Ramadan: The Virtue of Fasting

All forms of worship are generally open and visible - but fasting is the only form of worship which remains hidden from others and is a secret between the servant and his Master. Unless one really wants people to know that he is fasting, there is no way of knowing or guessing by others of this exclusive form of worship. 

We have published a number of posts on fasting which can be accessed from our reference page: Ramadan: The Month of Fasting and Blessings. Therefore we will not explain what is fasting, its dynamic, which month it is observed for almost 30 days. Today, we share a Hadith Qudsi attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in which the revered prophets explains the immense reward Allah promises for the believers who fast for the love of Him and abstain from acts that are otherwise permissible for them other than the month of Ramadan.

This Hadith has been narrated by Abu Huraira (رضي الله عنه) who quotes Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as saying:

Every (good) deed of the son of Adam would be multiplied, a good deed receiving a tenfold to seven hundredfold reward. Allah, the Exalted and Majestic, has said: With the exception of fasting, for it is done for Me and I will give a reward for it, for one abandons his passion and food for My sake. There are two occasions of joy for one who fasts, joy when he breaks it, and joy when he meets his Lord, and the breath (of an observer of fast) is sweeter to Allah than the fragrance of musk.

In the Hadith above, three important things are mentioned: The reward of ordinary good deeds and actions, the immense reward promised by Allah for the believers who fast for the love of Allah and the joy of the fasting believers. Let us unpack this Hadith with emphasis on these three aspects.

Detailed Explanation

• “Every good deed is multiplied…” Normally the reward mentioned for good deeds ranges from 10 times to even 700 times depending on the sincerity of the believer. This is based on Qur’ān 6:160: “Whoever brings a good deed will have ten like it…” But when it comes to fasting, the amount of the rewards gets an unimaginable boost.
• “Except fasting — it is for Me”
• This is a Hadith Qudsi (Allah speaking through the Prophet ﷺ). Therefore the promise for reward of the fasting believers comes directly from Allah.
• Scholars explain why fasting is singled out:
• It is Purely for Allah: All forms of worship like prayer, charity and Hajj are visible. But fasting? Only Allah truly knows if you are fasting. A person can secretly eat — but he does not. Why? Because of pure sincerity (Ikhlāṣ) - in fact fasting establishes a one to one connection between Allah and the believer.
• It Involves Abandoning Desires Allah says: “He abandons his passion and food for My sake.” This is not a small sacrifice for the love of Allah. In act fasting is not just hunger — it is control of desires, anger, ego, and speech. In fact fasting shapes the complete complexion of the character of the believers and trains soul (nafs).
• “I will reward it” 
• This is a tall divine promise and whenever Allah makes a decision, it is always  upheld.
• Scholars are of the opinion that this promised Divine reward will be limitless and beyond normal multiplication and that it will be uniquely honored by Allah.
• Some scholars said: Other deeds are measured — fasting’s reward is immeasurable.
• The Two Joys: These are the two hallmark of fasting for a believer.
• Joy at Iftar: Those who have been hungry and thirsty for a lone period of time can rightly feel the joy when they are fed and given water to drink. Same is the joyous feeling of a fasting believer at the time of Iftar, the time of breaking the fast soon after the adhan of Maghrib, the evening prayer. One really feels a Physical relief, Sense of accomplishment and Spiritual satisfaction. One feels immense Gratitude for passing the day's test Allah had put him through.  The joy is not just eating — it is fulfillment of obedience.
• Joy When Meeting Allah 
• This is the most happy thing that can happen to a fasting believer, who passed the test of fasting during the entire month of Ramadan by ensuring adhering to all norms of fasting.
• On the Day of Judgment: When fasting appears in a believer's book of deeds, and when he sees an massive reward, a reflective of the promised fulfilled by Allah, that joy will be greater than any worldly happiness.
• And then he will be afforded an exclusive audience with Allah - a rewards that is unparalleled to any amount of worldly joy one may have ever experienced.
• This links beautifully to one's previous reflections about the Hereafter — fasting is an investment for that meeting.
• “The smell of the fasting person…”
• When a person hasn't eaten or drank for a long time, a type of foul smell emits from his mouth - likewise fasting believers also feel this smell. But for Allah, this smell is far sweeter than the smell of the musk for it comes from an act exclusively undertaken for Allah.
• Although, hunger changes breath, but when viewed spiritually, the smell represents sacrifice. What people may dislike, Allah honors - for Allah values effort over appearance.
• This teaches a deep principle: Allah looks at sincerity, not outward perfection.

Core Spiritual Lessons from the Hadith

• Fasting builds sincerity.
• It disciplines desire.
• It prepares you for meeting Allah.
• It shows that hidden deeds may be the most beloved.
• Reward with Allah is beyond imagination.

