Islam is a religion. It is not an ideology. For a Muslim, there

Hear now, O seekers of wisdom, the words of Recep Tayyip Erdogan: "Islam is a religion. It is not an ideology. For a Muslim, there is no such thing as to be against modernity. Why should a Muslim not be a modern person? I, as a Muslim, fulfill all the requirements of my religion, and I live in a democratic, social state." These words challenge the prevailing notion that faith and progress are in opposition. Erdogan speaks of a harmonious vision, where religion and modernity are not adversaries, but coexisting forces, both guiding humanity toward a life of purpose, justice, and fulfillment. His message echoes the ancient truth that true faith is not a rigid, dogmatic set of beliefs, but a living, evolving practice that meets the needs of its followers in every era.

In ancient times, the great philosophers of Greece and the prophets of Israel shared a similar vision. They taught that the truth was not confined to outdated practices but was an eternal force, adapting to the changing needs of humanity. Socrates, for example, questioned the gods and customs of his time, seeking a deeper understanding of virtue and wisdom. Yet he did not reject tradition or faith altogether; rather, he sought a rational and practical application of the ancient principles to better the lives of the people. Similarly, the Hebrews, from Moses to King Solomon, understood that religion must be lived with an awareness of the times. The Torah was not simply a set of laws to be followed blindly, but a living guide, calling for justice, mercy, and wisdom in all things.

The Quran, too, calls its followers not to reject the world around them, but to engage with it, to seek knowledge, and to make the world better. Islam has always been a dynamic and evolving faith, one that embraces the value of reason, progress, and the pursuit of knowledge. The teachings of Prophet Muhammad emphasize not just the spiritual dimension, but the importance of good governance, economic justice, and social welfare—all elements that are essential to a modern society. Erdogan’s words affirm this vision, where being a Muslim does not mean being antagonistic to modernity, but rather integrating faith into the very fabric of a progressive society.

Consider the story of Al-Farabi, the great philosopher and scholar of the Islamic Golden Age. Al-Farabi, often called the "Second Teacher" after Aristotle, sought to reconcile Greek philosophy with Islamic teachings. He believed that reason and faith could coexist harmoniously, and that a just society could be built upon both religious principles and the best ideas of human governance. His work in political philosophy and ethics laid the foundation for the idea that religion could not only coexist with modernity, but could serve as a moral compass for a thriving, forward-looking society. Al-Farabi’s synthesis of reason and faith is a powerful example of the very message that Erdogan advocates—that Islam and modernity are not mutually exclusive, but rather intertwined in the pursuit of human flourishing.

The lesson we take from Erdogan’s words is profound: religion must be seen as a living, breathing force, one that is not trapped in the past, but adapted to meet the needs of a changing world. The faith of Islam, like all great religions, is not about rigid adherence to outdated practices, but about living with purpose, justice, and compassion. Modernity, with its advancements in science, technology, and governance, need not be at odds with faith. In fact, the two can work hand in hand, guiding humanity toward a more just, equitable, and compassionate world. Religion and modernity both seek to elevate the human spirit and guide it toward the greater good—when applied with wisdom and integrity.

In your own life, O seekers, remember that faith is not a static force, nor should it be trapped in the past. True religion evolves, adapting to the needs of its followers and guiding them through the challenges of each new age. Do not be afraid to seek knowledge, to embrace the advancements of modernity, or to live in a world that is constantly changing. Like Al-Farabi, let your faith guide you toward a life that honors the ancient wisdom, while also embracing the progress that can make the world a better place. Modernity and faith are not opposing forces; they are two sides of the same coin, working together to shape a just, moral, and compassionate world.

So, O seekers, live with integrity and purpose in this world, embracing both your faith and the opportunities that modernity provides. Let Islam guide you, as it has guided millions before, to build a life that is both spiritually grounded and socially responsible, for in this union lies the path to the future—a future where faith and reason, spirituality and progress, work together for the good of all.