Islam — Introduction — A community is a social network where people share ideas, support one another, and assume collective responsibilities. Members of a community often regard each other as family, even when not related by blood. They uphold common values and work toward the welfare of all, embodying the essence of an ideal community.

This is why community members are considered neighbors, serving as support systems for one another. The Islamic principle of communal support underscores the importance of solidarity and shared responsibility. In the context of modern-day Nigeria, the harsh economic conditions under the present administration have placed immense strain on the people’s livelihood. The hustle and struggle to make ends meet have left many facing severe hardships—some quite literally “meeting their end” in the pursuit of survival. In times like these, solidarity and communal bonds are more crucial than ever.

For many, progression in life is no longer the focus; the daily struggle to feed oneself is now the goal. Thus, this article explores the significance of community from an Islamic perspective and Sense of Community Theory as proposed by David McMillan and David Chavis. This provides a general understanding of our duties towards the community, especially considering the current economic situations. It is a clarion call for every community member to ensure no one is left starving, especially for those who have what it takes to help. Islamic teachings remind us that “You and your community” are inseparable—when you eat, ensure your neighbors in the community eat as well. This does not only foster unity, but it also promotes love and peaceful society.

The Islamic Concept of Community

In Islam, the concept of community is known as Ummah, a collective of believers united by Shariah law, which forms the foundation of Islamic brotherhood. Thus, Muhammad Hashas emphasizes that the concept of community begins at home. He states that “the foundation of faith is the person,” but an isolated individual has limited relevance. Why would someone living alone on an island require morality or law in the first place? It is within the household that morals are tested, and conflicts are resolved. Family and friends are the most important aspects of the home, as it is through them that we learn the fundamentals of life, language, and religion. In essence, Islam grows first within the individual and the family. 

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Furthermore, the community serves as our extended home, where people of diverse backgrounds come together to help lift/remove one another’s burdens, celebrate each other’s successes, and support each other in times of need. In an ideal community, every effort is made to alleviate the hardships of others, especially the most vulnerable members. Thus, the Quran describes what community means for us:

We have made you, a just nation (community), that you be witnesses over mankind and the Messenger be a witness over you…  (Q:2143)

McMillan and Chavis’ Four Key Elements in Islam

Social psychologists, David McMillan and David Chavis in 1986, in their Sense of Community Theory, introduced four elements how Islam foster community through those elements. The elements are Membership, Influence, Integration and Fulfillment of Needs, and Shared Emotional Connection.

Membership:

Membership in any community involves five key attributes: boundaries, emotional safety, belonging, personal investment, and common symbols. Boundaries can be categorized into two: one that includes both Muslims and non-Muslims, and another for only Muslims, often called the Islamic community (Ummat al-Islamiyyah). In Nigeria, a diverse country of Muslims, Christians, and adherents of African Traditional Religion (ATR), we are all members of the larger Nigerian community. Emotional safety, which is built on shared values, is vital. Despite religious differences, Nigerians share a common desire for a functional system, and this transcends religious divisions. Unfortunately, political leaders often exploit our diversity, especially during elections, to divide us along ethnic and religious lines. The aftermath of the 2023 elections, characterized by tribalism and religious ethnocentrism, left citizens divided while politicians quickly moved on. For emotional safety, we must collectively reject tribalism and bigotry and promote unity, especially during difficult times. A sense of belonging is also essential. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) demonstrated this by ensuring that all companions, regardless of origin, felt included—be they Bilal from Ethiopia or Salman from Persia. Islam emphasizes that one’s worth is not based on race but on piety. Allah says: 

“O mankind! We created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you” (Qur’an 49:13). 

As Nigerians, we must transcend ethnic differences, seeing each other as equals, with the best among us being those who uphold our national values and fear Allah. Personal investment in the community—through acts of service and philanthropy—is crucial. Visiting the sick, feeding the poor, and supporting orphanages are all acts that Islam encourages. These strengthen the bonds between those who give and those who receive. In Nigeria, humanitarian organizations are playing an important role in fostering community service, which is commendable. However, in this turbulent time, these efforts should be intensified, ensuring that wealth redistribution is objective and fair. Allah says:

“And whatever you spend of good, it will be fully repaid to you, and you will not be wronged” (Qur’an 2:272).