Connection to Qur’ān

This hadith reflects Qur’an 2:183: “Fasting has been prescribed upon you so that you may attain taqwa.”

This means that Fasting is not starvation — it is spiritual transformation. Those who sincerely fast, feel a strange spiritual transformation and a sense of elation for they have carried out a an eact of worship so exclusive and lovable by Allah Himself. So let us fast as best as we should, sacrificing our needs and relations not as a show off, but to sincerely reflect on its essence and immense rewards it carry for our salvation.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Saum - Fasting in Ramadan for more Hadiths on the subject

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

| Photo | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing. one may also consult local Muslim Imaan of the masjid for more clarification.

Disclaimer: This post is not intended to "force" preach, convert, or criticize any belief system. The views shared are meant to inspire dialogue, understanding, and reflection. Viewer discretion is advised, especially for those navigating sensitive religious experiences. Always seek knowledge with an open heart and mind.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

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Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Ramadan - Life matrix changer of billions of believers

The life of the entire world population continues at a set pace throughout the year. The routine does not undergo any phenomenal change for most of the people around the world. But then comes a month when the life matrix of billions of Muslim changes though generally unnoticed by the rest of the people. With the sighting of the new moon for the 9th month of Islamic calendar, known as Ramadan, the complete life style of Muslims around the world undergoes a phenomenal change. And for the next thirty days, Muslims live a life which far different from others. 

Let us sum the change in the life matrix of the Muslims during the month of Ramadan, the month of fasting, or Saum. 

While the entire neighbourhood of non Muslims sleep peacefully throughout the night, they seldom notice that suddenly the lights of flats or houses of Muslims are switched on after midnight and ladies of the house head toward the kitchen to prepare a pre meal for the Sehri (or Suhoor), a meal mandatory to consume before one commences the fast for the coming day. From here on, the pre-fast activities begin, which culminate into the next evening when the fast is broken and life becomes like routine before. 

But what does happen between the Sheri or the Suhoor and Iftari, the breaking of fast in the evening, are the defining moments of changed matrix of the life of the believers. Let us just list these for details have been already published in number of posts which can be accessed from our reference page: Ramadan - A month of fasting and Blessings

Fast from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib)

The fast begins at Fajr prayer and ends at Maghrib prayer. During this time, which ranges from any length even up to 20 hours in some countries.  

Concessions in Fasting

Fasting is mandatory for all able bodied and healthy Adult Muslim men and women. Following are exempted from fasting:

• Young children
• The elderly who cannot fast
• People who are ill
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (if fasting harms them)
• Travelers (They may make up missed fasts later or provide compensation (fidya), depending on circumstances.)

Prohibitions

A fasting Muslim is suddenly imposed many a restrictions, which are otherwise allowable for them. Some of these are:

• Abstain from food, drink and smoking. Even small amounts invalidate the fast.
• Abstain from marital relations during the period of fasting. However, these are allowed after breaking the fast at the Maghrab time till start of the Fajar time next morning.
• Abstain from acts of unbecoming conduct.
• Avoid sinful behavior: This includes cheating, dishonesty, backbiting, and harmful actions.
• Avoid lying, gossiping, arguing, and bad language. These don’t just reduce reward — they go against the spirit of fasting.

How to live the day of fasting

As mentioned earlier, the day begins with a pre-dawn meal called Sehri/Suhoor. The pre-dawn meal is highly recommended for strength and blessings. Thereafter, during the day, beside the daily chores/office work, one should find time to recite the Qur'an.

How does Ramadan changes the Life Matrix of Muslims

For eleven months, Muslims live like all ordinary men and women of any faith or religion and move through life on autopilot - the same routines, the same cravings, the same endless chase for more. The dunya wraps itself around us so tightly that we begin to forget we're even trapped. 

But when the month of Ramadan begins, suddenly many things change in our life for next thirty days. In fact Ramadan simply interrupts our life style. It forces you to wake up before the world wakes up. It silences our desires and rewires our daily rhythm. And in this disruption, something extraordinary happens: a hidden doorway begins to open - a door to Divine blessings, for Allah promises that He exclusively rewards the fasting of His servants and rewards them with immense blessings, which is far more than the remaining eleven months of the year.

And suddenly, Muslims feel a change in their lives. The fasting teaches them how the poor suffer and feel when they do not get even a morsel of food throughout the day. It teaches us the importance of even a drop of water on our thirsty tongues. It teaches us how we suddenly leave otherwise every allowable acts not as a ritual, but for the pleasure of our Creator, upon whose commandment we fast and abstain from everything allowed for us otherwise.

The fasting teaches us how to feel the plight of have nots and how do they feel when devoid of all means of sustenance. This feeling is alike both for the poor and the rich - there is no concessions for anyone. All poor and rich undergo the same rigours of hunger and thirst throughout the day. This is the lesson which fasting teaches us as how to feel the plight and agony of those who are deprived of even the minimum means of sustenance and how we should help them and feel for them.

