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Showing posts with label Reference Page: Scholars Viewpoint. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Reference Page: Scholars Viewpoint. Show all posts

Thursday, 2 January 2025

The Divine promise of Hope and Redemption in Qur'an

Man has always been enticed by the Evil to sin or do acts detested by our Creator, Allah the Almighty. Yet when the storm of worldly desires subsides, one is left with nothing but remorse and utter shame for having defied the Divine commandments of morality, honesty and following what is Halal (permissible) and shunning what is Haram (not permissible). In despair, if he has an iota of faith in Allah, he immediately repents his wrong doing and seek forgiveness.  For such believers, there is a message of hope and redemption given in the 70th verse of Surah 25. Al-Furqan. 

Let us read and try to understand the selected verse, which is followed by its explanation in the video given at the end of the verse explanation:

اِلَّا مَنۡ تَابَ وَاٰمَنَ وَعَمِلَ عَمَلًاصَالِحًـا فَاُولٰٓـئِكَ يُبَدِّلُ اللّٰهُ سَيِّاٰتِهِمۡ حَسَنٰتٍ​ ؕ وَكَانَ اللّٰهُ غَفُوۡرًا رَّحِيۡمًا‏ 
(25:70) Unless he repents and believes and does righteous works. For such, Allah will change their evil deeds into good deeds. Allah is Ever Forgiving, Most Compassionate.

This verse highlights the concept of repentance and divine forgiveness in Islam. In fact, this is a good news for those people who repented and reformed themselves, for they will have the benefit of the "general amnesty" contained in verse 70. This was regarded as a great blessing by the true servants who had committed undesirable acts.

Here's a breakdown of its meanings:
This verse is part of a passage that addresses the behaviors of those who reject the truth, commit sinful actions, and engage in negative conduct. These people may have indulged in sins such as idolatry, oppression, or immorality. However, the verse offers a message of hope and redemption. Allah is emphasizing that those who truly turn to Him in sincere repentance and faith, and then follow that up with righteous deeds, can receive His mercy.

Key Elements of the Verse:
  • Repentance (Tawbah): The verse begins by stating that repentance is essential. Repentance in Islam means feeling remorse for one’s sins, stopping the sinful behavior, seeking forgiveness from Allah, and making a firm intention not to return to those sins.
  • Faith (Iman): Belief in Allah and His messenger, and adherence to the pillars of Islam, is the foundation for a person to be eligible for Allah's mercy.
  • Righteous Deeds (Amal Saleh): After repentance and belief, the individual is required to perform righteous actions — actions that align with Islamic principles, including charity, prayer, and other good deeds.
  • Replacement of Evil Deeds with Good: One of the most powerful aspects of this verse is the promise that Allah will replace the person's bad deeds with good ones. This shows the infinite mercy of Allah. Even if someone has committed many sins, if they sincerely repent and strive to do good, Allah will not only forgive them but will transform their past mistakes into acts of virtue.
  • Allah's Forgiveness and Mercy: The verse concludes by reiterating that Allah is Forgiving (غَفُور) and Merciful (رَحِيم). These attributes remind us that Allah is always ready to forgive those who truly repent and seek His mercy, no matter how great their sins may have been.
Practical Implications
  • Hope for the sinner: This verse offers hope for anyone who has committed sins. No matter how serious the wrongdoings, if a person sincerely repents, they can be forgiven.
  • Encouragement for reform: It encourages believers to always seek self-improvement through repentance, faith, and good deeds.
  • The transformative power of repentance: It also underscores the transformative power of sincere repentance, where a person’s past mistakes can be wiped away and replaced with good deeds.
In essence, this verse encapsulates Allah’s immense mercy and the process through which a person can regain a righteous standing in His sight, regardless of past errors. Many instances of such people, who sincerely repented and reformed their lives, have been related in the traditions. 

For instance, Ibn Jarir and Tabarani have related an incident from Hadrat Abu Hurairah, who savs, "One day when 1 returned home after offering the 'lsha prayer in the Prophet's Mosque, I saw a woman standing at my door. I saluted her and walked into my room, closed the door and busied myself in voluntary worship. After a while she knocked at the door. I opened the door and asked what she wanted. She said that she had come with a problem: She had committed zina, had become pregnant, given birth to a child and then killed it. She wanted to know if there was any chance of her sin being forgiven. I replied in the negative. She went back grief-stricken, exclaiming, "Ah! this beautiful body was created for the fire!" The next morning, after the prayer, when I related the night's incident before the Holy Prophet, he said, "You gave a very wrong answer, Abu Hurairah: Haven't you read the Qur'anic verse which says: '(Those) who do not invoke any other deity than Allah...except the one who may have repented (after those sins) and have believed and done righteous deeds' `?" Hearing this from the Holy Prophet, I went out in search of the woman, and had her traced again at the `Isha time. I gave her the good news and told her what the Holy Prophet had said in reply to her question. She immediately tell prostrate on the ground and thanked Allah, Who had opened a way for her forgiveness. Then she offered repentance and set a slave-girl, along with her son, tree." 

