Question
In the prisons of the U.S.A. there are organized gangs operating. Frequently a gang member wants to embrace Islam, but he is unable to leave the gang. Once a gang member, one's life is in danger if one resigns from the gang. Some have been severely beaten up for leaving the gang. On the other hand, Muslims in the prison refuse to accept a gang member who wants to be a Muslim. The attitude is that one cannot be a Muslim as long as one remains a gang member. What is the solution for this problem?
Answer
Accepting Imaan and becoming a Muslim are the inherent right of every person. No one has the right to prevent any non-Muslim from becoming a Muslim and reciting the Shahaadat. Whoever prevents someone from Islam, is guilty of a grievous crime for which he will have to answer in the Divine Court. Regardless of how sinful a man may be and regardless of him being a gang member, he may not be denied Islam. Islam is not the personal property of any person. However, it should be explained to the gang member that the validity of his Imaan requires that he believes that the crimes of the gang are haraam. Sin does not eliminate Imaan. Believing sin to be halaal, eliminates Imaan. A gang member who has accepted Islam may not be prevented from Jamaa't Salaat and attending the Ta'leem classes which inmates conduct.
- Source
- themajlis.co.za
- Published in
- The Majlis Vol 22 No 01
- PDF page
- 2
Appears under Questions and Answers (approximate).