Elon Musk Has Gone Full Islamaphobe – How Muslims Should Respond

Elon Musk Has Gone Full Islamaphobe – How Muslims Should Respond Featured Image

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Ibrahim Khan

Ibrahim Khan

Co-founder

The world’s richest man, with a fortune of over $400bn, has spent the last week on X (formerly Twitter) fanning the flames of Islamophobia

When someone in his position spreads harmful narratives, it’s not just offensive—it’s dangerous. His words hold the potential to normalise ideologies that threaten the safety and dignity of Muslims worldwide. It’s easy to feel helpless in the face of such immense power. But here’s the thing: worrying doesn’t change anything. Action does.

To counter figures like Musk, we must first understand what propelled him to this position of influence—and learn from it.

How Elon Musk Built His Empire

Musk’s empire is a result of specific traits that have consistently set him apart. These include:

  1. Relentless hard work: Musk’s work ethic is unmatched, often working 80–100-hour weeks. He pushes boundaries and invests extraordinary effort into his ventures.
  2. Contrarian thinking: He thrives on going against the grain, identifying opportunities where others see dead ends.
  3. Embracing innovation: From Tesla to SpaceX, Musk embraces cutting-edge tech that reshapes industries.
  4. Serial entrepreneurship: Rather than focusing on one venture, Musk has diversified, building influence across multiple fields.

Now let’s ask ourselves: how often do we, as a community, embrace these principles? Are we equipping ourselves with the skills and mindset needed to lead in today’s world?

Should we boycott Tesla?

When faced with figures like Musk, the knee-jerk reaction is to boycott. But let’s be real: Musk’s influence is systemic. His companies, from Tesla to Starlink internet to X itself, have integrated into the fabric of modern life.

Tesla is more than just an electric car company; its energy infrastructure, particularly its vast and growing network of EV charging stations, is becoming critical as the world moves toward electric vehicles. On top of that, X remains a central platform for news, discourse, and community-building, underscoring how deeply Musk’s ventures are woven into modern life.

This dependence isn’t just a challenge; it’s a lesson.

We certainly won’t be buying any Tesla’s anytime soon, but boycotts alone won’t address the root issue. The real ability to influence the world comes not from avoiding the problem but from solving the biggest challenges humanity faces. Once you’re solving problems on that scale, people still have to begrudgingly use your products—even if they disagree with you.

It’s not about taking down the Musk-level figures of today – there will always be another – it’s about nurturing the builders, thinkers, and leaders who will shape tomorrow. For inspiration, here’s an article on 11 muslim tech founders who are already shaping our future.

How to Build Influence as a Muslim in Today’s World

While Musk’s influence might seem daunting, it’s important to remember that every major change starts small. Here’s how we can begin making a difference:

  1. Support Muslim Entrepreneurs:
    Invest in Muslim-led businesses through platforms like Cur8, Wahed and Ethis. Financial support isn’t the only way to contribute; your time and skills are arguably more valuable. Break out of the corporate rat race and go work for mission-driven Muslim startups dedicated to improving the world. Or start one yourself.
  2. Upskill Yourself and Your Family:
    Encourage your children, siblings, or even yourself to pursue skills in high-impact areas like technology, finance, renewable energy, and healthcare. The more we’re equipped to tackle big problems, the greater our influence will be.
  3. Build Networks:
    No one builds an empire alone. Join or create networks of like-minded individuals who share your values and goals. This collective effort can amplify your impact.
  4. Advocate for Systemic Change:
    Engage in political and social advocacy to address the root causes of Islamophobia. Push for policies that promote diversity and inclusion, and hold public figures accountable for harmful rhetoric.
  5. Think Big and Act Locally:
    Global influence starts with local impact. Look for opportunities to solve challenges within your community, whether it’s through business, volunteering, or mentorship. Small wins build momentum.
  6. Reclaim Our Legacy of Excellence:
    Remember that the Muslim world once led in fields like science, medicine, and architecture. By embracing innovation and excellence, we can build a future where the ummah sets the standard for the world to follow.

Final words

We have the tools, the talent, and the legacy to reclaim our influence. 

By fostering entrepreneurship, mastering key industries, and supporting one another, we can create solutions that make the world take notice. Every small step we take—whether it’s mentoring a budding entrepreneur, investing in a value-driven startup, or advocating for change—adds to the momentum that shapes a better tomorrow.

Let’s turn frustration into focus, and fear into action. The future is ours to build.

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Ibrahim is a published author and Islamic finance and investment specialist. He is currently the CEO of Islamicfinanceguru and its sister investment company Cur8 Capital. He holds a BA in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics from the University of Oxford, an Alimiyyah degree from the Al Salam Institute, and an MA in Islamic Finance. Prior to setting up Islamic Finance Guru, Ibrahim was a corporate lawyer. He trained at Ashurst LLP and then specialised in private equity and venture capital funds at Debevoise & Plimpton LLP. He holds a Diploma in Investment Advice & Financial Planning & Certificate in Investment Management. Publication: Halal Investing for Beginners: How to Start, Grow and Scale Your Halal Investment Portfolio (Wiley) Ibrahim is a published author and Islamic finance and investment specialist. He is currently the CEO of Islamicfinanceguru and its sister investment company Cur8 Capital. He holds a BA in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics from the University of Oxford, an…

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