About the Author:

Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi (1913–1999) was a leading Indian Islamic scholar, thinker, writer, preacher, reformer and a Muslim public intellectual known for his works on Islamic revival, including Islam and the World, and his leadership in Nadwatul Ulama.

In From the Depth of the Heart in America, Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi presents a collection of his speeches delivered during his 1977 visit to the United States and Canada at the invitation of the Muslim Students Association. Addressing audiences in major cities and prestigious universities, he spoke sometimes in Arabic and sometimes in Urdu, offering reflections on Islam and the challenges faced by Muslims in the West. His speeches emphasize sincere counsel to Muslim communities abroad. Viewing Western civilization through the lens of Islamic guidance, he critiques its superficial allure and highlights the spiritual depth Islam provides.

Part One: Western Civilization and American Way of Life

Discovery of America

Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi reflects on his journey through the United States and Canada, using Maulana Rumi’s verses to frame his observations. He likens his visit to a search for true humanity amidst the material and technological advancements of the West. While acknowledging America’s remarkable scientific and economic progress, he questions whether its people have attained true spiritual and moral greatness. Nadwi contrasts Western civilization’s pursuit of wealth and power with Islam’s vision of human excellence—one rooted in servitude to Allah, moral integrity, and selfless service to mankind. He invokes the words of an early Muslim envoy to Rustam of Persia, emphasizing Islam’s mission to liberate humanity from servitude to men and guide them toward the worship of Allah alone. The chapter serves as a critique of Western materialism and a call for Muslims to uphold their spiritual and moral responsibilities in the modern world.

Sheikh Nadwi critiques Western civilization for its materialistic focus and spiritual emptiness, highlighting how the Quran’s singular use of Noor (light) signifies the unity of divine guidance, while darkness appears in multiple forms. Drawing on Iqbal’s poetry, he describes the West as an "Ocean of Darkness" that, despite scientific and technological progress, remains devoid of spiritual direction. He argues that Christianity, as adopted in Europe, was incompatible with the region’s temperament, creating tension between religious doctrine and intellectual progress. Its emphasis on human sinfulness and rejection of worldly engagement led the West to abandon religion entirely, replacing it with materialism. While this shift brought technological advancements, it left society spiritually bankrupt, enslaved to machines, consumerism, and mechanical efficiency.

He cautions Muslims in the West against being intimidated by material success and urges them to preserve their Islamic identity, rejecting blind imitation. He sees them as heirs to Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him), responsible for guiding the West away from its modern idols—technological dominance and self-made ideologies. Rather Muslims should revive spiritual and moral consciousness in these societies. He expresses sorrow that no Muslim nation has effectively presented Islam as an alternative, leaving the West adrift in moral and spiritual uncertainty.

Sheikh Nadawi emphasize that Islam alone aligns with human nature and offers true fulfillment. Nadwi stresses the importance of faith, prayer, and moral discipline, cautioning that if Muslims fail to preserve their religious values and pass them on to future generations, their residence in the West becomes unjustifiable. He calls for the formation of a distinct Muslim community that embodies Islamic teachings, inspiring those around them to seek divine truth. If Muslims can maintain their religious integrity, their presence in the West can serve as a means of dawah and revival, but if they risk losing their faith, they must reconsider their stay.

The History of the World would have been Different Had America been Blessed with Islam

 Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi, in his speech at Harvard University, explores the paradox of America's immense material success and its spiritual deprivation. He acknowledges the nation's remarkable achievements in science, economy, and infrastructure, attributing them to the determination and ingenuity of its people. However, he argues that America's exclusive focus on material progress has left it spiritually unfulfilled. Had Islam been embraced in the West, the civilization would have combined material and moral dimensions, leading to a more balanced and meaningful existence. He emphasizes that Islam not only promotes intellectual and economic progress but also nurtures the human soul, offering a higher purpose beyond worldly gains.

Nadwi further critiques the adoption of Christianity in the West, particularly its concept of original sin, which he believes undermines human dignity by instilling a sense of inherent guilt. In contrast, he presents Islam as the most suitable faith for America, highlighting its doctrine of human purity at birth and its encouragement of self-reliance, moral responsibility, and intellectual pursuit. He envisions an alternative history where the United States, guided by Islamic principles, could have set an example of true human progress; one that integrates scientific advancement with spiritual enlightenment.

