FREEDOM as defined by Merrian Webster’s Dictionary states, “it’s the quality or state of being free, such as: the absence of necessity, coercion, or constraint in choice or action. liberation from slavery or from the power of another.”

Islam teaches from the Qur’an that Freedom means the unity of the objective and the subjective, the social and the natural, the individual and the plural, and the teachings in the Quran are in harmony with natural innate powers, and lead finally to self-fulfillment on the individual and social levels.

So, I suppose my question is, are Americans truly free, especially people of color and so-called minorities?

The 13th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution states, “Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, EXCEPT as a punishment for crime …”

Simply stated, passed by Congress on January 31, 1865, and ratified on December 6, 1865, supposedly the 13th Amendment abolished slavery in the United States.

With this said, every February, Americans observe Black History Month, which was founded by Carter G. Woodson, the son of former slaves, and the “Father of Black History,” to celebrate the achievements of Black Americans and recognize the central role they had in shaping U.S. history. But why?

What most don’t know is that Muhammad, the Prophet of Islam, spoke out against racism and inequality over 1400 years ago.

The Farewell Sermon also known as Muhammad’s Final Sermon or the Last Sermon, is a religious speech, delivered by the Islamic prophet Muhammad on Friday the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah, 10 AH in the Uranah valley of Mount Arafat, during the Islamic pilgrimage of Hajj.

PEACE is defined as a state of tranquility or quiet: such as. : freedom from civil disturbance. Peace and order were finally restored in the town. : a state of security or order within a community provided for by law or custom.

in a basic and simple proclamation, Islam is peace. Islam is an Arabic word that denotes submission, surrender, and obedience. As a religion, Islam stands for complete submission and obedience to Allah. Although Islam by definition means submission and has the extended meaning of peace.

In summary, true freedom and peace can only be acquired by obeying Allah (i.e. God).

By mabdussalaam

Creator and C.E.O. of Interfaith Library A competent and dedicated educator & theologian, with over 30 years of theological teaching experience as an Imam and spiritual advisor.