A similar incident about an old man has been related in the traditions. He came before the Holy Prophet and said, "O Messenger of Allah, all my life has passed in sin: there is no sin which I have not committed; so much so that if my sins were to be distributed over the people of the whole world, they would all be doomed. Is there any way out for my forgiveness?" The Holy Prophet asked him, "Have you embraced Islam?" He said, "I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah." The Holy Prophet said, "Go back, Allah is All-Forgiving and has the power to change your evil deeds into good deeds." He asked,"Is it about all my crimes and errors?'' The Holy Prophet replied, "Yes, it is about all your crimes and errors." ( Ibn Kathir) .

You may like to  watch a discussion between eminent Muslim scholar Dr. Shabir Ally and Dr. Safiyyah Ally on the meaning and Divine promise of hope and redemption as mentioned in Quran 25:70:

Let us never lose faith in Allah and His reassurance to His servants of forgiveness provided we repent and promise not to indulge in acts reprehensible to Allah. Remember, the essence of this verse lies in the sincerity while repenting with a solemn pledge of not repeating the same again. Let us cash on the Divine promise of hope and redemption and not be enticed by the Evil to fall into its trap again.

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.

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.

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to IslamYou may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

For more Selected Verses, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'anYou may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.
Photo | Tafsir References: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān 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, references of other sources which have been explored have also been given above. 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.

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.

Friday, 13 December 2024

Has rise in Islamophobia resulted into more non-Muslims reverting to Islam?

In the recent times, the word Islamophobia has gained unprecedent momentum and it is one of the most talked about word across the world. Invariably, an act of aggression or terrorism is instantly connected to Islam and Muslims condemned as a whole. But despite the misuse of Islamophobia, it is generally understood that reversion of non Muslims to Islam is gaining momentum. Today, we share a video on the subject to enlighten our viewers on the subject. 

However, before we share the video of a Dutch revert and let him answer the question, let us first understand what Islamophobia really is and how it has had a positive effect on non-Muslims to know more about Islam and ultimately embracing Islam.

Islamophobia refers to the irrational fear, hatred, or prejudice against Islam and Muslims. It can manifest in various forms, including negative stereotypes, discrimination, verbal abuse, physical violence, and even institutional biases against Muslims. Islamophobia often stems from misunderstandings about Islam, misinformation, or the association of Islam with terrorism or extremism, particularly in the wake of significant global events like the 9/11 attacks.

While Islamophobia is a serious societal issue, it has led to complex outcomes regarding how people perceive and engage with Islam. Some key points to consider about whether the rise of Islamophobia has resulted in more non-Muslims converting to Islam:
  • Increased Curiosity and Research: In some cases, individuals who are exposed to Islamophobic rhetoric may become curious about the religion and seek to learn more. This can lead to non-Muslims critically exploring Islamic teachings and practices, sometimes resulting in conversion. The desire to understand the religion beyond the distorted portrayals in media can motivate some to embrace Islam.
  • Rejection of Islamophobic Narratives: For some individuals, the rise of Islamophobia may provoke a sense of justice or solidarity with Muslims, leading them to convert. In these cases, people might be drawn to Islam as a way of counteracting negative stereotypes or standing against what they perceive as unfair prejudice.
  • Islam’s Appeal: Islam is the second-largest religion in the world, with a rich history and a comprehensive spiritual, ethical, and social system. The increase in Islamophobic incidents does not directly cause people to convert, but it may contribute to a broader awareness of the religion, which can lead to conversions for various personal, intellectual, or spiritual reasons.
  • Cultural and Political Influences: In a globalized world, people are exposed to a variety of religious beliefs and practices. While Islamophobia can make some people more defensive or resistant to learning about Islam, others may become more open to understanding different cultures and faiths. Social and political movements aimed at tackling Islamophobia can also increase awareness and empathy, leading some individuals to embrace Islam as a means of challenging prejudice.
  • Social Media and Globalization: The internet and social media have allowed more people to learn about Islam directly from Muslims or Islamic scholars, which can encourage conversions. Social media platforms also serve as spaces for discussions and sharing personal stories, which can influence others.
  • Personal and Spiritual Factors: Many people who convert to Islam do so because they feel a spiritual connection or intellectual curiosity. In some cases, individuals who feel dissatisfied with their previous religious beliefs may turn to Islam.
The trend of conversion to Islam has seen gradual increase in certain parts of the world, especially in non-Muslim-majority countries like the United States and parts of Europe. This could be attributed to factors like greater visibility of Islam, increased awareness, and dissatisfaction with other faiths. it is often estimated that around 20,000 to 25,000 people convert to Islam every day worldwide. This translates to roughly 7 to 9 million new converts annually, though these estimates can vary. A notable study from the Pew Research Center found that about 20,000 Americans convert to Islam each year.