Nadwi further criticizes the historical opposition of the Church to knowledge and scientific progress, which led to Europe’s eventual rejection of religion in favor of materialism. He describes how the Church’s suppression of intellectual inquiry, exemplified by the persecution of figures like Bruno and Galileo, fueled resentment towards spiritual authority, leading the West to embrace secularism. This shift, while resulting in material advancements, has left the modern world spiritually bankrupt. He portrays Western civilization as having reached its peak in technological and scientific achievements yet suffering from inner turmoil, disillusionment, and moral decay.

He then turns to the role of Muslims in America, urging them to recognize their responsibility beyond economic and academic pursuits. He sees their presence as an opportunity to offer Islam as a solution to the West’s moral crisis, emphasizing that true progress lies in balancing material and spiritual values. He mourns past missed opportunities when Islam could have been introduced to Europe and America earlier but remains hopeful that Muslims in the West can bridge this gap. He calls for self-confidence in presenting Islam through conduct and faith, believing that only through the guidance of the Quran can the West find true fulfillment.

American Generosity is being Wasted: This Country has no Sincere Friends

Sheikh Nadwi, in his speech at the Islamic Centre of Washington, criticizes America's material success, arguing that despite its wealth and power, it lacks spiritual consciousness and sincerity. Drawing from the Quranic parable in Surah Al-Kahf, he likens America to the man with two gardens, blessed with abundance yet failing to acknowledge Allah as the source of all sustenance. This fosters materialism and a false sense of self-sufficiency. He also critiques America’s foreign policies, asserting that its global influence is driven by self-interest rather than genuine goodwill, leading to dependence and resentment rather than true gratitude.

Nadwi contrasts America’s secular materialism with the sincerity of the Prophets, who transformed societies through faith, truth, and universal brotherhood. He critiques Christianity’s historical shortcomings, arguing that it failed to provide moral guidance and balance, leaving a spiritual void in the West. He asserts that only Islam, with its comprehensive and just teachings, can offer true guidance. He urges Americans to recognize Allah’s blessings and use their resources for the betterment of humanity, warning that without faith, their civilization cannot sustain itself. Finally, he calls on Muslims to fulfill their duty of spreading Islam, emphasizing that true success lies in adherence to faith and guiding others toward the truth.

Part Two: Muslim Immigrants in America

The Place of a Muslim and His Message

Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi's speech at the United Nations in 1977 highlights the historical transformation of the early Muslim community, drawing a parallel between their struggles and the condition of modern Muslim nations. He recalls the Quranic encouragement given to the early Muslims, who, despite their poverty and weakness, eventually overcame powerful empires as Rome and Persia through faith. The Quran instilled in them a sense of self-worth and divine purpose, which powered them to become leaders of civilization rather than mere subjects of dominant powers. Nadwi uses this historical analogy to inspire contemporary Muslim nations, emphasizing that, despite their current political and economic weaknesses, they possess a rich heritage and a divine promise of strength if they hold firmly to their faith.

He urges Muslims, particularly those in the West, to take pride in their Islamic identity rather than seek validation from other civilizations. He warns against reliance on external support, advocating instead for a return to authentic Islamic values and self-reliance. The speech concludes with a reminder that true strength and honor come from faith and commitment to Islam, not from material wealth or political alliances. Citing the Quranic promise that Allah assists those who stand firm in His cause, Nadwi calls upon Muslims to rekindle their faith, restore their dignity, and reassert their moral and intellectual leadership in the world.

Beware of the Emergence of a European or American Islam

Sheikh Nadwi warns against the emergence of a European or American version of Islam that may dilute its essence due to geographical and cultural influences. He emphasizes that Islam is not just a set of rituals or doctrines but a comprehensive way of life that transforms an individual's character, beliefs, and actions. Unlike other religions, Islam has a distinct identity that requires an environment conducive to its practice. He stresses that while Islam’s spread in the West is promising, Muslims living there must be cautious to preserve its authenticity, as history has shown that detachment from Islamic civilization can lead to deviation. Islam, he argues, is deeply sensitive to external influences and cannot merely be learned from books—it needs a living Islamic society to thrive.

To maintain the purity of Islam, he underscores the necessity of strong Muslim communities where Islamic values are practiced collectively. He highlights the importance of seeking the company of righteous believers, as even Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was instructed to do so. Without an Islamic environment, he warns, there is a risk of Islam being reduced to a mere ideology rather than a transformative way of life. He urges Western Muslims to ensure that their societies reflect true Islamic principles in all aspects—spiritual, moral, and practical—so that Islam remains a guiding force rather than being reshaped by external cultural forces.

