In a remarkable display of simplicity and truth-seeking, Maulana Wahiduddin Khan demonstrated the importance of verification before accepting and spreading any information. When, in 1983, a rumor spread that Neil Armstrong had accepted Islam after hearing the call to prayer (adhan) in Cairo—claiming it was the same sound he heard on the moon—the entire Muslim community, including those skeptical of man's journey to the moon, rejoiced.
However, instead of blindly joining the celebration or analyzing the rumor, Maulana Wahiduddin Khan took a straightforward approach. He wrote directly to Neil Armstrong, asking if the event had indeed occurred. Armstrong replied with a signed letter, dismissing the rumors and expressing his gratitude to Maulana for seeking the truth.
This simple action by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan carries profound meaning and deep implications. It serves as a practical example of the Qur'anic command: *"O you who believe, if a sinful person comes to you with any news, verify it, lest you harm people in ignorance and afterward become regretful for what you have done"* (Qur'an 49:6). It also aligns with the teaching of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him: *"It is enough for a person to be considered a liar that he relays everything he hears"* (Muslim).
The blind acceptance and propagation of unverified information have led to much unrest and misguided actions. In places like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India, religious violence and mob actions often result from misinformation being spread without verification. If we follow Maulana Wahiduddin Khan's example and verify information before sharing it, many issues could be resolved at an early stage. This is a crucial lesson we can all learn from him.
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