In summary, while Islamophobia itself is a harmful and unjust phenomenon, its rise has occasionally led some non-Muslims to explore Islam more deeply, which in some cases has resulted in conversions. However, conversion to Islam is influenced by a range of factors, including personal spiritual journeys, intellectual curiosity, and the desire for social justice. Actually Islamophobia has helped revert more people to Islam. This is how Allah has worked his miracle. Once people start reading about Islam instead of false information spread they find truth, truth always appeals to heart.

We have in the past, posted a number of revert experiences wherein non-Muslims have reverted to Islam, mostly born in the age of Islamophobia. Today, we share an interview with a Dutch man who reverted to Islam despite being born in a country where the temperature against Islam is rather high as compared to other countries.

Please watch the video:
Interviewer of Dutch revert is Moeed Pirzada who is a prominent British Pakistani geo-strategic analyst, TV Anchor, columnist and blogger currently based in Washington, US. He has written extensively for national & international publications - including Dawn, Tribune, Guardian, Al Jazeera, Khaleej Times - and is founder Editor of Global Village Space (GVS), on online news publication with a print magazine.

Those mulling over to revert to Islam, should watch this video for it may show them the light to the truth which is otherwise is obscured by prejudices and hatred about Islam. 

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 to convey only 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.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the video above are those of the scholar concerned. We have shared this view as added information in better understanding of Islam. The reader may or may not agree with the view owing to their own perception. 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.

Photo | 

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to IslamYou may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.
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.

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.

Wednesday, 27 November 2024

Do you, as a Muslim, know the primary objective of Qur'an?

We have been talking of Islam, Qur'an and Sunnah in a number of our previous posts so that our readers get a clear perception of Islam and why and how to revert to Islam, if already not, and then how to be a better Muslim. Today, we take on a very important subject which many of us even after being Muslims for long, may not know the correct answer. The question is: Do you, as a Muslim, know the primary function of Qur'an?

To be honest, if someone had asked me this question before today, I would not have been able to give the correct answer. It is today, that I came across a mind boggling video lecture by Nouman Ali Khan, one of the most eminent scholars of present times, that opened my eyes and gave me an answer which makes me ponder over whether I have truly been able to grasp the primary objective of Qur'an as yet or not!

Well, the answer is Transformation. Yes transformation, focusing on spiritual, emotional and intellectual growth, for Qur'an or in fact the words of Allah transform a person from a world of unknowing to know, from no or misguidance to true guidance. The true transformation requires understanding the reasons behind Islamic practices. It is a gradual process and cannot be forced overnight, as the forced implementation of Islam may push individuals away from the faith.

And for this very reason, the Makki revelations did not dwell on laws and commandments, but the focus was to apprise the pagans and Bedouins of Makkah of the change that was needed for them to leave a world of idolatry and bigotry and come out of the darkness to a world alighted with a direction and purpose. The deep impact of Makki revelations was so convincing that they shed away the cloak of unknowing to take the first step towards transformation - transformation that was a continuing process from small words of Divine guidance leading to depths of Islamic laws and Divine commandments. The laws came much later when Muslims migrated to Medinah and the foundations of true Islamic state were laid.

Now let us ask ourselves, specially the born Muslims: Has Qur'an been able to transform us into true believers or not? Do we really know why we are Muslims? Have we shed away the cloak of ignorance to wisdom of Islam? Do we pray five times and a day and recite Qur'an much too often, but yet Islam is far away from our hearts? Do we still continue to be hypocrites, liars, hurting other believers and are arrogant, timid and heartless? Does reading Qur'an makes our hearts to shiver and tears come out of our eyes out of fear of Allah and of our fate on the Day of Judgment? 

If the answer is no or a degree closer to it, we need to take a stock of ourselves and brush our faith. There is still time to Transform ourselves from  ignorant believers to enlightened ones.

Let me share the video and lecture by Nouman Ali Khan which has made me ponder over my state of faith and be what is expected of me through guidance provided to us in Qur'an. Please watch the video:

About Nouman Ali Khan: Born to a Pakistani family, Nouman Ali Khan is an American Muslim speaker and Arabic instructor who founded the Bayyinah Institute for Arabic and Qur’anic Studies, after serving as an instructor of Arabic at Nassau Community College. He has been named one of the 500 most influential Muslims in the world by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre of Jordan.

Let us listen to this video again and again and really understand how Allah wants us to be His servants and how we should always be looking towards him, and no one else, for our worldly needs. If we can really Ingrid the meaning of this verse into ourselves, we will never go astray or be misled by worldly desires or following the priests and imams or asking from the dead saints.

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 to convey only 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.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the video above are those of the scholar concerned. We have shared this view as added information in better understanding of Islam. The reader may or may not agree with the view owing to their own perception. 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.

