Commentary Problem

Muslim Murasu, May 2012

Quran commentary saw new developments in 1980s. Youngsters showed interest in new premises in Tamilnadu. Islamic movement was on the rise. Intentions of the organizations were thrust in the name of divine message. New organizations ruled the roost. Ideology caused formation of new organizations. Import of money and lifestyle from Arab world divided Tamil Muslim society into two. Traditional Tamil Muslims, their lifestyle, were being successfully trampled. Same verse was given two different meanings. This is Mecca period; we should be patient. This was one preaching. Not possible; not at all; this is Medina period; we should prepare for fight. Fanatic, poisonous ideas, half-baked commentaries made Tamil Muslims frantic. Chaos and deceptions were the norm. Quran explanations were no exceptions. One preaching was pro-government, pro-establishment. Another group was completely antagonistic to government. The government that was bystander until then started to lunge, seize and gnaw. Result was imprisonment, court hassles, pursuance  by police and banning of movements.
This gave a rude jolt. Islamic movement became dull. Youngsters withdrew. Western, modern elites used the opportunity well and propagated lewdness. Materialistic rage surged. Parents were not respected. Love affairs, flash marriages, sexual aggression, increasing divorces, swelling widow population, parsimony and extravagance, Quran teachings have become more important in this situation. Gradually weekly Quran discourses are being introduced in Muhallas. Preacher should have the background in his mind. Tamil Muslims have been kept aloof from Quran for the past forty years. Story narration, dwelling on incidents, self propaganda, Dravidian terminologies, these have become core elements of sermons in Tamilnadu. These absurdities have no place in Quran discourses. People with Arabic knowledge, devotion to Guru and faith in God should come to field. They shall guide and direct the society. Strong heart is needed. Only four or five men may attend in the initial days. But the preacher should come with the preparation of facing a crowd of one lakh. If the weekly sermons continue without break, Insha Allah, very soon Badr Sahabas can be identified. Offspring of Khulafaye Rashideen will become visible. Ashabu Sufaa will emerge. Preacher shall march ahead.