For this reason, Muslims are encouraged to dole out charities more than the rest of the year. Arrangements be made for providing food for Suhoor and iftar for the poor so that they also fast and do not have starve without food.

Remember! Fasting is not just about hunger. It reprograms the internal “matrix” of our lives: how we think, choose, react, and value things.

When one is hungry while fasting, but choose not to eat, one proves to one self: “I control my desires. They don’t control me.” That shift changes our internal operating system from impulse-driven to intention-driven living.

Herein under are visible effects that Ramadan leaves on the matrix of our lives:

• Fasting Resets Our Relationship With Desire
• In daily life, we act on impulse. That is when hungry we eat, when angry we react, when tired we quit or when tempted we indulge,
• But when Ramadan comes, fasting interrupts that automatic pattern. We learn how to rein in our desires which previously would overpower us since there were no restrictions. That shift changes your internal operating system from impulse-driven to intention-driven living.
• Fasting Reorders Priorities
• During Ramadan, food moves from constant to scheduled, entertainment reduces.
• On the contrary, our inclination to Prayer increases and reciting Al Qur'an the Reflection deepens.
• Our schedule reorganizes around purpose instead of pleasure.
• The month of Ramadan commemorates the revelation of the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad, which is why many re-center their lives around spiritual growth.
• This reordering quietly asks: “What truly matters in my life?”
• Fasting Build Emotional Discipline
• While hunger makes makes us irritable and the fatigue tests our patience. 
• Yet we are expected to: Stay calm, Avoid arguing, Control our tongue
• This rewires emotional reactions.
• Fasting Creates Empathy
• When we feel hunger, we understand poverty.
• When we feel vulnerability, we soften toward others.
• Charity (zakat and sadaqah) increases because fasting turns sympathy into lived experience.
• Fasting shifts our life matrix from Self-centered to Other-aware
• Fasting Strengthens Your Identity
• Fasting is done even when no one sees us.  We could secretly eat - But we don’t. That builds integrity.
• Our identity shifts from “I behave well when watched” to “I live by values even when alone.”
• That internal alignment is powerful.
• Fasting Teaches Delayed Gratification
• Modern life says: “Now. Faster. Instant.” - But fasting teaches: “Wait.” for waiting builds strength.
• Research in psychology consistently shows that delayed gratification predicts: (1) Better self-control, (2) Better long-term decision-making, (3) Higher resilience
• In fact Ramadan becomes a 30-day training camp for willpower.
• Fasting makes us Aware of Blessings
• Water tastes different at sunset.
• A date feels luxurious.
• A simple meal feels abundant.
• In fact fasting transforms ordinary things into miracles.
• Gratitude increases - Complaints decrease - and our abundance matrix changes.
• Fasting Redefines Freedom
• We think freedom means: “Doing whatever I want.”
• But Fasting teaches: “Freedom is mastering what I want.”
• That’s a profound shift.

So How Does It Change the Matrix of Our Lives? It moves us  from impulse to intention, consumption to consciousness, Reaction to Reflection, Ego to Humility, Comfort to Growth, and Scarcity mindset to Gratitude mindset

If practiced sincerely, fasting doesn’t just change our month, instead it changes our baseline self. Try changing your life matrix while fasting. Let fasting this Ramadan leave a reflective impact on our life matrix forever.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing..

To know more about fasting and importance of month of Ramadan, please consult our reference page: Ramadan - A month of fasting and Blessings. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

May Allah show us the right path so that we do not go astray due to what man has interpreted verses of religious scriptures to suit their own religions and faith. Aameen.

Photo | 

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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A Qur’anic verse that captures the core of Prophetic Integrity - a lesson for Men of Position today

Prophets, though ordinary in appearance, have always been chosen for their extraordinary character qualities, that made them stand tall from the crowd. They were beacon of truth, selflessness, humility, integrity and a far higher degree of fear of their Creator. Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم before his prophethood was a successful businessman known for his fair and honest dealings and truthfulness. For this extraordinary human qualities he was admired by his tribesmen and people he did business with. And was Divinely chosen to be a revered prophet and messenger to convey the commandments of his Creator to his people.

Likewise all prophets were specially chosen who rose above the rest in strength of character, integrity and truthfulness. Today, we share the 88th verse from Al Qur'an (Surah Hūd), which captures the core prophetic integrity of Prophet Shuʿayb (peace be upon him) which he displayed while talking to his stubborn and arrogant people. The Qur’an quotes him as saying (paraphrased meaning):

“O my people, have you considered: if I am upon clear evidence from my Lord and He has provided for me a good provision from Him? I do not intend to differ from you in that which I forbid you. I only intend reform as much as I am able. And my success is only through Allah. Upon Him I rely, and to Him I return.”

