Wisdom International School for Higher Education Studies (WISHES)

Students of the Wisdom International School for Higher Education Studies (WISHES) taking Islamic Studies are expected to write not only enlightening articles or essays but also booklets (for the undergraduates) and books (for the graduates) as pre-requisites for receiving degrees. Towards this end, WISHES makes use of the Wisdom Enrichment Islamic Learning Program on Islamic Studies and Personality Development learning modules, which consist of selected well-written, scholarly and enlightening articles and books based on authentic sources. They are available on electronic books for immediate download with easy navigation, colorful designs and graphics. You may download the following samples of the electronic books being used for the undergraduate level:

Introduction to Islam According to the Qur'an and the Sunnah

The following are samples of enlightening articles written by some WISHES students as well as those who have studied the Islamic learning modules of the Wisdom Enrichment International Learning Program (WEILP) on Islamic Studies and Personality Development:

Mahmoud Abu Al-Ruzz
(Master of Public Administration and currently taking MA in Islamic Studies)
(Jordan)

There is no doubt that the Qur'an places a high premium on justice to all and offers an affirmation of the fundamental rights which all human beings ought to possess, because they are so deeply rooted in our humanness that their denial or violation is tantamount to a negation or degradation of that which makes us human. These rights not only provide us with an opportunity to develop all our inner resources, but they also hold before us a vision of what Allah (swt) would like us to be: what Allah (swt) wants us to strive for and live for and die for. Rights enshrined by Allah (swt) cannot be abolished by any temporal ruler or human agency. Eternal and immutable, they ought to be exercised since everything that Allah (swt) does is for “a just purpose.”

Justice for All: To begin with, the Qur'an puts great emphasis on the right to seek justice and the duty to establish and advocate justice for all, even if they are foes and/or enemies.

“O you who have attained to faith! Be ever steadfast in your devotion to Allah, bearing witness to the truth in all equity; and never let hatred of any one lead you into the sin of deviating from justice Be just: this is the closest to being Allah-conscious.” [ 5 :8]

And again, in another Surah, the Qur'an emphasizes the importance of upholding justice:

“O ye who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it be (against) rich or poor: for Allah can best protect both. Follow not the lusts (of your hearts), lest ye serve, and if ye distort (justice) or decline to do justice, verily Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do. [4:13]

In the context of justice, the Qur'an uses two concepts: “`adl” and “ihsan.” Both are enjoined, and both are related to the idea of “balance,” but they are not identical in meaning. “`Adl” is defined as “to be equal, neither more nor less.” Explaining this concept, for instance: “in a court of Justice the claims of the two parties must be considered evenly, without undue stress being laid upon one side or the other. Justice introducing the balance in the form of scales that are evenly balanced.” For what is justice but the avoiding of excess? There should be neither too much nor too little; hence the use of scales as the emblems of justice. Lest any one try to do too much or too little, the Qur'an points out that no human being can carry another's burden or attain anything without striving for it [53: 38-39].

Recognizing individual merit is a part of “`adl,” the Qur'an teaches that merit is not determined by lineage, sex, wealth, worldly success, or religion (delete this), but by righteousness. Righteousness consists of both right “belief” (“iman”) and just “action” (“`amal”) as clearly indicated by what Allah (swt) says:

“The most honoured of you in the sight of Allah is (he who is) the most righteous of you.” [49:13].

While in another Surah (Al-Nisa`), the Qura`n clearly distinguishes between passive believers and those who strive in the cause of Allah:

“Such of the believers as remain passive -- other than the disabled -- cannot be deemed equal to those who strive hard in God's cause with their possessions and their lives Allah has exalted those who strive hard with their possessions and their lives far above those who remain passive.” [4:95].

Just as it is in the spirit of “`adl” that special merit is considered in the matter of rewards, so also special circumstances are to be considered in the matter of punishments. For instance, for crimes of adultery the Qur'an prescribes identical punishments for a man or a woman who is proved guilty (Surah 24: An-Nur: 2), but it differentiates between different classes of women: for the same crime, a slave woman would receive half (Surah 4: An-Nisa':25) and the Prophet's consort double the punishment given to a “free” Muslim woman (Surah 33: Al-Ahzab: 30). In making such a distinction, the Qur'an while upholding high moral standards, particularly in the case of the Prophet's wives whose actions have a normative significance for the community, reflects Allah's compassion for women slaves who were socially disadvantaged.

While constantly enjoining “`adl,” the Qur'an goes beyond this concept to “ihsan,” which literally means, “restoring the balance by making up a loss or deficiency.” In order to understand this concept, it is necessary to understand the nature of the ideal society or Ummah envisaged by the Qur'an. The word Ummah comes from the root “umm” or “mother.” The symbols of a mother and motherly love and compassion are also linked with the two attributes most characteristic of Allah, namely, “Rahim” and “Rahman,” both of which are derived from the root “rahm,” meaning “womb.” The ideal Ummah cares about all its members just as an ideal mother cares about all her children, knowing that all are not equal and that each has different needs. While showing undue favor to any child would be unjust, a mother who gives to a “handicapped” child more than she does to her other child or children, is not acting unjustly but exemplifying the spirit of “ihsan” by helping to make up the deficiency of a child who is unable to meet the requirements of life. Thus “ihsan” shows God's sympathy for the “disadvantaged” segments of human society (such as women, orphans, slaves, the poor, the infirm, and the minorities).

Within this sublime context of advocating the upholding of indiscriminate universal justice, the noble (Surah 4: An-Nisa':25stands out as the eternal purest fountainhead of justice and basic human rights long before and way above all those discriminatory proponents of so-called universal justice in the self-proclaimed ‘civilised’ West. Following are some of the basic human rights enshrined in the Glorious Qur`an:

1. RIGHT TO LIFE. The Qur'an upholds the sanctity and absolute value of human life and states in Surah Al-An`am (6: 151):

“Do not take any human being's life which Allah has declared to be sacred -- otherwise than in (the pursuit of) justice: this has He enjoined upon you so that you might use your reason.”

In Surah Al-Ma'idah (5: 32), the Qur'an points out that, in essence, the life of each individual is comparable to that of an entire community and, therefore, should be treated with the utmost care: “We ordained for the Children of Israel that if anyone slew a person unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land it would be as if he slew the whole people: And if any one saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of the whole people.”

2. RIGHT TO ACQUIRE KNOWLEDGE. The Qur'an puts the highest emphasis on the importance of acquiring knowledge. That knowledge has been at the core of the Islamic world view from the very beginning is attested to by Surah Al-`Alaq (96: 1-5), which Muslims believe to the first revelation received by the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.). This Ayah reads:

“ Read in the name of thy Rabb (Rabb and Cherisher), who created, created man, out of a (mere) clot of congealed blood. Read! And Rabb is Most Bountiful He who taught (the use of) the pen taught man that which he knew not.”

Asking rhetorically if those without knowledge can be equal to those with knowledge (Surah Az-Zumar, 39: 9), the Qur'an exhorts believers to pray for advancement in knowledge (Surah Ta-Ha,20: 114). The famous prayer of the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) was “Allah grant me knowledge of the ultimate nature of things” and one of the best known of all traditions (“ahadith”) is “Seeking knowledge is mandatory upon even Muslim.”

According to the Qur'anic perspective, knowledge is a prerequisite for the creation of a just world in which authentic peace can prevail. The Qur'an emphasizes the importance of the pursuit of learning even at the time, and in the midst, of war, as indicated by (Surah At-Tawbah,9: 122), which states:

“With all this, it is not desirable that all of the believers take the field (in time of war). From within every group in their midst, some shall refrain from going to war, and shall devote themselves (instead) to acquiring a deeper knowledge of the Religion, and (thus be able to) teach their home-coming brethren, so that these (too) might guard themselves against evil”.

3. RIGHT TO RESPECT AND DIGNITY. In Surah Al-Isra' ,17:70, the Qur'an says: “Now, indeed, We have conferred dignity on the children of Adam.” Human beings are deemed worthy of esteem because of all creation they alone chose to accept the “trust” of freedom of the will (Surah Al-Ahzab,33: 72). Human beings can exercise freedom of the will because they possess the rational faculty, which is what distinguishes them from all other creatures (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2: 30-34). Though human beings can become “the lowest of the lowest,” the Qur'an declares that they have been made “in the best of moulds” (Surah At-Tin,95: 4-6), having the ability to think, to have knowledge of right and wrong, to do the good and to avoid the evil. Thus, on account of the promise which is contained in being human, namely, the potential to be Allah's vicegerent on earth, the humanness of all human beings is to be respected.

In this connection, the Qur'an recognizes the right of human beings to be protected from defamation, sarcasm, offensive nicknames, and backbiting (Surah Al-Hujurat, 49: 11-12). It also states that no person is to be maligned on grounds of assumed guilt and that those who engage in malicious scandal-mongering will be grievously punished in both Dunya and Akhirah -- i.e., this world and the Next (Surah An-Nur, 24: 16-19). Urging throughout that human beings should treat others with sensitivity and compassion, the Qur'an points out in (Surah An-Nisa',4: 148-149):

“Allah loves not that evil should be noised abroad in public speech, except where injustice hath been done; for Allah is He who heareth and knoweth all things.”

The Qur'an also recognizes the need for privacy as a human right and lays down clear-cut and articulated rules for protecting an individual's life in the home from undue intrusion from within or without.

4. RIGHT TO FREEDOM. The Qur'an is deeply concerned about liberating human beings from every kind of bondage. Recognizing the human tendency toward dictatorship and despotism, the Qur'an says with clarity and emphasis in (Surah Al-`Imran 3: 79):

“It is not (possible) that a man, to whom is given the Book, and Wisdom, and the Prophetic Office, should say to people: “Be ye my worshippers rather than Allah’s.” On the contrary (He would say): “Be ye worshippers of Him Who is truly the Cherisher of all.”

The institution of human slavery is, of course, extremely important in the context of human freedom. Slavery was widely prevalent in Arabia at the time of the advent of Islam, and the Arab economy was based on it. Not only did the Qur'an insist that slaves be treated in a just and humane way (Surah An Nisa' ,4: 36), but it continually urged the freeing of slaves. By laying down, in (Surah Muhammad,47: 4), that prisoners of war were to be set free, “either by an act of grace or against ransom,” the Qur'an virtually abolished slavery since most slaves were prisoners of war. Because the Qur'an does not state explicitly that slavery is abolished, it does not follow that it is to be continued, particularly in view of the numerous ways in which the Qur'an seeks to eliminate it.

The greatest guarantee of personal freedom for a Muslim lies in the Qur'anic decree that no one other than Allah (swt) can limit human freedom (Surah Ash-Shura,42: 21), and in the statement that “Judgment (as to what is right and what is wrong) rests with Allah alone” (Surah Yusuf 12: 40). Since the principle of mutual consultation (“shura”) is mandatory (Surah Ash-Shura,42: 38), it is a Muslim's fundamental right, as well as responsibility, to participate in as many aspects of the community's life as possible.

The Qur'anic proclamation in (Surah Al-Baqarah,2: 256): “There shall be no coercion in matters of Religion” guarantees freedom of religion and worship, within the parameters of Islamic regulations. A number of Qur'anic passages state clearly that the responsibility of the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) is to communicate the message of Allah and not to compel anyone to believe.

The Qur'an also makes clear that Allah (swt) will judge human beings not on the basis of what they profess but on the basis of their belief and righteous conduct, as indicated by (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2: 62) which states: “Those who believe (in the Qur'an) and those who follow the Jewish (scriptures), and the Christians and the Sabians, any who believe in Allah and the Last Day, and work righteousness, shall have their reward with the Rabb; on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.”

This right to freedom includes the right to be free to tell the truth. The Qur'anic term for truth is “Haqq” which is also one of Allah`s most noble attributes. Standing up for the truth is a right and a responsibility which a Muslim may not disclaim even in the face of the greatest danger or difficulty (Surah An-Nisa`,4: 135). While the Qur'an commands believers to testify to the truth, it also instructs society not to harm persons so testifying (Sura Al-Baqarah, 2: 282).

5. RIGHT TO SUSTENANCE AND WORK. As pointed out by (Sura Hud, 11:6), every living creature depends for its sustenance upon Allah (swt). A cardinal concept in the Qur'an which underlies the socio-economic-political system of Islam is that the ownership of everything belongs not to any person, but to Allah (swt). Since Allah (swt) is the universal creator, every creature has the right to partake of what belongs to Allah (Surah Al-An` am, 6: 165 and Surah Al-Mulk, 67: 15). This means that every human being has the right to a means of living and that those who hold economic or political power do not have the right to deprive others of the basic necessities of life by misappropriating or misusing resources which have been created in abundance by Allah (swt) for the benefit of humanity in general.

According to Qur'anic teaching, every man and woman has the right to work, whether the work consists of gainful employment or voluntary service. The fruits of labor belong to the one who has worked for them -- regardless of whether it is a man or a woman. As (Surah An-Nisa',4: 32) states: “to men is allotted what they earn, and to women what they earn.”

6. RIGHT TO SEEK ASYLUM FROM OPPRESSION. According to Qur'anic teaching, a Muslim's ultimate loyalty must be to Allah (swt) and not to any territory. To fulfill his Prophetic mission, the Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) decided to leave his place of birth, Mecca, and emigrated to Medina. This event (“Hijrah”) has great historical and spiritual significance for Muslims who are called upon to move away from their place of origin if it becomes an abode of evil and oppression where they cannot fulfill their obligations to Allah or enjoy justice. In a powerful passage in (Surah An-Nisa',4: 97-100), the Qur'an states:

“When angels take the souls of those who die in sin against their souls, they say: “In what (plight) were ye?” They reply: “Weak and oppressed were we in the earth.” They say: “Was not the earth of Allah spacious enough for you to move yourselves away (from evil)?” Such men will find their abode in Hell -- What an evil refuge! -- except those who are (really) weak and oppressed -- men, women, and children who have no means in their power, nor (a guide post) to direct their way. For these, there is hope that Allah will forgive for Allah doth blot out (sins) and forgive again and again. He who forsakes his home in the cause of Allah, finds in the earth many a refuge, wide and spacious: Should he die as a refugee from home from Allah and His Messenger, his reward becomes due and sure with Allah: And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful”.

In conclusion, however, it must be stressed that since Qur'anic teaching embraces every aspect of human life, it contains references to more human rights than can be mentioned in this short essay. Reference has been made in the foregoing account only to the human rights which figure most importantly in the Qur'an and which continue to be of on-going interest and importance in contemporary Muslim societies.

