Five years ago, on 3rd July 2007, what became known as Lal Masjid (or the Red Mosque) took centre stage in world news. The apostate and criminal Pervez Musharraf (the then President of Pakistan) gave the go-ahead for one of the most shocking acts to have taken place during his tyrannical reign.
For one whole week, what was a house of Allah, where Muslims prayed and recited the Quran, was put under siege. Its walls were sprayed with bullets and its corridors filled with blood. The world looked on in horror as the very army that was supposed to protect its citizens had turned their rifles on them.
By the end of the brutal assault, nearly 100 Muslims were killed, and the Pakistani government quickly worked to erase any memory of what had happened, even painting the trademark red walls to green.
It is said that one should take lessons from history, and Lal Masjid has a lot of lessons to give.
The remarkable thing about Lal Masjid and its Madrassah, was that it really was more than just a prayer hall. Visitors would be greeted by students learning the Shariah (Islamic law) and basic amenities such as food, shelter and medical care, that would normally be paid for, were all provided free of charge.
But what truly set Lal Masjid apart was the desire of its students to give life to the verses in the Quran and teachings of the final Messenger Muhammad (pbuh). They would actively confront evils in their community, in particular brothels and prostitutes, and made sure that whatever they learnt from their teachers was implemented and did not die in their hearts.
Their sacrifice is well documented and not only cost them their Masjid but it also cost many their lives.
Lal Masjid gave the world a brief glimpse of the incredible feats that can be achieved when one holds firmly to the Quran and Sunnah. It also reminded the Muslims of the importance of elevating the Deen of Allah (SWT) with the heart, tongue and body and above all to never fear the blame of the blamers.
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