Reading time: 2 minutes

In a world where many seek guidance and inspiration from religious leaders, it's easy to put scholars on a pedestal.

While it's natural to admire and emulate scholars, it's crucial to remember that no one—not even the most pious scholar—is sinless.

When we're drawn to a teacher or preacher, what truly captivates us is the light of Islam shining through them.

This is what touches our hearts.

But it's essential to separate this light from the one reflecting it.

Our love for Islam shouldn't be anchored in any one person but in Allah and His Messenger ﷺ, who are unchanging, untainted, and timeless.

When someone we respect falls short of the values they teach us, it can be painful and unsettling.

But let's remember that our faith remains unblemished by human failings.

Islamic Safeguards: Boundaries and Responsibilities

Our tradition provides specific guidelines that protect us from harm, especially in interactions between genders, emphasizing the importance of transparency—not as a restriction but as a preventive measure to maintain trust and safety.

While these guidelines apply to everyone, those in positions of authority—religious leaders, teachers, and influencers—should adhere to them even more strictly.

There's no reason not to hold meetings in public spaces, implement open-door policies, or conduct interactions in monitored or recorded areas.

Such practices protect individuals and preserve the integrity of their roles.

One practical step we can take is to increase the presence of trained female scholars and counselors within our communities.

We create a more balanced support system by bringing women into leadership positions—such as female chaplains, qualified scholars, or board members.

These women can collaborate with male leaders, ensuring community members have comfortable and appropriate access to guidance and counseling.

Our institutions can have an imam and a trained female counselor working together to serve the community's needs.

Furthermore, counseling and personal guidance require proper training.

Without it, there's a risk of unintentional harm—mainly when sensitive topics are discussed privately.

Those who wish to take on counseling roles should undergo professional training to provide safe, effective support.

Addressing Misconduct: Our Mandatory Duty

Islam clearly distinguishes between personal sins and harmful actions.

When a personal fault does not harm others, we advise privately with compassion, maintaining the dignity of all involved.

However, in cases where abusive or predatory behavior is involved—especially by those in positions of trust—it is our obligatory duty to act decisively.

Islam commands us to prioritize community safety and justice, and remaining silent in the face of such wrongdoing is not an option.

Our communities must establish well-defined grievance mechanisms and processes.

These systems should allow for complaints to be made safely and confidentially, with the assurance that they will be taken seriously and investigated by individuals with no conflict of interest.

Victims may feel helpless without such structures, and misconduct can continue unchecked.

Sometimes, there's a misguided belief that keeping silent or quietly removing the person involved protects the image of Islam.

Islam does not need this kind of protection.

Concealing injustice only allows it to fester and grow.

Supporting Victims and Preventing Further Harm

Victims of abuse often grapple with intense feelings of self-blame and confusion.

As a community, we must believe and support those who come forward.

This means listening without judgment, affirming their courage, and providing a safe space for them to share their experiences.

It's a grave injustice when victims are met with skepticism or blame, further isolating them and allowing abuse to continue unchecked.

Building Resilience and Awareness in Our Youth

Finally, we must equip our young people with the tools to navigate complex issues.

Teaching them about personal boundaries empowers them to recognize when something feels uncomfortable or inappropriate, giving them the confidence to speak up.

This approach fosters a sense of self-respect, helping them understand that protecting their dignity and well-being is foundational to faith.

When we openly discuss these topics, we create an environment where they can identify inappropriate behavior and feel encouraged to seek help without fear of disbelief or blame.

By standing firm in our commitment to justice and compassion, we protect those in our community and uphold the true spirit of Islam.

Let us work together to foster a safe, trusting environment where faith thrives, and the dignity of every individual is respected.

As we strive to make a positive impact, we're launching a new campaign to support those facing hunger and hardship.

Your support can make a life-changing difference.

Even if you can't donate, please share this message with others to help spread awareness.

And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [saying], 'We feed you only for the countenance of Allah.’

(Surah Al-Insan 76:7-8)