurs around one's self is from the sayings of the Prophet's (s) Friday sermons which were divided into two parts: that of Islamic injunctions, theology, and revelations, and the later section which concerned current issues confronting the Muslims of Madinah in their specific time.
So we see that the knowledge of what is happening in the world, especially in regard to one's people and the Muslims in general, is necessary to learn. One can live a Muslim in seclusion and not care about what goes on in the world, yet the educated Muslim should by the religious injunction of the Prophet (s) himself be aware of what occurs in the world. This mentality of the unwillingness to educate one's self serves only to isolate the Muslim masses from the present world and even their own affairs.
Muslims have become so completely dissociated from the world that it is almost as if Muslims no longer reside in the present world. Even if Muslims do not have the strength to change their situation at the moment, learning of what is happening to them is necessary if we are to rise up one day to challenge all the tyrants and oppressors who have kept the Muslim masses unaware of their situation. Let's pray the Muslims gain confidence in themselves and push for the rights and education for their brothers.