Paigham Mustafa, presented an insightful talk at the Society for Advocates in Aberdeen on Tuesday,
May 30, 2023. The event marked the launch of his latest book, The Divine Blueprint, which delves into
the socio-economic system of Islam. Attended by a diverse audience representing various faiths and
backgrounds, Mustafa emphasised that his book is not about religion but rather a profound exploration of the universal principles of Islam.
In his address, Mustafa highlighted the prevailing negative perception of Islam perpetuated by events and media coverage over the past decades. He lamented the misconception that Islam and the Western world are inherently incompatible, lacking shared intellectual and cultural traditions, history, and values. Mustafa dispelled these misguided notions, unveiling the historical interconnectedness between Islam and Europe.
Contrary to popular belief, Mustafa revealed that Islamic civilisation, guided by the Quran’s universal
principles, played a pivotal role in shaping European civilisation. Unlike the Roman rulers, Muslim
rulers neither enforced conversions, committed genocide, nor promoted enslavement. It is worth
noting that Muslim-ruled lands accounted for a significant portion, approximately 60%, of the world’s
Christian population, and the Jewish community had its golden era under Muslim rule in Spain.
The author pointed out the unfortunate tendency to appropriate the accomplishments of past civilisations while neglecting their overall contributions. Islam has suffered a similar fate, with its rich
legacy often relegated to the annals of history. However, Mustafa proposed an Islamic Renaissance
on the horizon, drawing inspiration from the cultures and civilisations that preceded it. He emphasised the profound impact of Muslims guided by the Quran, who made remarkable contributions to
European culture and civilisation.
Mustafa shed light on the decline of Islam, which he attributed to the Ottoman Empire’s rejection
of the printing press in 1436. This decision, influenced by religious leaders, stifled education and advancement, hampering progress within the Muslim world. Despite these setbacks, the enduring
academic legacy of the Arabic language serves as a reminder of its historical importance and lasting
impact on global knowledge.
The author highlighted that the decline of Islam began with a shift away from the Quran as the primary source of motivation, leading to a transformation of dynamic conviction into mere rituals and
traditions. Mustafa emphasised that contemporary Muslims must reorient themselves towards the
Quran, acknowledging the divergence from its true teachings as the reason for their current plight.
Islam, he stressed, is not confined to a specific region but rather holds universal significance, intended to unite humanity.
Mustafa expounded on the Quran’s pivotal role in providing a comprehensive framework for a social
and economic system that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. He identified inclusivity, equity, and progressiveness as core values essential for individual development and societal peace
and security. Notably, Mustafa’s exposition of the Quran’s values in The Divine Blueprint offers an
accurate portrayal rooted in the consistent application of language rules, distinguishing it from traditional translations that do not have this essential feature.
The Divine Blueprint serves three key purposes, according to Mustafa. First, it aims to present Islam
in the pristine light of the Quran, shedding misconceptions surrounding Islam,. Second, it counters
critics’ negative narratives by providing a comprehensive and accurate understanding of Islam. Lastly, it dispels myths and fabrications that have clouded the perception of Islam.
In conclusion, Mustafa highlighted the imperative of a strong moral conviction pervading society for
peace and security to prevail. He emphasised that the Quran provides universal values necessary for
this transformative process, fostering integrity and inclusivity.
The Divine Blueprint is for readers seeking a profound and accurate portrayal of Islam based on the
Quran’s teachings.