There are indications from across the world of Islam that an increasing number of Muslims are beginning to reflect seriously upon these teachings of the Qur'an as they become disenchanted with the ruthless failures of capitalist globalism and the discriminatory fallacies of Western democracy. As this reflection deepens, it is likely to lead to the realization that the supreme task entrusted to human beings by Allah (swt), of being Allah`s deputies on earth, can only be accomplished by establishing justice which the Qur'an regards as a prerequisite for authentic peace. Without the elimination of the inequities, inequalities, and injustices that pervade the personal and collective lives of human beings, it is not possible to talk about peace, anytime anywhere, in Qur'anic terms.

All praise is due to Allah, Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer) of all the worlds. We bear witness that there is no one worthy of worship except Allah. We bear witness that our Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) is the true and last Messenger of Allah, who enjoined us to explore the far corners of the heavens and earth to know Allah’s creation and worship Allah with understanding. May peace and blessing of Allah be upon the Prophet, his family and his Companions?

“Our Rabb! Grant unto us wives and offspring who will be the comfort of our eyes, and give us (the grace) to lead the righteous”

“O, you who believe! Fear Allah (by doing all that He has ordered and by abstaining from all that He has forbidden) as He should be feared, [Obey Him, be thankful to Him, and remember Him always], and die not except in a state of Islam (as Muslim) with complete submission to Allah.” (Al-Imran 3:102)

In this short essay, I do not intend to create a new idea, rather my intent is to collect some verses of the Holy Qur’an and the Ahadith of our Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) and some saying of the Ulamas (Islamic Scholar) to serve as a reminders and inspirations to all of us as a Muslim and most especially to all concern parents as Allah (s.w.t.) says in the Holy Qur’an:

“And remind (by preaching the Qur’an o Muhammad) for verily, reminding profits the believers” (Az-Zariyat 51:55)

There is no doubt that every parent is very concerned about the future of his/her own children. In fact, they strive hard and sacrifice for them. They always pray to Allah for their prosperity and security, asking the Almighty to protect them and grant them success. They want the best education for them to insure a bright future. Whenever the school examinations are on the gate, they will assist them, help them with their home works and encourage them to study hard. They also warn them of failure. They want their children to be successful doctors, lawyers, engineers, accountants, etc. They want to provide money saving, buy real estates, build a nice houses for them and assist them to find a good husband/wife to give them a better living and establish a happy family life circle in this world. This is a natural feeling of every parent towards his/her own children. In Islam it is not wrong to guide our children and assist them to their success but we should not forget that the real success and happiness is in the Paradise.

Unfortunately, many parents of today’s children in the modern Muslim societies are focusing their attention only on the worldly affairs of their children and neglecting the eternal life in the Hereafter which is actually the most important. They wake them up early in the morning for their school but do they bother to wake them up to pray?. They get angry and perhaps punish them severely if they absent from the class without reason but do they punish them if they neglect to pray at the mosque? They get unrest if they neglect their assignments from the school but do they feel the same if they abandon their obligations (i.e. prayers, fasting, etc.) towards their Creator? The answers are perhaps never. These are only a few evidences of parents’ negligence. They forget that the life of this world is only a temporary whereas the life in the Hereafter is eternal where they will only have two choices; either in the Hell-Fire which is the real failure or in Paradise which is the real success. Allah (s.w.t.) says in the Holy Qur’an:

“Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children, as the likeness of vegetation after rain, thereof the growth is pleasing to the tiller; afterwards it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter (there is) a severe torment (for the disbelievers, -evil doers), and (there is) forgiveness from Allah and (His) Good Pleasure (for the believers, -good doers), whereas the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment” Al-Hadid 57:20.

Islam did not prohibit us to seek and enjoy the comfort and success in this world rather it inspired us to have a well-balance life. When Allah (s.w.t.) says in the Holy Qur’an : “I did not create the Jinns and men except they should worship Me”(51:56), He did not obliged us to concentrate only on worshiping Him (e.g. pray continuously, fast successively, spend all our wealth in the way of Allah, stay at the mosque day and night, etc) and renounce the world. In fact, He urged us to seek a good living and enjoy a better life in this world but should be in accordance to the Islamic way of life. Allah (s.w.t.) says in the Holy Qur’an:

“But seek, with that (wealth) which Allah has bestowed on you, the home of the Hereafter, and forget not your portion of legal enjoyment in this world, and do good as Allah has been good to you, and seek not mischief in the land. Verily, Allah likes not the Mufsidun (those who commit great crimes and sins, oppressors, tyrant, mischief-makers, corrupts.” (Al-Qasas 28:77).

Islam urged us also to seek knowledge and learn anything that will benefit us and improve the life of individual and the Muslim society to build a strong nation. Allah (s.w.t.) says in the Holy Qur’an:

“And make ready against them all you can of power, including steeds of war…” Al-Anfal 8:60

What Islam prohibited us is to forget our final destiny. That is the life after death where we can attain the real success and eternal peace and happiness that is if we strive hard to seek the pleasure of Allah and live in a complete Islamic way of life. We should remember always that death is unavoidable and the purpose of our creation is to worship Allah alone to seek His pleasure and our supreme goal is Paradise. Our life in this world is temporary but it is our road to our success if we understand it correctly. Allah (s.w.t.) says in the Holy Qur’an:

“Everyone shall taste death. And only on the Day of Resurrection shall you be paid your wages in full. And whoever is removed away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise, he indeed is successful. The life of this world is only enjoyment of deception (a deceiving thing)” Al-Imran 3:185.

It is hard to describe the feeling of the parents to see their children happily holding their diplomas and certificates as a sign of their success. However, without guidance to the right path do we realize what will be their condition if they got hold of the records of their deeds by their left hands in the Day of Reckoning? They will certainly say with deep sorrow and repentance: (as mentioned in the holy Qur’an):

“I wish that I had not been given my Record! And that I had never known how my account is? I wish, would that it had been my end (death)! My wealth has not availed me, my power and arguments (to defend myself) have gone from me!” (Al-Haqqah 69:25-29).

It is also very hard to describe the feeling of the parents to see their children suffering any hardship or a severe pain in this world. However, without the guidance to the right path do we realize what will happen to them if they become among the duelers of the Hell-fire who will taste the torment in the grave before the eternal torment and everlasting chastisement in the Day of Judgment. Let us contemplate the following Hadith of the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and some Ayats in the Holy Qur’an describing what will happen to a person after his/her death and left alone in the grave yard until the Day of Judgment.

Abu Said (r.a.) narrated that when the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) went out to the prayer and saw the people looking as if they were grinning he said, “If you were to keep much in remembrance death which is the cutter-off of pleasures, it would distract you from what I see. Keep much in remembrance death, which is the cutter-off of pleasure, for a day does not come to the grave without its saying, I am the house of exile, I am the house of solitude, I am the house of dust, I am the house of worms.’ When a believer dies the grave says to him, ‘Welcome and greeting; you are indeed the dearest to me of those who walk upon me. I have been given charge of you today and you have come to me and you will see how I shall treat you.’ It will expand for him as far as the eye can see and a door to Paradise will be opened for him. But when the profligate or infidel is buried the grave says to him, ‘No welcome and no greeting to you; you are the most hateful to me of those who walk upon me. I have been given charge of you today and you have come to me and you will see how I shall treat you.’ Abu Said told that Allah’s Messenger (s.a.w.s.) indicated it by interlacing his fingers. Then he said, ‘Seventy dragons will be put in charge of him of such a nature that if one of them were to breathe on the earth it would produce no crops as long as the world lasted; and they will bite and scratch him till he is brought to the reckoning.” He also reported Allah’s Messenger (s.a.w.s.) as saying, “The grave is one of the gardens of Paradise, or one of the pits of Hell.” (Tirmidhi 5352)

Allah (s.w.t.) says in the Holy Qur’an describing some punishment in the Day of Judgment:

“In front of him (every obstinate, arrogant) is Hell, and he will be made to drink boiling, festering water. He will sip it unwillingly, and he will find a great difficulty to swallow it down his throat, and death will come to him from every side, yet he will not die and in front of him, will be a great torment.” (Ibrahim 14:16-17)

This Ayah indicated that they are dying every time they drink the boiling water or hit by a fire in the Hell-Fire but they will not die to have a rest because there is no more death in the Hereafter. And after a long period of severe punishment in the Hell, they will cry for mercy or ask Malik the caretaker angel of the Hell for even a day rest because they can endure no more the successive torment by saying in great despair (as Allah (s.w.t.) described them in the Holy Qur’an):

“They will say, Our Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer), our misfortune overwhelmed us and we were a people of astray. Our Rabb, remove us from this; if ever we return [to evil], then we will indeed be wrongdoers. He will say, Remain humiliated therein, and do not speak to me” (Al-Mu’minun 23:107-108).

“Verily, the Mujrimun (criminals, sinners, disbelievers in Allah, in His Oneness and in His Messenger [Muhammad], etc., and those who persist in doing evil deeds) will be in the torment of Hell to abide therein forever. (The torment) will not be lightened for them, and they will be plunged into destruction with deep regrets, sorrows and despair therein. We wronged them not, but they were the Zalimun (polytheists, wrong-doers, etc.). And they will cry out, ‘O Malik, let your Rabb put an end to us!’ He will say, ‘Surely you will stay [as you are].” (Az-Zukhruf 43:77). They want death to have a rest but there is no more death in the Hereafter and there is no more rest from the torment.

“But for those who disbelieve, (in the oneness of Allah – Islamic Monotheism) for them will be Fire of Hell. Neither it will have a complete killing effect on them so that they die, nor shall its torment be lightened for them. Thus do We requite every disbeliever! Therein they will cry: “Our Rabb! Bring us out, we shall do righteous good deeds, not (evil deeds) that we used to do.” (Allah will reply(: “Did We not give you lives long enough, so that whosoever would receive admonition, - could receive it? And the warner came to you. So taste you (the evil of your deeds). For the Zalimun (polytheist and wrong doers, etc.) there is no helper” (Fatir 35:36-37)

Whatever comfort of life that a parent will provide (i.e. education, position, wealth, wife, etc.) for their children but without guiding them to the right path it means that such parent is depriving them from the perpetual bliss in the Hereafter. We will let the words of Allah (s.w.t.) in the Holy Qur’an describe some of those bliss:

“And their recompense shall be Paradise, and silken garments, because they were patient. Reclining therein on raised thrones, they will see there neither the excessive heat of the sun, nor the excessive bitter cold, (as in Paradise there is no sun or moon). And the shade thereof is close upon them, and bunches of fruit thereof will hang low within their reach. And amongst them will be passed round vessel silver and cups of crystal, crystal-clear, made of silver. They will determine the measure thereof according to their wishes. And they will be given to drink there a cup (of wine) mixed with Zandabil (ginger etc.), a spring there, called salsabil. And round about them will (serve) boys of everlasting youth. If you see them, you think them scattered pearls. And when you look there (in Paradise), you will see a delight (that cannot be imagined), and a great dominion. Their garments will be of fine green silk and gold embroidery. They will be adorned with bracelets of silver, and their Rabb will give them pure drink. (And it will be said to them): ‘Verily, this is your reward for you and your endeavor has been accepted.” (Al-Insan 77:12-22)

“Verily, we have created them (maidens) of special creation and made them virgins. Loving (their husband only), equal in age.” (Al-Waqia 56:35-37).

Allah (s.w.t.) says in the Holy Qur’an also in summarized for all good rewards in the Hereafter:

“No person knows what is kept hidden for them of joy as rewards for what they used to do”. (As-Sajdah 32:17).

Ibn Alqayim (r) said: Guiding our children is a big responsibility that some of the Ulama (Islamic scholars) indicated that: Allah will certainly account the parents first for their responsibility towards their children before He will account the children for their responsibility towards their parents. Whosoever neglected to teach his children what is beneficial for them and left them useless has certainly offended them severely. The most causes of bad child are due to their parents and its negligence. They left them unaware of their religion and its teaching. So, they were neglected young of age and so they are not benefited to their parents in their maturity, as did one child blamed his parents by saying: “You were undutiful to me when I was young so I am undutiful to you in your old age; you neglected me when I was young so I neglected you senility”. This is one example how the Salaf (The Companions and the Tabi-ins or the generation who came after them) paid attention to the future of their children both in this world and the Hereafter.

The Salafs understand the importance of guiding the children to the right path. They know that the future of this Ummah lies in their hands and to neglect them is not only to harm them but to neglect this Ummah. The Grand Mufti of Saudi Arabia emphasized in his Hajj Khutba (sermon) in Arafah in the year 2001 the present situation of this Ummah that we can not put all the blame on the enemies of Islam. Instead we have to put the blame on ourselves first because we abandoned the real teaching of our religion. We neglect the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Prophet (s.a.w.s.).

There are many virtues of guiding our children to the right path (Islam) some of them are the following:

1. For salvation – Allah azza wajalla urged us to save ourselves and our family from the Hell-fire. Allah (swt) says in the Holy Qur’an:

“O, you who believe! Ward off from yourselves and your families a Fire (Hell) whose fuel is men and stones, over which are (appointed) angels stern (and) severe, who disobey not, (from executing) the Commands they receive from Allah, but do that which they are commanded.” (At-Tahrim 66:6)

It is indicated in this Ayah that Allah urged us to save ourselves and our family from the Hell-Fire by obeying Him and follow the teaching of Islam with complete adherence to the Qur’an and the Sunnah of our Prophet (s.a.w.s.).

2. To fulfill one of the important rights of our children –The child is a trust on his parents from Allah (swt) Who gave them rights over their parents like how He gave the parents a right over their children. He will certainly ask the parents about that trust in the Day of Judgment. The day when the father will avoid his child and the child will avoid his parents. They will be rewarded for its fulfillment and punished for its negligence:

On the authority of Ibn Omar (r.a.) who said: The Prophet (s.a.w.s.) said: “Every one of you is a protector and guardian of his immediate charge and is responsible for the action of those people who are committed to his charge. A ruler is also a steward and is accountable for those who are put under his charge. A man is a steward in respect to the family members of his house. A woman is a steward in respect to her husband’s house and his children. In short every one of you is a steward and is accountable for those who are placed under your care.” (Bukhari & Muslim).

3. To gain a high rank and lofty position in this world and in the Hereafter. Allah (swt) gave promise by saying in the Holy Qur’an:

“..Allah will exalt in degree those of you who believe and those who have been granted knowledge. And Allah is Well-Acquainted with what you do”. (Al-Mujadilah 58:11)

4. To give them a better living and happy life in this world and the Hereafter. Allah (swt) gave guarantee by saying in the Holy Qur’an:

“Whoever works righteousness, whether male or female, while he (or she) is a true believer verily, to him We will give a good life (in this world with respect, contentment and lawful; provision), and We shall pay them certainly a reward in proportion to the best of what they used to do (i.e. Paradise in the Hereafter). (An Nahl 16:97).

