The Al-Rushd Camp began with an inspiring lecture by Dr Ghazala Qadri, President of Minhaj-ul-Quran Women League International. She congratulated MWL and MSL France for organizing the camp and explained the meaning of Al-Rushd—guidance and righteousness. Dr Ghazala highlighted that while Allah sent Prophets for guidance, after the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), Allah now entrusts blessed individuals to continue this mission of guidance in a world full of fitna.

Dr Ghazala highlighted that seeking righteous companions is part of our fitra (natural disposition). Drawing from the Quran, she emphasized the significance of having good companions (rafeeq). She referenced Surah Al-Isra (17:71), where Allah mentions that on the Day of Judgement, every group will be called with their leader. This, she said, underscores the importance of choosing good company and being part of a righteous community.

Dr Ghazala outlined MQI’s primary mission as one of awakening minds and hearts to reform themselves and others (islah). She explained that MQI also works for the Tajdeed (revival) of Deen, adapting Islamic morals and teachings to address contemporary challenges.

She emphasized that just as Allah sends a Mujaddid in every era, MQI, under the leadership of Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri, strives to revive and renew Islamic teachings in a structured and organized way. MQI’s objectives, she said, are firmly rooted in the Quran and aim to strengthen our connection with Allah Almighty, the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him), and the Holy Quran.

Dr Ghazala noted that many women mistakenly believe they are exempt from dawah due to their household duties or careers. However, she referenced Surah At-Tawbah (9:71), which states that men and women are equally obligated to enjoin good and forbid evil. She also warned of the consequences of neglecting this duty, citing Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:79), which mentions Allah’s curse upon those who fail to stop others from wrongdoing. She concluded with a reminder from Surah Al-A’raf (7:165), which states that only those who engage in islah will be saved.

Dr Ghazala’s lecture served as a powerful call to action and reminded participants of the shared responsibility to reform themselves and their communities, awaken minds, and work towards the revival of Islamic teachings in today’s world.