[The following article is not directly linked to the ISNA finance controversy reported by The Toronto Star. It is only inspired by the article.]

Where there is a hierarchy, there is politics. Masjids are no exception to this. And it’s quite visible by looking at who has been president for longer than Arab dictators have been in power or who makes the most announcements during every salaat or whose idea trumps all others. This tight reign of power breeds a secret society-like organization.

“With great power, comes great responsibility”. –  Uncle Dan (Spiderman’s Uncle)

“Power corrupts. Absolute power corrupts absolutely”. – Lord Acton

Places of worship are divine, but that doesn’t mean the people within them are as well. We have to be more active in our research and demand public and transparent paperwork. Being apathetic and throwing all responsibilities to certain individuals yields behind the scene powers. Then who are we to throw taunts and judge these people when they are exposed? Was it not us that blindly trusted them? Have we not been burned before?

So, next time you see a charity asking for your money, kindly request their financial records. If you have the time and skill set, run for positions within an organization. Fresh new ideas and faces are welcoming.

*The issue concerning misuse of zakat is commonly seen through misinterpretation of verses that state in direct translation from Arabic that zakat can be used by those who collect it and those in the path of Allah. However, this is not how the ruling works on zakat; it is meant for the poor.