Reviving mosques as community centres: An important duty for education and economic empowerment

By Salman Mohammad Khan

Jama Masjid (Delhi): In the Indian subcontinent, mosques once formed the heart of vibrant community life. They were more than places for prayer, serving as meeting points for social interaction, learning, and even financial assistance. These mosques acted as pillars of support, offering guidance, conflict resolution, and ways to uplift the community. Sadly, over the years, this broad role has faded. Many mosques today are limited to religious services and daily prayers only. But with Muslims facing modern socio-economic struggles, there’s an urgent need to bring mosques back as centres for education, job training, career support, and business guidance, unlocking the community’s true potential.

The shrinking role of mosques began after the Revolt of 1857, a major turning point in Indian history. Muslim scholars and leaders had been key figures in opposing British rule, with mosques often serving as hubs for these activities. In retaliation, the British cracked down on Muslim communities, shutting down mosques and targeting scholars. To avoid further persecution, Islamic leaders chose to separate religious teachings from modern studies. Institutions like Darul Uloom Deoband and others were founded to focus on preserving Islamic education and identity. At the time, subjects like Science and English were treated with suspicion, viewed as instruments of colonial control. This educational divide was never intended to be permanent but rather a necessary reaction to colonial pressure.

Today, the old reasons for this separation no longer exist. While religious education remains crucial, it’s equally important for Muslims to embrace modern, practical knowledge. Muslim communities are realizing that a well-rounded set of skills—both spiritual and worldly—is necessary to address today’s challenges. The well-known Muslim thinker, Said Nursi, emphasized that scientific and practical knowledge is a communal duty (Fard al-Kifaya), just as vital as spiritual education. Ignoring secular knowledge now holds Muslim youth back from making meaningful contributions and achieving economic success.

In our rapidly changing world, communities that lack access to modern education and economic opportunities risk being left behind. Muslims need a strong foundation in education and economic empowerment to participate fully in social, political, and economic activities. Economic independence leads to community influence and social stability. To have a voice and make a difference, a community must first ensure that its members are self-sufficient and can contribute to society.

Revitalizing mosques as places for empowerment and skill-building could change lives. Imagine mosques offering not just prayers but also lessons in modern skills, like computer training, language classes, and career workshops. This vision could bridge education and job gaps for young Muslims. Programs could cover basic coding, data analysis, or teach English, giving youth a competitive edge. Vocational training in trades like carpentry, mechanics, or even business skills could prepare them to start their own ventures or find stable careers. Career counselling by local experts could further guide youth in making informed career choices.

This idea isn’t as far-fetched as it may seem. Historically, mosques did much more than host prayers. Reducing their role to religious services alone ignores the broader responsibilities rooted in Islamic tradition. Mosque committees, which hold considerable influence, should step up to meet community needs. They should work to enhance both the spiritual and material well-being of people.

Transforming mosques into places where people can learn and grow would build unity and inspire purpose. Bringing people from different backgrounds together creates a supportive atmosphere, where youth can develop confidence and ambition. Economic strength is a crucial first step for Muslims to make a meaningful impact in social and political arenas. By revitalizing mosques as centres of social and economic growth, communities can better live out Islamic values of self-improvement, helping others, and shared responsibility.

A strong community adds value to the world around it. For Muslims, having a foundation of education and economic power is key to overcoming cycles of disadvantage and achieving stability. Rather than seeing worldly education and religious education as opposites, they should be viewed as complementary. Practical skills and financial independence are part of a well-balanced life that Islam encourages. Bringing back mosques as places of comprehensive learning would reconnect Muslims to a rich tradition of knowledge, helping them thrive in today’s fast-paced world.

It’s time for community leaders, mosque boards, and members to turn this vision into reality. With knowledge unlocking so many opportunities, empowering Muslims with education and vocational skills would uplift entire communities. Making mosques places for socio-economic growth would honour their historical role and lay the groundwork for a brighter, more self-reliant future for Muslims across India and beyond.

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Writer Salman Mohammad Khan is an Indian born Chartered Certified Accountant based in Dublin Ireland