“But whosoever turns away from My Reminder (i.e. neither believes in this Qur’an not acts on its orders, etc.) verily, for him is a life of hardship, and We shall raise him up blind on the Day of Resurrection. He will say; O my Rabb! Why have you raised me up blind, while I had sight (before). (Allah) will say: “Like this, our Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons. Signs, revelation, etc.), came unto you, but you disregarded them ( i.e. you left them, did not think deeply in them, and you turn away from them) and so this Day, you will be neglected (in the Hell-Fire, away from Allah’s Mercy)”. (Taha 20:124-126(.

This Ayah from the Holy-Qur’an indicated that happiness can not be found in whatever achievements that a person may attain without living in a complete Islamic way of life. How many wealthy people or high rank people we heard or read in the news papers, magazines, etc. about their unhappy life that ended to a suicide?

5. To save ourselves and our children from the big trials. Allah (s.w.t.) says in the Holy Qur’an:

How many people who spent all their wealth and their life because of their bad children? How many parents who suffered because they neglected to teach their children their religion and to guide them to the right path and they became a victim of drug addiction, alcoholism, gangsters, bad fraternity, terrorism, etc. Isn’t it a big trial? That is only in this world but how about in the Hereafter? They will stand up complaining to Allah and asking Him (s.w.t.) to ask the parents why they were left unguided.

6. To raise up a dutiful children that will benefit us in this world especially during our old age- the time when we will be needing them most because Islam is the only religion that strongly urged its followers to be dutiful to their parents and strongly warned them of being undutiful. Allah (swt) in the Holy Qur’an:

“And your Rabb has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honor. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: “My Rabb! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was small.” Al-Isra 17:23-24

They will also benefit us in the Hereafter from the day we die until the Day of Resurrection. The Prophet (s.a.w.s.) said in the following sahih hadith:

Abu Hurairah (r.a.) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (s.a.w.s.) said: When a man dies, accrual of merit in his favor from good deeds ceases except from three actions: 1- A charity which continues after death; 2- Knowledge left behind from which men continue to benefit, and 3- righteous offspring who pray for him.” (Muslim)

6. To raise responsible and righteous children who will serve as vanguards of this religion and who will lead this Ummah to a great nation. Like the way those who were before us rose up their children righteously and became a good Muslims and a good leader who enjoined righteousness and justice to all and who lead this Ummah to its glory. To mention one example is like the way Salahodden (Saladin) Al-Ayyobi was raised up and guided to the right path and trained to strive in the way of Allah by his family particularly by his father and uncle to be a good Muslim and righteous leader of this Ummah during his time. He brought back the glory of Islam by uniting the Muslim Ummah into the fold of Islam and defeated the enemies of this religion.

Although our children are big trust on us from Allah (s.w.t.), they are, however, among the most precious gifts from Him. As precious gifts from Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala, they deserve our love, care and precious gifts. The most precious thing to give them is to educate them with Islamic knowledge and guide them to the right path if we really love them and care for them. They really need to be nurtured in an authentic teaching of Islam and they need to be guided to the right path to live in a correct Islamic way of life especially this time that our atmosphere is not impressible in Islam. Most of them are brain washed by the media, affected by the television/satellite which mostly teaches coeducation, sexual freedom, and indecent characters, etc. which bring bad effects to their beliefs. Many of them are idolizing not the Salafs but the actors, the actresses and the popular players and singers which affect their attitudes. They can only find the real happiness in this world and the supreme success in the Hereafter if they live in accordance to the complete Islamic way of life.

I understand that this is a momentum responsibility for every one of us but with our Ikhlas (sincere) intention and dua (invocation) and by following the teachings of Islam with complete adherence to the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Prophet (s.a.w.s.) we can be successful. What can we expect from children for this Ummah if we are not able to guide them to the right path? What will be our answer if we are questioned by Allah in the life Hereafter?

Finally, always remember that we can be happily joined together with our families in the Paradise if we strive hard to seek the pleasure of our Creator. Allah (s.w.t.) says in the Holy Qur’an:

“Everlasting Gardens of ‘Adn (Paradise) in which they shall enter, and (also) those who acted righteously from among their fathers, and their wives, and their offspring.” (Ar-Ra’d13:23)

It is every parent’s goal to have children who go on to be successful in studies, careers, and life in general. As parents we emphasize the importance of good education and upbringing in our homes. Many of us carefully select our child’s schools, extracurricular influences, clothing, diet and even their friends. By nature, this concern for our children is an integral part of parenting. We can find in the Qur’an and Sunnah the proper approach to parenting but also the example of what we should desire for our children to become.

We are responsible for the generation that follows us. This lays a heavy burden on the community as whole. It has been narrated on the authority of Ibn Umar radiallahu anhu that the Holy Prophet sallallahu alayhi wa salaam said: Beware. Every one of you is a shepherd and every one is answerable with regard to his flock. The Caliph is a shepherd over the people and shall be questioned about his subjects (as to how he conducted their affairs). A man is a guardian over the members of his family and shall be questioned about them (as to how he looked after their physical and moral well-being). A woman is a guardian over the household of her husband and his children and shall be questioned about them (as to how she managed the household and brought up the children). A slave is a guardian over the property of his master and shall be questioned about it (as to how he safeguarded his trust). Beware, every one of you is a guardian and every one of you shall be questioned with regard to his trust.

We are in a time where filth is abundant and decency is scarce. We are living in a world where people are consumed with the temptations of this life and are not concerned about the reckoning with their Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer). Anas b. Malik reported Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alayhi wa salaam) as saying: “It is from the conditions of the Last Hour that knowledge would be taken away and ignorance would prevail (upon the world), the liquor would be drunk, and adultery would become rampant.”

"There is nothing but our life of this world! We die and we live! And we are not going to be resurrected!"

Television is a major contaminant, from the images of violence and nudity to the subliminal undertones of accepting deviations such as same sex relationships, Satanism, witchcraft and more. The major deception lies not in those programs that are blatantly indecent, but in those programs that are seemingly innocent and informative. Even reading for children has become polluted with the evils of witchcraft, soothsaying and other atheistic content. The upsurge of both wizardry shows and books has been remarkable. Parents are trading values and decency to get their children to pick up a book and read. It has been narrated by Abu Huraira radiallahu anhu that Allah's Messenger (s.a.w.s.) said: “Avoid the Mubiqat, i.e., shirk and witchcraft.” Where does this leave our children?

^{School is another problem for our children.
If one is unable to send their child in a sound Islamic school that abides by
the Qur’an and Sunnah, or educate their child at home, I fear for the parents
and the children of that situation. The horrors and atrocities that plague
western public schools rival that of a war zone. As you enroll your child in
public schools, you are subjecting your child to hours a year of mixing of the
sexes to include sexual abuse and harassment, anarchy in the classroom in which
powerless teachers power struggle with out of control students, violence
including guns, knives, acid and the like. It would be unjust include the
constant bombardment and forced celebration or recognition of non-Islamic
holidays, festivals, and practices. Your child will also be bombarded with song
after song, none of which are in remembrance of Allah.}

So off to school…you send little Aisha and Abdullah to a fitnah filed day of kufr and shirk with little or no defense depending on their ages to fight it all off alone… a feat that most adults cannot conquer alone. Where does this leave our children in regards to their success? Do we truly trust the disbelievers to nurture and educate our children, leading them to the correct path?

I am sure that if your main goal is to prepare you child to become a doctor, lawyer or engineer you will find yourself successful in this world. However if you firmly believe that the true success is not in this life but in the Hereafter, it is a must that your prepare your child with tools that they need to live a successful life by pleasing their Creator, Allah subhana wa ta’ala.

There is little gratification in watching your child grow into a morally bankrupt Muslim or non-Muslim although they may have a college degree and successful business. The true success lies with Allah subhana wa ta’ala.

Allah has sent his Messenger Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) sallallahu alayhi wa salaam as an example of what a true success is. Our Messenger was surrounded by honorable family members and companions radiAllahu anhuma who were pleasing to their Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer) first and successful in the earth as well all while maintaining servitude to the Creator.

^{When laying the foundation for the future
of our children, we need to give them the examples of the truly successful. We
must fill our homes with the tools to gain the knowledge of the Qur’an, Hadith,
and the lives of the illustrious Companions. In the end a degree is simply a
piece of paper, a great career is just work, but success with Allah is an
innumerable bounty. Allah subhana wa ta'ala tells us:}

Prerequisites for Acquiring Authentic Knowledge

By
Rita (Faatimah) Allen

It is a blessing from Allah the Almighty that in this modern world acquiring authentic knowledge has become more easy and convenient. Knowledge of Islam according to the Qur’an and the Sunnah has become available with the publication of books, articles, tapes, Islamic learning programs on CDs, unlimited access to the internet, lectures and conferences given by knowledgeable scholars and students of knowledge. For all these various opportunities, it is for our benefit and success that we must start working towards increasing our knowledge of Islam. There are several things that we must do before we can begin to approach the task of acquiring knowledge.

First, we have to purify our intentions for whatever good things we plan to do, including seeking Islamic knowledge. Our intention must be to please Allah the Almighty. If we approach the pursuit of knowledge with worldly benefit in mind then we have defeated ourselves before we even start. The proofs for this come in the form of two ahâdîth. The first one is the authentic hâdîth narrated by Umar bin Al-Khattab radiallahu anhu (may Allah be pleased with him) in which he said:

“I heard Allah's Messenger sallallahu alaihi wa sallam (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) saying, “The reward of deeds depends upon the intention and every person will get the reward according to what he has intended. So whoever emigrates for worldly benefits or for a woman to marry, his emigration will be for what he emigrates for.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari 1/1)

From the above hâdîth we can say that all our pursuits (including acquiring knowledge) have the same standard of setting our intentions correct before we can receive the reward and benefit from them. The second hâdîth narrated by Abu Hurayrah radiallahu anhu specifically refers to the punishment for anyone who acquires knowledge not for the pleasure of our Creator but purely for worldly purpose:

“The Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam said, “Whosoever learns knowledge by which is to be sought the Face of Allah, but does not do so except for the goal of this world, he will not smell the odor of Paradise on the Day of Resurrection.” (Abu Dawud)

With these two ahâdîth we see the seriousness of our intention and that is why we have to make sure that our intention is correct before we go further. Our intention in acquiring knowledge must be purified for Allah’s Cause and Pleasure.

After purifying our intention, we need to have an understanding of where our knowledge comes from. Allah has mentioned in the Qur’an about how He gives knowledge and grants wisdom. One of those ayaat is in Surah Al Baqarah ayah 169. Allah the Almighty says:

“He grants wisdom to whom He pleases; and he to whom wisdom is granted indeed receives a benefit overflowing.”

We must know that knowledge in Islam comes from the Qur’an and the (authentic) Sunnah and the right deductions from these two revealed sources. The Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam said,

“Knowledge consists of three things: the decisive verses (Qur’an ), authentic Hâdîth and prescriptions rightly deduced from the two. What is beside them is superfluous.” (Ibn Majah 1/54 and Abu Dawud 2879)

We need to know that Islam requires us to distinguish the Sunnah from bid’ah or innovated practices. We also need to distinguish the authentic Ahâdîth from the fabricated ones. We need to know the proofs from the Qur’an and the Sunnah as these are revealed sources that can give us knowledge and guidance:

Jabir Bin ‘Abdullah narrated that Allah’s Messenger sallallahu alaihi wa sallam said, “The best speech is that embodied in the Book of Allah, and the best guidance is the guidance given by Muhammad. The most evil affairs are their innovations; and every innovation is an error.” (Muslim1885)

Once we know where knowledge comes from then we can either continue on our own or we can choose to sit in the company of the learned. The company of the learned here means the scholars, students of knowledge and those whom Allah has given an understanding of the religion. According to a Tafseer by Ibn Katheer, “Those who benefit from the advice are those who have sound minds and good comprehension with which they understand the words of advice and reminder and their implications.” There is a noble status given to the learned and this is shown in the hâdîth narrated by Abu Umamah, radiallahu anhu which states that the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam said,

“A learned one is as much above an (ordinary) worshipper as I am above the least of you”; and he added: “Allah, His angels and all those in heavens and earths, even the ants in their holes and the fish in the water, call down blessing on those who instruct people in beneficent knowledge.” (Tirmithi)

When we are receiving authentic knowledge from those whom Allah has blessed with knowledge, we should not be ashamed to envy them (i.e., the Muslim scholars or the learned Muslims). The reason for this is the hâdîth narrated by Ibn Mas'ud in which he said that the he heard the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam saying,

“There is no envy except in two: a person whom Allah has given wealth and he spends it in the right way, and a person whom Allah has given wisdom (i.e. religious knowledge) and he gives his decision accordingly and teaches it to others.” ( Sahih Al-Bukhari 2/490)

So the learned among us have a special place in the learning and teaching of religious knowledge. We must try to learn from them so that we can implement the authentic knowledge in our daily lives and also teach or share to others what we learn.