Lastly, while Islam discourages excessive symbolism, certain acts still serve as common symbols for Muslims. The pilgrimage to Mecca and the practice of daily prayers are symbols that unite Muslims. Similarly, our national values as Nigerians serve as symbols that unify us. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: 

“The example of believers in their love, mercy, and compassion for each other is like that of a body. When any limb suffers, the whole body feels the pain” (Sahih Muslim 2580).

In a challenging time like ours, it is crucial for us to support one another and ease each other’s burdens. Those who are more fortunate should not oppress the less fortunate, for we are all brothers and sisters in this shared identity as members of our community.

Influence

Influence according to the Sense of Community Theory is concerned with the idea that when community members feel their voices and opinions positively impact society, and society, in turn, influences them by shaping their orientations and decisions, it fosters an environment where individuals contribute meaningfully and selflessly to their community. This reciprocal relationship benefits both individuals and society. In Islam, Muslims are obliged to contribute positively to society.

Actions that cause discord or harm are condemned because a destabilized society inevitably affects its members. This principle is why Islam opposes acts such as those committed by Boko Haram, banditry, kidnapping, serial killing, and highway robbery. Amidst this challenging economy in Nigeria, we need to foster a supportive environment for ourselves. We should reject being manipulated by politicians who view us as pawns for societal unrest, especially the youth. Engaging in such unrest signals a failure to make our voices heard constructively. Those who exploit us for their gain are driven by personal interests. To have our voices heard and effect positive change, we must reject societal and political unrest. A society in constant turmoil cannot provide positive returns. Just as a building cannot stand on a poor foundation, a peaceful and constructive environment is essential for mutual benefit. Islam advocates for a mutually beneficial relationship where we positively contribute to the community, and the community, in turn, positively impacts our lives. This is the essence of Islamic teaching and human values. We should not exacerbate our hardships in this turbulent economy by contributing to societal volatility. Allah says:

Evil has appeared on land and sea because of what the hands of men have earned, that Allah may make them taste a part of that which they have done, in order that they may return. (Q: 30:41)

Integration and fulfillment of needs 

This refers to the benefits one gains from joining a community. In Islam, being part of a community provides various forms of support—emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual. Muslims are encouraged to associate with like-minded individuals who foster growth in lawful ways and offer mutual support. The Islamic community values ensuring that no member, especially the vulnerable, is left unattended, creating an environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their struggles with others.

In Nigeria, amidst economic hardships, there is a valuable lesson in the Islamic approach to community.

We should seek out communities that foster growth and national pride, rather than those that breed negativity and distrust towards the country. During challenging times, it is crucial to align with righteous individuals who encourage good behavior and lawful means to overcome difficulties. Allah says:

“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves, your parents, or your relatives, whether one is rich or poor.”

(Qur’an 4:135)

Shared Emotional Connection 

This involves relating to a common history or experiences that bind individuals together. In Islam, reflecting on the struggles and sacrifices of early Muslims strengthens community bonds and fosters a sense of brotherhood. By learning about their dedication and the way they built a community based on Islamic principles, we can gain insights into how to navigate our own challenges.

Similarly, as Nigerians, we should draw inspiration from our historical figures such as Obafemi Awolowo, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Tafawa Balewa among others, using their stories to address current issues and work towards a better future. Sharing and reflecting on these historical experiences can help unite us, especially during times of hardship. Unity and empathy are crucial in these challenging times; by extending support to the vulnerable and working together selflessly, we can overcome the difficulties imposed by the current economic situation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the economic hardships affecting Nigerians are severe, particularly for the less privileged. Many struggle to afford necessities like food and primary health care while the education of the younger ones is threatened—some students from low-income families are considering dropping out of school. The rising inflation, ever-increasing fuel prices, and low wages exacerbate the situation, leaving many in a constant struggle for survival. While calling on the government to review its policies that seem anti-people government it is important for Nigerians to support one another, setting aside political differences to focus on mutual aid and community solidarity. By embracing the Islamic principles of community and applying the sense of community theory proposed by David McMillan and David Chavis, we can work towards improving our situation.

Mustapha Ridwan O. 

mustapharidwan16@gmail.com