On the anniversary of the martyrdom of its founding leader, Hüseyin Velioğlu, Hizbullah Jamaah leader Edip Gümüş issued a powerful message emphasizing the importance of resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to the Islamic values.

Velioğlu, who was martyred on January 17, 2000, is remembered as a steadfast and devoted leader who made immeasurable sacrifices for the cause of Islam and the unity of the Muslim Ummah.

In his heartfelt message, Gümüş honored the memory of Velioğlu and called upon members of the community to continue the legacy of perseverance, sacrifice, and dedication established by their late leader.

Commemorating a Life of Dedication

Edip Gümüş opened his address with a Qur'anic verse underscoring the role of Muslims as a "moderate Ummah" entrusted with the responsibility of being witnesses to humanity. He reflected on Velioğlu’s life, describing him as a guide who dedicated his existence entirely to serving Allah and the betterment of the Islamic community.

“On this anniversary of his martyrdom, we remember him with deep longing and reverence,” Gümüş remarked. He also acknowledged the many other members of Hizbullah Jamaah who followed Velioğlu’s example and attained martyrdom, asking Allah to accept their sacrifices and grant them the highest stations in Paradise. “I pray for steadfastness and faith for the families and loved ones left behind by these martyrs, so that they may remain committed to the cause with firm hearts.”

A Legacy Built on Resilience and Perseverance

Gümüş highlighted the unwavering resolve of Hizbullah Jamaah since its establishment. Despite facing relentless persecution, torture, and loss, the Jamaah has remained steadfast in its mission and principles. “Our Jamaah has faced countless challenges,” he stated, recounting how its members were subjected to violent attacks, ostracization, and systemic oppression. He noted that the organization, even in its infancy and lacking material preparation, resisted these attacks without compromising its principles.

He shared harrowing accounts of suffering endured by the Jamaah’s members:

-Families were torn apart as parents and children were imprisoned or forced into exile.

-Women were targeted for adhering to Islamic dress codes, particularly the chador.

-Members teaching the Qur’an and guiding communities faced brutal attacks.

-Homes were destroyed, and access to basic necessities was restricted through embargoes.

Yet, Gümüş emphasized, the Jamaah’s members maintained their faith and commitment, preserving honor and decency amid relentless persecution. “The Jamaah has upheld its stability and direction despite immense losses, heavy torture, and enormous pressures,” he declared. “This steadfastness has been achieved through the sincerity of its members and the grace of Allah.”

A Call to the New Generation

Gümüş dedicated a significant portion of his message to the youth, urging them to draw inspiration from the sacrifices of past generations and commit themselves to advancing the mission with renewed energy. He acknowledged the accomplishments of young Muslims in various fields but stressed the need for further efforts.

“The future is entrusted to you,” Gümüş said, emphasizing the responsibility of the younger generation to protect and propagate Islamic values. He reminded them of the trials they face, from materialism to moral decay, and the importance of being well-equipped, both spiritually and intellectually, to counter these challenges.

“Read the Qur’an and Sunnah, live by them, and lead by example through your attire, speech, attitudes, and behaviors,” he advised. “Be individuals whose lives inspire others, and let those who approach you with hostility find life and truth within you.”

Guidance for Scholars and Leaders

Turning his attention to scholars and community leaders, Gümüş highlighted the immense responsibilities placed upon them by both Islamic teachings and the needs of the time. He stressed that their service should extend beyond formal duties and working hours, calling on them to dedicate themselves fully to guiding the community and preserving its spirituality.

“Being a scholar means reflecting on societal issues, producing solutions, and intervening wherever corruption and decay arise,” he explained. He encouraged them to establish learning circles, keep the doors of their homes and institutions open, and maintain strong relationships with the public. “When actions contrary to religion occur, your relationship with the community should empower you to intervene effectively.”

Challenges Facing the Ummah

Gümüş also addressed the broader challenges facing the Muslim world, including oppression, cultural assimilation, and moral collapse. He highlighted the plight of oppressed Muslims, particularly those imprisoned or forced into exile for their faith. “We cannot forget our brothers and sisters who are subjected to persecution solely for declaring ‘My Lord is Allah,’” he said. “We pray for their endurance and that their trials end in goodness.”

He warned of the dangers of cultural degradation, citing the normalization of vices such as drugs, gambling, and immorality even within Islamic societies. “It is unthinkable for us to remain bystanders to this negative trend,” Gümüş asserted, urging Muslims to take an active role in societal reform.

Importance of Family

Emphasizing the importance of family in societal reform, Gümüş called on Muslims to start their efforts at home. He encouraged parents to instill Islamic values in their children, raising them to be moral, faithful, and resilient individuals. “Teach your sons not to be captives of their desires and your daughters not to fall prey to immorality,” he said.

He also urged communities to simplify marriage processes and foster an understanding of its sanctity. “Let divorce be seen as a last resort after all efforts have been exhausted,” he advised, stressing the importance of raising individuals who will uphold family values and contribute to a virtuous society.

Unity and Collective Action

Gümüş highlighted the necessity of unity and collaboration within the Muslim community. He cautioned against internal divisions and emphasized that all efforts aimed at advancing the Islamic cause should be viewed as complementary. “Every association and foundation within this circle takes different steps toward the same goal,” he stated. “Despising one while favoring another is unworthy of a just and moderate Muslim.”

In conclusion, Gümüş reiterated the importance of perseverance and dedication in the face of challenges, urging Muslims to remain steadfast in their faith and committed to their responsibilities. He offered prayers for the community to witness the blessed month of Ramadan and emerge from it spiritually purified and renewed.

“May Allah grant us the strength and determination to continue our journey with unwavering faith and sincerity,” he said. “Let us honor the legacy of our martyrs and work tirelessly for the betterment of our Ummah.”

This detailed message from Edip Gümüş serves as both a tribute to Hüseyin Velioğlu and a comprehensive roadmap for the continued efforts of Hizbullah Jamaah and the Muslim community at large. It calls for unity, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to Islamic values in the face of ongoing challenges. (ILKHA)