Another important point that we need to build within ourselves in acquiring knowledge is patience. We must have patience when learning. None of us were born knowing everything at once and the same thing goes for learning the religion. We will not be able to acquire all of the knowledge and those who have been given knowledge are still constantly seeking more. The reason lies on the comprehensiveness of Islam. We can not learn Islam in just one setting nor years. And so it is important to understand that we can not comprehend all of Islamic teachings at once and thus the need for patience and constancy. There are many references to patience and constancy in the Qur’an and one of those is:

“O you who believe! Persevere in patience and constancy vie in such perseverance, strengthen each other, and fear Allah, that you may prosper.” (Surah Ali-Imran ayah 200)

In order to make learning easy for us we must submit to the will of Allah and build strong trust in Him that He will help us in our noble pursuit. We should begin our studying with du'a (supplication). Allah has enjoined all of us including the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam to ask for knowledge from Him:

“And say: ‘My Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer) increase me in knowledge.’” (Surah Ta-Ha 114)

It is preferable also that we include in our supplications the following du’a for patience and constancy:

“Our Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer)! Pour out on us patience and constancy, and take our souls unto You as Muslims (who bow to Your Will)!” (Qur’an, 7:126)

In addition to these things we need to choose good company from whom we can receive benefit. The Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam encouraged us to have company when acquiring knowledge as shown in the following hâdîth:

Abdullah ibn Abbas narrated: Allah's Messenger said, “Acquiring knowledge in company for an hour in the night is better than spending the whole night in prayer.” (Tirmidhi 256)

It is for our benefit that we should choose righteous companions. We must remember that when we choose friends either they will give us some information which we can benefit from or no benefit at all. Let us take guidance from the hâdîth in which Abu Musa radiallahu anhu narrated that the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam said,

“The example of a good pious companion and an evil one is that of a person carrying musk and another blowing a pair of bellows. The one carrying musk will either give you some perfume as a present, or you will buy some from him, or you will get a good smell from him, but the one who is blowing a pair of bellows will either burn your clothes or you will get a bad smell from him.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari 7/442)

In order to gain more knowledge or wisdom through righteous friends or companions, let us include in our supplications the following du’a from the Qur’an:

“O my Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer)! Bestow wisdom on me and join me with the righteous; Grant me honorable mention on the tongue of truth among the latest (generations). Make me one of the inheritors of the Garden of Bliss.” (26:83-85)

Also we need to set aside time to study. If we are constantly too busy to learn anything from anyone or do not make the time to read even if just one ayah of Qur’an then we will have no increase in this life or in the next. We need to spend time learning authentic knowledge of Islam to increase our Faith, do righteous deeds, enjoin the Truth and develop patience and constancy. We need to learn all these in order not to be among the losers – those who will suffer the torments in the Hell-Fire for spending most of their time and life in this world merely for play and amusements. Let us take admonition from the following Ayah:

“By the time, verily man is in loss, except such as have Faith, and do righteous deeds, and join (together) in the mutual enjoining of Truth, and of patience and constancy.” (Surah Al-Asr,103:1-3)

After we have learned things about Islam even if we think that it is small or everybody already knows it we should still make the effort to convey what we have learned to our spouses, children and friends. As we read in the Qur’an in Surah Ar-Rum 30 ayah 47:

And one of the ways to help our fellow Muslims is to pass along correct Islamic knowledge. Zayd Ibn Thabit radiallahu anhu narrated that the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam said,

“May Allah brighten the face of the person who hears what I say and retains it, then conveys it to others; for sometimes one who hears from another remembers it better than the original hearer himself.” (Ahmad and Tirmithi)

“Convey (what you have learned from me ) even if it is only one verse.” (Sahih Al Bukhari)

In a world full of opportunities to benefit from the wisdom of others why would we deprive ourselves by not making the sacrifice for the ultimate success which is the Hereafter? Let us then take time learning Islam as it is the True Path to Success. When taking on the task of learning we need to remember to purify our intentions, understand where knowledge comes from, choose those who we can learn from, set time to study, make du’a, and be patient. Once we begin on this journey towards increasing our knowledge we need to be mindful that we practice what we learn, continue making du’a to become more learned, and share with others the authentic Islamic knowledge that we learn. May Allah bless all of us with beneficial knowledge and bestow upon us success in this life and in the next. Ameen.

Live and Love Islam: The Key to Reaching Our Ultimate Goal

Shenaz Aslam, M.A.
(Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)

Alhamdu Lillaah, was-Salaatu was-Salaamu`AlaaRasoolih. As-Salaamu ‘alaikum wa Rahamatullaahi wa Barakatuhu.

“I testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) is His last Messenger.’’

“O you who believe! Enter into Islam wholeheartedly; and follow not the footsteps of the Evil One; for he is to you an avowed enemy.” (Qur’ân 2:208)

‘O you who believe! Fear Allah as He should be feared and die not except in a state of Islam (as Muslims with complete submission to Allah).” (Qur’an 3:102)

Allah, the Creator, the Omnipresent, the Omnipotent, the God of all guides us Muslims to have complete submission to Him through the Qur'an and the Sunnah (Tradition and Practices) of His Messenger (pbuh, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). If we believe and follow Allah's Guidance by practicing Islam wholeheartedly we become righteous. We will be among those who will dwell in Paradise forever. We will attain our ultimate Goal in life, and that is to return to Allah in a state of perfection and hence, supreme success. Indeed, Allah promises us supreme success when He says:

“But those who believe and do deeds of righteousness -- We shall soon admit them to Gardens, with rivers flowing beneath,-- to dwell therein forever. Allâh’s promise is the truth, and whose word can be truer than Allâh’s?” (Qur’ân 4:122).

"...Allâh has promised the believers, men and women, gardens under which rivers flow to dwell therein and beautiful mansions in gardens of everlasting bliss. But the greatest bliss is the Good Pleasure of Allâh: that is the supreme success.” (Qur’ân 9:71-72)

Islâm is a religion based on reason, that leads man to a peaceful blend of the divergent aspects of life. We Muslims should be proud of the fact that Islam is not a religion of mysticism or barren spirituality. Islam is a mirror to our life showing the reality and difference between vice and virtue. It serves us a guide to the humanity. The Holy Prophet’s life is a guidance in itself and a mercy not only to the Muslim Ummah but mankind as a whole.

To the people who have faith in Allâh and Muhammad’s Prophethood, the Prophet’s practice and teachings should become the standard by which every man should reform his life and morals, his behavior and conduct. Rejecting his guidance means rejecting Allâh’s Guidance:

“Say: ‘If you do love Allah, follow me: Allah will love you and forgive you, your sins: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.’” (Qur’an 3:31)

In this age of sick hurry and divided aims, loss of values and lack of faith, concentrated efforts are being made to destroy and mutilate religious beliefs and faith in Allâh, the One and Only True God. In this wake of current and cross currents of the world events, it seems absolutely necessary to understand that Islâm teaches us to live in peace and preserve peace. Islâm is not a theoretical philosophy, but a complete code of conduct and a way to a successful human life. As such, it does not need to compel anyone to follow it, for very clearly anyone who reads and tries to ponder in the veracity of its teachings will find it as the true religion and the best way of life for all. How vividly the Qur’ân States:

“Let there be no compulsion in religion; for Truth stands out clear from error...” (Qur’an 2:256)

Islâm is a comprehensive value system and not a set of ritualistic beliefs. It is a religion of acceptance and commitment of peace. As Muslims we should know more about Islâm in order to reach and worship our Creator the way He likes us to worship Him and perform other forms of duties towards Him to seek His pleasure. The Holy Prophet (pbuh) was sent as a Messenger and guide for the entire world. Through him, Allâh’s guidance reached its consummation and no more guidance was ever needed, for God’s religion had been completed and perfected:

“This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My favors upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.” (Qur’an 5:4)

The virtue claimed by the Qur’ân of being the last revelation and this divine teaching revealed through the last Prophet (pbuh) were for all times and for all nations. Things which began with Adam were accumulated and culminated in the message of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and is a gift for the entire humanity. For one thing Islâm teaches us the acquisition of knowledge, especially the knowledge that pertains to Aqeedah (belief). As one Muslim scholar says: “Knowledge vary depending on the extent of one’s adherence to it. The greatest and most excellent of knowledge is that which pertains to Allâh, His names and His attributes and this knowledge is known as Aqeedah (belief).” Allâh the Almighty guides us to acquire knowledge of Islam when He says:

“Say: ‘Are those equal, those who know and those who do not know? It is those who are endowed with understanding that receive admonition.’” (Qur’an 39:9)

The Holy Qur’an provides answers to all life’s queries. It is an indisputable truth and proof from Allâh that contains all issues related to the phenomenon of nature which were not known or understood by anyone. It talks of the various kinds of knowledge from the creation of the universe to relating history, from philosophy and sociology to scientific details. It is our recent discoveries in fields of biology to cosmology or physiology to mathematics -- that the Qur’ân has confirmed and provided ultimate proofs to all. There are many more facts that are still undiscovered lying in between the lines of the Holy Qur’ân, awaiting the mortals to progress in the respective fields of study and to interpret them in the light of new findings.

Qur’ân is also thus called Al’Furqaan which means it is a book which helps us to discriminate between good and evil, between right and wrong. The belief in the absolute oneness of Allâh (Tawheed) is the belief in the oneness of humanity. The Qur’an repeatedly asserts that mankind was created from one breath of life and hence the idea of humanity being a single community has come into force. The Islamic concept of oneness of God is based on the glorious creed, the deep resounding echo, which showered from the heavens called out to the Prophet (pbuh) by the one and only True God, Allâh:

“Say: ‘He is Allâh, the Eternal, the Absolute. He begets not. Nor is He begotten. And there is none like unto Him.'” (Qur’an 112:1-4)

Islâm is a religion based upon knowledge for it is ultimately knowledge of the Oneness of God (Tawheed) combined with faith and total commitment to Him that saves man. The Qur’ân invites man to use his intellect, to ponder, to think and to know, for the goal of human life is to worship Allâh in His Oneness. This is the Truth which we must know, if we want to succeed in life. We need to seek knowledge of Islâm in its perfect form so we can reach our ultimate Goal. The Prophet (pbuh) has encouraged us to seek knowledge as shown in many authentic Ahâdîth. Some of them are as follows:

`Abdullah ibn Mas`ud narrated that the Prophet (pbuh) said, “Do not wish to be like anyone except in two cases. (The first is) a person whom Allah has given wealth and he spends it righteously; (the second is) the one whom Allah has given wisdom (the Holy Qur’an) and he acts according to it and teaches it to others.” (Bukhari, Vol. 1, Hadith 73; 255)

Anas ibn Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) reported that Allah’s Messenger (pbuh) said, “Seeking of knowledge is incumbent upon every Muslim and he who imparts knowledge to the persons who do not deserve it, is like him who puts on a necklace of pearls, jewels and gold around the necks of swine.” (Ibn Majah, Vol. 1, Hadith 224)

Knowledge of Islâm indeed helps the believer to discern between the lawful and the forbidden, and it is the guiding light for the seekers on the path of Allâh. Knowledge is our comforting friend in times of loneliness. It is the best companion during travels, and it is the inner friend who speaks to us in our privacy. Knowledge is the discerning proof of what is right and what is wrong; and it is the positive force that helps us surmount the trails of comfort, as well as those of hardship. Knowledge is our most powerful sword against our enemies, and finally it is our most dignifying raiment in the company of our close companions. Allah has not only guided us to seek for knowledge but also He has stressed to us not to do anything without knowledge:

“...Allah will raise up, to (suitable) ranks (and degrees), those of you who believe and have been granted Knowledge. And Allah is well-acquainted with all you do.” (Qur’an 58:11)

"And follow not, (O man i.e. do not say, act or witness) that of which you have no knowledge. Verily! The hearing, and the sight and the heart for each of those will you be questioned.” (Qur’an 17: 36)

Through knowledge, Allâh, blessed be His Name, raises some people in rank, and makes them leaders in righteousness and models in morality. The vestige of their faith is avidly sought, their deeds are emulated perceptively, and people will seek and sanction their opinions solicitously and unequivocally. The heavenly angels seek their company and shade them under their wings, every fresh or withered life they pass by implore Almighty Allâh on their behalf. This is because knowledge revives the dead hearts and drives them out of darkness into light, and knowledge is the light of inner eyes that cures one’s blindness and restores light as the Prophet (pbuh) taught us in the following hâdîth:

Kathir ibn Qais reported ... that Abu Darda said, I heard Allah’s Messenger (pbuh) as saying, “He who sets foot on a path in the quest of knowledge Allah facilitates for him the path to the Paradise, the angels accord welcome to the seeker of knowledge and everything of the heaven and the earth, even the fish in the water beg forgiveness for him. The superiority of the scholar over a devout person is like the superiority of the moon over the stars. Verily, the scholars are the heirs of Allah’s Messengers. The Prophets transfer neither dinner nor dirham by inheritance. They only transfer knowledge of inheritance. Therefore, he who acquires this (knowledge), receives an ample share.” (Ibn Majah, Vol. 1, Hadith 223)

Islâm is a religion for all people, from whatever race or background they belonged to. Islamic civilization is based on equality and justice, which stands completely against any racial or ethnic discrimination. The global civilization created by Islâm has succeeded in activating the mind and thoughts of the people who come into Islâm with an open mind and a faithful heart. The religion of Islâm is in itself responsible not only for the creation of a world civilization in which people of many different ethnic backgrounds participate, but it plays a central role in developing intellectual and cultural life on a scale not seen before.

People in the various parts of the Islamic world bear witness to the flowering of Islâmic culture and thoughts. Every sensible individual finds it as the best source of guidance. As such, Islâm is destined to ultimately prevail as the leading world religion and we are witnessing the progression of a civilization which is stretching from one end of the globe to another! Allâh the Almighty plainly tells us:

“This is the Book; in it is guidance sure, without doubt, to those who fear Allah.” (Qur'an 2:2)

“It is He Who has sent His Messenger with Guidance and the Religion of Truth to make it prevail over all religions, even though the Pagans may detest it.” (Qur'an 61:9)

Islâm guides us in all aspects of life -- to reach the ultimate level of success. The guidance for attaining righteousness is given very comprehensively -- covering not only the aspects of our spirituality, but also life itself as a moral code. Would it then be sufficient to just believe in His existence but not carry out His Command? When Allâh commands Muslims to pray five times a day, and a Muslim does not do that, can he expect our Only God to be merciful to him?

The Qur'ân makes it clear that the earth is our habitat and that we are required to dwell in it, and establish a balanced way of life without excesses or deficiencies. The basic role of human being in this face of earth is only to worship Allâh:

“I have created not the jinn and men except that they should worship Me (Alone). I seek not any provision from them nor do I ask that they should feed Me. Verily, Allah is the All-Provider, Owner of Power, Most Strong.” (Qur'an 51:56-58)

Serve Allâh or to worship Him is a comprehensive way that covers every aspect of life. Fulfilling sincerely all that Allâh has demanded from us (in terms of praying, fasting, zakah, hajj and other righteous deeds) reflects our devotion to Him. The same could be said regarding any action that every human being performs in accordance with the Islâmic world-view, as long as it is done for the sake of Allâh. A human being, in the Islâmic world-view is considered a vicegerent, a trustee and is, therefore, not supposed to cause corruption and mischief in any form on earth. Living on this earth means a great responsibility and not a mere existence and this very essence of struggle is a test with accountability and hence will be followed by either reward or punishment:

“Behold, your Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer) said to the angels: ‘I will create a vicegerent on earth.’ They said: ‘Will place therein one who will make mischief therein and shed blood? While we do celebrate Your praises and glorify Your Holy (Name)?’ He said: ‘I know what you know not.’” (Qur'an 2:30)

“It is He who has made you (His) vicegerents, inheritors of the earth: He has raised you in ranks, some above others: that He may try you in the gifts He has given you: for your Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer) is quick in punishment: yet He is indeed Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Qur'an 6:165)

One of the cardinal principles of Islâmic faith is the belief in all the prophets and all the revealed books. The underlying idea of belief is to make man realize that we all belong to one single Creator who is Divine and the Most Absolute, Who raised the prophets in different nations, at different periods of history with one single message and that is to worship Allâh as the only true God:

“O mankind! Worship your Guardian Allah, Who created you and those who came before you that you may become righteous.” (Qur'an 2:21)

Allâh guides us to be righteous. He has taught the purpose of our creation or existence in this world and that is to worship Him Alone. He has also made it clear that He is our very Goal in life. Our Creator tells us:

“To each is a goal to which Allah turns him; then strive together (as in a race) towards all that is good. Whosoever you are, Allah will bring you together; for Allah has power over all things.” (Qur'an 2:148)

“...And to Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and to all that is between. And to Him is the final Goal (of all).” (Qur’an 5:18)

