FAITH should bring calm and compassion, and mosques must reflect that, according to Kelantan Mufti Datuk Mohamad Shukri Mohamad.
He said mosque committee members and volunteers have a responsibility to greet visitors with warmth and respect, ensuring that everyone who enters feels welcomed and valued.
Shukri said from an Islamic perspective, the religion itself promotes safety, peace and tranquillity.
“From an Islamic perspective, Islam itself offers safety, peace and tranquillity. When faith is strong, there is security; when Islam is practised, there is prosperity, peace and well-being,” he told Sinar Daily when contacted recently.
He explained that caring for mosques is closely tied to Islamic moral values and responsibilities.
“The issue being raised touches on Islamic morals, especially when Allah commands that mosques be cared for: ‘The mosques of Allah are maintained by those who believe in Allah and the Day of Judgment.’
“In other words, mosques are enriched and enlivened by the faithful,” he said.
Shukri said a believer should embody calmness and kindness in their conduct with others.
He added that a person of faith is synonymous with being peaceful, gentle and kind, noting that Muslims are encouraged to emulate Allah’s attributes of compassion and mercy, reflected in the names Ar-Rahman and Ar-Rahim.
Caring for others and speaking kindly, he said, form an essential part of Islamic character.
“Even when Prophet Musa was sent to confront Firaun, Allah instructed him: ‘Go to Firaun; indeed, he has transgressed’ but also, ‘Speak to him gently,’” he said.
He added that mosque workers should play a role in fostering a welcoming and peaceful environment for worshippers and visitors.
“As mosque workers, one way we contribute to the life of the mosque is by welcoming everyone. To truly enliven a mosque, we must greet people with a smile, because a smile is part of charity,” he said.
Shukri said politeness and gentleness reflect the beauty of Islamic teachings.
“Speaking politely and gently reflects the beauty of Islam. It is therefore inappropriate for those managing mosques to act harshly,” he said.
He also cited guidance given to Prophet Muhammad on the importance of kindness when dealing with people.
“Allah reminded Prophet Muhammad that if he were hard-hearted, people would turn away from him. So kindness and a welcoming attitude are essential, regardless of who comes,” he said.
He emphasised that Islam recognises the dignity of every individual.
“Every human being is honoured in Islam: ‘We have certainly honoured the children of Adam.’
“This means no one should be belittled or treated with disrespect, especially guests of Allah coming to the mosque,” he said.
Shukri said visitors should be treated with warmth and appreciation.
“They should be welcomed with smiles, friendly words and gentleness. Everything we do should make guests feel valued,” he said.
He added that mosque committee members should receive proper guidance and training, particularly in communication.
“Those tasked with enlivening the mosque, such as committee members, should receive proper training, especially in communication.
“If a person’s faith is strong, their understanding of Shariah is solid and their character is good, then mosque workers will naturally act in the best way,” he said.
He said behaviour that does not reflect Islamic values should be corrected.
Shukri noted that mosques fall under the jurisdiction of religious authorities and any issues should be addressed appropriately.
“All mosques are under the jurisdiction of religious councils or the Mufti’s office. Any isolated cases of poor treatment should be addressed, but generally mosques are welcoming to Allah’s guests,” he said.
He added that mosques regularly organise programmes aimed at encouraging community participation.
“Programmes such as iftar, lectures and community events are organised to encourage people to visit. So there is no reason to be unfriendly or harsh, especially when the goal is to attract visitors and enliven the mosque through their presence,” he said.
Last month, a mosque faced criticism online after a social media thread was flooded with allegations of unfriendly treatment towards congregants, incidents involving elderly worshippers and allegations of preferential treatment.