Efforts to develop and establish harmony within the Ummah is an all round responsibility. Harmony of the Ummah is the basis for peace and security of the Ummah itself. Allah S.W.T had furnished us with the Guidance on how we should go about developing harmony. 

In addition Rasulullah S.A.W. who was the Blessing of Mercy from Allah S.W.T. to the whole universe had also shown us the way. 

In the first place, Islam had sown the seed of consciousness in mankind that all men and women are of a single origin. Allah said in Al-Quran meaning: 

“O mankind! Reverence your Guardian-Lord, who created you from a single person, created of like nature his mate, and from them twain scattered (like seeds) countless men and women – Fear Allah, through Whom ye demand mutual (rights) and (reverence) the wombs (that bore you): for Allah ever watches over you." 

“O Mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and make you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other (not that ye may despise each other). Verily the most honoured of you in the sight of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And Allah has full knowledge and is well-acquainted (with all things).”

“It may be that Allah will grant love (and friendship) between you and those whom ye (now) hold as enemies. For Allah has power (over all things); and Allah is Oft Forgiving, Most Merciful. Allah forbids you not with regard to those who fight you not for (your) faith, nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: for Allah loveth those who are just.”

At the same time they were free to perform their religious obligations, there was freedom of movement and speech, and there was freedom to perform their religious rites. They lived in peace and order under the leadership of the Beloved Prophet Muhammad S.A.W.

ACTS WHICH ARE DETRIMENTAL TO THE HARMONY OF THE UMMAH

It is evidently essential to avoid acts that are detrimental to fostering and developing harmony within the Ummah. Amongst which is the indiscriminate and noxious act of accusing others of apostasy (murtad). Another unbecoming and destructive act is rudeness and filthy language uttered towards people of other religions. 

Harmony within the Ummah can be maintained when every party takes great care and pains to prevent the infringement of the forbidden. It is essential to ensure that no one or group of persons feels unduly victimised for injustice. No one should be the target of abuse for religious alignment. On the other hand, the Ummah should focus attention at enhancing their quality of firmness of faith. Should this be practised, insha Allah, harmony within the Ummah is realised as a reality firmly rooted, developed and established.