Challenging times offer opportunities for realism, hope, trust, prayer, patience and innovation

Opinion

U.S. President Donal Trump’s tariffs, and his continued insinuation of Canada becoming the 51st state, have created evident worries and concerns among Canadians. In times of difficulty like this, people seek comfort in their faith and core beliefs about the nature of life.

For Muslims, this means taking guidance from the sacred Quran during times of adversity.

Realism and optimism

Understanding the nature of life is critical in coping with future uncertainties. The Quran sets clear expectations by stating that worldly life is subject to tests with some difficulties and pain (2:155).

Such understanding makes believers mentally prepared for all possibilities, including not taking prosperity for granted and not being surprised in the face of any unfavorable outcomes.

The Quran also establishes the notion that ease follows hardship (94:5-6). Thus, the realistic expectation of hardship is balanced by optimism and hope.

Patience and perseverance

Patience — Sabr — is a core value stated in the Quran as a key concept. It is illustrated through the empirical stories of prophets, particularly Job (Ayyub) and Jacob (Yaqoub), who faced major calamities and demonstrated exemplary patience and fortitude.

Their perseverance was not just simple endurance, but also holding firm to their beliefs and values. Their stories remain a source of inspiration during difficult times.

Blessing in disguise

Human knowledge is limited; what lies ahead and how things will unfold remains a guess. The Quran states: “You may dislike something although it is good for you, or like something although it is bad for you: God knows and you do not” (2:216).

History shows that what was dreadful at one time, in retrospect, is seen as a blessing.

Believers are encouraged to strive and not be disheartened by current difficult realities that could bring greater benefits.

Trust and prayer

The Islamic call: Allahu Akbar — God is Greater — underlines the fundamental concept that ultimate power belongs to God. He is The Just, The Most Merciful, and He wouldn’t forsake those who are oppressed nor abandon those who supplicate to Him.

A common Islamic phrase states: “God gives respite, but does not neglect.” Prayer is a personal invocation with the Creator and is a fountain of hope and a beacon of inspiration.

Some of these concepts are universal, and many find solace in them. As we navigate cyclical life challenges, we need to stay hopeful, resilient, and rethink our ways of life. This is the time to show the best of who we are by standing together, sharing resources, and supporting one another.

More importantly, we should hold on to our values. Americans are our neighbors; the ever-changing policies of politicians should not lead us to engage in hate or acrimony. Respect for neighbors remains constant.

Furthermore, we shouldn’t fall into the narrow nationalistic sentiment of “We First.” Certainly, we should take care of our needs, but we should also remember that we are part of the human family and keep our sense of care and humanity unbounded.

Times of difficulty can serve as a stimulus for innovative approaches. Perhaps this could be an opportunity for us as Canadians to tap into our own resources, reinvigorate our potential, remove hindering barriers, and explore uncharted horizons.

I am optimistic that Canada will emerge from this challenge stronger, with its values uncompromised and its universal outlook unhinged.

As part of our Religion in the News project, the Free Press invited faith leaders to share their reflections on the United States’ trade war with Canada.

Ismael Mukhtar is a Manitoba Muslim community leaders and author of Manitoba Muslims: A History of Resilience and Growth.

faith@freepress.mb.ca

 

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