Photo | 

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to IslamYou may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.
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.

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.

Tuesday, 26 November 2024

What do we learn from Surah 36 Yaseen: Be the light - even if you stand alone

A light house is the most solitary man made structure that stands alone in some of the most desolate places, yet its light beacons to the passing by ships which serve as a beacon for navigational aid for maritime pilots at sea or on inland waterways. The luminous light of light houses saves the life of countless passengers aboard the ships. If these light houses were not there, many ships would encounter rocks along the hazardous rocky coastlines and get destroyed.

Likewise, there are humans who stand taller than others and stand alone and act as the light, guidance and direction for the masses. This premise may look strange to my readers for most would have never correlated the anecdote mentioned in the early verses of Surah Yaseen. And let me confide, honestly I had always wondered the why of the anecdote so mentioned in the Surah till today when I watched a video by one of the eminent Muslim scholars of the present times, Nauman Ali Khan. I was literally speechless by watching and listening to this beautiful message explaining the hidden meanings of verses from surah Yaseen. I used to wonder what is the true message being given to us Divinely and today the cloud hovering over my mind and obscuring my little intellect has given way to the bright sunshine of understanding and awareness. In fact, I have never been moved so much by reciting Surah Yaseen so much till today as this lecture leaves me in an awe.

This explanation of Surah Yaseen is in addition to the exegesis / tafsir of the surah by some of the eminent Muslim scholars which has been published earlier, which can be accessed from the links given below:
Before we share the video, let us give out in gist form the theme of Surah Yaseen:

Surah Yaseen has been referred to as the "heart of the Quran," and some scholars believe that this designation implies that the Surah contains the essence of the Quranic message. The Surah brings together the core aspects of Islamic belief—faith in Allah, acceptance of the prophethood, belief in the Hereafter, and recognition of Allah's signs in nature. By reciting Surah Yaseen, a believer engages with the essence of the Quran's guidance and the principles of Islam.

Surah Yaseen encapsulates central themes of Islamic belief and serves as a reminder of the core principles of the faith, such as the Oneness of Allah, the importance of the prophets, the reality of the Hereafter, and the signs of Allah in the natural world. The hidden secrets of Surah Yaseen include its deep spiritual healing effects, its symbolism as the "heart" of the Quran, and its lessons on life, death, and resurrection. It encourages believers to reflect on the ultimate purpose of life, stay true to the divine message, and seek Allah's mercy, both in this world and the next. 

Surah Yaseen recounts the story of a prophet sent to a disbelieving people (possibly to the people of a city called Antioch, in some interpretations), whose efforts to call people to faith were rejected. In these stories, there are hidden lessons of perseverance, faith, and divine intervention. Despite the harsh rejection, the ultimate victory of divine truth is assured. This story in fact clears the dust from understanding the importance of standing alone, and siding with what is right, no matter even if it is life threatening. (And on this theme, Nauman Ali Khan relates our role to spread the light of Islam which Prophet of Allah ﷺ undertook all by himself and wanted every Muslim to keep the candle of truth alight and never let it extinguish in whatever capacity someone may be).

One of the most striking aspects of Surah Yaseen is the way it links the idea of resurrection and revival. It draws a parallel between the dead land being brought to life with rain and the resurrection of the dead on the Day of Judgment. This illustrates Allah's power over life and death and reminds the believer of the certainty of the afterlife. The Surah also underscores the importance of remembering death and the Hereafter in one’s daily life, reinforcing the idea that every moment in this life is leading to an eternal existence. 

Let us listen to an mind boggling explanation of the Surah by Nouman Ali Khan, wherein the eminent scholar gives and aspiring and amazing explanation of the surah in a perspective at least I never known before:

About Nouman Ali Khan: Born to a Pakistani family, Nouman Ali Khan is an American Muslim speaker and Arabic instructor who founded the Bayyinah Institute for Arabic and Qur’anic Studies, after serving as an instructor of Arabic at Nassau Community College. He has been named one of the 500 most influential Muslims in the world by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre of Jordan.

Let us listen to this video again and again and really understand how Allah wants us to be His servants and how we should always be looking towards him, and no one else, for our worldly needs. If we can really Ingrid the meaning of this verse into ourselves, we will never go astray or be misled by worldly desires or following the priests and imams or asking from the dead saints.

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 to convey only 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.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the video above are those of the scholar concerned. We have shared this view as added information in better understanding of Islam. The reader may or may not agree with the view owing to their own perception. 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.

Photo | 

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to IslamYou may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.
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.

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.

Monday, 25 November 2024

Understanding the essence of Surah 80. Abasa (He Frowned) - Scholars' Viewpoint

Surah 'Abasa (Surah 80), which is named after the Arabic word "Abasa" meaning "He frowned." The theme of the Surah revolves around lessons of compassion, humility, and prioritizing the message of Islam. The Surah is a reminder about the importance of valuing all individuals equally, especially in the context of spreading Allah's message, and the need to focus on the core purpose of guiding people toward righteousness.