“O you who believe! Guard your own souls. If you follow (right) guidance no hurt can come to you from those who stray. The return of you all is to Allah. It is He what will inform you of all that you do.” (Qur’an 5:105)

“The revelation of this Book is from Allah, exalted in Power, Full of Knowledge,-- Who forgives sin, accepts repentance, is severe in punishment, and is All-Bountiful. There is no god but He: to Him is the Final Goal.” (Qur’an 40:2-3)

Allâh is, indeed, our Final Goal. To Him we came and to Him is our return. If we submit to Him in Islâm then, we attain our Goal successfully. He will reward those who believe in Him and do righteous deeds with supreme success and happiness in Paradise. Unfortunately, many do not understand their ultimate Goal in life. Materialism -- along with the spread of nationalism, which separates Muslims on ethnic, linguistic and tribal lines -- distort their minds from reaching their very Goal in life. Bid’ah (Innovation) in Islam becomes common among those who know nothing but this worldly life. As humans we lack perfect knowledge as well as perfect wisdom. No matter how hard we try, we will never attain the perfect way of life by our own thinking and interpretation. This is the reason why Allâh, being the Most Wise, has sent down the Qur'ân as a gift to mankind and a key to success in life and ultimately a road to Paradise. Allâh, the Perfect in His Wisdom and Knowledge, bestowed on us a complete way of life. He has set His perfect rules and guidance, all of which are beneficial to mankind, and therefore, do not need any change or modification. Islâm in its perfect form, through the Qur’ân and the Sunnah, is the best way of life for us. If we want to succeed, let us adhere to the Sunnah and avoid bid’ah (innovation in the religion). Let us take guidance and admonition from the following authentic Ahâdîth:

Yahya ibn Abû Muta said, “I heard Irbad ibn Sariya as saying, “One day Allâh’s Messenger (pbuh) said, ‘…It is incumbent upon you to adhere strictly to my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the rightly guided Caliphs. Hold fast that with teeth and pursue not the affairs of innovation for every innovation is straying from the Right Path.’” (Ibn Mâjah, Vol.1, Hadith 42, Abû Dâwûd Hadith 4950, and Tirmidhî)

‘Aishah reported that Allâh’s Messenger (pbuh) said, “Whoso introduces any thing new to this affairs of ours (i.e., religion) which does not form a part of it, it is invalid.” (Bukhâri Vol. 3, Hadith 861 and Ibn Mâjah Vol.1, Hadith 14)

“Whoever leaves off obedience and separates from the Jam'ah and dies, (then) he dies a death of jahiliyyah (i.e. pre-Islamic ignorance and disbelief). And whoever fights under the banner of the blind, angry for nationalism or calling to nationalism or assisting nationalism and dies, (then) he dies a death of jahiliyyah.” (Muslim 2/143)

Islam, being the only perfect way of life, can solve all human problems. It is the only hope for overcoming the present and future challenges of life. What we need is simply to practice it faithfully and wholeheartedly. Islam teaches decency, humility and good manners. The most valued virtues of a Muslim include truthfulness and justice; helping the poor and the needy; respecting parents, scholars, teachers and elders; love and kindness for children, the widows and the poor; and good relations with neighbors and guests. Islam prohibits and condemns enmity, backbiting, slander, blasphemy, ridicule, use of offensive names, suspicion, arrogance, oppression, injustice, and all evil deeds.

Islam deals with man and his ultimate goal in life. Its teachings cover all aspects of this life and the life after death. It is the only way to salvation. Unfortunately, many Muslims have such a poor Islamic identity and perspective that they cannot bear to fulfill their Islamic obligations under the critical eye of the hostile world. Instead of clarifying the misconceptions that non-Muslims have on Islam and the Muslims, they themselves support the distorted views by not practicing Islam faithfully. One misconception pertains to the concept of equality between man and woman. The foundation of an Islamic society is justice and equality. Allah has created men and women as equal, but with different capabilities and different responsibilities. Men and women are different, physiologically and psychologically. Their roles and responsibilities are different. Men and women are equal in Islam, but not identical. In terms of rewards for doing righteousness, women enjoy the same rewards with that of men. Allah promises Paradise and a new life that is good and pure to both men and women who do deeds of righteousness. Our Creator says:

“If any do deeds of righteousness be they male or female and have faith they will enter heaven and not the least injustice will be done to them.” (Qur’ân 4:124)

“Whoever works righteousness man or woman and has faith verily to him will We give a new life a life that is good and pure and We will bestow on such their reward according to the best of their actions.” (Qur’ân 16:97)

Indeed, Islam is the only religion, which gives tremendous importance to the identification of both sexes. The status of women in Islam is often the target of attacks in the secular media. The 'hijaab' or the Islamic dress is cited by many as an example of the 'subjugation' of women under Islamic law because they fail to see the wisdom behind it. Islam uplifted the status of women and granted them their just rights1400 years ago. Islam expects women to maintain their honor and dignity. People usually only discuss 'hijaab' in the context of women. However, in the Qur'an, Allah first mentions 'hijaab' for men before 'hijaab' for the women:

"Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty: that will make for greater purity for them: and Allah is well acquainted with all that they do." (Qur'an 24:30)

“And say, to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what (must ordinarily) appear thereof; that they should draw veils over their bosoms and not display their beauty except to their husbands, their fathers, their husbands' fathers, their sons.” (Qur'an 24:31)

The Qur'an says that hijaab has been prescribed for the women so that they are recognized as modest women and this will also prevent them from being molested. This reason is mentioned in the Qur'an in the following verse:

“O Prophet! Tell your wives and daughters, and the believing women that they should cast their outer garments over their persons (when abroad); that is most convenient, that they should be known (as such) and not molested. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Qur'an 33:59)

Western society falsely claims to have uplifted women. They talk of woman's liberalization, but in reality it is nothing but a disguised form of exploitation of her body, degradation of her soul, and deprivation of her honor. Western society claims to have 'uplifted' women but on the contrary it has only degraded her status, under the cover of the so-called fashionable world and making her a mere tool in the various fields of activities. In contrast, Islam does not degrade a woman but uplifts her, by safeguarding her modesty and chastity. If one critically analyzes the teachings of Islam with an open mind, one cannot escape the fact that this Deen (Religion) gives full of benefits both at the individual and collective levels.

It is sad to note that due to lack of knowledge of Islam, especially its uniqueness as the best way of life and religion, many Muslims become secular. They have subjected themselves to various temptations from Satan and his followers by imitating the non-Muslims in many ways. Instead of learning the Qur'an and the Sunnah they waste their time watching television programs, reading fictions and magazines, and surfing websites, which are not at all Islamic. They prefer this temporary world instead of the eternal world in the hereafter. If only they read and study the Qur’an, they will learn that the best goal in life is to return to Allah and enjoy the eternal blessings of Paradise:

“Fair in the eyes of men is the love of things they covet: women and sons; heaped-up hoards of gold and silver; horses branded (for blood and excellence); and (wealth of) cattle and well-tilled land. Such are the possessions of this world’s life; but with Allah is the best of the goals (to return to).” (Qur’an 3:14)

“Nothing is the life of this world but play and amusement, but best is the Home in the Hereafter, for those who are righteous, will you not then understand?” (Qur’an 6:32)

“Allah does enlarge, or grant by (strict) measure, the sustenance (which He gives) to whom so He pleases ¾ (the worldly) rejoice in the life of this world. But the life of this world is but little comfort compared to the Hereafter.” (Qur’an 13:26)

For our salvation and success, let us turn to Allah for His Guidance. Verily, Allah is the Only One Who makes sound the hearts of those who sincerely seek the Truth and who go for righteousness:

“...And who is more astray than one who follows his own desires without guidance from Allah? Verily Allah guides not people who are Dhaalimoon (wrongdoers, disobedient to Allah, polytheists).” (Qur’an 28:50)

Let us follow Islam according to the Qur’an and the Sunnah. Let us uphold Islam, live a life according to its teachings and morals and follow the ideal Muslim character expected of us as believers of the True Faith. Let us not imitate the life of the non-Muslims. Sheikh Ibn Taymeeyah commented:

“It is a duty upon a Muslim to uphold his religion and make it the mere act of living. Among them is a cause and a suspicion of one imitating them, acquiring their characteristics and morals, and their blameworthy deeds and indeed even their religious convictions and as a result one who lives among a kaafir becomes like him. As well, the external act of participation in living and working with disbelievers stimulates internal feelings of love, friendship, and benevolence just as internal feelings of love encourages external acts of imitation of them. The Messenger of Allaah, sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam has forbidden a Muslim to reside among the mushrikeen if he has the ability to make hijrah away from them ... and he said "Whoever gathers among the mushrik and lives among them is one of them." ('Awn Al-Ma'bood – Vol. 7 pg 338, Al-Jihaad)

The life that is based on human conjectures, whims, caprices and vices does more harm than good to us. The best life is one based on the complete submission to Allah and that is Islam according to the Qur’an and the Sunnah. The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) left a way very clear for us as he said:

Jâbir ibn ‘Abdullâh narrated that the Prophet (pbuh) said, “...I have left among you the Book of Allâh, and if you hold fast to it, you would never go astray...” (Muslim, Hadith 2803.1)

Jabir ibn Abdullah narrated that Allâh’s Messenger (pbuh) said, “The best speech is that embodied in the Book of Allâh, and the best guidance is the guidance given by Muhammad. The most evil affairs are their innovations; and every innovation is an error.” (Muslim, Hadith 1885)

Indeed, “Facts do not cease to exist simply because you choose to ignore them and it is very important not to lose our sensitivity towards the wrong.” Very often we hear today from the so-called modernized Muslims talking about Hadith and Sunnah in a light vein. It is an established truth that the Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) tradition whether in the form of instruction or example, contains the full explanation of the Qur’an and anyone who disregards it commits wicked act or evil deed. The Ahadith relating to the life, words and deeds of our Prophet’s life is undoubtedly the most unique in the world, so full of truth and virtuous teachings. The Prophet (pbuh) said, “Whoever intentionally lies about me his abode shall be hell.” For our success we need to learn the Qur’an and the Sunnah or the authentic Ahâdîth of our Great Prophet (pbuh). We need to spend our time, money, efforts, knowledge or in short our life learning and practicing Islam for the pleasure of Allah. What we practice, we need to share them to others. Let us take guidance from the following Qur’anic Ayât (Verses) and the Hadith of our beloved Prophet (pbuh):

“Say: ‘Truly, my prayer and my service of sacrifice, my life and my death, are (all) for Allah, the Cherisher of the Worlds.’” (Qur'an 6:162)

“By the time, verily man is in loss, except such as have Faith, and do righteous deeds, and join together) in the mutual enjoining of Truth, and of patience and constancy.” (Qur’an 103:1-3)

Abdullah ibn Qatada reported on his father’s authority that Allah’s Messenger (pbuh) said, “The best of what a man leaves behind (after his death) are three things: A pious son who invokes blessings upon him; a sadaqa (charity), which continues (even after his death) and its rewards benefits him; and the knowledge that is acted upon after him.” (Ibn Majah, Vol. 1, Hadith 241)

Abu Barzah Nadlah ibn Ubayd al-Aslami narrated that the Prophet (pbuh) said: “A servant of Allah will remain standing on the Day of Judgment till he is questioned: about his age and how he spent it; and about his knowledge and how he utilized it; about his wealth from where he acquired it and in what (activities) he spent it; and about his body as to how he used it.” (Tirmidhi, Hadith 407)

Islam is for every person on whom Allah has bestowed life and intellect and for those who can see the blessings of Allah. It is for those who can hear the words of Allah (when the Qur’an is being recited in our day to day prayers) and for those who can comprehend the signs of Allah. It is for those whose hearts are full of love and gratitude to Allah and for those whose blessed hearts are open to the True Faith. Islam is the religion accepted by Allah for all humanity. It is the religion of all prophets since Adam to Muhammad (Peace and blessings of Allah be upon them all). Obey the call of your heart to the eternal Faith. Let us summon to the call of Allah:

“O mankind! Worship your Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer), Who created you and those who came before you that you may become righteous.” (Qur'an 2:21)

“But your God is one God (Allah), submit then your wills to Him (in Islam), and give the good news to those who humble themselves.” (Qur'an 22:34)

Let us fear Allah by submitting ourselves to Him Alone by adhering to Islam according to the Sunnah of His Messenger (pbuh). Let us not follow those who choose to go astray, as Allah the Exalted says:

“If anyone desires a Deen (Religion) other than Islam (submission to Allah) it never will be accepted of him; and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost (everything).” (Qur'an 3:85)

In front of us there are two ways: One is leading to bliss in this life and in the Hereafter, that is Islam according to the Qur’an and the Sunnah. The other paths are those leading to misery and loss in this world, and to eternal and severe punishment in the Hereafter. The Choice is in our hands. What are we going to choose? Shall we then choose other ways other than Islam when it is the Only Way to reach Allah in perfection and thus attain His Everlasting Rewards in the Hereafter? Brothers and sisters in Islam and those who want eternal success, think wisely. Live and Love Islam: The Key to Reaching Our Ultimate Goal!

I ask Allah, the Most Gracious to forgive my shortcomings and accept my little effort which I have tried with my very little knowledge but sincerely in hope for the reward from my Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer). I also pray to the Almighty to save all true Muslim believers, brothers and sisters in Faith from the wrath of evil and guide us all to the path of eternal happiness and success. Aameen!

The Qur’an is a book of guidance sure without doubt to those who fear Allah (Qur’an 2: 2). There is no other or better guidance than the Book of Allah. Its unique and incomparable comprehensive teachings guide mankind at all ages. It covers all subjects affecting mankind be it physical, material, economical, social, cultural political, legal, religious and spiritual. It talks not only of us and our environment but also the events and circumstances affecting us. Allah says in the Qur’an that nothing has been omitted from it (Qur’an 6: 38).

Alhamdullillah Islam covers all aspects of life. Allah has perfected Islam for us and made it complete. Allah subhana wa ta'ala (s.w.t.) says:

“This day I have perfected your deen (religion) for you, completed my favour upon you and have chosen for you Islam as your deen.” (Qur'an 5: 4)

Allah’s Messenger (s.a.w.s.) Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam also said,

“I have not left anything that Allah ordered you except that I have ordered you with it, nor anything that Allah forbade you except that I forbade you from it.” (Reported Saheeh and compiled by Al-Baihaqee.)

