We live in an age where truth is routinely inverted — falsehood dressed as virtue, and virtue dismissed as falsehood. We obsess over figures of influence, mistaking eloquence for integrity and charisma for character. We form artificial affinities with those who affirm us, while distancing ourselves from those who challenge us. We seek company that feeds our egos, yet recoil from voices that speak uncomfortable truths.

For far too long, I have witnessed injustice and harm carried out by our own leaders — often under the guise of religiosity. We have seen the rise and fall of preachers, imāms, and public figures who abused power and betrayed trust. And yet, these moments fade from collective memory, only for the cycle to repeat: renewed praise, curated humility, swelling egos, and once again, the construction of a pedestal— just short of worship.

For many, confronting this reality evokes shock, anger, and disbelief — and an unavoidable question: Why? When those we admire falter, we sometimes begin to question our faith itself. This happens when we unconsciously tie the perfection of our deen to the fallibility of individuals, struggling to reconcile beautiful words with reprehensible actions.

Know this: our deen remains untouched. It is perfect, rooted in truth, guidance, and protection. It was never meant to be embodied by personalities, but anchored in principle. God is TRUTH. Our Messenger ﷺ is TRUTH. And the message he brought is TRUTH.