We have already posted the exegesis / tafsir of the Surah based on some of the eminent scholars and exegetes of Qur'an, which can be accessed from the link: Surah 'Abasa - He frowned: Exegesis of 80th chapter of Qur'an). Today we share another dimension of the Surah by one of the eminent scholars of present times, Nauman Ali Khan. The video so shared at the end of the post would present the idea of how we can be sincere to Allah.

Before we do that, we present in gist form the key themes addressed in the surah:
  • The Importance of Compassion and Humility:
    • The Surah opens with an incident involving Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who, while engaged in preaching to a wealthy leader (Abu Jahl) of the Quraysh, frowned and turned away when a blind man, Abd Allah ibn Umm Maktum, approached him seeking guidance. The Prophet's reaction is criticized in the opening verses of the Surah, where Allah rebukes the Prophet for prioritizing the wealthy and influential over the poor and less fortunate.
    • Verse 80:1-10: Allah gently admonishes the Prophet for showing a lack of attention to the blind man, despite his eagerness for spiritual guidance. The key lesson here is that every individual, regardless of their social status or wealth, should be treated with equal respect and attention when it comes to the message of Islam.
  • The Equal Value of All People: 
    • Allah reminds the Prophet and the believers that the primary focus should be on those who are genuinely seeking guidance, not on those who are distracted by wealth and status. The Surah stresses that the true value of people lies in their sincerity and willingness to accept the truth, not in their material possessions or social standing.
    • Verses 11-16: These verses emphasize that the blind man, Abd Allah ibn Umm Maktum, though lacking physical sight, was spiritually alert and seeking knowledge, while the wealthy and influential person may have been indifferent or resistant to the message.
  • Divine Knowledge and Control:
    • The Surah also reflects on Allah's knowledge and wisdom in guiding individuals. Allah knows who will benefit from the message, and He alone determines who is deserving of guidance. The Surah reminds the Prophet (and all Muslims) that their duty is to spread the message and to remain focused on those who are genuinely receptive to it.
    • Verses 17-32: These verses discuss the power and knowledge of Allah in creating and sustaining life, the consequences of ingratitude, and the reality of the Day of Judgment. It reinforces the idea that success lies in following Allah's guidance and that His knowledge far surpasses human understanding.
  • The Day of Judgment:
    • The latter part of the Surah shifts focus to the Hereafter, emphasizing the inevitable reality of the Day of Judgment, when every person will be held accountable for their actions. This portion serves as a reminder that, in the end, all people, regardless of their social status, will stand before Allah.
    • Verses 33-42: These verses depict scenes of the Day of Judgment, where people will be judged based on their deeds. The Surah encourages people to heed the divine message now, before it is too late.
The theme of Surah Abasa is centered on the lessons of compassion, humility, and equal treatment of all individuals when it comes to the message of Islam. It teaches that the true value of people lies in their spiritual openness and sincerity, not in their social status or wealth. The Surah encourages prioritizing those who seek guidance over those who are indifferent, and it underscores the importance of staying focused on the ultimate goal of spreading Allah's message. Additionally, it reminds believers of the reality of the Day of Judgment, where everyone will be held accountable for their actions.

Now, please watch the video in which Nouman Ali Khan explains the theme of the Surah 'Abasa and explains it in a manner that even a simple believer with least intellect can get to know what is being said in this surah and how it lays the foundation developing sincerity to Allah. Please watch the video:
About Nouman Ali Khan: Born to a Pakistani family, Nouman Ali Khan is an American Muslim speaker and Arabic instructor who founded the Bayyinah Institute for Arabic and Qur’anic Studies, after serving as an instructor of Arabic at Nassau Community College. He has been named one of the 500 most influential Muslims in the world by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre of Jordan.

Let us listen to this video again and again and really understand how Allah wants us to be His servants and how we should always be looking towards him, and no one else, for our worldly needs. If we can really Ingrid the meaning of this verse into ourselves, we will never go astray or be misled by worldly desires or following the priests and imams or asking from the dead saints.

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 to convey only 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.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the video above are those of the scholar concerned. We have shared this view as added information in better understanding of Islam. The reader may or may not agree with the view owing to their own perception. 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.

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to IslamYou may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.
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.

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.

