October 7, One Year On
Navigating Uncertainty with Faith, Support and Solidarity
October 7, 2023, marked a significant and catastrophic incident that intensified the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine. This date is often trumpeted as a turning point, escalating tensions and violence that have resulted in increased suffering and loss of life. In reality, the events of that day are a continuation of the Nakba1, which began in 1948 with the forceful displacement of thousands of Palestinians during the establishment of Israel.
The additional horrors that unfolded after October 7 spiralled into a catastrophic humanitarian crisis of unprecedented proportions, leaving countless lives shattered and families torn apart. This grim anniversary is a stark reminder of the horrific human toll of one party’s unrestrained violence and its callous indifference to the sanctity of human life.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has been clear, stating that Israel's military actions amount to plausible genocide2. Palestinians and their land, particularly in the Gaza Strip, have suffered unimaginable devastation, with Israel deliberately targeting residential areas, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions in clear violation of international law.
The United Nations (UN) General Assembly on 18 September 2024 voted overwhelmingly on a resolution that demands Israel “brings to an end without delay its unlawful presence” in the Occupied Palestinian Territory and called upon all UN Member States to comply with obligations under international law. Speaking to the UN Security Council recently, António Guterres said it was high time to stop what he called the ‘deadly cycle of tit-for-tat violence’ in the Middle East as the aggression extends beyond the borders of Israel and Palestine to southern Lebanon3.
As of 29 September 2024, Palestinian health authorities reported a staggering 41,595 Palestinians killed in Gaza - a figure approximately ten times higher than the total losses in all previous Gaza conflicts since 2008. Children represent a significant portion of the fatalities due to these indiscriminate and senseless attacks on civilians4.
The occupied West Bank, Palestine, is also not spared from Israel’s military operation. In the past year, violence and raids have spiked significantly, causing more than 700 innocent Palestinian deaths by Israeli forces5. This escalation is part of a decades-long occupation during which the Israeli government has not only approved and funded the expansion of illegal settlements but also enabled settler violence against Palestinians, even arming settlers in the process.
Unfortunately, this ongoing catastrophe continues without any signs of a ceasefire, leaving a significant blow to people of conscience globally despite international calls for restraint and diplomatic resolutions. It demands urgent attention and accountability for the atrocities committed against the Palestinian people, calling for a collective response that prioritises justice, human rights, and the restoration of dignity for those who have suffered for far too long
In light of these atrocities, how do we, as Singapore Muslims, navigate this dark chapter in human history? How can faith guide us when justice appears bleak and oppression persists?
Read: Our Response in Crisis will Demonstrate Our Core Values a Muslims
Upholding Patience and Faith
Over the past year, we have witnessed both the devastating consequences of violence and inspiring acts of compassion and resilience. Diverse communities have come together to support and show solidarity towards those in dire conditions, transcending boundaries and demonstrating the shared humanity that unites us all. This crisis does not define humanity, but it is the collective will to pursue peace and goodness through peaceful means that truly reflects our shared values. This would not be possible without patience amid tribulations.
In times of such severe hardship, the Quran emphasises the importance of patience (sabr) and steadfastness in faith. However, it's crucial to understand that this call for patience is not a call for passive acceptance of injustice or suffering. Allah s.w.t. says in the Quran:
وَلَنَبْلُوَنَّكُم بِشَىْءٍ مِّنَ ٱلْخَوْفِ وَٱلْجُوعِ وَنَقْصٍ مِّنَ ٱلْأَمْوَٰلِ وَٱلْأَنفُسِ وَٱلثَّمَرَٰتِ ۗ وَبَشِّرِ ٱلصَّـٰبِرِينَ. ٱلَّذِينَ إِذَآ أَصَـٰبَتْهُم مُّصِيبَةٌ قَالُوٓا۟ إِنَّا لِلَّهِ وَإِنَّآ إِلَيْهِ رَٰجِعُونَ. أُو۟لَـٰٓئِكَ عَلَيْهِمْ صَلَوَٰتٌ مِّن رَّبِّهِمْ وَرَحْمَةٌ ۖ وَأُو۟لَـٰٓئِكَ هُمُ ٱلْمُهْتَدُونَ
“We will certainly test you with a touch of fear and famine and loss of property, life, and crops. Give good news to those who patiently endure—who say, when struck by a disaster, ‘Surely to Allah we belong and to Him we will (all) return.’ They are the ones who will receive Allah’s blessings and mercy. And it is they who are (rightly) guided.’”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:155-157)
This verse acknowledges the reality of suffering and loss while offering a framework for endurance. It's not about finding a silver lining in tragedy, but about maintaining one's moral compass and faith in the face of adversity.
Read: Quranic Verses About Patience
The Palestinians have embodied this patience amidst unimaginable tribulations. We've heard countless heart-wrenching stories, a father losing his wife and newborn twins while collecting their birth certificates, a journalist mourning the loss of multiple family members, children orphaned, and parents grieving their innocent children. These are not mere statistics but profound human tragedies that are not abated by easy consolation.
Yet, in the face of these horrors, many Palestinians continue to adapt to their uninhabitable conditions, remaining resilient and dignified in their struggle to survive. This is not a romanticisation of their suffering, but an acknowledgement of their strength in the face of overwhelming odds.
Even when we cannot see the light at the end of the tunnel, there is surely hope and a good ending for those who held on to their faith in Allah s.w.t.
قُل لَّن يُصِيبَنَآ إِلَّا مَا كَتَبَ ٱللَّهُ لَنَا هُوَ مَوْلَىٰنَا ۚ وَعَلَى ٱللَّهِ فَلْيَتَوَكَّلِ ٱلْمُؤْمِنُونَ
“Say, ‘Nothing will ever befall us except what Allah has destined for us. He is our Protector.” So in Allah let the believers put their trust.’”
(Surah At-Tawbah, 9:51)
Despite the overwhelming scale of this crisis, persecution and atrocities are not new in human history. The early Muslim community endured three harrowing years of oppression under the Quraysh of Makkah, facing isolation, starvation and torture.
Israel’s ongoing blockade of Gaza, cutting off vital aid and supplies, mirrors this historical suffering. Just as Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. and his companions were forced into a valley, deliberately cut off from the outside world, Gaza today faces the same cruel reality. Reflecting on this chapter of the Sirah (biography of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.) offers powerful lessons in resilience and patience against oppression.
While we might not be able to physically help others who are suffering, we can still perform one of the simplest forms of ibadah (worship), which is making dua (supplication) for the vulnerable in hopes that Allah s.w.t. grants them relief, peace and security. Even when it seems our dua has not been answered yet, we must not let that dampen our faith and efforts. Allah s.w.t. reminds us in the Quran:6
وَٱسْتَعِينُوا۟ بِٱلصَّبْرِ وَٱلصَّلَوٰةِ ۚ وَإِنَّهَا لَكَبِيرَةٌ إِلَّا عَلَى ٱلْخَـٰشِعِينَ
“And seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, it is a burden except for the humble—”
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:45)
In these challenging times, let us draw strength from our faith without minimising the reality of suffering. Let us continue to stand in solidarity with those facing oppression, raise our voices against injustice, and work tirelessly for a world where such crises are not tolerated. Our patience and faith should fuel our commitment to action, not replace it.
Read: Duas for Palestine and Gaza in English with Transliteration and Translation
Our Muslim community in Singapore has shown incredible support by consistently performing the Solat Hajat prayer. Since the crisis intensified last year, many of our local mosques, in collaboration with religious institutions such as the Office of the Mufti, and Pergas, have collectively organised Solat Hajat sessions to lead the prayers. Our community members come together in congregation time and again, offering heartfelt prayers for those affected by this depressing plight.
Solat Hajat prayer performed at Masjid Sultan. Led by the President of Pergas, Ustaz Mizi Wahid and attended by Mufti Dr Nazirudin Nasir, Chief Executive of Muis, Kadir Maideen and other community leaders.
Solat Hajat is a sunnah prayer that can be performed both in congregation or individually. Even if our circumstances does not allow us to attend these meaningful sessions at mosque, we can perform it by ourselves at home, especially in the blessed vigil hours.
If you’re unsure of how to perform it, you may read through the step-by-step guide on Muslim.Sg.
Let us continue to offer supplication and Solat Hajat for the victims, and pray for peace and stability to return swiftly to the lives of those affected by the escalation of the crisis.
Outpouring of Community Responses and Support
Singaporeans have once again demonstrated their extraordinary compassion and unity in the face of a global humanitarian crisis. Their response to the situation in Gaza has been nothing short of remarkable, showcasing the true spirit of our nation.
Through the Rahmatan Lil Alamin Foundation (RLAF), Singaporeans from all walks of life have come together to make a significant impact. In less than a month, they raised an impressive S$8.1 million to support the people of Gaza. This effort is part of a long-standing tradition of giving, building on many previous campaigns, such as their 2021 initiative that raised nearly S$4.5 million for humanitarian relief in Palestine.
What truly sets Singaporeans apart is their consistent willingness to help those in need, regardless of borders or backgrounds. Over the years, they have raised millions through organisations such as RLAF to aid people facing crises worldwide. This unwavering commitment to global humanitarian causes reflects the core values that define Singapore as a nation - inclusivity, empathy, and a shared sense of responsibility for the well-being of others.
RLAF has launched a third fundraising appeal from 18 September to 13 December 2024 to provide humanitarian aid for Gaza through several ways such as online donations and at local mosques. For more details on how and where to donate, visit here How to Donate to Gaza, Palestine in Singapore.
• If you are feeling helpless and unsure how to move forward, our asatizah (ARS-certified religious teachers) from the Asatizah Youth Network (AYN) have provided a guide to help you navigate the crisis.
• While we continue our efforts in this challenging period, let’s also take care of ourselves and each other to prevent burnout. This mental health guide by Muslim.Sg offers tips that can empower you to make a positive impact.
• During Ramadan, four of our asatizah from AYN went to Jordan on their own to bring humanitarian aid to refugees camped there. They shared their unique experiences of active compassion in a special Muslim.Sg feature: What Feeding Refugees During Ramadan Taught 4 Asatizah from Asatizah Youth Network (AYN).
Call for Solidarity: Humanity Matters
The path to peace will be long and challenging, but there are ways to ensure we achieve it. Building bridges and fostering dialogue within our own communities is essential to ensure better understanding and reduce misrepresentation of information. In recent days, we have seen efforts to spark conversations about peace, justice and coexistence.
These efforts are in no way to trivialise the sufferings and atrocities happening around the world today. Rather, they demonstrate the shared human capacity and desire to prevent escalation and achieve resolutions through peaceful means.
Commentary by Mufti
In a UN Security Council meeting, a Palestine UN Ambassador claimed that the current crisis in Gaza is the ‘most documented genocide in history’.7 Yet, public opinions diverge completely from one another. This polarising effect could be attributed to how the media and political leaders cover the issue.
Regardless of the varying perspectives, humanity must not depart from ethical conduct. In a commentary published by the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) on November 30, 2023, Mufti of Singapore, Dr Nazirudin Mohd Nasir, stressed the following points:
• Religious scripture should call for peace and reconciliation. Muslim leaders have repeatedly emphasised that extremist interpretations of Muslim scriptures are misguided. Biblical scholars have also criticised Netanyahu’s reading of the Amalek story. The scale of the crisis in Gaza calls for deep reflection and introspection within our faith, especially when these are fundamental values of the Abrahamic faiths. Even Pope Francis remarked that the Israel-Hamas conflict had gone beyond war to terrorism.
• The dangers of using inflammatory religious rhetoric. For example, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu turned to the Old Testament when he launched the ground assault on Gaza. The exploitation of religious narratives could deepen the divide and mislead people into viewing the conflict as merely religiously motivated from both sides.
• Renounce opportunism beyond self-defence. Although Hamas’ attack on October 7 was brutal, Israel’s all-out retaliation without regard to innocent civilians suggests Israeli opportunism, which has driven much of the global outrage. The journey towards peace has to be founded on mutual trust and confidence.
• Coexistence can prevail. By presenting the religious harmony model in Singapore, Mufti Dr Nazirudin asserts the strength found in harmony and diversity. It was in this spirit that Mufti sent a letter to the Chief Rabbi in Singapore soon after the event to preserve good inter-religious relations here locally, even as events beyond our borders threaten to divide us.
Read: Dangers and Opportunities in the Role of Religion in the Israel-Hamas War
Mufti’s commentary offers timely intervention to mitigate the risk of escalating religious tensions both locally and globally. It emphasises building dialogue and compassion, thus encouraging community and religious leaders to focus on justice and common values rather than divisive narratives.
Conclusion
As we mark one year since the tragic events of October 7, 2023, our hearts remain heavy with the memory of lives lost and communities shattered. We must remember that even in the darkest chapters of our history, humanity is capable of great compassion and solidarity.
Through faith and divine intervention, this hopeful determination can stand against oppression and violence even when the future is uncertain. We turn to Allah s.w.t, the Most Merciful, for guidance and solace. As the Quran reminds us,
يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ ٱسْتَعِينُوا۟ بِٱلصَّبْرِ وَٱلصَّلَوٰةِ ۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ مَعَ ٱلصَّـٰبِرِينَ
“O believers! Seek help in patience and prayer. Allah is truly with those who are patient.“
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:153)
As we look to the future, we remain hopeful and have the courage to build bridges of understanding across divides. The road to peace is long and filled with challenges at every turn. Yet, even the smallest acts of kindness, silent prayers and efforts to raise awareness can contribute to the right cause. At the end of the day, we leave the outcome to Allah s.w.t, the Best of Planners and the Sovereign of all creation. Let us hold on to our faith and shape a generation equipped with resilience and compassion to build a hopeful future for all.
References
1 The Nakba, meaning "catastrophe" in Arabic, refers to the mass displacement and dispossession of Palestinians that occurred during the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948. An estimated 700,000 Palestinians were forcibly expelled or fled from their homes, leading to a widespread humanitarian crisis.
The Nakba is characterised by the loss of land, homes, and livelihoods, as well as the erasure of Palestinian identity and cultural heritage. It has had lasting impacts on Palestinian society, contributing to ongoing struggles for rights, recognition, and justice. The Nakba is commemorated annually on May 15, serving as a powerful symbol of Palestinian resilience and the quest for self-determination.
2 A top U.N. court says Gaza genocide is 'plausible' but does not order cease-fire. npr.org
3 Israel says ‘next phase’ of war with Hezbollah in Lebanon to ‘begin soon’. Aljazeera
4 UNRWA Situation Report #140 on the situation in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. UNRWA
5 Israeli air strike kills 18 people in occupied West Bank. BBC
6 In another verse, Allah s.w.t. described some people’s tendency to be hasty in seeing results from their dua while unknowing of His divine wisdom: “And humans (swiftly) pray for evil as they pray for good. For humankind is ever hasty.” (Surah Al-Isra’, 17:11)
7 Gaza is ‘most documented genocide in history,’ says Palestinian UN rep. Aljazeera
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