The Silent War on Masculinity

By Ghausia Shaukat [bravepath.org] 06/11/2023

In a world that constantly challenges the essence of masculinity, we believe it’s crucial to revisit the profound role that men play as leaders and the responsibilities that come with leadership.

Some of these responsibilities are emphasised in the Quran as the protection and care of women and children, which then promote a strong sense of familial support and social cohesion. A patriarchal society offering clear gender roles and responsibilities, which can foster a harmonious family life, is a truth ordained by Allah Himself:

‘Men are the protectors and maintainers of women because Allah has made one of them excel over the other, and because they spend out of their possessions (to support them)..’

[Surah An-Nisa 4:34]

The following hadith serves as a reminder that the very existence of man is a divine calling to lead in their homes first and foremost. Men are meant to be the shepherds of their communities, their families, and their own lives.

Ibn ‘Umar reported that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace,

“All of you are shepherds and each of you is responsible for his flock. A man is the shepherd of the people of his house and he is responsible. A woman is the shepherd of the house of her husband and she is responsible. Each of you is a shepherd and each is responsible for his flock.”

[Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 212]

When we examine the lives of Muslims in the West, it becomes evident that men have been pivotal in paving the way for both virtue and vices. Today, we witness how our societies have evolved, and the consequences of these actions are becoming clear.

The impact of particular choices has been profound, influencing not only their own lives but also the paths taken by the women and children who look up to their menfolk.

Muslim societies have unwittingly transformed into consumerist cultures, driven by materialism and superficial desires. Why is it that we will easily find masses of brothers occupying restaurants and takeaways for significant lengths of time, however attendance at masajids is very limited if not neglected altogether.

The responsibility of true leadership, characterised by wisdom and moral integrity, has been neglected. It’s time to recognize that this shift towards consumerism and irresponsibility has consequences.

In Islamic tradition, the transition to manhood is marked by the onset of puberty, in contrast to the age of 18 that most modern societies lawfully accept as adulthood. It’s a crucial perspective that highlights the importance of not delaying the teachings of essential values, responsibilities, and virtues in young boys.

Historical examples from Islam show us that some of the most courageous Muslim men (Particularly the companions of Prophet Muhammed ﷺ) were in their early teens when they demonstrated qualities like bravery, leadership, and compassion.

By recognizing the significance of puberty as a milestone in their development, we can begin to instil important life lessons, ethics, and virtues in our children at an earlier age, fostering their growth into responsible and virtuous men. Delaying these teachings until adulthood may mean missed opportunities for character development and positive contributions to society.

Men, you are the leaders of your homes, and this is a responsibility you should take seriously. It’s not a burden, but an honour, an opportunity to nurture, guide, and protect those entrusted to your care. Embrace this role and watch your family flourish under your guidance.

Remember this truth:

“Strong men create feminine women, and weak men create masculine women.”

Your strength as a leader shapes the women and children in your life, influencing the kind of society we build together.

It’s time to rekindle the purpose that Allah created you for, to reawaken the leader that resides in your heart.

The world is waiting for men to step into their rightful roles, for the sake of their families, their communities, and society at large.

Let us stand united to foster true strength, wisdom, and responsibility, redefining our roles and shaping a better world for all.

If we truly want to transform our Ummah then change begins with leadership. If we truly want our generations to succeed on the path of Islam, then brothers: You must pave the way.