Sunday, 24 November 2024

Understanding the Wisdom of Prayer of Prophet Sulieman (Solomon)

Prayers / supplications aren't for the ordinary believers. In fact chosen prophets and messengers of Allah have also invoked the very mercy of Allah by supplicating both during times of distress or in good times to thank Allah. This shows that humility belongs to everyone. In the 35th verse of Surah 38. Saad, we find one of the greatest and most blessed prophet of Allah, Prophet Sulieman (Solomon, peace be upon him) upon realizing that he may have become distracted or proud due to the blessings he had been given, humbly seeks forgiveness from Allah. The verse reads:
بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ 
"In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful"

قَالَ رَبِّ اغۡفِرۡ لِىۡ وَهَبۡ لِىۡ مُلۡكًا لَّا يَنۡۢبَغِىۡ لِاَحَدٍ مِّنۡۢ بَعۡدِىۡ​ۚ اِنَّكَ اَنۡتَ الۡوَهَّابُ‏ 
"He said, 'My Lord, forgive me and grant me a kingdom such as will not belong to anyone after me. Indeed, You are the Bestower.'" (Quran 38:35)

We have already published the detailed exegesis / tafsir of the Surah based on explanation given by some of the prominent Muslim scholars. The detailed explanation of the 35 verse can be read from the link given below:


In this post we only share the the wisdom behind this prayer lies in several profound lessons, besides a heart warming explanation by Nauman Ali Khan, one of the eminent Muslim scholars of present times, given at the end of the post. Let us just hurriedly go over to the meaning of the prayer in the verse quoted abvve:

1. Humility and Self-awareness
Solomon’s prayer reflects a deep sense of humility. Despite his immense power and blessings, he recognizes his vulnerability and need for Allah's forgiveness. It teaches that even the most successful and blessed individuals should not let their achievements lead to arrogance. The awareness of one's limitations, no matter how high their status, is a key principle in Islamic humility.

2. Acknowledgment of Allah’s Sovereignty
Solomon’s prayer emphasizes that all power and authority ultimately come from Allah. By asking for a kingdom that no one else will inherit after him, Solomon is not seeking personal glory, but rather recognizing the supreme sovereignty of Allah in granting and taking away worldly dominion. It shows that true kingship and authority belong to Allah alone, and human rulers are merely trustees of the wealth and power given to them.

3. Gratitude for Divine Blessings
The prayer is also an expression of gratitude to Allah. Solomon acknowledges that he has been granted a unique and incomparable kingdom, but rather than growing complacent, he prays for continued blessings in a way that reflects sincere devotion to the Creator. This teaches believers the importance of showing gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon them and seeking Allah’s help to avoid being ungrateful.

4. Request for a Unique, Unmatched Kingdom
The nature of Solomon's request — a kingdom that no one will have after him — can be interpreted as a desire for a divine gift that surpasses the worldly norms. Solomon's kingdom was already unparalleled in its grandeur and control over nature, but his prayer shows a focus on seeking a kingdom that serves a higher purpose rather than mere worldly dominance. It reflects the idea that one should strive for excellence in all endeavors, particularly in serving the divine will.

5. The Power of Prayer
Solomon’s prayer highlights the power of supplication. Even though Solomon was a prophet and a king, he did not rely on his own status to fulfill his desires. Instead, he turned to Allah in prayer. This shows the importance of supplicating to Allah in every circumstance, no matter one’s position in society. Every believer is encouraged to turn to Allah for guidance, strength, and help in all matters, big or small.

6. Reflection of Prophetic Role
As a prophet, Solomon's prayer also signifies the role of prophets in Islam as humble servants of Allah who do not act out of personal desire but seek to fulfill the divine will. His supplication serves as a model for all believers in understanding how to engage with Allah: with humility, seeking His forgiveness and guidance, and acknowledging His authority.

You may now like to listen to an enlightening commentary on the wisdom of prayer/dua of Prophet Sulieman (peace be upon him) by Nouman Ali Khan, a Pakistan born American Muslim speaker and Arabic instructor who founded the Bayyinah Institute for Arabic and Qur’anic Studies.

In his reinterpretation of the unique dua of Prophet Sulaiman in Surah Saad, Nouman Ali Khan opens new vistas into our understanding of the value of our engagement in this world. At first glance, Suleiman’s dua for a kingdom that is not befitting anyone after him seems materialistic, but in fact he is asking for the capability to do more good for the sake of Allah. 
As Muslims we must take a strong cue from this noble prophet. Excelling in this world for the right reasons is in itself, an act of worship. We do not separate worldly life from spiritual life in Islam, but we must shake off the delusional fear that we’re not capable, and submit this life (our career, education) to a higher goal. When our heart is in the right place, Allah will give us resources beyond the imagination.

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to Islam

You may refer to our post "114 Chapters (Sūrahs) of the Holy Qur'an" for translation, meaning and summary / exegesis of other chapters (Though not complete but building up from 30th Juzʼ / Part backwards for chapters in 30th Juzʼ / Part are shorter and easier to understand). 

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Reading the Holy Quran 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.

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.

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.

Friday, 22 November 2024

If God of Everyone is the same, why there are so many religions?

