United Kingdom-Islamic Mission
Overview
The United Kingdom-Islamic Mission (UKIM) was established in 1962 to promote missionary work and support the Muslim community in Britain. The organization focuses on strengthening religious knowledge among immigrants of a Muslim background and their children through various educational and community initiatives.
Etymology and Translations
Etymology:
- Islamic: Relating to Islam.
- Mission: An organization dedicated to a specific purpose, typically religious or charitable work.
Translations:
- Arabic: بعثة المملكة المتحدة-الإسلامية (Baʿthāt al-Mamlakah al-Muttaḥidah-al-Islāmīyah)
- Turkish: Birleşik Krallık-İslami Misyonu
Mission and Activities
Educational Initiatives
UKIM organizes lectures, classes, and short courses focused on the Quran and the fundamental teachings and practices of Islam.
- Children’s Education: The organization offers Quranic and Islamic teachings classes specifically designed for the children of Muslim families.
- Adult Education: UKIM provides regular lectures and structured courses in Islamic studies for adults to bolster their religious knowledge and practice.
Community Support
The organization aids the well-being of the Muslim community through various activities and services.
- Training Camps: These camps are organized for youth to deepen their understanding of Islam and engage in positive community activities.
- Pastoral Visits: UKIM’s local branches conduct pastoral visits to prisons, offering moral support and religious guidance to Muslim inmates.
- Legal Advice: Since the 1980s, UKIM has been offering legal advice to the Muslim community.
Social Services
In 1981, UKIM established a marriage bureau designed to help individuals find suitable partners within the Muslim community. This initiative has helped strengthen Muslim family units by supporting compatibility and culturally appropriate unions.
Partnerships and Influences
UKIM collaborates closely with the Islamic Foundation, and its ethos and projects are significantly influenced by Jamaat-i Islami, a prominent Islamic movement originating from Pakistan.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “A History of Islamic Societies” by Ira M. Lapidus: Provides a comprehensive overview of Islamic societies and their history, useful for understanding the context in which organizations like UKIM operate.
- “Islam: A Very Short Introduction” by Malise Ruthven: Offers a succinct introduction to Islam, suitable for those looking to understand the basic principles underpinning UKIM’s mission.
- “The Vision of Islam” by Sachiko Murata and William Chittick: Discusses the spiritual and philosophical dimensions of Islamic teachings similar to those propagated by UKIM.
Key Takeaways
- UKIM plays a crucial role in educating and supporting the Muslim community in the UK by providing religious education, legal advice, and social services.
- The organization dates back to 1962 and carries historical significance in the landscape of Islamic missionary work in Britain.
- Close ties with the Islamic Foundation and ideological influences from Jamaat-i Islami underline its foundational and operational principles.
Conclusion
The United Kingdom-Islamic Mission stands out as an essential entity promoting Islamic values and supporting the Muslim populace in Britain. Its long-standing presence, educational initiatives, and community services underscore its instrumental role in the growth and empowerment of Muslim immigrants and their descendants.