Responsibilities of Muslim Immigrants

Sheikh Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi, in his speech on the responsibilities of Muslim immigrants in Canada, underscores that the primary purpose of human existence is to worship Allah and live in accordance with His commands. He warns against confusing means with ends, as economic prosperity and worldly comfort should never take precedence over faith. The example of the Prophet’s migration emphasizes that Muslims should reside only in places where they can practice their faith freely. If they cannot, they should be willing to leave, even if it means abandoning their homeland, wealth, and familial ties. Migration should not be solely for material gain but for ensuring the preservation of faith, both for oneself and for future generations.

He acknowledges the presence of Muslims in North America but expresses deep concern about their ability to maintain their faith and Islamic identity in a secular environment. He stresses that if Muslim immigrants are engaged in preserving Islam, spreading its message, and creating a religious atmosphere for their children, their stay is justified and even considered an act of worship. However, he warns Muslims by citing distressing examples of Muslims buried with Christian rites due to negligence. He urges Muslim immigrants to take serious measures to safeguard their faith, educate their children, and establish strong religious communities.

Goodwill and Affection among those who Strive for Faith Cannot be Produced by Artificial Means

In his speech at the 15th Convention of the Muslim Students Association in the U.S. and Canada, Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi, emphasizes that genuine unity and affection among those striving for Islam cannot be artificially manufactured. He illustrates this point by highlighting the brotherhood between the Muhajirun and Ansar, which was not based on material or racial ties but on faith. The selfless sacrifices of the Ansar, who shared their homes and wealth, and the dignity of the Muhajirun, who sought to earn their livelihood instead of taking advantage of generosity, exemplify this deep spiritual bond. He reinforces this notion with incidents from the Prophet’s era, such as the unwavering commitment of Mus'ab bin Umair, who prioritized his faith over kinship, and the extraordinary selflessness of Muslim warriors during the Battle of Yarmuk.

To further illustrate the enduring power of faith-based unity, Nadwi recounts examples from Syed Ahmad Shaheed’s 19th-century Islamic revival movement. He describes the moral discipline among his Mujahideen, such as Molvi Abdul Wahab’s refusal to retaliate when pushed and the equitable justice upheld by Syed Ahmad himself. Even in later centuries, believers proved that true solidarity stems from faith, for if faith is deeply ingrained in the hearts, history will continue to witness such extraordinary examples of unity and selflessness.

To the Muslim Ladies

Abul Hasan Ali Nadwi’s speech to Muslim women in Chicago (1977) emphasizes Islam’s dignified view of women, rooted in the Quran’s assertion that both men and women originate from a single soul, highlighting their interdependence. He explains that marriage in Islam is not merely a social necessity but a sacred bond, elevated to an act of worship. The Prophet Muhammad’s exemplary treatment of his family illustrates the ideal Muslim household based on love, trust, and mutual respect. Nadwi critiques the Western family structure, describing its decline due to selfishness and the loss of family cohesion, urging Muslim women in America to embody Islamic values as living examples. He concludes by stressing that a stable, faith-based family system is not only essential for individual happiness but also a powerful means of dawah in the West.

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Protection of Faith must Take Precedence over Everything

Sheikh Nadwi’s speech in Chicago in 1977, concluding his journey in America and Canada, emphasized the paramount importance of preserving faith above all else. He urged Muslims in America to safeguard their Islamic identity, recognizing that worldly success should never come at the expense of religious commitment. He highlighted the grave danger of losing faith in the pursuit of material gain and warned against the self-complacency instilled by modern civilization. Using Quranic ayahs and prophetic hadiths, he reinforced the idea that maintaining faith in a foreign land surrounded by challenges holds immense spiritual merit. He advised Muslims to prioritize their religious well-being, even if it meant returning to their homelands to protect their faith. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of sincerity in one's actions, reminding the audience that deeds are judged by intentions, and true success lies in seeking Allah’s pleasure.

Additionally, Nadwi cautioned against dismissing the contributions of past Islamic scholars and reformers. He criticized the tendency of some individuals to judge historical figures without understanding the context of their struggles. He warned against an oversimplified view of Islamic history, where the significance of spiritual and moral reform is overlooked in favor of a purely political perspective. He encouraged Muslims to remain connected to their roots, regularly visiting their homelands or places of religious significance to recharge their faith. Ultimately, his message was a call for introspection, humility, and unwavering commitment to Islam in all circumstances.

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