The comprehensive teachings in the Holy Qur’an and the Sunnah serve as a favour of Allah to us. Islam, indeed, is the complete and thus the perfect religion and way of life for all mankind. In this paper, I have chosen 15 Islamic teachings and none is less important than the other. I have benefited, Alhamdullillah, from preparing for this paper and I ask forgiveness from Allah subhana wa ta’ala (s.w.t.) for any of the shortcomings it might carry. I pray to Allah to help me apply His teachings (which include His Messenger’s teachings) in all aspects of life and I appeal to you to accept my humble effort. I believe that understanding each teaching is very important for applying it in our practical and day to day lives. Besides, if we set examples and give real life experiences of the benefits of following the commandments of Allah and His Messenger (s.a.w.s.), our friends, neighbours and relatives will also follow the Right Path, Insha Allah. In this paper I have made an effort to put forward my understanding of some Qur’anic ayaat (verses) and authentic ahadith of the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) in the following important topics in Islam:

1. Acquiring authentic Islamic knowledge

2. Learning the concept of Tawheed (absolute oneness of Allah)

3. Worship and devotion to Allah with sincerity (for the pleasure of Allah only)

4. Love for the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and make him as our role model

5. Application of Islamic concept of justice in all aspects of life

6. Importance of Islamic education from childhood

7. Role of the mosque in the community

8. Controlling worldly desires and temptations

9. Importance of charity and protection from ar-riya’ (show off)

10. Importance of sabr (patience)

11. Importance of shukr (thanking Allah)

12. Tauba (Repentance)

13. Refraining from the evil consequences of the tongue

14. Avoiding pride

15. Taqwa (fear of Allah)

1. Importance of Acquiring Knowledge

Prophet Mohammed (s.a.w.s.) has emphasized the acquiring of knowledge and has stated this act as a duty of every Muslim:

Anas Ibn malik has reported that the messenger of Allah has said, “Seeking of knowledge is incumbent on every Muslim.” (Ibn Majjah 1/224 and Tirmidhi 218)

From various narrations we learn the need to acquire knowledge especially on the following: knowledge of Allah, His names and all His Attributes; knowing what is expected as regards to servitude to Him and what mutual rights exist between us; knowledge of Allah’s Book –The Qur’an; and knowledge about the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and his companions.

Alhamdullillah in this age of communication and technology acquiring knowledge becomes easy. Thanks to the Internet, CDs, publishing houses and magazines, mosques and Islamic centers. However our barriers in this advanced fast paced world are time and our own nafs (desires). These two suggest to us that there are other important things in this worldly life that we need to attend to, that we need to spend more time for doing our jobs for promotion and or security reasons, and that we cannot do anything about the Ummah today as it is a lost cause. The best solution to combat these is to read about the fazail or the benefits of acquiring Islamic knowledge every time the shaitan attacks us with these thoughts.

Rasul Allah (s.a.w.s.) told us that when a person seeks out a path to learn about Islam, this is a sign that Allah loves him/her and that He wants good for him/her in this life and the next. Subhanallah! Is there anything greater than this that can inspire us?

Besides this from various ayaat of the Qur’an and authentic narrations of the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) we the Believers (Muslims) have been promised:

· Full appreciation of His Oneness

· Fear of Him

· An easy way to paradise

· A lofty rank

· High and noble status

· Blessings from Allah

· Supplications of all that exists between the heavens and the earth

· Face beaming in brightness and beauty on the day of judgement

All these and more, for seeking (Islamic) knowledge!

Can anything in the world benefit us more than this noble teaching? Besides the wanting of rewards, the other reasons for seeking knowledge include the desire to remove ignorance from oneself and others about Islam, to be able to worship Allah properly and finally to be able to defend our values and ideas, our faith or in short Islam with rational reasoning and convincing evidence from authentic sources (i.e., the Qur’an and Sunnah).

After convincing ourselves on the importance of acquiring authentic knowledge of Islam, we need to think on the ways how we can acquire or learn it. If we are tied up with our respective jobs and do not have time to join formal schools and programs on Islam, we can still learn Islam through the following ways:

1. Buying Islamic books, CDs on Islam based on the Qur’an and the Sunnah;

2. Subscribing to Islamic magazines that give authentic and relevant knowledge from the Islamic viewpoint and letting the entire family read and discuss it;

3. Download and read authentic Islamic materials from the Internet (Islamic websites);

4. Subscribing or joining the email lists from refutable Islamic websites (known for their adherence to the Qur'an and the Sunnah);

5. Attend seminars and lectures of Muslim scholars and duat (propagators) known for their adherence to the Qur’an and the Sunnah; and

6. Participate regularly with family and friends in the activities of the Islamic centres and mosques.

In order to execute the above activities, we need to make seeking knowledge a pleasant and interesting experience, especially for the younger members of our family as well as community. We need to reserve at least half to one hour daily for this purpose. In addition, we need to help fund or support organizations that teach authentic knowledge of Islam.

2. Learning the concept of Tawheed

There are numerous Ayaat (Verses) of the Qur’an that point out that Allah wants us to know Him as the Only True God who alone is worthy of worship and who alone deserves all praise:

“Verily your Allah is One, Rabb of the heavens and the earth and all between them and the Rabb of every point at the rising of the sun!”(Qur'an 37: 4-5)

“What! Do they seek a Din other than God’s, whereas unto Him surrenders whoso is in the heavens and the earth, willingly or unwillingly, and unto Him all must return.” (Qur'an 3: 83)

The concept of Tawheed (absolute oneness of Allah) has Three categories:

1. Tawheed Ar Ruboobiyah (i.e., Oneness of Allah’s Divinity: He is the Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer), the Creator, the Sovereign, the Provider, the Manager of the whole mankind’s affairs).

2. Tawheed Al Ulooheeyah according to which Allah alone deserves to be worshipped.

3. Tawheed Al Asmaa was Sifaat which states that Allah alone deserves the most magnificent names and attributes.

The concept of Tawheed is the most basic and fundamental concept of Islam. Islam means exclusive and total submission to Allah, the Only True God. Acceptance of this belief is not restricted to the lips but demands suitable attitude of man in his action and thoughts; thus, a very deep understanding extending to every aspect of life at all times.

As far as action is concerned, whether right or wrong, it must be decided according to the commandments of Allah and not one’s desire, what the intelligentsia suggest, what the society approves, what our forefathers did or what our families and relations prefer. These are actions taking us towards Shirk (association) with Allah:

“And who is more astray than one who calls on [invokes] besides Allah, such as will not answer him till the Day of Resurrection and who are [even] unaware of their calls [invocations] to them? And when mankind is gathered [on the Day of Resurrection], they [false deities] will become their enemies and will deny their worshipping.” (Qur'an 46:5-6)

“And when it is said to them: ‘Follow what Allah has sent down’, they say, ‘We will follow (only) what we found our fathers doing.’ What! Even if their fathers did not use their reason at all, nor were guided?” (Qur'an 2: 170)

“If you obey most of those on earth, they will lead you astray from the path of Allah. They follow nothing but conjectures, and they do nothing but lie.” (Qur'an 6: 116)

Thus if we want to be true practicing Muslims we must break the three formidable idols whom we unconsciously take as our Gods:

1. Nafs or Self desires,

2. Blind conformity with society and culture, and

3. Obedience to human beings and man-made laws in preference to God's law, the Shari'ah.

In addition, we need to know and understand that in Islam, there is no bifurcation in knowledge into secular and religious. This would amount to Shirk. Shirk postulates that besides or instead of Allah the Almighty, there are other creators and law-givers for physics and biology, economics and politics, etc. Such alleged law-givers may be man and his pure reason, ancient mythological characters or simply nature in secular terms. Islamic naturalism and Islamic rationalism under this concept of Tawheed are qualitatively different from atheistic or secular counterparts. Extending the application of this concept into our daily lives would include refraining from other major sins like:

a. loving others and the world above Allah and His Messenger (s.a.w.s.),

b. taking enemies of Allah as friends and supporters,

c. denying the finality of Prophethood,

d. denying the Sunnah,

e. judging other than the Shari’ah,

f. ridiculing or hating any aspect of Islam,

g. believing that salvation can be obtained by following any other religion, and

h. disregard for the teachings of Islam (i.e., not learning and following Islam).

3. Worship and devotion to Allah

The sole purpose of our creation, the goal and the end of our lives is to worship and serve Allah subhana wa ta’ala alone. Allah (s.w.t.) says:

“And I have not created jinn and mankind except to worship and serve Me.” (Qur'an 51: 56)

This establishes without doubt that we have to be fully aware of the meaning of this term and command -- i.e., to worship, the purpose for which we have been created, and anyone or anything that does not fulfill its purpose of existence is bound to be a failure. Thus our success depends upon understanding the true meaning of ‘ibaadah’ (worship).

This word is derived from the word ‘abd’, which means servant and slave, thus ‘ibaadah’ means to perform the duties of a servant as does a slave or a bondsmen. Thus what Allah expects of us is that we must be loyal to Him Alone and no one else. We should follow His commandments only; and we should honour and revere Him alone by kneeling and prostrating ourselves to Him in our day to day prayers (i.e., according to the Sunnah of His great Messenger (s.a.w.s.).

Since a servant is never really free from his duties and his job is a fulltime one, so it is with us to fulfil our duties to Allah Who Alone is our Rabb. At every step in our lives from childhood to old age, whether asleep or awake, whether eating or drinking, in everything we say and do, we must be conscious and be aware of how our Master and His Messenger (s.a.w.s..) want it to be done. If done according to His commands (i.e., according to the Qur’an and the Sunnah), it becomes an act of worship.

Generally, the acts of Prayer (salah), Almsgiving (Zakat), Fasting (sawm), Pilgrimage (Hajj) and so on are considered ‘ibaadah’. We must constantly remind ourselves that these have a deeper significance. They are means by which our lives can be transformed truly in accordance with the commands of Allah and His Messenger (s.a.w.s.).

In our busy and fast paced lives the salah constantly reminds us that we are slaves of Allah and not of anyone in this world. The sawm (including the optional fasts) are means of disciplining our bodies and strengthening our souls. The zakat brings home the truth that wealth is only a gift of Allah and not ours to keep. The hajj is a reminder of our gathering on the last day of judgement (Aakhirah). Thus each act of ritual worship prepares us for a life spent totally in worship to Allah when performed (according to the Qur'an and the Sunnah) in full understanding of their meaning and purpose.

**4. Love for the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) and make him as our role model**

“Say: ‘If it be that your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your mates or your kindred the wealth that you have gained; the commerce in which you fear a decline; or the dwellings in which you delight are dearer to you than Allah and His Messenger or the striving in His cause; then wait until Allah brings about His decision; and Allah guides not the rebellious.’” (Qur’an 9: 24)

Based on the above Ayah, Allah (s.w.t.) makes it clear that besides acknowledging the Prophet Mohammed (s.a.w.s.) to be His Prophet and Messenger, we are expected to love him dearly. The lives of the companions of the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) are full of instances of the uncompromising love that they had for him. One may ask, how can we have the same kind of love when we haven’t seen the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) as compared to his companions?

This brings out the importance of studying the seerah (biographies) of the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) along with the Qur’an and the Sahih Hadith for it is very true that to truly love someone, one must know that person well enough.

Alhamdullillah, today we have many good biographies of the Prophet (s.a.w.s.). We only need to read and understand them in order to benefit from his life, as he is the best model for all of us. In fact, even non-Muslims who read the Prophet’s life were impressed of his personality. Example is Michael Hart, a non-Muslim, who studied the Prophet’s life. He was thoroughly impressed in the Prophet’s personality that he has ranked him first among the most influential and successful people of the world.

It is very unfortunate that in today’s world magazines and newspapers many Muslim youngsters read the lives of film stars, politicians, singers, sportsmen and other personalities. Many of our youths of today take these people who are mostly non-Muslims as their role models. If we sincerely want our younger generation to follow the footsteps of the Prophet (s.a.w.s.), we must make the study of seerah of the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) part of their curriculum in school, if possible, or at least at home. The struggle that Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) went through so that the Message of Allah could reach us should touch the heart of every Muslim in all generations. Everyone of us is indebted to him that we ought to love him as the great Prophet and Messenger of Allah. However, loving the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) is not the same as loving our dear ones. This love is expressed by total and unquestionable obedience to his commands and by following his Sunnah. Allah subhana wa ta’ala says:

“You have indeed in the Messenger of Allah a beautiful pattern of conduct for him who hopes in Allah and the Final Day, and who remembers Allah much.” (Qur’an 33:21)

“...So take what the Messenger gives you and refrain from what he prohibits.” (Qur’an, 59:7)

“We sent not a Messenger, but to be obeyed, in accordance with the leave of Allah...” (Qur’an, 4: 64)

“He who obeys the Messenger, obeys Allah...” (Qur’an, 4: 80)

“O you who believe! Obey Allah, and obey the Messenger, and make not vain your deeds!” (Qur’an, 47: 33)

The term “ati-ullah wa ati-ur-rasool” meaning obey Allah and obey the Messenger is found at various places in the Qur’an. These verses show that obeying Allah and the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) cannot be separated.

Finally another important reason for us to really adore the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) is by understanding his role in our eternal success. We must know that the Prophet (s.a.w.s.) is a mercy for all of us:

“We have sent you not (O Muhammad!) but as a mercy for all creatures.” (Qur’an 21: 107)

Another way of expressing our love besides obeying him is to send praise and blessings on him. Allah subhana wa ta’ala commands:

“Verily, Allah sends blessings upon the Prophet, and His angels ask Allah to bless him. O you who have believed, ask Allah to send blessings upon him, and (you) greet him with peace.” (Qur’an, 33:56)

It is for our own benefit that we send blessings on the Prophet Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. Every time we hear the Prophet’s name or title, we should say: (s.a.w.s.) “Sallah Allahi wa ‘alayhi wasallam” meaning: “May the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.” The following Ahâdîth remind us of the rewards of sending blessings on our great Prophet Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam:

Anas Bin Malik narrated that Allah’s Messenger (s.a.w.s.) said, “He who invokes one blessings upon me, Allah will shower ten blessings upon him and obliterate ten (of his) sins and elevate him by ten ranks.” (Tirmihdi, 922 and Nasa’i)

‘Abdullah Bin Amr narrated that He who invokes blessings upon Allah’s Messenger once, Allah and His Angels shower seventy blessings upon him.” (Tirmidhi 935 and Ahmad)

5. Application of the Islamic concept of justice

The concept of Justice in Islaam is very important and it is something the Muslim ruler and the ruled must apply in all matters without exception. The Islamic concept of Justice is manifested in the Shari’ah which is the best way to justice and an embodiment of Allah's Infinite Mercy.

