How Sürah Yusuf guides believers to seek Divine Guidance in their daily chores

Al-Qurʾān from beginning to end is all about Divine guidance for mankind. While there are direct commandments easily recognizable and made basis for one's guidance, there are many small part of verses that lead a man to remain on the straight course of faith during one's daily chores. Sürah Yusuf (Chapter 12 of the Qur’an) is one such Surah that besides telling the story of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph, peace be upon him) in a continuous narrative and recounting major life events, also offers practical guidance to be picked up which believers can apply in everyday tasks and responsibilities.

Here’s how Divine guidance and faith guide daily life (Herein under we only provide the references to the ayat/verses where these Divine Guidance can be found - we will unpack each of the verses separately to provide the context and implications for our daily life):

Keep your Secrets

قَالَ يٰبُنَىَّ لَا تَقۡصُصۡ رُءۡيَاكَ عَلٰٓى اِخۡوَتِكَ فَيَكِيۡدُوۡا لَـكَ كَيۡدًا ؕ اِنَّ الشَّيۡطٰنَ لِلۡاِنۡسَانِ عَدُوٌّ مُّبِيۡنٌ‏ 

(12:5) His father said: "My son! Do not relate your dream to your brothers lest they hatch a plot to harm you. Indeed Satan is man's open enemy.

Be mindful of Divine Wisdom in everything

وَكَذٰلِكَ يَجۡتَبِيۡكَ رَبُّكَ وَيُعَلِّمُكَ مِنۡ تَاۡوِيۡلِ الۡاَحَادِيۡثِ وَيُتِمُّ نِعۡمَتَهٗ عَلَيۡكَ وَعَلٰٓى اٰلِ يَعۡقُوۡبَ كَمَاۤ اَتَمَّهَا عَلٰٓى اَبَوَيۡكَ مِنۡ قَبۡلُ اِبۡرٰهِيۡمَ وَاِسۡحٰقَ​ ؕ اِنَّ رَبَّكَ عَلِيۡمٌ حَكِيۡمٌ

(12:6) (As you have seen in the dream), so will your Lord choose you (for His task) and will impart to you the comprehension of the deeper meaning of things and will bestow the full measure of His favour upon you and upon the house of Jacob even as He earlier bestowed it in full measure upon your forefathers, Abraham and Isaac. Surely your Lord is All- Knowing, All-Wise."

Be patient in good grace in difficult times and have faith in Allah

وَجَآءُوۡ عَلٰى قَمِيـۡصِهٖ بِدَمٍ كَذِبٍ​ؕ قَالَ بَلۡ سَوَّلَتۡ لَـكُمۡ اَنۡفُسُكُمۡ اَمۡرًا​ؕ فَصَبۡرٌ جَمِيۡلٌ​ؕ وَاللّٰهُ الۡمُسۡتَعَانُ عَلٰى مَا تَصِفُوۡنَ‏  

(12:18) And they brought Joseph's shirt, stained with false blood. Seeing this their father exclaimed: "Nay (this is not true); rather your evil souls have made it easy for you to commit a heinous act. So I will bear this patiently, and in good grace. It is Allah's help alone that I seek against your fabrication."

Seek Allah's refuge when being mislead into a sin

وَرَاوَدَتۡهُ الَّتِىۡ هُوَ فِىۡ بَيۡتِهَا عَنۡ نَّـفۡسِهٖ وَغَلَّقَتِ الۡاَبۡوَابَ وَقَالَتۡ هَيۡتَ لَـكَ​ؕ قَالَ مَعَاذَ اللّٰهِ​ اِنَّهٗ رَبِّىۡۤ اَحۡسَنَ مَثۡوَاىَ​ؕ اِنَّهٗ لَا يُفۡلِحُ الظّٰلِمُوۡنَ‏ 

(12:23) And it so happened that the lady in whose house Joseph was living, sought to tempt him to herself, and one day bolting the doors she said: "Come on now!" Joseph answered: "May Allah grant me refuge! My Lord has provided an honourable abode for me (so how can I do something so evil)? Such wrong-doers never prosper."