About Prophet  Shuʿayb: 

Also spelled Shuaib, Shoaib, Shuayb or  (Arabic: شُعَيْب‎, IPA: meaning: "who shows the right path") is an ancient Midianite prophet in Islam and the most revered prophet in the Druze faith. He is sometimes identified with the Hebrew biblical Jethro, Moses's father-in-law. Shuaib is mentioned in the Quran 11 times.[2] He is believed to have lived after Ibrahim (Abraham), and Muslims believe that he was sent as a prophet to the Midianites, who are also known as the Aṣḥāb al-Aykah ("Companions of the Wood") for their worship of a large tree. To the Midianites, Shuaib proclaimed the "straight path", warning them to end their fraudulent ways[example needed]. When the community did not repent, God destroyed the community.

Alongside Hud, Salih, and Muhammad (peace be upon them all), Shuaib is understood by Muslims as one of the four Arabian prophets sent by God. Ibn Kathir stated that he was known by Muslims as "the eloquent preacher amongst the prophets" because he was, according to tradition, granted talent and eloquence in his language. 

Let us now unpack this verse and see the strength of character of a prophet who refuses to subscribe to the ills of his people and remains steadfast in his integrity.

What Is This Verse About? 

This verse captures the core of prophetic integrity. Shuʿayb is addressing a people who were cheating in trade and committing economic injustice.

The verse follows the blatant hostility of his people who suspected him to be one of them alike but outwardly acting as a pious and righteous. This is mentioned in the previous verse as under:

(11:87) They replied: 'O Shu'ayb! Does your Prayer enjoin upon you that we should forsake the deities whom our forefathers worshipped, or that we should give up using our wealth as we please? Do you fancy that you, and only you, are forbearing and right-directed?' 

The verse contains four major themes

• Moral consistency “I do not intend to differ from you in that which I forbid you.”
• He is saying: I do not tell you to stop wrongdoing while secretly doing it myself.
• This establishes that prophets: (1) Practice what they preach, (2) Do not exploit their authority, and (3) Lead by example
• What the prophet is saying is "It is a proof of the truth of my claim that I myself practice what I preach to you. For instance, if I had forbidden you to visit the shrines of gods and goddesses but had myself become the guardian of some such shrine, you would have been justified in bringing this charge against me that I was preaching the doctrine of Tauhid merely for the sake of ruining the business of others in order to make room for my own trade. Likewise, if I had prohibited the use of unlawful means for you but had myself applied the same in my own trade, you would have been justified in charging me with preaching honesty merely for winning good reputation for the prosperity of my own trade. But you yourselves are a witness to this that I myself abstain from those evils which I forbid you to practice and I keep myself pure from those blemishes of which I desire to cleanse you and I follow the way to which I invite you. All this is a clear proof that I believe in the truth of the message I am conveying to you."
• Reform, not power 
• “I only intend reform as much as I am able.”
• His goal is: (1) Not control, (2) Not humiliation, (3) Not personal gain
• But reform (islāh) within his capacity.
• Reliance on God
• “My success is only through Allah.”
• He acknowledges that (1) Reform does not happen by ego, (2) Success is not self-generated, and that *3) Guidance and outcomes belong to Allah
• Humble return
• “Upon Him I rely, and to Him I return.”
• This shows the resolve of prophetic Trust (tawakkul), fear of Accountability and Awareness that final judgment belongs to God.

How Classical Scholars interpret this verse

Exegetes like Ibn Kathir explain that Shuʿayb was affirming:

• He was not benefiting from what he prohibited.
• He had no hidden economic advantage.
• His call to justice was sincere and morally consistent.

Similarly, Al-Tabari emphasizes that the phrase “I do not intend to differ from you” means: He would not secretly commit the same corruption he publicly condemned.

The verse establishes prophetic credibility.

Do Muslims Sincerely Believe in the Prophet’s Resolve Here?

Yes — in mainstream Islamic theology, Muslims believe prophets are:

• Truthful (ṣādiq)
• Trustworthy (amīn)
• Morally upright
• Protected from deliberate betrayal of their message

This doctrine is often referred to as ʿismah (prophetic protection). Belief in prophetic sincerity is foundational in Islam. If prophets were seen as hypocritical or self-serving, their message would lose authority.

So when Shuʿayb says: “I only intend reform… My success is only through Allah.” Muslims understand this as a genuinely sincere declaration — not rhetorical performance.

Why This Verse Is Powerful

Even outside theology, the verse models ethical leadership:

• Consistency between speech and action
• Reform limited by ability (realistic responsibility)
• Dependence on something higher than ego
• Accountability beyond public approval

It’s often cited as a template for moral integrity.

