Islam and the concept of modernization

Unlike what world has to say, Islam is a religion of modesty and not adversity. Ever since Allah Almighty sent his messengers and prophets to this world, its teachings have been solely focus on the development of being and surrounding. This religion of peace encourages its followers to learn and adapt new inventions, technologies and ideas. The focus is to make people lives better by teaching them the right ways to live and help them follow one right path.

Development and modernization, as long as it is practiced within the limits and boundaries defined by Islam, is not discouraged. The negative perception of Islam around the globe is merely based on the activities of few extremists. It is a solid mistake to judge the core idea, theme or teaching of any religion on the behaviors of people who use it the wrong way. Many of those who belong to Islam neglect its teachings or adhere to some slight matters that are not relevant to the core of the religion.

If the world has to judge a religion on accounts of people who practice it, then it must be based on the ones who are practicing it the right way and apply its true teachings to make a positive change in world. For people who use their knowledge in right way and enhance the image of its religion Allah Almighty says: “It is promised that those among you who believe, and do righteous good deeds, that He will certainly grant them succession to (the present rulers) in the earth, as He granted it to those before them, and that He will grant them the authority to practice their religion, that which He has chosen for them (i.e. Islam). And He will surely give them in exchange a safe security after their fear] (An-Nur 24:55).”

Development is an untaught trend to change and develop into best form. This trend is the basis of moving on the higher levels of moral and material perfection. Other than Islam, all religions believe that this is an inevitable trend and is followed by all nations. Though the concept of modernization and development is positive but the rule here is that it must be practiced, adopted and taught within the limits defined by Islam. It motivates its followers to dream big and reach lofty goals. As the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) is reported to have said,

“Indeed, the believer is never satisfied doing good until he reaches Paradise”