Always be grateful of Divine Help/Blessings

قَالَ لَا يَاۡتِيۡكُمَا طَعَامٌ تُرۡزَقٰنِهٖۤ اِلَّا نَـبَّاۡتُكُمَا بِتَاۡوِيۡلِهٖ قَبۡلَ اَنۡ يَّاۡتِيَكُمَا​ ؕ ذٰ لِكُمَا مِمَّا عَلَّمَنِىۡ رَبِّىۡ ؕ اِنِّىۡ تَرَكۡتُ مِلَّةَ قَوۡمٍ لَّا يُؤۡمِنُوۡنَ بِاللّٰهِ وَهُمۡ بِالۡاٰخِرَةِ هُمۡ كٰفِرُوۡنَ‏ 

(12:37) Joseph said: "I will inform you about the interpretation of the dreams before the arrival of the food that is sent to you. This knowledge is part of what I have been taught by my Lord. I have renounced the way of those who do not believe in Allah, and who deny the Hereafter

Always open up your heart to Allah when in grief

قَالَ اِنَّمَاۤ اَشۡكُوۡا بَثِّـىۡ وَحُزۡنِىۡۤ اِلَى اللّٰهِ وَاَعۡلَمُ مِنَ اللّٰهِ مَا لَا تَعۡلَمُوۡنَ‏ 

(12:86) He said: "I will address my sorrow and grief only to Allah, and I know from Allah what you do not know.

Please refer to our previous post: Prayer of Prophet Yaqoob (Jacob, AS) as the verse 86 mentioned above is in act the prayer of Prophet Yaqoob (Jacob, AS).

Never despair of mercy of Allah

يٰبَنِىَّ اذۡهَبُوۡا فَتَحَسَّسُوۡا مِنۡ يُّوۡسُفَ وَاَخِيۡهِ وَلَا تَايۡـئَسُوۡا مِنۡ رَّوۡحِ اللّٰهِ​ؕ اِنَّهٗ لَا يَايۡـئَسُ مِنۡ رَّوۡحِ اللّٰهِ اِلَّا الۡقَوۡمُ الۡكٰفِرُوۡنَ‏ 

(12:87) My sons! Go and try to find out about Joseph and his brother and do not despair of Allah's mercy. Verily only the unbelievers despair of Allah's mercy."

Forgiveness is the greatest virtue

قَالَ لَا تَثۡرِيۡبَ عَلَيۡكُمُ الۡيَوۡمَ​ؕ يَغۡفِرُ اللّٰهُ لَـكُمۡ​ وَهُوَ اَرۡحَمُ الرّٰحِمِيۡنَ‏ 

(12:92) He replied: "No blame lies with you today. May Allah forgive you. He is the Most Merciful of all those that are merciful.

Always be grateful to Allah for His Blessings

قَالُوۡۤا ءَاِنَّكَ لَاَنۡتَ يُوۡسُفُ​ؕ قَالَ اَنَا يُوۡسُفُ وَهٰذَاۤ اَخِىۡ​ قَدۡ مَنَّ اللّٰهُ عَلَيۡنَاؕ اِنَّهٗ مَنۡ يَّتَّقِ وَيَصۡبِرۡ فَاِنَّ اللّٰهَ لَا يُضِيۡعُ اَجۡرَ الۡمُحۡسِنِيۡنَ‏ 

(12:90) They exclaimed: "Are you indeed Joseph?" He said: "Yes, I am Joseph and this is my brother. Allah has surely been gracious to us. Indeed whoever fears Allah and remains patient, Allah does not allow the reward of such people to go to waste."

Do your best but rely only on Divine Help

وَقَالَ يٰبَنِىَّ لَا تَدۡخُلُوۡا مِنۡۢ بَابٍ وَّاحِدٍ وَّادۡخُلُوۡا مِنۡ اَبۡوَابٍ مُّتَفَرِّقَةٍ​ؕ وَمَاۤ اُغۡنِىۡ عَنۡكُمۡ مِّنَ اللّٰهِ مِنۡ شَىۡءٍؕ​ اِنِ الۡحُكۡمُ اِلَّا لِلّٰهِ​ؕ عَلَيۡهِ تَوَكَّلۡتُ​ۚ وَعَلَيۡهِ فَلۡيَتَوَكَّلِ الۡمُتَوَكِّلُوۡنَ‏ 

(12:67) And he enjoined them: "My sons! Do not enter the city by one gate; rather enter it by different gates. I can be of no help to you against Allah. Allah's command alone prevails. In Him have I put my trust and in Him should all those who have faith put their trust.

