THE IMPACT OF MIGRATION IN THE SEERAH ON CURRENT SOCIO-POLITICAL ISSUES

Abstract

Migration has remained at the core of human concern with its implications on social, political and economic organization of societies. With regard to the place of Islam, the biography (Seerah) of Prophet Muhammad (Yes PBUH) becomes relevant with regard to the issue of migration in looking at the Hijra (migration) from a social and economic perspective. This is a significant milestone in the history of Islam, as it was more than a strategy aimed at ensuring survival, but winning Muslims credibility in the eyes of others and establishing a comprehensive and pluralistic community. One of the world’s earliest written constitutions, the Constitution of Medina forms, adequate respect for religion and culture as well as assuring every Muslims, Jew, and pagan tribe of the ideal of protection and cooperation. This first document bears salient features of exclusivity, cultural interdependence and social justice that bears similar relevance to the issues of migration and even the refugee crisis that occur today. The lessons from the Seerah on migration are also of great proof value tackling the current socio-political scenarios of refugee crisis; integration; social justice; and economic emancipation. Nowadays, the migration picture is affected by civil wars, climate change, economic crisis forcing out tens of millions of people across the globe. The kindness which the residents of Medina extended to the field displaced Muhajirun by means of the Mufakat brotherhood system, which fostered a spirit of interdependence and shared obligations, is an example of what modern responses should be. Additionally, the Prophet's ability to bring together different groups into one society helps to understand how contemporary societies can deal with the challenges of multiculturalism and achieve peace and togetherness. The purpose of this paper is to examine the repercussions of migration as portrayed in the Seerah while making comparisons with the current migration crisis. In addressing of the subject, this paper studies the Prophet's leadership during the period of Hijrah, with a view to understanding how concepts of mercy, diversity and fairness can help contemporary societies in dealing with issues of migration. The implementation of these eternal teachings can respond to present day social and political challenges so that the migrants and refugees can maintain their dignities, as well as social stability in the host societies can enhance.

Keywords: Migration, Seerah, Hijrah, Prophet Muhammad, Refugees, Integration, Social Justice, Medina, Constitution of Medina, Humanitarian Response.