ISLAM IS… ISBN 0-9719158-0-6 Copyright ... - Islam Tomorrow

Organizational Structure of IslamIslam places great emphasis on the individual’s relationship withGod. The framework for this relationship follows the guidelinesset out by the Qur'an and Sunnah. This relationship, in turn, definesa Muslim’s relations with everyone, which brings about justice,organization, and social harmony.The Qur'an says,“Verily the most honorable of you withGod are the most pious among you.”[Qur'an 49:13]The wise, the pious, the knowledgeable in Islam, and the true inpractice are Islam’s natural leaders.Islam is not specific as to who can become a scholar. Anyonewith enough intelligence, study, and determination can strive tobecome a scholar, but not everyone will have the time and resourcesto do so. All people should strive to learn as much aspossible, while recognizing that God is The One, The Bestowerof knowledge and understanding.The scholar plays a critical role in Muslim society. He or she devotesyears to the study of Islam. Scholars cannot forgive sins,bless people, or change the law of God. They impart the informationthey have acquired by reference to the Qur'an and Sunnah;by the nobility of their character they inspire others to be better.Some have used the word ‘cleric’ to describe a Muslim scholar.This is a misnomer. There is no formal clergy, no ordaining body,and no hierarchy. The relationship between the individual andGod is a direct one. No one besides God can declare what is lawfuland what is sinful. No created being can bless another. Eachindividual is directly accountable to his or her Lord and Creator.43