 

Remember, Surah Yusuf teaches us patience, Chasity, hope, thankfulness, forgiveness and forgiving and absolute faith in the Divine wisdom. In fact all former factors lead us to have faith in wisdom of Allah. 

Please visit our reference page: Surah 12. Yusuf - Prophet Josef (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) for selected verses from Sürah Yusuf.

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 pages: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs and 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 |

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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Believers! Be patient and remain steadfast so that you may succeed

Alhamdolillah - Allah has blessed us at Islam: My Ultimate Decision to reach our 2000th post today

Today, in our series of posts on Selected Verses from Selected Sürahs of Al-Qurʾān, we share the closing verse of Sürah 3. Āl-ʿImrān ("آل عِمْرَان " The Family of Imran). In the previous verses in Surah Āl-ʿImrān, the main subjects have been (1) The Battle of Uḥud, (2) Internal weakness of Muslims, (3) Threats of Hypocrisy and (4) Trials of faith. At Battle of Uhud, the second major conflict between the Muslims and the polytheists of Makkah, Muslims suffered a setback for ignoring the directive of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Therefore, the final verse of the Surah summarizes the survival formula of the Muslim Ummah.

From Qur'an, Surah Āl-ʿImrān:

يٰۤـاَيُّهَا الَّذِيۡنَ اٰمَنُوا اصۡبِرُوۡا وَصَابِرُوۡا وَرَابِطُوۡا وَاتَّقُوا اللّٰهَ لَعَلَّكُمۡ تُفۡلِحُوۡنَ

“O you who believe! Be patient (ṣbirū), outdo others in patience (ṣābirū), remain steadfast (rābiṭū), and fear Allah (ittaqullāh), so that you may be successful.” 

This is the final verse of Surah Āl-ʿImrān — a powerful closing command after long discussions about trials, battles, hypocrisy, and perseverance (especially after the lessons of Uḥud).

There are three things in the verse Muslims have been charged with. These are Sabr, Musabirah and Murabitah. The fourth element is Taqwa which is a necessary ingredient of all three. Let us unpack this verse word by word and then dwell on what does Fear of Allah really means.

Connection to the Context

• Surah Āl-ʿImrān discusses: The Battle of Uḥud, Internal weakness, Hypocrisy, Trials of faith
• So when we reach this closing verse of the Surah, it spells out the survival formula of the Ummah which must be based on (1) Personal patience, (2) Collective endurance, (3) Strategic steadfastness, and (4) God-consciousness not animal like fear.

