The Call for Moderation: A Journey from Extremism to Balance in the Light of Islam’s Timeless Principles - Part-1

By Kaniz Fatma, New Age Islam 31 July 2025 Islamic Thought, Quran and Sunnah, and the Foundations of Moderation ----- Today, we are living in a time when balance and moderation are disappearing from every part of life. This problem is not only limited to the Muslim community of our country, India, but it can clearly be seen among Muslims all over the world. There is a visible lack of practical commitment to the moderate teachings of Islam. Islam is a natural religion that teaches balance, moderation, and fairness in every matter. The Holy Quran has called us an "Ummah Wasat", meaning “a balanced and moderate nation”, but we have forgotten this special quality. Whether it is about knowledge and research, social dealings, or understanding of religion, we have often chosen either extremism or complete inaction. Differences in our religious groups, thoughts, and personal preferences have become so intense that we no longer even have the patience to listen to each other. Everyone has some argument to support their opinion, but instead of presenting it politely and respectfully, people use harsh and extreme tones. This only increases division and chaos in society. This very concern made me feel the need to write on this topic. I wanted to write a detailed and well-reasoned article about moderation. But when I started writing, I realized the topic is so broad that it cannot be covered in just one part. So, I decided to divide it into three parts, so that each section can clearly explain the different aspects of this important and sensitive topic. In the first part, we will look at the teachings of the Quran and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) about moderation. This will help us understand that moderation is not just a moral value, but also a basic pillar of the Islamic way of life. In the second part, we will critically examine the current trends that go against moderation, such as religious extremism, declaring others as disbelievers (takfiri behaviour), and sectarian hatred. We will also highlight how these attitudes have harmed Islam’s peaceful message. In the third part, we will discuss practical ways to promote moderation through character building, education, and collective reform, so that we can help create a balanced, respectful, and civilized society. Islamic Thought, the Quran and Sunnah, and the Foundations of Moderation Part One Islam is a religion that brings a message of goodness, justice, and balance for all of humanity. It is not limited to any one nation, race, or social group; rather, it is a light of guidance for all people. The teachings of Islam focus not only on spiritual growth, but also encourage balance in social, community, and personal life. Definition of Moderation: Moderation means balance, fairness, staying in the middle path, and avoiding both extremes. Islam teaches this way of living in every area of life. Whether we read the Holy Quran or the sayings of the Prophet (peace be upon him), we are always encouraged to follow the path of moderation. Teachings of Moderation in the Quran: In the Quran, Allah has called the Muslim community a "middle nation" (Ummah Wasat): “And in this way, We made you a balanced (moderate) nation.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 143) According to Mufassirin (the Quranic exegetes), the term "Wasat" (middle) refers to a nation that upholds justice and fairness in all matters, one that avoids both excess and neglect, always staying on the balanced path. Moderation in the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) The entire life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is a perfect example of balance and moderation. On one occasion, some of the companions (may Allah be pleased with them) intended to go to extremes in worship by fasting every day, praying all night, and avoiding marriage. When the Prophet (peace be upon him) heard this, he said: “I am the one who fears Allah the most among you, but I fast and also break my fast, I pray at night and also sleep, and I also marry.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5063) This blessed hadith teaches us that whether in worship or in worldly matters, true spirit lies in following a path of moderation. Lack of Moderation in the Muslim Society Unfortunately, today’s Muslim society is increasingly falling into extremism, emotionalism, and sectarianism. Whether in the field of knowledge and research or in religious and legal disagreements, we have lost the patience to listen, understand, and tolerate others. As a result: • We reject others' viewpoints without thoughtful consideration. • We go as far as labelling opponents as misguided, innovators (bid’ati), or even disbelievers. • In reading and learning, we limit ourselves only to the scholars of our own group or sect. • Socially, harsh behaviour, arguments, and intolerance have become common. This growing lack of balance is harming both our unity and the peaceful image of Islam. The Need for Moderation in Knowledge, Manners, and Dialogue For the growth and progress of an Islamic society, it is essential to adopt moderation in knowledge, literature, and communication. The Quran teaches us to speak kindly and respectfully: “And speak kindly to people.” (Surah Al-Baqarah, Verse 83) Similarly, it says: “Call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good advice.” (Surah An-Nahl, Verse 125) These verses teach us that even when speaking for religious or reformative purposes, our words must reflect balance, gentleness, and wisdom. Without these qualities, even good intentions can lead to conflict instead of understanding. Moderation in Jurisprudential and Sectarian Differences Islam has always accepted scholarly reasoning (ijtihad) and diversity of opinion in legal matters. However, it strictly forbids hatred, hostility, and declaring other Muslims as disbelievers (Takfir). Imam Shafi‘i (may Allah have mercy on him) famously said: “My opinion is correct, but it may be wrong, and the opinion of my opponent is wrong, but it may be right.” This is the spirit of moderation that once elevated the Muslim Ummah in knowledge and wisdom. Sadly, today we have drifted far from this balanced approach. Blessings of Moderation: • It protects a person from harshness and hatred. • It creates harmony and peace in society. • It helps in the progress of knowledge and learning. • It gives the courage to tolerate differences. • It improves social values and relationships. Conclusion: The entire message of Islam is based on moderation and balance. Whether it is about worship, daily dealings, beliefs, or ethics, the community is always advised to follow the middle path. A nation honoured to be called the Ummah Wasat (the balanced nation) must protect this status. Extremes, whether excess or negligence, not only diminish the beauty of Islam but also poison the relationships within the community. In the next part, we will discuss behaviours that go against moderation and their consequences. We will also explore how the community moved away from moderation and what effects this shift has caused. ------ Urdu Article: The Call for Moderation: A Journey from Extremism to Balance in the Light of Islam’s Timeless Principles-Part-1 اعتدال کی پکار: اسلام کے سنہرے اصولوں کی روشنی میں انتہاپسندی سے توازن کی جانب سفر Also Read: A Moment of Reflection: Have We Followed the Teachings of Islam? Challenging Extremist Interpretations: The Islamic Principle of Sanctity of Life as a Counter-Narrative to Violence and Conflict Combating Extremism through Literature, Writers, and the Arts Respect for Opposing Ideologies in India: A Religious Perspective Curbing Extremism in the Muslim Community: A Call for Unity and Reform Patience in Islam: The Strength to Overcome Life's Challenges and Stay Connected to Faith Killing Based on Religion, Ethnicity, or Race: An Islamic, Social, and Ethical Analysis ----- Kaniz Fatma is an Aalima and Faazila and a regular columnist for New Age Islam. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/islamic-society/moderation-extremism-light-timeless-principles-part-1/d/136362 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism