Editorial*
TIME TRAVEL INSPIRATION

The other day I undertook a journey back in time a hundred years to another continent, fast forwarded through the decades and landed back in 2008, thoroughly inspired by Muslim aspiration and determination, Alhamdulillah! (Praise be to Allah).

My journey was not in a high-tech futuristic time machine or some sort of a space craft, but in one driven by curiosity, powered by intellect and transported on the wings of imagination.

The ignition was a sneak preview of a special commemoration publication of the centenary celebration of the Holland Park Masjid in Brisbane,  Australia, scheduled for 30th August 2008. This study has a South African connection as it was meticulously produced by an expatriate South African, Brother Mustafa Ally, previously the Dean of the Durban Technikon Business facility and now with the University of Southern Queensland, Australia.

His well-researched, carefully crafted and beautifully presented treatise with historical photographs, effectively transports one to the bygone era. One goes through the whole gamut of emotions from the sense of optimism of the early Afghan Muslims brought in to develop Australia´s transport through camel trains, to the frustration at the all-white migration policy suddenly imposed by the Government. One wants to cheer at the unstinting efforts by the pioneers which yield a rich canvas of achievement and assimilation of Muslims including those of European extraction and efforts in providing education and welfare activities. Finally there is the present day challenges of a post 9/11 era with threats to the institution.

During this month of Ramadaan as we spend more time in the Masjid than any other time throughout the year, let us also reconnect and be inspired by the efforts of our elders of the past. South Africa has over 300 years of colourful history with numerous institutions doing sterling work. Let us compete with the good work of our forbears by highlighting this heritage to our youth to inspire them to greater heights. Let us also ferret out the snippets of history within and around us that serve as markers on our journey through life.

Jazakumullah Khairan to Holland Park Masjid and Mustafa Ally for the ride and May Allah give them success in their service to the cause of Islam.

*A reproduction from the SANHA e-Bulletin No: 33 August 2008 :: Sha’abaan 1429; www.sanha.org.za

100 Years of History: The Holland Park Mosque 1908 — 2008 by Mustafa Ally can be purchased from the Holland Park Mosque bookshop.