One question, that is  If God of Everyone is the same, why there are so many religions?" has always puzzled people following different faiths. While everyone intrinsically believes in one Supreme Being, the Creator of the entire universe, yet his feet stop at the bounds of the faith he is following. Let us try to answer the question today through this post and then also listen to one of the eminent scholar of Islam, Dr Zakir A Naik.

The existence of many religions, despite the belief in one God by many, can be understood through theological, historical, and human factors. Here's an explanation in light of Islamic teachings, as well as general considerations:
  • Reasons for Multiple Religions
    • Human Free Will and Interpretation
      • Humans are given the ability to think, interpret, and make choices. This freedom allows for diverse interpretations of divine messages.
      • Over time, these interpretations can lead to differences in beliefs, practices, and the establishment of new religious systems.
  • Distortion of Original Messages: Islam teaches that the original revelations given to earlier prophets (e.g., the Torah, Psalms, and Gospel) were true but were altered over time, leading to the emergence of various religions. "They change the words from their [proper] places..." (Quran 5:13)
  • Sociocultural and Historical Factors
    • Religion often develops in response to the cultural, social, and historical contexts of different communities.
    • People adapted religious teachings to fit their lifestyles or political agendas, leading to the formation of unique traditions and beliefs.
  • Test of Diversity Diversity in beliefs is part of Allah's test for humanity. The Quran states: "To each of you We prescribed a law and a method. Had Allah willed, He would have made you one nation [united in religion], but [He intended] to test you in what He has given you; so, compete in good deeds." (Quran 5:48)
Wisdom Behind Religious Diversity
From an Islamic viewpoint, the diversity of religions is part of Allah's divine plan. Some reasons might include:
  • A Test for Humanity: Religious diversity tests humanity's sincerity in seeking the truth and submitting to it. "And We did not create the heavens and earth and everything between them, except in truth and [for] a specified term." (Quran 46:3)
  • Evidence of Human Freedom: The variety of beliefs reflects the human exercise of free will, a gift from Allah.
  • Opportunity for Dialogue: The existence of multiple religions encourages mutual learning, understanding, and striving for common ground.
"O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another." (Quran 49:13)

The Oneness of God in Islam
The barrier start the emergence of Islam. With the Divine Revelations to Prophet Musa (Moses, peace be upon him) the birth of Jewism commenced. And the Jews considered them the superior nation. But with the birth of Prophet Eesa (Jesus, peace be upon him), another Divine religion came to forth, which was forcefully detested and contested by the Jews, which finally resulted into Crucifixion of Jesus. Now we had two religions contesting each other. But the advent of Islam which teaches that Allah is the one and only God, the Creator of all humanity, a common enemy was found both by Jews and followers of Jesus. Both religion instead of understanding the progressive process of Divine religions which has been culminated into Islam, the last Divine religion, turned against Islam. The major clash came from the followers of Jesus who found a threat to their belief that Jesus is the son of God and thus shares some powers of God, or some even consider him to be at par with God.

Thus from an Islamic perspective, the answer to the question so posed can be understood as under:

Original Revelation of Oneness: Allah sent prophets to every nation to guide humanity to His worship alone. The Quran states:
"And We certainly sent into every nation a messenger, [saying], 'Worship Allah and avoid false gods.'" (Quran 16:36)
Over time, the original message became distorted or forgotten, leading to deviations and the formation of other religions.

Islam’s Perspective on the True Religion
Islam asserts that:
  • The ultimate truth lies in the worship of Allah alone and following His guidance.
  • Islam is the final and complete version of the original message sent to all prophets:
  • "Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam." (Quran 3:19)
  • Differences arose because of human actions, but Islam views itself as a corrective to these deviations.
Unity Amid Diversity
While Islam acknowledges the multiplicity of religions, it also emphasizes the unity of humanity under one Creator:

"Say, 'O People of the Scripture, come to a word that is equitable between us and you—that we will not worship except Allah and not associate anything with Him and not take one another as lords instead of Allah.' But if they turn away, then say, 'Bear witness that we are Muslims [submitting to Him].'" (Quran 3:64)

The existence of multiple religions, despite the belief in one God, reflects human diversity, free will, historical development, and the distortion of divine messages. Islam teaches that Allah has always been the God of everyone, but deviations occurred over time. Islam sees itself as the final and universal message meant to unite humanity under the worship of the one true God.

Thus, while Jews continue cling to their religion for being superior to others, followers of Jesus, though not agreeing with the One God concept of Jews, have instead focused their anger toward Islam for rejecting the concept of Trinity as against One God, called Allah by Muslims, and this self created confrontation has led to creation of many religions (which may also include the Hinduism, the Buddhism and Shintoism). 

