Aashura 2026: Standing for Truth, Justice and Compassion in Challenging Times

Compassion Beyond Borders

As we continue reflecting on the lessons of Ashura, we turn to another important theme that speaks directly to the challenges facing South Africa today: Compassion Beyond Borders.

One of the beautiful lessons associated with Ashura is that Allah’s mercy is not limited by race, nationality, language or social status. The story of Nabi Musa (AS) reminds us that Allah hears the cries of the oppressed, responds to those in difficulty and shows mercy to those who place their trust in Him.

This lesson is particularly important in a world where people are increasingly divided by differences. Across the globe, and even here in South Africa, we see tensions arising because of nationality, ethnicity, religion and culture. At times, these divisions lead to suspicion, hostility and even violence.

This raises an important question:

Does our compassion end where someone’s nationality begins?

For Muslims, the answer should be clear.

Islam teaches us that every human being has dignity. Before we see someone’s passport, language or nationality, we should first recognise their humanity. Every person is someone’s parent, child, brother, sister or friend. Every person experiences hopes, fears, struggles and dreams.

When people leave their homes in search of safety, opportunity or a better future, they often face enormous hardships. They may be separated from loved ones, struggle to find work, or face discrimination and rejection. Whether we agree or disagree with immigration policies, we should never lose sight of the humanity of those involved.

Compassion does not require us to ignore challenges.

South Africans have legitimate concerns about unemployment, poverty, crime and access to resources. These issues affect millions of people every day. But compassion reminds us that solving our problems should never come at the expense of another person’s dignity.

When fear replaces compassion, communities become divided.

When compassion replaces fear, communities become stronger.

One of the defining characteristics of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was mercy. He taught kindness to neighbours, care for the vulnerable and concern for those who were struggling. Significantly, these teachings were not limited to people of one tribe, one race or one nationality. Mercy was a principle that extended to all people.

This is a lesson that South Africa needs today.

Recent tensions involving migrant communities have caused fear, displaced families and disrupted livelihoods. Many people now live with uncertainty about their safety and future. While governments must address policy issues and enforce laws, ordinary citizens also have a role to play in shaping the character of society.

We can choose whether our communities are known for hostility or hospitality.

We can choose whether our words build bridges or create barriers.

We can choose whether we respond to difference with suspicion or understanding.

This is where the South African principle of Ubuntu aligns beautifully with Islamic teachings.

Ubuntu teaches us that our humanity is interconnected. We are stronger when we recognise the dignity of others. We thrive when we support one another. A society built on compassion is more resilient than a society built on fear.

Compassion is not weakness.

Compassion does not mean ignoring wrongdoing.

Compassion does not mean abandoning justice.

Rather, compassion ensures that even when addressing difficult issues, we do so with fairness, respect and humanity.

As we commemorate Ashura, let us remember that Allah’s mercy is vast and that believers are encouraged to reflect that mercy in their dealings with others. Let us strive to be people who uplift rather than divide, who assist rather than exclude, and who seek understanding rather than conflict.

Perhaps the question Ashura asks us today is this:

If Allah’s mercy extends beyond borders, should our compassion not do the same?

The future of South Africa will not be built through fear, suspicion or division. It will be built through justice, compassion and a shared commitment to the dignity of every human being.

That is a lesson worth reflecting on this Ashura.