Have we Muslims ever thought about what the reaction of a Sahabi, a Companion of the Prophet (peace be upon him), would be if he visited Saudi Arabia today? According to my perception, I will list some of the things that he would find in the Kingdom today which would make him happy and some which would make him sad. First, let us see what would make him happy. • He would be overjoyed to see the Holy Mosques of Makkah and Madinah. • He would be happy to see the number of Muslims in the Kingdom. • He would be happy to see that non-Muslims are treated with justice. • He would be happy to see the number of mosques in the Kingdom. • He would be happy to see the millions performing Haj with so many facilities. • He would be happy to see the amount of money paid as Zakat to the poor. • He would be happy to see how many people from around the world are earning their livelihood because of Saudi Arabia which was just a desert during his lifetime. Now, let us look at the things that would make him sad. • He would be sad to see how Muslims are divided in the name of race, sects, nationality and status. • He would be sad to see that there are poor people in the country who hardly get one meal a day while the rich have everything in abundance. • He would be sad to see the amount of food wasted every day in restaurants, parties and functions. • He would be sad to see how Muslims are dealing in “riba” (interest) directly or indirectly, and the number of “riba” houses (banks) on every street. • He would be sad to see the arrogance in the youth these days. • He would be sad to see how Muslims are divided in the name of nationality. How citizens consider themselves superior to Muslims from other countries. How Muslim brothers from other countries are considered a burden on society. • He would be sad to see the number of unmarried adults in the society. How can someone explain to the Sahabi that a Saudi women cannot marry a Muslim if he is not a Saudi unless she is 35 years old, a widow or a divorcee? • He would be sad to see that “mahr” (dowry) has become a burden on young men who want to marry because of the greedy fathers of young women who make huge demands. • He would be sad to see how a second marriage is considered a sin or disgraceful while some people engage in adultery. • He would be sad to see how extravagant our weddings have become. • He would be sad to see the amount of crime committed these days. • He would be shocked and sad to see how Muslims dress these days. He might have a tough time distinguishing between men and women. • He would be sad to see the lack of unity among Muslims. Muslims killing Muslims in the name of land, sect and wealth. There may be many other reasons that I might have forgotten in both sections. But one thing is for sure that the Sahabi will be glad that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is not here to see his Ummah going in the wrong direction. I pray to Allah that He forgives all our sins and guides us on the right path. Aameen. Mustafa M. Khan
