Islamization of Varieties of English

Assalamualaikum w.b.t.

 In our attempt to Islamize one of the linguistics’ subjects, we chose Varieties of English. We bet that people must be wondering, “why Varieties of English?” In certain part of our society, many misunderstood about the status of English language itself. They said that learning English is not as important as learning Arabic. Some said that one tends to be influenced by the negative cultures of the Westerns once he learned English language. No doubt about the status of Arabic is very important in a Muslim’s life. However, Muslims are encouraged to learn other languages mainly the languages that are spoken by many, mostly the languages that can be understood and are used by many people around the world. Why? Because being a Muslim means that we are the Daie. We have responsibilities to propagate Islam around the world. And to do this, we need to communicate to them using the medium they can understand. We are the caliphs of Allah.

Lovely friends,

As Allah has said in the verse 13 surah al-Hujurat, He created us in many people and tribes so that we may know each other. He created many languages so that we may learn and use it wisely to propagate Islam. As an example, look at Imam Suhaib Webb, Yasmin Mogahed and many distinguished figures that used English to explain the beauty of Islam to people.

Our dear friends,

Just because some of the cultures in where English is spoken the most are not very pleasant cultures, it doesn’t mean that English itself is a bad language. Everything is based on our niyyah (intention). If we were to have a bad purpose or intention in doing something, then it is a bad act. Otherwise, if what we are going to do can benefit the Ummah, no matter how challenging it is, stays put and move forward. Do not feeling down just because people said we are just an English major, we will never give a great contribution to the society and such and such. Remember one thing, if language can bring us closer to Allah, then what is wrong with learning it. No matter how difficult and tough the journey is, surely He’ll make it easy for us.

Lastly,

Insya Allah, this is the beginning of our contribution to Ummah. To encourage the Ummah learning English with Islamic values, and hence they will understand our purposes and efforts in learning English language. May this small step be counted for all of us.

Until then, Assalamualaikum.