Summary of the verse

Shu`ayb, fully confident of the truth of his message, and aware of his people’s ignorance and short-sightedness, does not let their sarcasm affect him. On the contrary, he seeks to inform them politely that he takes his stand on clear evidence from his Lord, which he feels in his innermost heart. He explains to them that he is fully confident of the truth of what he advocates because his knowledge far exceeds theirs. When he calls on them to stick to honest dealings, the effects of such honesty also apply to him since he is a businessman. He is after no personal gain which he seeks to realize for himself. He does not intend to do behind their backs what he has forbidden them so that he enjoys a market free from competition. His call is one of reform which includes himself. The path he enjoins them to follow will not cause them any losses, as they mistakenly think.

 

It is, then, the general reform of society which Shu`ayb is after. It is a reform which brings benefit to every individual and every community. Some may think that to adhere to moral values and implement the divine law may make them lose some chances which may be open to them, or lose some gain which they would otherwise achieve. But implementing the divine law can only make them lose evil gains and wicked opportunities. It compensates them with goodly gains and lawful provisions. It also establishes a society which is characterized by the co-operation of its individuals. It is a society which is free from grudges, treachery and selfish quarrels.

Is there a lesson from this verse for the Men of Position today?

Yes, of course. If we look around, we find men of position exactly as the people of the Prophet Shuʿayb. They project them to the people as the most rightful and the truthful. Yet from the inside they are just the opposite. They deceive and lie to their people and instead of benefiting them, they harm their interests in a  manner that no one visible sees the effect of their sinister personality. This the reason that men of position have overflowing secret vaults, bank accounts looted from public exchequer and the fate and plight of the people they claim to serve remains unchanged - or even goes from bad to worse every day. 

This verse should serve them as an eye opener for the Divine accountability is much harsher than they might believe and think that that they would escape it as do they from the wrath of the people. This verse is a clear warning from every man of position, from a supervisor, foreman, manager, director, ministers or even kings and presidents who under the garb of welfare of their people, make fortunes and leave their subjects in rag tags forever.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Please visit our reference page:  Sūrah 11. Hūd  (Prophet Hūd " هود‎ ") for selected verses from Surah Hūd. You may also refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

For verses on Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects and our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Incredible revert experience at 78 years of age - It is never too late to revert to Islam

Truth is something that keeps knocking at our hearts - but many of us do not pay any heed to the knocking - even some do not feel it at all for their hearts are so hardened that layers of falsehood wrapped around it cannot be broken. One may spend one's useful years of life to finally feel someone knock on our hearts for the knocking of the truth is persistent and continuous for truth finally prevails. 

Needless to mention that Islam is the eternal truth that moves even the hardest of hearts, specially that of atheists who are never willing to give in to the religion for for them religion is the comforting myth for the weak or the ignorant. For atheists, science and reasoning is the truth - for religions cannot stand a chance in this age of reasoning and scientific validation.

Today, we share a revert experience of a 78 years old retired professor of comparative literature, who for most part of her life was an atheist and her entire life was driven by logic. But then something suddenly changed when a grief led her to the streets of Morocco - and she felt truth knocking on her heart when she heard for the first time the Adhan - the Muslims' call for prayer. Unlike the church bells, which can sometimes be haunting, the melodious voice of the Adhan started to remove the stubborn layers over her hearts which otherwise would only let in something logical and scientific.

When I watched her revert experience from a video on YouTube, I was simply overwhelmed by her emotional state and what followed thereafter which finally led to embracing Islam at the age of 78. This experience makes me more proud to be a Muslim and my confidence in the Divine truth that finally breaks the stubborn barriers and drill in the truth in hearts of non Muslims.

Please watch the full video of a revert experience below and see how reading Islam melts hearts and lets non-Muslims enter the fold of Islam:

May Allah (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us have unflinching faith and trust in Divine Wisdom and decisions and should never lament for we do not know that something better has been planned for us by our most caring Lord. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Disclaimer: The revert experience shared above is for educational purpose only and is not meant to force convert the non Muslims to Islam. However, the post invites non Muslims to view such videos to know the point of view of those who finally find the truth, after weighing their previous faith and comparing it with Islam to make the ultimate decision of their lives.

To read personal accounts of many who have reverted to Islam, please visit our page: Embracing Islam: Revert Experiences. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

Photo | 

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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Al-Qurʾān: Overview and selected verses from: Sürah 56 Al-Wāqiʻah الواقعة "The Inevitable"

Al-Wāqiʻah الواقعة "The Inevitable" or "The Event" is the 56th Surah (chapter) of Al Qur'an. It has 96 verses / ayat with four rukus, part of Juzʼ 27. It mainly discusses the afterlife and fate of different categories of people. The Surah takes its name from the word al-Wāqiʻah of the very first verse.  It was revealed in Makkah, specifically around 7 years before the Hijrah (622), the migration of Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم to Medina.

We have already shared the Tafseer / Exegesis of the Surah which can be read from links given below:

| Summary | Exegesis / Tafseer | Part I | Part II |  

Similarities: Surah Ar Rahman - Surah Al Waqi'ah |

Herein under we will only present an overview of the entire Sūrah, since the scope of this post is to only to introduce the Sūrah and provide links to some of the selected verses from this Sūrah for selective reading / references. This bird eye view includes the context, major themes and subjects and lessons that we can learn from this Sūrah, followed by references to  some of the selected verses already published.

Overview

The Surah is one of the most powerful Makkan surahs for shaking human complacency, redefining success and failure, and restoring a Hereafter-centered worldview in a society drunk on wealth, status, and denial of resurrection. It is a surah that re-orders reality itself.

• Meaning and Context of Surah Al-Wāqi‘ah The title of the surah Al-Wāqi‘ah (الواقعة) means  “The Inevitable Event” - referring to the Day of Resurrection — something so certain that the Qur’an calls it already real in name. It was revealed when the Quraysh had vehemently denied resurrection. The affluent of Makkah obsessed with their lineage, power, honour and wealth  mocked the concept of accountability. So this surah came to shatter false securities and expose the illusion of worldly hierarchy.
• Core Theme of Surah Al-Wāqi‘ah 
• The afterlife (akhirah) is the main topic discussed in the chapter. Picking up from the preceding chapter, Surah Ar-Rahman, which discusses the rewards of Paradise (Jannah), this Surah also mentions them and then contrasts them with the punishment of hell. 
• This surah teaches that the  world’s hierarchies are temporary and that true success is not what society celebrates but it is the Hereafter that will reclassify humanity.
• It is a surah of: (1) Ultimate sorting (2) Final classification (3) Reality check on arrogance, and (4) True honor and true loss.
• The Central Structure (hree Classes of Humanity): This is the backbone of the surah. The chapter distinguishes the three classes of people in the afterlife, "the foremost", "the companions of the right" and "the companions of the left": the first two groups will enter paradise while the companions of the left will go to hell.
• As-Sābiqūn (السابقون) — The Foremost (56:10–11): “And the foremost — they are the foremost. Those are the ones brought near (to Allah).” These are the spiritually elite, not by class or wealth - But by sincerity, sacrifice, and early response to truth. This means in the eyes of Allah true elite are not celebrities or billionaires — but those closest to Allah. This completely inverts modern value systems.
• Ashāb al-Yamīn — People of the Right (56:27–40): “And the companions of the right — what are the companions of the right!” They are the saved majority, righteous but not the foremost but will be given immense reward. That is Islam recognizes levels — but all based on faith and deeds, not status.
• Ashāb al-Shimāl — People of the Left (56:41–56): “And the companions of the left — what are the companions of the left!” They are the deniers, arrogant, morally corrupt elite of dunya. Their punishment is described vividly. There is a lesson in it that power, wealth, and culture will not save anyone.

Key Verses That Demand Reflection Today

Here are some of the most revealing verses for our time:

• 56:1–6 — The Shattering of False Stability:  
• “When the Event occurs — there is no denying its occurrence. It will bring low and raise high.”
• This is civilizational: Empires collapse, elites fall, the ignored rise
• Message for today: All “stable systems” are temporary - Only Allah’s judgment is permanent.
• 56:57–59 — Who really creates?
• “We created you — why then do you not believe? Have you seen what you emit? Is it you who create it, or are We the Creator?”
• This attacks modern arrogance: Scientific control illusion, Human self-sufficiency mindset and even reproduction — you don’t create life.
• Lesson: Science explains how — not who ultimately wills.
• 56:63–67 — Agriculture & human helplessness
• “Have you seen what you sow? Is it you who make it grow, or are We the Grower?”
• Modern relevance: Food security crises, Climate instability, Agricultural vulnerability
• Message: Your systems depend on Allah’s permission.
• 56:68–70 — Water & environmental reality
• “Have you seen the water you drink? Is it you who sent it down from the clouds, or are We the Sender?”
• This is extremely relevant today as there is Water scarcity, extreme Climate changes and Ecological fragility.
• Qur’an reminds: Your survival is not guaranteed.
• 56:75–82 — The Majesty of the Qur’an
• “Indeed, it is a noble Qur’an… in a protected register… a revelation from the Lord of the worlds.”
• Then comes the rebuke: “Is it this statement that you take lightly?”
• Modern lesson: Many Muslims treat Qur’an as culture, as ritual and as background noise.
• This verse demands Serious engagement with Al Qur'an and complete submission to its authority
• 56:83–87 — The Deathbed Reality Check
• “Then why, when the soul reaches the throat… and you are at that moment looking on… if you are not to be judged, then bring it back?”
• This is devastating logic for no ideology, no science, no wealth can: (1) Stop death (2) Reverse it and (3) Control it.
• This exposes the ultimate human helplessness.

