Despite efforts of experts and people with disabilities, the majority of people still look at disability as something to be ashamed of or to hide, something to get rid of or to be ridiculed.

The culture and wrong interpretations of religion shape the view of some non-educated Muslims on disability which often leads to misconceptions and discrimination against the disabled.

Some believe disability is Allah’s punishment or the result of black magic, due to which they either refuse treatment and special help or fall into shirk by using witchcraft as cure. However, just like in so many other cases, such behaviors do not at all represent the real teachings and values of Islam.

Islam’s View on Disability

Islam teaches that humans are created different. (Surah ar-Rum, 20-23) It’s the beauty of Allah’s creation that we’re not the same – in color, mentality, and abilities -, so we need to cooperate and learn from each other.

As Allah says:

''O people! We created you from a male and a female, and made you races and tribes, that you may know one another. The best among you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous. Allah is All-Knowing, Well-Experienced.'' (Surah al-Hujurat, 13)

In the eyes of Allah, humans are all equal; the only thing that makes one better than the other is the individual’s consciousness of Allah (taqwa). And, in order to develop and maintain taqwa, Allah continuously tests us. Thus, tests are not Allah’s punishments as stated in the Quran:

''Had Allah willed, He could have made you a single nation, but He tests you through what He has given you. So compete in righteousness.'' (Surah al-Maidah, 48)

Tests come in different ways. Some might be tested by their wealth, others by unpleasant or even painful experiences, and others by their health and condition – such as having a disability.

Islam believes disability is a natural part of being a human; It assumes that people with disability “have strength and resources for their own empowerment” and emphasizes these strengths, but acknowledges their disability; and thus encourages Muslims to be emphatic and caring (but not overprotective) with others and assist them whenever they need help.

Source: Aboutislam