Allah is the Absolutely Just and Infinitely Merciful. He has created everything for a purpose and in perfect harmony and balance. Justice for man therefore lies in obeying what He has laid down as right and avoiding what He has laid down as wrong and establishing rewards and punishments on the basis of His standards of judgements. Man-made laws, based on enquiry, pure reason, logic or empiricism have inherent deficiencies being rooted in human imperfections. These laws change according to change in human values and standards. However the Qur’an states:

“The Word of the Rabb does find its fulfillment in truth and in justice. None can change His Words: for He is the One Who hears and knows all.” (Qur’an 6:115)

It is this justice that every Muslim must strive to achieve as our Rabb commands:

“O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it be (against) rich or poor: for Allah can best protect both. For not the lusts (of your departure), lest you swerve, and if you distort (justice) or decline to do justice, verily Allah is well-acquainted with all that you do.” (Qur'an, 4:135)

In today’s world with its western influence, the human criteria and standards of right and wrong are undergoing drastic changes. With the trend towards vegetarianism Muslims are labeled as cruel (for slaughtering cows, etc. for food); while in most other part, Islam is associated with violence, and fundamentalism with terrorism. One is to decide here with the help of Islamic principles and not man-made stories as to who to side. Is this so-called terrorism an incurable disease? Or is it really a symptom of a very wide spread open attack of targeted injustice? To some, especially those who know nothing or know but very little of Islam, this requires very deep thinking and understanding; however our total faith in the Shari’ah and Fiqh guides us to come to correct conclusions. Islam is the religion of peace, justice and piety:

“Allah does command you to render back your trusts to those to whom they are due; and when you judge between people that you judge with justice. Verily how excellent is the teaching, which He gives you! For Allah is He Who hears and sees all things.” (Qur’an, 4:58)

“Allah commands justice, the doing of good, and giving to kith and kin, and He forbids all indecent deed, and evil and rebellion. He instructs you that you may receive admonition.” (Qur’an, 16:90)

“O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to fair dealing, and let not the hatred of others to you make you swerve to wrong and depart from justice. Be just: that is next to piety. And fear Allah for Allah is well-acquainted with all that you do.” (Qur'an, 5:8)

6. The importance of Islamic Education right from childhood

Indeed it is a great blessing from Allah for a youth to be guided towards worship and be befriended by the righteous. Every Muslim youth needs to seek Allah’s guidance since the youths in today's world are generally vulnerable to various temptations of life: music, video games, movies, televisions, clubs, women, fashion, drug addictions, gambling, etc. Knowing that prevention is better than cure, correct values have to be inculcated starting from childhood. Herein lies the responsibility of every Muslim parent. We parents must be concerned about the education of our children especially the Islamic aspect of it. We need to understand that in today’s world children are inquisitive. They need to know the reasons for everything that they are asked to do. Therefore, it becomes incumbent upon us to explain to them Islam in its purest or authentic form (i.e., according to the Qur’an and the Sunnah. If we do not know it, it is necessary for us to find out and keep on learning and teaching our children. For their Islamic foundation to be strong, it is our duty as parents to strive to learn and practice all aspects of Islam at all times and share our knowledge to others, especially to our children. It is necessary to explain to them what Allah wants from us or what is expected of us as Muslims. We need to strengthen our eeman (faith) so that we actually do whatever we say or convey to others:

“O you who believe! Why say you that which you do not? Grievously hateful in the sight of Allah is that you say that which you do not.” (61: 2-3)

For the all round education of our children, an Islamic school is the best option. Let us send our children to schools that offer authentic Islamic education. Let us take guidance from the following Prophet’s statement:

“A father gives his child nothing better than a good education.” (Mishkat 4977, Tirmidhi and Baihaqi)

For others to benefit from Islamic knowledge, which is certainly the good or the best education, we need to encourage other parents to send their children to Islamic schools. In addition, we should spend our resources, talent, time, money and effort to help support Islamic institutions that provide authentic knowledge of Islam.

7. The role of the mosque in the community

Prayer is one of the ways of preparing us for all time worship – i.e., a life in submission to His Will and obedience to His Commands. Worship encompasses all mutual relationships of man-- his rights and duties towards his family, relatives, friends, neighbours, towards the leaders of the community and towards the Muslim ummah (nation) at large.

The five times assembling of the Muslims at the call of the Adhan for a single common purpose at the mosque creates the discipline, unity, brotherhood, fellowship and equality that is required of an organized community with a universal mission – i.e., to be witness to the Truth.

There is great encouragement in the Sunnah for men to pray in the mosque and the reward associated with it is tremendous. It makes the person eligible for Allah’s shade on the Day of Judgment, when we will be in the extreme heat and there will be no shade except His shade:

Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) said, “Seven people will be shaded by Allah under His shade on the day when there will be no shade except His. They are: 1. a just ruler, 2. a youth who grew up in the worship of Allah, 3. a man whose heart is attached to the mosque, 4. two men who love each other for Allah’s sake, meeting for that and parting for that. 5. a man who is called by a woman of beauty and position but he says, “I fear Allah”, 6. a man who gives in charity and hides it, such that his left hand does not know what his right hand gives in charity, and 7. a man who remembered Allah in private and so his eyes shed tears.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari (Eng. translation) vol. 2, hadeeth no. 504)

Prayer in the mosque for men has more rewards than prayer in the house. Every step which he takes is rewarded with one degree and his sins will be forgiven:

Abu Hurairah narrated that Allah’s Messenger (s.a.w.s.) said, “The congregational prayer of anyone amongst you is more than twenty five (or twenty seven) times in reward than his prayer in the market or in his house; for if he performs ablution completely and then goes to the mosque with the sole intention of performing the prayer, and nothing urges him to proceed to the mosque except the prayer, then, on every step which he takes towards the mosque, he will be raised one degree or one of his sins will be forgiven. The angels will keep on asking Allah’s forgiveness and blessings for everyone of you so long as he keeps sitting at his praying place. The angels will say, ‘O Allah, bless him! O Allah, be merciful to him!’ as long as he does not do Hadath or a thing which gives trouble to the other.” The Prophet (s.a.w.s.) further said, “One is regarded in prayer so long as one is waiting for the prayer.” (Bukhari 3/330)

8. Controlling desires and temptations

Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) by way of a warning and as a reminder said, “I have not left a fitnah (trial, calamity or cause for calamity) more than (the fitnah) with women for men.”

Indeed, this world is full of temptations, which leads those who cannot resist them to the Hellfire, and amongst them is that which comes from women. However Allah the Most Merciful who has created man with all his inherent biological traits has also offered him solutions for overcoming these tendencies. To possess sensuous desires is human; to control them is being a Muslim. Allah subhana wa ta’ala says:

“Say to the believing men that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty, that will make for better purity for them… and say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty…. O you believers, turn you all towards Allah that you may attain success.” (Qur'an 24: 30, 31)

Thus Allah guides us against our own evil desires and worldly temptations and promises true success to the one who is truly guided. The provision that we need to protect ourselves is to fear Allah:

“And as for him who feared standing before his Rabb and restrained himself from impure evil desires, verily Paradise will be his abode.” (Qur'an 79: 40, 41)

Another important fact that we must remember is that anything that leads to haraam (unlawful) is haraam itself. Thus watching television and or movies must be avoided as we are unconsciously violating Allah’s laws. Besides movies, as a form of entertainment, is letting a lot of un-Islamic values and ideas creep in our minds and thus must be totally censored from our lives. In addition, any other activities where there is unnecessary intermingling of sexes must be avoided. We need to pin point how each one of us is a culprit of this satanic practice and make a conscious effort of rectifying ourselves and then helping others around us to avoid any unlawful or evil deed that can destroy our eeman (faith).

**9. Avoiding Ar-riya’ (show off) while giving Charity**

The benefits of charity are numerous:

“The likeness of those who spend for Allah’s sake is as the likeness of a grain of corn, it grows seven ears’ every single ear has a hundred grains, and Allah multiplies (increases the reward of) for whom He wills, and Allah is sufficient for His creatures’ needs, All-Knower).” (Qur’an, 2:261)

“…that which you give for charity, seeking the Countenance of Allah, (will increase); it is those who will get a recompense multiplied.” (Qur’an, 30:39)

There are other numerous Qur’anic verses that stress the importance and benefits of giving charity; however, if one has to reap the benefits of this act, one must follow certain manners: Firstly it must be given from Halal earnings and secondly to be truly under the shade of Allah one must give only to seek the pleasure of Allah and not for any worldly benefit like fame, good reputation, etc. Allah warns us,

“O you who believe! Do not render vain your charity by reminders of your generosity or by injury, like him who spends his wealth to be seen of men and he does not believe in Allah nor in the last Day.” (Qur’an, 2: 264)

Ar-riya’ is to do deeds in order to earn the praise and recognition of people. This is a sin in Islam, which destroys all the benefits of good deeds and brings on a serious punishment for the one who commits it, if he does not earn Allah’s forgiveness. It is human nature to desire and enjoy the praise of others. This is a temptation from Satan which we must fight. The All-Knower who is also our Creator has thus kept this reward for His most sincere and pure servants who can overcome their own desires (nafs) and the whispering of Satan.

Thus whenever after doing a righteous deed we feel that it has gone unnoticed or that people have not appreciated it, instead of feeling disgusted and ill about others, we must thank Allah that He has helped us with the intention of doing it for Allah’s sake.

If people appreciate our good gestures or deeds (example a donation towards a school), we must not get carried away to think big or brag of ourselves but sincerely believe that thanks to His will that we have been able to do this act of generosity and praise is only for Allah.

**10. The Importance of Sabr (Patience)**

“Seek help in patience and prayer…” (2: 45)

In line with the above commandment from Allah subhana wa ta'ala, Allah’s Messenger (s.a.w.s) has encouraged us to be patient when he said that Sabr (patience) is a source of light. Subhanallah! The definition is so apt for this is what it really is. Light is a source of energy. Sabr, too is a true Muslim’s source of energy -- potential spiritual energy. We have to be patient and use this source of spiritual energy in good times and bad times, in times of scarcity and also in times of excess. Abdur Rahmad ibn Auf said, “We were tried by hard times and we showed Sabr but when we were tried in ease and excess we failed.” Thus, let us remember that at all times Allah is testing us and it is for us to build our power of patience so that we can remain steadfast on the commands of Allah and pass the test:

“And surely we shall try you something of fear and hunger, and loss of wealth and lives and crops : But give glad tidings to the steadfast.” (Qur'an 2: 55)

Sabr has to be applied practically in two ways:

1. When something good and desirable comes our way. At such times we must control ourselves and not give into satanic plans and transgress the bounds of Allah:

“O you who believe! Let not your riches or your children divert you from the remembrance of Allah. If any act thus, surely they are the losers.” (Qur'an 63:9)

We need to show Sabr in times of obeying Allah’s commands when the Nafs wants to do the opposite.

2. In the process of abstaining from Ma’siyah (sin) difficulties and hardship

In times of difficulty (when we are tried of the death of our love ones) we must apply the principle of Sabr immediately and not after wailing aloud and mourning the loss. We need to remember to say sincerely, “Verily from Allah we come and to Him is our return.” And finally not to say anything that will make us sound unhappy with the will of Allah and to believe that sincerely in the heart that again this is a test from Allah (s.w.t.)and if we pass it Allah (s.w.t.) will elevate our status and will compensate us in a far better manner, Insha Allah. Let us take inspiration from the following statement of our Rabb:

“O you who believe! Persevere in patience and constancy: vie in such perseverance; strengthen each other; and fear Allah; that you may prosper.” (Qur'an 3:200)

**11. Importance of Shukr ( Gratitude to Allah)**

It is for our benefit that we show Shukr (gratitude) to Allah the Almighty. Allah the Exalted tells us:

“And remember! Your Rabb caused to be declared (publicly): ‘If you are grateful, I will add more (favors) unto you; but if you show ingratitude, truly My punishment is terrible indeed.’” (Qur'an 14:7)

“...And if any is grateful, truly his gratitude is (a gain) for his own soul; but if any is ungrateful, truly my Rabb is free of all needs, Supreme in Honor!” (Qur'an 27:40)

“...Show gratitude to Allah. Any who is (so) grateful does so to the profit of his own soul; but if any is ungrateful, verily Allah is free of all wants, worthy of all praise.” (Qur'an31:12)

Gratitude for Allah’s favours is to be felt and expressed by words and deeds in accordance to the commands of Allah(s.w.t.). We have different ways to express our gratitude to Allah, namely:

· Shukr bi’ qalb i. e shukr (Thanking Allah by the by the heart) is achieved by being contented with what Allah has granted us and not being jealous or envious of material things that others may be blessed with. This also includes intending good for all of Allah’s creations.

· Shukr bil leesan (Thanking Allah by the tongue) by saying Alhamdullillah (Praise be to Allah) at every ni’mah (blessing) of Allah showing to those around that we acknowledge that this is only from the mercy of Allah.

· Shukr bil jawaarih (Thanking Allah by the external senses i.e., amal or actions) of every favour of Allah. This must be used the way Allah wants it to be used and according to His commands. Thus, the ni’mah of eyes and good sight must be used to read the Qur’an, see only halaal things, etc. Allah subhana wa ta’ala has shown us His Grace and given us ni’mah in many ways:

“If you would count the ni’mah (favours) of Allah, never could you be able to count them. Truly Allah is Oft-orgiving, Most Merciful.” (Qur'an 16:18)

“Lo! Your Rabb is full of Grace to mankind but most of them do not give thanks.” (Qur'an 27:73)

How to use Allah’s ni’mah and thus be grateful to Him is what we must seek to find out through obtaining ilm (knowledge) of the Qur’an and Sunnah. We must not be careless and heedless to the teachings of the Shari’ah. Allah says that man by nature is ungrateful and selfish. But it is for our own interest that we fight our own nafs and our inherent nature in order to pass Allah’s test and achieve true success as Allah subhana wa ta’ala says:

“…And if you show gratefulness, I will give you more; but if you are ungrateful, verily My punishment is indeed severe.” (Qur'an 14:7)

Let us pray to Allah that we will always be grateful for all the favors that He has given us:

“O my Rabb (only God and Sustainer)! Grant me that I may be grateful for Your favor which You have bestowed upon me, and upon both my parents, and that I may work righteousness such as You may approve and be gracious to You and truly do I submit (to You) in Islam.” (Qur’an, 46:15)

12. Repentance

“…And turn to Allah in Repentance all you believers in order that you may be successful.” (Qur'an 24:31)

“…Surely Allah loves those who turn unto Him in repentance and loves those who purify themselves.” (Qur'an 2: 222)

Subhanallah! How merciful is our Creator! It is very difficult for us humans, despite the rubbish we are, to forgive anyone for the smallest wrong against us. And here He is the Most Perfect, and the Most Merciful, Who not only forgives but also loves the one who asks for it and also rewards it with a promise of success. But surely then this is something that does not come very naturally to all and it is only those blessed with the true fear of Allah that are the ones who seek forgiveness.

Ibn Mas’oud (r.a.) once said, “A believer sees his sins as though it is a mountain which he is afraid may fall on him while the wicked person considers his sins as flies and he just drives them away like this (and he moved his hand over his nose in illustration).”