Why Surah Al-Wāqi‘ah is Critically Important Today

While the modern civilization is built on:

• Control illusion
• Technological arrogance
• Wealth obsession
• Denial of accountability
• Forgetfulness of death

Surah Al-Wāqi‘ah comes to say:

• You are not in control.
• You will be classified.
• Your rank will be redefined.
• Your death will expose reality.

Deep Civilizational Message

This surah is not just personal.  It is telling societies:

• Your elites may be losers in Akhirah
• Your ignored may be the true winners
• Your systems are fragile
• Your arrogance is temporary

This is why the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ loved this surah and why many companions would recite it often — it re-centers the soul on ultimate reality.

One-line summary: 

Surah Al-Waqi'ah is a civilizational wake-up call that destroys worldly hierarchies, reclassifies humanity based on faith and deeds, exposes human helplessness behind technological pride, and forces the soul to face the inevitability of death and resurrection.

Now let us share herein some of the selected ayat / verses from this surah already shared:

• Verses 1-2: What is Inevitable - explained in one of the most philosophically powerful verses in the Qur’an
• Verse 75: Why does Allah take Oaths in Al Qur'an

In time we will add more selected ayat / verses from this surah.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

You may also refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

For verses on Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects and our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. 

You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo: Pixabay | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  

In addition, other sources which have been explored and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on social media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Qur'ān - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

Read More

Why does Allah take Oaths in Al Qur'an

Those of us who study Al Qur'an deeply reflecting on each verse to know the why of what is being said, would often come across oaths that Allah takes at the beginning of some Surahs / Chapters of Al Qur'an. For example the 74th verse of Surah 56. Al-Waqi'ah as appended below:

No! I swear by the positions of the stars 

We will take this verse and its connected verses to explain how scholars say these oaths appear:

Oaths in Arabic Rhetoric (Balāghah)

Before we relate the topic as enumerated by the scholars, we need to understand the Arabic language of the times with its rich literature, specially poetry. Also taking oaths was a common custom to emphasise one's viewpoint or show one's truthfulness. Since Al Qur'an was revealed to the Arabs of the time, its language and phrasing was deliberately tailored to attract the literary love of the audience. Thus structuring AL Qur'an added rhythm, gravity, and intellectual engagement.

With this understanding, let us now see how scholars of time explain the why of oaths in Al Qur'an.

To Emphasize the Importance of What Follows

In classical Arabic rhetoric, an oath is a powerful way to: Capture attention, Signal seriousness and Underscore truth

When Allah swears by something, it highlights that what comes next is extremely important — often about revelation, resurrection, or divine power. In Surah 56, the oath about the stars is followed by affirmation that the Qur’an is noble and protected.

To Draw Attention to Signs in Creation

Unlike oaths taken by the Arabs of the time who took oaths on idols and their forefathers, Allah swears by created things, not because He needs them to strengthen His word (He doesn’t), but to: (1) Direct our attention to them, (2) Encourage reflection, and (3) Show their significance as signs (āyāt)

For example: (1) By the sun and moon, (2) By time (Al-‘Asr), (3) By the dawn, (4) By the stars

These are reminders of order, precision, and power in creation.

To Show the Greatness of What Is Sworn By

When Allah swears by something, scholars say it indicates that the thing itself is profound and meaningful.

In 56:75, “the positions of the stars” can refer to: (1) Their precise orbits, (2) Their setting and rising, or (3) Metaphorically, stages of revelation. In any case, it emphasizes cosmic order and divine control.

Allah Does Not Need to Swear — But We Need Emphasis

Humans swear to convince others of truth. Allah does not need to prove anything. Classical scholars explain that divine oaths are:

• For the benefit of the listener
• A teaching method
• A way to awaken reflection

It’s a rhetorical and pedagogical device.

A Deeper Layer in 56:75–76

Allah says: “And indeed, it is a great oath — if you only knew.” This suggests: (1) The object of the oath is immense in reality, (2) Humans may not fully grasp its significance

Some scholars even connect the “positions of the stars” with the gradual revelation of the Qur’an, linking the cosmos and revelation. That is why we should not merely correlate a Divine oath to its visible meaning but also what is invisible and what is being said to those who have wisdom and ability to reflect. 