Word-by-Word Meaning

• Ṣbirū (Be patient): 
• The original Arabic word is " sabiru". This has two possible meanings. One is that whenever they are in confrontation with unbelievers, the believers should endure even greater hardships for their cause, and display a higher degree of fortitude than the unbelievers. The other is that the believers should try to excel one another in facing the opposition and hostility of unbelievers with courage and fortitude.
• 'Sabr' also means 'to hold' or 'to tie'. In the terminology of the Qur'an and Sunnah, Sabr' is the effort made to control and defend one's slippery self against what is temperamentally unpleasing. This 'Sabr' (roughly translated as 'patience' for want of an exact equivalent) takes three forms:
• Patience with Duties: It means that everything commanded by Almighty Allah and His Messenger must be obediently pursued, no matter how burdensome the adherence to them may appear to be. The aim is to keep one's self almost riveted to carry out injunctions despite hindrances.
• Patience against Sins: It means holding the desiring self back from whatever has been prohibited by Allah and His Messenger, no matter how desirable and appealing it may be.
• Patience in Distress: It means enduring in hardship and forbearing in pain and avoiding excessive anxiety. Such patience requires that all pain and comfort be taken to have come from Allah and from this realization comes the strength to keep one's self under control.
• To understand patience, please refer to our earlier posts: (1) Sabr: Patience with Perseverance - the best trait of a Muslim, and (2) Patience (Sabr) is not surrendering to the circumstances - But to the Will of Allah
• Ṣābirū (Outdo others in patience): 
• The word, 'Musabarah' is a derivation from Sabr. It means staying firm and steadfast against the enemy.
• This shows collective resilience. That is Competing in steadfastness - When others weaken, remain firm, and When others give up, endure.
• Ibn Kathir notes that Ṣābirū implies being more patient than the enemy, as their perseverance might waver while believers should remain steadfast.
• Rābiṭū (Remain steadfast / stay stationed): 
• This word originally refers to guarding the frontiers. This is interpreted as staying on the frontiers, vigilant against potential threats, and constant devotion to worship, effectively guarding oneself from evil and protecting the community.
• Spiritually it means: (1) Stay firm in your faith. (2) Remain connected to your mission. (3) Do not abandon your post in Islam.
• Some scholars also link it to: Staying attached to prayer and Guarding the boundaries of your heart
• Ittaqullāh (Fear Allah): This is the foundation of everything before it. Let us know What Does “Fear of Allah” Mean Here?
• Ittaqullāh (اتقوا الله) is an Arabic phrase frequently used in the Qur'an and Islamic literature, translating to "Fear Allah," "Be mindful of Allah," or "Guard yourselves against [displeasing] Allah". It stems from the root for piety (taqwā) and implies conscious awareness of God, acting in obedience to His commands, and avoiding His prohibitions.
• It means To protect yourself from Allah’s displeasure by obeying Him and avoiding sin.
• So in this verse, fearing Allah means: (1) Be patient for Allah’s sake (2) Compete in perseverance for Allah’s sake (3) Remain steadfast because you know He is watching (4) Make decisions knowing you will return to Him.
• It is conscious awareness, not panic.

In essence, this verse serves as a concluding, holistic guide for believers to maintain resilience and spiritual discipline in all life aspects, especially during times of conflict or hardship. 

Why Is Taqwā Mentioned Last?

Because patience without taqwā can become: Pride, Stubbornness, Tribal loyalty. But patience with taqwā becomes: Worship, Sincerity, and Success. That is why the verse ends with: “So that you may be successful (tufliḥūn).”

Without taqwā, patience becomes meaningless endurance. With taqwā, patience becomes a ladder to Jannah. Remember, true success is not worldly victory — it is divine acceptance. 

Practical Meaning for Today

In modern life this verse teaches:

• To be patient when facing hardship,
• To outlast the pressure when when society pressures you.
• To stay firm when when faith seems to on the declines.

Taqwā thus here means living every struggle with awareness of accountability. Remember Allah is watching to see who is steadfast in faith with patience and whose patience is wavering due to weak faith in Allah.

Deeper Reflection For many patience and, or steadfastness may mean differently depending on the quality of one's faith. So this verse can only make sense one truly believes that: 

• The reality of Resurrections and that there is a meeting with Allah
• There is accountability
• There is ultimate success beyond this life

In his Tafsir, Ibn Kathir explains Surah Ali 'Imran 3:200 as a comprehensive command to believers to embody four virtues: steadfastness in faith, perseverance against difficulties and enemies, remaining vigilant (stationed) on the frontlines of obedience, and fearing Allah (Taqwa). This, he notes, ensures ultimate success and piety.

Muslims need to be patient with complete trust in Allah. But at the same time Muslims need to be steadfast and never lowering their guard as did the archers on the battlefield of Uhud who abandoned their post and lowered their guard - something that cost very dearly to the Muslims. We need not lose patience when confronted with odds and defend our faith by never losing ground, no matter how lucrative the opportunity may look.

You may refer to more Selected Verses from Surah 3. Al-i'Imran (The Family of Imran) already published

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 | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |

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

Ramadan: The Virtue of Fasting (Hadith Qudsi)

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.

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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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.

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