Sense of community is an integral part of Mindanaoan life. This journal speaks of how social ties shape culture and tradition, through the lenses of the very people who experience and preserve them. In “The Hijrah and the Muslim Ummah,” Majul defines hijrah and ummah as part of his address before the Muslims during the 15th Centennial of the actual Hijrah. Hijrah is the emigration of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Yathrib due to Meccan antagonists of Islam. The meaning of the word remains far from the true essence of hijrah, the event, as it remains complex–one filled with historical intricacies which Majul tries to explain in his account. Majul also illustrates the importance of ummah, a Muslim community integrated by means of political, economic, and social order that was primarily moral in character. Majul points out that Muslims should form ummahs to follow the command of the Prophet, in effect serving as an example to mankind. Now, “Towards a Solution of the Moro Problem,” articulates the Muslim experience throughout three major historical events – post-World War II, pre-Martial Law, and the formation of MNLF or Moro National Liberation Front. This article illustrates Muslims’ marginalized situation due to corruption of Muslim officials who used their position in the government to strengthen their status in Muslim society, at the expense of the masses. Thus, the economic, social, and political turmoil that had been brewing for years erupted, leading to the secessionist Muslim movement led by the MNLF who believed that new social order could only be attained if the Muslims break away from the Philippines. The article also proposes three alternative approaches as to how these can be resolved. In sum, this journal is a testament to the rich history of the Muslim community–one filled with traditions, but also with conflict.

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