Thus, to be a true seeker of Allah’s forgiveness the heart must be conditioned. We must at all times be conscious of Allaah’s Ni’mah and at the same time be conscious of our sins due to our weakness. This will create in us faqar (opposite of pride, self interest and self–reliance) and a kind of humility. In this state of shukr and sabr and faqar one is likely to shed that tear of fear and repentance and complete awe of His majesty, which will grant him His shade on the day when there will be no shade except His.

13. Refraining from the evil consequences of the tongue

“Indeed successful are the believers, those who offer their prayers with (Khushoo) all solemnity and full submissiveness and those who refrain from evil vain talk.” (Qur'an Surah Momineen 23:1-3)

Here Allah mentions that refraining from evil vain talk is a sign of the successful believers. Allah also mentions this after he mentions Al-Khushoo. This is probably because vain talk hardens the heart and to observe full submission or fear of Allah during prayer one needs a receptive and tender heart. Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) says, “Allah does not look at your bodies nor your faces but he looks at your hearts (and actions).”

As for the heart, Allah has commanded us to love what He loves and to hate what He hates and the tongue only expresses what is in the heart.

The messenger of Allah, Muhammad (s.a.w.s.) says, “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should speak good or keep silent.” (Al-Bukhari8/482 and al-Muslim1/75)

So before we talk we must ask ourselves: Will this saying of mine please Allah? Will this saying of mine bring me closer to Allah? Is there good in it? Will what I say earn me the pleasure of Allah and bring me closer to paradise? Or will it earn Allah’s wrath and be the cause of my ruin in the hereafter? Is my talk about my brother going to be recorded as backbiting or slandering? In short, we have to be very careful not to slander or backbite anyone. Allah says in the Qur’an, “Woe to every slanderer and backbiter.” (Humaza: 1)

The messenger of Allah said, “The gossip-monger will not enter Paradise.”

To overcome the evil habit of backbiting we need to remind ourselves constantly of its evil consequences and the rewards for abstaining from it. Once again it is human nature and desire to hear and talk of others, their private lives and their good and bad traits. It is a Muslim only who can get over the habit by following certain rules:

· Firstly, always remember the punishment of Allah.

· Secondly, we must reflect on the Qur’anic verse, “O You who believe! Avoid suspicion as much (as possible): for suspicion in some cases is a sin. And spy not, neither backbite one another. Would any of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? Nay, you would hate it. And fear Allah: for Allah is the One Who forgives and accepts repentance, Most merciful.” (Soorah Hujurat 49:12)

· Thirdly fear that our own faults would be revealed. This can be understood from the following Hadith:

Allah’s Messenger (s.a.w.s.) said, “O you who believe with your tongues, yet eeman has not entered your hearts. Do not backbite the Muslims, nor follow their faults. For he who follows others then Allah will disclose his faults and he whom Allah reveals his faults, then Allah disgraces him in his own house.” (Abu Dawood 3/4862)

· Lastly the most important thing to keep in mind is that there is great reward to refrain from backbiting, as Allah’s Messenger (s.a.w.s.) said, “Whoever protects the honour of his brother in his absence Allah will protect his face from the fire on the day of Judgement.” (Saheeh sunan at –Tirmidhi 2/1575)

14. Avoiding Pride

Another important teaching that we need to know and implement is to avoid pride which is the fuel of disbelief. Allah says in the Qur’an:

“Certainly, Allah knows what they conceal and what they reveal. Truly He does not love the proud.” (soorah an-Nahl, 16: 23)

And the messenger of Allah (s.a.w.s.) explains what pride is:

“Pride is dissatisfaction with the truth and belittling the people.” (Compiled by Muslim from Ibn masood.)

It is narrated on the authority of Abdullah ibn Mas’ud that the Messenger of Allah observed: “He who has in his heart the weight of a mustard seed of pride shall not enter Paradise.” A person (amongst his hearers) said: ‘Verily a person loves that his dress should be fine, and his shoes should be fine.’ He (the Prophet) remarked: ‘Verily Allah is Graceful and He loves Grace. Pride is disdaining the truth (out of self-conceit) and contempt for the people.’” (Muslim Vol. 1, Hadith 164)

'Other verses of the Qur’an testify to the fact that pride is a characteristic of the disbelievers, those who deserve Allah’s severe punishment in the Hell-Fire:

“And when Our Verses (of the Qur’an) are recited to such a one, he turns away in pride, as if he heard them not – as if there were deafness in his ear. So announce to him a painful torment.” (Soorah Lukman: 31:7)

The above Ayah is an admonition not only to all non-Muslims but also to Muslims who do not read, listen, study and follow the Qur’an. Whenever the thought and the feeling of arrogance and superiority creeps in, one must reflect upon the above Ayah of the Qur’an and the sayings of the Prophet Sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam in this matter.

Another area where we may err into this quite unknowingly is during idle discussion when we criticize acts of sin, maybe without naming the sinner. Thus in the heart creeps the feeling that we are better than others and thus this whole exercise becomes an act of self-praise. It is a way of showing pride without openly showing it. A major cause of pride is our absolute contentment and satisfaction with self achievements and actions also known as ego. Its cure is to remember that we are all created from a substance that is discarded, that we were in the beginning a thing not worth mentioning. (Soorah al-Insaan: 1)

Pride stems from having many good qualities, whether that is practicing many good deeds, or being blessed with beauty, wealth, or power. Iblis too had many good qualities and he was aware of it. However it was pride over this that made him disobey the order of the Most Just. It was pride that made him be cursed forever.

Pride is nothing but praise for what we know, what we have or what we are. Pride usually comes as the result of lack of sufficient knowledge, understanding and implementation of Islam in its purest form. Pride is ignoring praise of Allah when in fact it is Allah Who is worthy of all praise and thus deserves to be proud. Pride comes from true greatness and superiority and ultimate authority. Glory be to Him, the Great, the Most High. He Alone is justly proud and all praise be to Him. The Prophet (s.a.w.s.) said:

“Allah Almighty said, Pride is my cloak, and Glory is My wrap, so for he who competes with Me in either of these, I will cast him into the Fire.” (Reported by Imam Ahmad, Abu Dawood, and Ibn Majah from Abu Huraira)

We must fear Allah’s punishment for those who are proud. Let us read, study and follow the Qur’an, remember and worship Allah and refrain from having pride. Insha Allah, if we do our duties as believers without any sense of pride then Allah will reward us and be among the successful dwellers of Paradise:

“Only those who believe in Our Signs (Qur’anic Verses), who when they are recited to them fall down in adoration, and celebrate the praises of their Rabb (only God and Sustainer), nor are they (ever) puffed up with pride. They forsake their beds of sleep, the while they call on their Rabb (only God and Sustainer), in Fear and Hope. And they spend (in charity) out of the sustenance which We have bestowed on them. Now no person knows what delights of the eye are kept hidden (in reserve) for them ¾ as a reward for their (good) Deeds. Is then the man who believes no better than the man who is rebellious and wicked? Not equal are they. For those who believe and do righteous deeds are Gardens as hospitable Homes, for their (good) deeds.” (Qur'an, 32:15-19)

15. Taqwaa (Fear of Allah)

The word Taqwa has been mentioned 251 times in the Qur’an and there is nothing in the English dictionary which can elaborate this word in its true form. The word Muttaqoon has been translated by most commentators of the Qur’an as the God-fearing (people) and thus Taqwa as the fear of Allah, the Only True God.

From the Qur’an, (2:1-4; 3:133-135; 2:177) we learn that the word Taqwa is associated with:

· belief in: Allah the Unseen, the revelation to prophet Muhammad and other prophets before him, the aakhira, the angels and the prophets,

· performance of regular prayers,

· paying zakat,

· spending money in the way of Allah in ease and adversity to the kinsfolk, the orphans, the poor and the needy,

· controlling one’s wrath or anger,

· forgiving others,

· fulfilling one’s own commitment,

· to sincerely repent and ask Allah for forgiveness for a sin committed,

· to avoid wrongdoings after having sought forgiveness from Allah, and

· to have patience in times of tribulation, adversity and times of stress.

These are some of the ways of achieving Taqwa and the traits of the muttaqoon. This word as earlier mentioned has occurred a number of times and the concept includes beliefs, practices and good deeds and very often the muttaqoon has been promised rewards both worldly and heavenly every time he is asked to fear Allah.

The rewards for having taqwa in one word would be true ‘success’. Alhamdullillah this word has been explained in many ways so that we can truly and sincerely adopt the path of the mattaquoon and be successful:

Allah loves the muttaqoon (3: 76).

Allah is with the Muttaqoon (2:194; 9: 37; 9: 124).

Allah is the friend, supporter and helper of the muttaqeen (45:19).

Leaders are to be among the muttaqeen (25:74).

On the day of judgement the God-fearing will have no fear or grief (43: 68). And Allah has promised the ultimate success that is Paradise in a number of verses of the Qur’an (e.g., 15: 45-46; 51: 15; 52: 17; 54: 54; 68: 34; 47: 15). Subhan Allah! What better friend and helper can one want than the one who is All-Mighty, the Most Just, the All-Hearing and the All-Knowing.

We should sincerely pray to Allah to make us among the muttaqqeen and have mercy on us. If we are able to adopt Taqwa (fear of Allah) in our lives surely we will be the best examples of Allah’s servants and the most successful.

These teachings are just few of the many virtuous Islamic teachings that we need to know, practice, and share to others as Muslims. If we want success in this world and the life hereafter, we therefore need to have ample knowledge of the Qur’an and the Sunnah.

The Muslim Family’s Role in Building a Righteous Society

By
Nazia Abbas
(Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)

Islam is the only perfect way of life. It enjoins the maintenance of a refined standard of character. It can solve all human problems. It is the only hope for overcoming the present and future challenges of life. The future of Islam is the future of humanity. Islam commands righteousness and forbids wrong doings and evil deeds. In other words, it commands all noble morals and forbids all ill and despicable manners. It is the complete guidance towards righteousness, and hence, success. What we need only is to practice it. The most valued virtues of a Muslim include truthfulness, and justice; helping the poor and the needy; respecting parents, scholars, teachers and elders; love and kindness for children, the widows and the poor. Likewise, it prohibits blasphemy, murders, terrorism, oppression, injustice, enmity, misery, adultery, drug addiction, suicide, graft and corruption, interest, slander, backbiting, lying, ridicule, use of offensive names suspicion, arrogance, and all evil deeds.

Islam had come to illuminate the lives of the people with the light of virtues and good manners to create righteous, God-loving and God-fearing people. It develops its believers, the Muslims, with the best of characters and fills their hearts with much devotion to the One True God, Allah. It inspires the Believers with Allah’s guidance and rewards to those who do righteous deeds and show devotion to Him. Muslims who know Islam believe in what Allah the Exalted says in the Qur’an on the virtues and rewards of righteousness:

“As for those who strive hard in Us (our Cause), We will surely, guide them to Our paths (i.e., Allah’s religion-Islamic Monotheism). And verily, Allah is with the Muhsinun (good doers) .” (Qur’an 29: 69)

“And the Garden will be brought nigh to the Righteous, ¾ no more a thing distant. (A voice will say:) `This is what was promised for you for every penitent heedful one, who feared the Most Gracious unseen, and brought a heart turned in devotion (to Him): Enter you therein in Peace and Security; this is a Day of Eternal Life!’ There will be for them therein all that they wish and there is more with Us.’” (Qur’an 50:31-35)

They further believe that Islam is the Right Religion from Allah. They know that it is the Straight way that guides us to be righteous and attain success, especially supreme success in the eternal life Hereafter. In one succinct and very enlightening verse Allah explains the full meaning of righteousness as follows:

“It is not righteousness that you turn your faces (in prayer) towards East or West; but it is righteousness to believe in God, and the Last Day, and the Angels and the Book, and the Messengers; to spend of your wealth-- in spite of your love for your kin, for orphans, for the needy, for the way farer, for those who ask and the ransom of slaves; to be steadfast in prayer and practice regular charity; to fulfill the contracts which you have made; and to be firm and patient, in all pain and adversity, and through out all periods of panic. Such are the people of truth, the God-minded.’’ (Qur’an 2: 177)

Allah the Almighty guides the whole mankind to be righteous through His Book, the Qur’an and His Messenger, the Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, meaning: peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). In His Book, Allah emphasizes the need for righteousness and the rewards that He promises to those who do righteous deeds. Those among mankind who believe in Allah and do righteous deeds reap Allah’s Mercy as they shall have a great reward. Allah the Most Gracious and Most Merciful says:

“Verily this Qur’an guides to that which is most just and right and gives glad tidings to the believers who works deeds of righteousness, that they shall have a great reward.” (Qur’an 17 : 9)

“We indeed created man in the best of moulds, then do we abase him (to be) the lowest of the low, except such as those who believe and do righteous deeds, for they shall have a reward unfailing.” (Qur’an 95: 4-6)

Islam penetrates into all walks of life to conduct all human activities in a sound and wholesome manner, acceptable to God and beneficial to man. The manifestation of power and splendor, which are considered so important for the people in this world, will be of no value to Allah. In the Hereafter, Allah will judge a person by his faith, devotion and piety. It is, therefore, essential that we should concentrate on the reformation of our own hearts, minds and souls by sincerely turning to Allah for His Mercy through firm belief and obedience as these are parts of righteousness. Let us take guidance from the following authentic Ahâdîth:

Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-'As Abdullah heard Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) as saying: “Verily, the hearts of all the sons of Adam are between the two fingers out of the fingers of the Compassionate Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer) as one heart. He turns that to any (direction) He likes.” Then Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “O Allah, the Turner of the hearts, turn our hearts to Your obedience.” (Muslim 6418)

Abu Dharr narrated that Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said, “He has been successful whose heart Allah has made sincere towards faith, whose heart He has made free from unbelief, his tongue truthful, his soul calm, his nature straight, whose ear He has made attentive and his eye observant. The ear is a funnel and the eye is a repository for what the heart learns. He is successful whose heart is made retentive.” (Tirmidhi 5200, Ahmad and Bayhaqi)

Islam commands all of us to observe righteous deeds and forbids all ill and despicable manners. It also commands us to enjoin righteousness and forbids wrong. Allah the Exalted says:

“Help you one another in Al - Birr and Al - Taqwa (virtue, righteousness and piety).” (Qur’an 5: 2)

Introduction to Islam According to the Qur'an and the Sunnah

The following are samples of enlightening articles written by some WISHES students as well as those who have studied the Islamic learning modules of the Wisdom Enrichment International Learning Program (WEILP) on Islamic Studies and Personality Development:

Prerequisites for Acquiring Authentic Knowledge

By Rita (Faatimah) Allen

Live and Love Islam: The Key to Reaching Our Ultimate Goal

By

Shenaz Aslam, M.A. (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia)