Al-Hidayah Australia 2026 – Day 1: Prof. Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri Highlights the Transformative Power of Faith in Allah

Commenced with an inspiring keynote address by Prof. Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri, President of Minhaj-ul-Quran International. Addressing a packed gathering of men, women, youth, and children from across Australia, he spoke on the profound theme of "Faith in Allah", explaining how true faith transforms every dimension of human life. Participants listened with great attention and enthusiasm as he presented the timeless teachings of Islam in a manner that resonated with contemporary challenges, particularly those faced by young Muslims living in the West.

At the outset of his address, Dr. Hussain Qadri explained that faith (īmān) is far more than a verbal declaration or an intellectual belief. Rather, it is a living consciousness that shapes a believer's worldview, character, priorities, and actions. He stated that when an individual develops complete trust in Allah Almighty, life acquires a clear purpose, hope replaces despair, confidence overcomes fear, and the pursuit of Allah's pleasure becomes the central objective of one's existence.

He further elaborated that sincere faith brings inner peace, spiritual stability, and moral strength. A believer whose heart is firmly connected to Allah remains patient during trials, grateful in times of ease, steadfast in moments of uncertainty, and principled in every decision. Such faith nurtures a balanced personality that combines devotion to Allah with compassion for humanity, inspiring individuals to serve society with integrity, sincerity, and excellence.

Speaking on the intellectual dimensions of faith, Dr. Hussain Qadri observed that questions and doubts are a natural part of the human experience. He explained that sincere questioning is not a weakness of faith but an important step towards understanding. The real danger, he noted, lies not in asking questions but in ignoring or suppressing them. When approached with honesty, humility, and a genuine desire to discover the truth, doubts can become the means of strengthening conviction and deepening one's relationship with Allah.

Addressing the younger generation in particular, he encouraged them to pursue knowledge, engage with the Qur'an and the Sunnah, and seek authentic scholarship capable of addressing the intellectual and spiritual challenges of the modern world. He urged them to cultivate strong faith through reflection, learning, and righteous action so that they may become confident ambassadors of Islam, guided by wisdom, compassion, and unwavering conviction.

Throughout the lecture, Dr. Hussain Qadri emphasised that faith is the foundation of a meaningful life and the source of true success in this world and the Hereafter. He reminded participants that genuine belief illuminates the heart, strengthens resolve, refines character, and enables a person to navigate life's challenges with hope and certainty.

Concluding his keynote address, Dr. Hussain Qadri prayed that Allah Almighty bless the Ummah with steadfast faith, sound understanding, sincerity in worship, and the ability to live according to His divine guidance. The audience responded with heartfelt Āmīn, bringing the opening session of Al-Hidayah Australia 2026 to a spiritually uplifting conclusion that set the tone for the remainder of the retreat.