Islam_in_Focus_text

not live just for itself and its own subjects. It has a wide
scope and an important mission in the international field. By
the order of Islam it has to endeavor for the prosperity and
advancement of its own citizens in every aspect of life, and
by the same order it should make valuable contributions to
humanity at large. This provides for friendly relations, in the
broadest sense of the word, with friendly people and states.
It enjoins the Islamic State to play a vital role in the interest
of humanity on the international level in education, econom-
ics, industry, politics, and so on. This role was initiated by
Muhammad himself and maintained by his followers
throughout the succeeding generations.
Before we conclude this chapter, it should be pointed out
that whatever is discussed here is based on the sound, genu-
ine and true principles of Islam as stated in the Qur'an and
the Traditions of Muhammad. This is Islam which Muham-
mad and his faithful followers practiced and exemplified in
the most excellent manner. It is not the Islam of any particu-
lar theologian or any particular jurist or ruler. Rather, it is Is-
lam, the writer believes, as it really is, and as it is meant to
be.
It should also be borne in mind that the Islamic system
of life is unique and different from all other systems and ide-
ologies. Whether one looks at it from a spiritual or moral, in-
tellectual or cultural, political or economic or any other point
of view, one can readily see that it is marked with distin-