What makes you special
By Hisham Abu Yusuf | 2026-10-07T17:39:24.818351+00:00 | Topic: Muslim Identity | Masjid: Hisham Abu Yusuf
Summary
The Best of Nations
- Allah addresses Muslims in the Quran.
- He describes our unique position.
- What makes us distinct as an Ummah?
Quran 3:110 - Our Role as an Ummah
- Allah declares us 'Khayra Ummah' (the best nation).
- This status comes with specific responsibilities.
- It's a divine honor and a heavy trust.
Beyond Superficial Markers
- Is it about cultural attire like a taqiya or thawb?
- Is it about geographical origin or speaking Arabic?
- These external factors do not define our excellence.
- Our distinction is not based on race, ethnicity, or fashion.
Pillar 1: Enjoining What is Right (Ma'ruf)
- Actively encourage and promote goodness.
- Be proponents of justice, kindness, and virtue.
- Inspire others towards positive actions.
Pillar 2: Forbidding What is Wrong (Munkar)
- Speak up against injustice, oppression, and evil.
- Discourage harmful behaviors and societal ills.
- Stand firm against corruption and moral decay.
Pillar 3: Maintaining Belief in Allah
- Our actions are rooted in sincere faith.
- Belief in Allah is the ultimate foundation.
- It empowers us to fulfill the first two pillars.
- This belief provides strength and purpose.
When Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala talks about us Muslims, Allah says in the Qur'an:
You were the best of all nations. What made you the best? Is it because you wear a taqiya on your head? Is it because you're from the Middle East? Is it because you wear a nice branded thawb? Or is it because you eat a certain type of food? Is that what made you special? That you speak the Arabic language? This is not what makes you special.
What makes you special?
تَأْمُرُونَ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ — If there's something good, you strongly encourage it.
وَتَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنْكَرِ — And when there's something wrong, you speak up against it.
وَتُؤْمِنُونَ بِاللَّهِ — And you, under all of that, you maintain your belief in Allah.
This is what made you special.