Cleanliness is a fundamental aspect of our lives. We all desire to live in clean and hygienic environments that promote good health and well-being. However, achieving this goal is not always easy, especially in communities where littering and environmental degradation are rampant. In this article, we will explore the importance of cleanliness and how we can keep our localities clean.
I’m sharing an experience of building a house near a mosque, but was disappointed by the dirty surroundings, the high level of rowdiness and disorderliness in the area. This highlights the fact that cleanliness is not just about personal hygiene but also about creating a conducive environment for individuals to thrive in. A clean locality fosters a sense of community pride, encourages healthy behaviors, and promotes social harmony.
Moreover, cleanliness is a significant factor in attracting people to Islam. A Tamil movie actor converted to Islam after seeing the clean and hygienic Muslim localities in Tamil Nadu. He was impressed by the clean streets in his childhood. Today his name is Ameeruddeen. Similarly, a Hindu boy embraced Islam because he was impressed by the neat and tidy dressing of Muslims during Friday prayers. He later changed his name to Usman, and went to an Islamic University to acquire religious knowledge. These stories demonstrate the impact of cleanliness in promoting a positive image of Islam and attracting people to the faith. However, there is also an instance when a revert to Islam, left Islam after seeing the dirty Muslim localities. And I’m a first hand witness to all the three cases. I’ve met them all.
So, how can we keep our localities clean? I would like to emphasize the need to stop preaching and start living by what is learned. It is essential to create a culture of cleanliness that begins with individual responsibility. Simple actions like properly disposing of trash, cleaning up after pets, and avoiding littering can make a significant difference in keeping our communities tidy.
Furthermore, there is a need for collective action to address environmental degradation. Community clean-up programs, regular waste management, and enforcing laws against littering can help to create a cleaner and healthier environment. Creating awareness about the importance of cleanliness through educational campaigns can also encourage people to take action.
In conclusion, cleanliness is a fundamental aspect of our lives that should not be taken for granted. A clean environment promotes good health and well-being, fosters a sense of community pride, and attracts people to Islam. It is up to us as individuals and communities to take responsibility for keeping our localities clean and free of environmental degradation. As the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Cleanliness is half the Eemaan (Faith)”. I wish to see that half faith in the Muslim localities of Bangalore.
– Written & Compiled By
UMAR SHARIFF
President, Discover Islam Education Trust
6/3/2023