Islam not an extreme, overly rigid religion

SHAH ALAM – Islam is not an extreme or overly rigid religion, as often misunderstood by some, but rather emphasises the principle of moderation in every aspect of life, including worship and daily practices.

Kelantan Mufti Datuk Mohamad Shukri Mohamad said that as a religion that originated in the Middle East, Islam was based on the concept of wasatiyyah (moderation), as emphasised in the Quran.

He said the concept reflected balance in both worldly and spiritual life, avoiding tendencies towards extremism.

“If we observe Allah’s creation, everything operates in a balanced and orderly manner. The same applies to Islamic worship—it is not excessive, such as fasting and prayers.

“Referring to the story of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), he once corrected a companion who wanted to be extreme in worship. The Prophet emphasised that he himself worshipped at night but also rested and he fasted but also broke his fast.

“The perception that Islam is a strict religion arises due to judgments made by those who do not fully understand its teachings. People tend to oppose what they do not know. In reality, Islam teaches its followers to think based on faith and knowledge, not merely emotions or feelings,” he told Sinar.

Shukri added that a structured mindset was needed to resolve differences in religious practices to ensure effective Islamic preaching (dakwah).

“We need to consider how to implement Islam and reform society within the framework of Islamic principles. If not, divisions will occur.

“At the same time, Islamic preaching must have a true agenda of unity, which is to genuinely focus on Islamic brotherhood (ukhuwah Islamiyah), rather than being influenced by political divisions,” he said.

Meanwhile, Penang Mufti Associate Prof Datuk Dr Mohd Sukki Othman said that Muslims must practice balance (wasatiyyah) in understanding Islam to avoid becoming too extreme or too lenient in their religious approach.

He explained that according to Quranic guidance, those who were too strict in religion should be reminded of Islam’s mercy and the balance emphasised in Shariah.

“On the other hand, those who are too lenient should be taught the importance of discipline in religion and the dangers of deviating from true Islamic teachings.

“Islam prioritises balance in all aspects of life. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) himself set the best example in practicing Islam with wisdom and without extremism,” he said.

He also highlighted that one of the biggest misconceptions among Muslims today was understanding Islam theoretically without applying it in daily life.

He added that some Muslims selectively follow religious teachings based on personal interests while neglecting others.

“This is one of the main causes of weakness among Muslims today. They must return to a true understanding of Islam by strengthening their knowledge and practicing its teachings comprehensively.

“Islam is not just about laws and regulations; it also encompasses unity, sincere efforts, and balance in religious practice to build a harmonious and well-structured society,” he said.