In a world where Muslims are pressured to downplay their identity, hide their faith, and blend in with the crowd, this episode of The Deen Show tackles a critical question: are you “Mo” or are you Muhammad? Shaykh Muhammad AlShareef, CEO of AlMaghrib Institute, joins Eddie to discuss the importance of establishing a strong Muslim identity in a society that constantly pushes people to conform to the wrong role models. His insights are especially relevant for young Muslims navigating the tension between their faith and the culture around them.
The Sheep Mentality: Who Is Leading the Herd?
Shaykh Muhammad explains that human beings naturally follow the group — this “sheep mentality” is not inherently negative, as it can create unity. The problem arises when no righteous leader steps up to guide the group, allowing Shaytan (the devil) to become the herder by default. Television, music, and social media have replaced community leaders as the primary role models for young people, and the result is an entire generation imitating actors, rappers, and celebrities whose lifestyles lead to destruction.
“Back in the olden days, if you take out television, the role models were people actively involved in the community doing good things. Now, the role model is defined by the camera — the actors, the musicians. And a whole nation of people are being raised with these as their role models.”
How to Build a Strong Muslim Identity
- Consciously choose your role models — the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, and his Companions are the gold standard
- Surround yourself with righteous companions who hold you accountable and elevate your character
- Being a Muslim is not something to hide or water down — it is the noblest identity a person can carry
- Seek knowledge through institutions like AlMaghrib Institute (almaghrib.org) that make authentic Islamic education accessible
“If you’re with a group of three or four people that don’t swear, and you say a swear word, you’ll feel bad and start changing your vocabulary. That’s the power of good companionship.”
Your identity as a Muslim is not a cultural label or an inherited tradition — it is a conscious choice to submit to the Creator of the heavens and the earth, to do His will, and to follow the example of the best human being who ever lived. Do not water it down, do not hide it, and do not trade it for the approval of people who cannot benefit or harm you. Establish your identity on the foundation of La ilaha illAllah, and you will have direction, purpose, and peace in a world full of confusion.