If one analyses each religion, as has been and is being done by many a non Muslim and leading them to embrace Islam, one would find that right from the start, the Divine religions were to progressive and adding to the previous religion. This progressive progress finally culminated in the final Divine Religion, that is Islam. More and more followers of other religions are finding Islam more closer to Divine mindset rather than man written books. For example Bible is "about Jesus" and those reading Bible should know that in Bible Jesus speaks to them. On the contrary those reading Qur'an, the last of the four Divine Scriptures, feel that God is speaking to them, and not Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

This diversity in religions thus serves as a test and an opportunity for humans to reflect, seek truth, and live righteously amidst differences. Lucky and blessed are those who are finding the answers to their unanswered question in Islam which they could not find in their faith. 

Now, you may like to an enlightening video on the subject below by Zakir Abdul Karim Naik, an Islamic televangelist and Islamic preacher. He is the founder and president of the Islamic Research Foundation. He is also the founder of the Peace TV:

Photo | For more questions about Islam as addressed by scholars of Islam, please refer to our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on important issues related to Islam. You may also refer to more Q&A about Understanding 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.

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.

Friday, 15 November 2024

Understanding Surah 2. Al Baqarah (The Cow) - specially the supplication in its last two verses

Surah Al Baqarah, the second Surah of the Qur'an is the longest Surah spread over two and a half Juz of the Qur'an. In it lies the comprehensive guidance for establishing a righteous, balanced, and faith-driven life. It addresses a wide range of topics, providing a foundation for individual spirituality, social justice, moral integrity, and community building. Below are key themes that encapsulate its essence:

1. Affirmation of Faith and Guidance for the Believers
Essence: The surah emphasizes the importance of belief in Allah, His messengers, and the Day of Judgment. It begins with a description of the Qur'an as a guidance for the God-conscious (Muttaqoon) and distinguishes between believers, disbelievers, and hypocrites.

"This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:2)

2. Establishing Tawheed (Monotheism)
Essence: Surah Al-Baqarah repeatedly emphasizes the oneness of Allah and His absolute authority over all creation. It reminds humanity of their dependence on Him and warns against associating partners with Him.

"And your god is one God. There is no deity [worthy of worship] except Him, the Entirely Merciful, the Especially Merciful." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:163)

3. The Role of Divine Laws
Essence: The surah lays down the framework for Islamic law (Shariah) by introducing commandments about prayer, fasting, charity, and the prohibition of interest (riba). It also discusses dietary laws, marital relationships, and family dynamics.

"Establish prayer and give zakah and bow with those who bow [in worship and obedience]."
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:43)

4. Accountability and Justice
Essence: The surah stresses personal accountability before Allah and upholds principles of justice and fairness in all aspects of life, including financial transactions, testimony, and interpersonal relationships.

"Do not consume one another's wealth unjustly, but only [in lawful] business by mutual consent."
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:188)

5. Lessons from Past Nations
Essence: The stories of the Children of Israel (Bani Israel) are a central theme, offering lessons about obedience, ingratitude, and the consequences of rejecting divine guidance. These stories are a warning for believers to remain steadfast and avoid similar mistakes.

"And We certainly sent Moses with Our signs, [saying], 'Bring your people out from darkness into the light.'" (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:257)

6. Emphasis on Sincerity in Worship
Essence: True piety is not limited to outward rituals but lies in sincere belief, moral conduct, and obedience to Allah’s commands.

"Righteousness is not that you turn your faces toward the east or the west, but [true] righteousness is in one who believes in Allah, the Last Day, the angels, the Book, and the prophets..." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:177)

7. Patience and Trust in Allah
Essence: The surah highlights the virtue of patience (sabr) during trials and trust in Allah’s wisdom and mercy.

"Indeed, Allah is with the patient." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:153)

8. Warning Against Satan and His Deception
Essence: It reminds believers of Satan’s enmity and encourages seeking refuge in Allah.

"O you who have believed, enter into Islam completely and perfectly, and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:208)

9. Encouragement to Spend in Charity
Essence: The surah stresses the importance of generosity and the prohibition of hoarding wealth, emphasizing that wealth is a trust from Allah.

"The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] that sprouts seven ears; in every ear is a hundred grains." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:261)

10. The Covenant and Obedience to Allah
Essence: Believers are reminded of their covenant with Allah and the importance of adhering to it. This includes fulfilling obligations and being mindful of Allah in all actions.

Core Message
Surah Al-Baqarah teaches that success lies in faith, obedience, and striving for righteousness. It encourages believers to live balanced lives by adhering to Allah’s commands and contributing positively to society. It also warns of the consequences of ignoring divine guidance, making it a comprehensive manual for life.

The Surah ends with a supplication (verses 285-286) which in fact a comprehensive supplication which encompasses the core of the entire Surah. Muslims are advised by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ never to part with this supplication and should make it a part of each Salat and recite it before going to bed each night.

You may now like to listen to an exhaustive lecture by one of the eminent scholar of present times, Nauman Ali Khan, explaining Surah Al Baqarah in details with sepcial referene to the supplication given at the end of the 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.

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.

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to IslamYou may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.
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An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān 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, references of other sources which have been explored have also been given above. 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.

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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