Let us mention Ibn Kathir, one of the eminent scholars and exegetes of Al Qur'an who mentions two major interpretations reported from earlier scholars:

• What Does “Positions of the Stars” Mean?
• The Literal Astronomical Meaning This view says mawāqiʿ al-nujūm refers to: (1) The places where stars rise and set, (2) Their precise orbits and positions, (3) Their ordered movement in the sky
• According to this interpretation: (1) Allah is swearing by the immense precision and grandeur of the universe and (2) The complexity and vastness of the cosmos point to divine power.
• The oath emphasizes the greatness of what follows (the Qur’an’s truth and nobility in 56:77).
• Ibn Kathir notes that this view highlights how extraordinary and vast the star systems are—something humans barely comprehend.
• The Gradual Revelation of the Qur’an
• Another interpretation, also mentioned by Ibn Kathir and earlier authorities like Ibn ‘Abbās, connects “positions of the stars” to the stages of revelation of the Qur’an - The way it was sent down gradually over 23 years.
• In Arabic, najm (star) can also mean something that appears in portions. So the “positions” may refer to: The specific occasions and timings when verses were revealed, The divine wisdom in spacing out revelation.
• Under this interpretation: Allah is swearing by the precise, divinely measured way the Qur’an was revealed.
• The oath directly reinforces the next verse: “Indeed, it is a noble Qur’an.”

Ibn Kathir presents both interpretations without strictly limiting it to one, which is common in classical tafsir when multiple authentic reports exist.

We have only introduced the subject with some explanation. Readers interested to expand its scope may carryout research by referring to the exegesis of Al Qur'an by eminent scholars.

Now herein under we share a thought provoking lecture by one of the eminent scholars of present time, Nauman Ali Khan trying to explain the oats and the Divine philosophy behind these oaths for better understand:

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”

That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

May Allah forgive me if my posts ever imply a piety far greater than I possess. I am most in need of guidance.

Reading the Qur'ān should be a daily obligation of a Muslim - Reading it with translation will make it meaningful. But reading its Exegesis / Tafsir will make you understand it fully. It will also help the Muslims to have grasp over social issues and their answers discussed in the Qur'an and other matter related to inter faith so that they are able to discuss issues with non-Muslims with authority based on refences from Qur'an.

Note: When we mention God in our posts, we mean One True God, we call Allah in Islam, with no associates. Allah is the Sole Creator of all things, and that Allah is all-powerful and all-knowing. Allah has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body, and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.

Photo | References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |

For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A. You may also refer to our refference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on important issue related to Islam to know more about Islam.

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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How to defend Hijab gracefully to turn barrier of Skepticism into respect and understanding

Islam has always been and is still a religion which is viewed with skepticism and doubts in most of the non Muslim countries in the world. And Hijab of Muslim women is one of the most 'disliked' and irritating form of attire which is often downplayed and disliked by the Non Muslims, specially the women who label it as an act to harm to liberalism and freedom of women. 

Why does it happen so? It is because non Muslims do not understand the "why" of wearing Hijab. Although the vast majority of Muslim women who wear hijab do so as a personal or religious choice, media coverage and political rhetoric have sometimes reinforced fear-based stereotypes. In fact, in her simple appearance lies a reclamation of Islam’s right to exist, and in her dignified presence there is a silent reminder of the path of Heaven amid the congestion of the earthly world.

Media portrayals are also deliberate to focus heavily on stories of forced veiling, linking Islamic dress to conflict zones and very rarely showing  ordinary, diverse experiences of Muslim women. This imbalance can shape public perception.

Some critics view the hijab as a symbol of female oppression. They argue that it represents patriarchal control. However, this perspective can oversimplify reality. To them is a counter question: While in some contexts, women are pressured to wear it - but what about the Muslim revert women from many European and Americas where the revert Muslim women have no pressure or compulsion to opt for Hijab - and they happily observe Hijab because they freely choose it as an expression of faith, identity, modesty, or empowerment.

However, while Muslim men merge into the crowd on the streets for wearing the similar outfits, Muslim women wearing Hijab are easily singled out, more often than not looked at with skepticism, mocked and even sometimes their Hijab scarf snatched away by rowdy teenagers and men alike. Yet these beacon of Islam stand firmly and defend their Hijab gives them the status of modesty and humility. Many Muslim women state that wearing hijab is a personal decision tied to spirituality rather than coercion.

Today, we share a video which teaches Muslim women how to defend their Hijab gracefully, confidently and firmly - something which usually turn barriers of skepticism and mockery into respect and understanding:

We hope by watching this video, Muslim women will feel elevated and know how to stand tall when confronted with a mocking crowd.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the reference material contained in Islam: My Ultimate Decision are that of the Islamic scholars / websites. We have shared these view as added information for better understanding of Islam. The reader may or may not agree with the views owing to their own perception / faith / school of thought being followed. If any one differs with the material contained in this blog, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make our posts all encompassing / comprehensive.

Read more about Hijab from our reference page: What is Hijab in Islam - a broader viewpoint. You may also refer to our reference page on Women in Islam and other Reference Pages created so far, to know more about Islam.

Photo: 

If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, WhatsApp or any means on Social Media so that they can also be benefited by it and better understand Islam and the Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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