How to live a life in the "presence" of Allah - Scholar's viewpoint

Man is always mindful of being watched when working in an office and avoids any action due to which he may be caught by his superiors and prosecuted afor He is oft forgiving ang and disciplined. This happens becasue we are afraid of immediate acction that may be taken against us, even to the extent of being fired. If that be so, why most of us do not live a life as if we are in the presence of our Lord and every action ofours is minuetly watched Divinely?

May be we fear our Lord less than our employer for as against the swift and harsh action by our employer, Allah provides a leverage for He is oft forgiving and merciful. But the provision of this Divine leverage can be retracted at any time without a warning or a show casue notice, the consequences of which may very bitter to swallow.  Remember, when you have no longer patiance with someone, think about how patient is Allah with you.

SOwhy not live am life as we are in the presence of Allah and let nothing be done or said which may result into wrath of Allah. Let us dwell on how to live a life in the presenceof Allah. At the end of this post, we share a eye opener lecture by Javed Ahmed Ghamidi, an eminent Muslim scholar of present times that will elaborate our question more scholarly.

Living a life in the presence of Allah (في حضرة الله) means living with deep awareness that Allah is always near — seeing, hearing, knowing, and caring for everything you do. This is not just a concept, but a way of being. It’s the foundation of taqwā (God-consciousness) and ihsān (spiritual excellence) in Islam.

Here’s how to begin living that kind of life:

1. Internalize That Allah Is Always With You:  This the first step as has been mentioned in the Qur'an:

• The Qur’an says:
• “He is with you wherever you are.” (Qur’an 57:4)
• “We are closer to him than his jugular vein.” (Qur’an 50:16)
• This awareness—called muraqabah (spiritual watchfulness)—makes you mindful of:
• What you say
• What you think
• What you intend
• How you treat others
• It’s not about fear alone, but about presence.

2. Establish Regular, Meaningful Salah:  Salah is not just ritual; it is an intimate meeting with Allah.

• Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has been reported as saying "The closest a servant is to his Lord is while in sujood." (Sahih Muslim)
• Tips for ensuring regularity in one's Salah:
• Pray on time
• Reflect on the meanings of what you recite
• Before salah, say: "I am standing before the King of kings." If this understanding is induced in one's conscious, the true meaning of Salah will start to unfold and a spiritual awakening will set in with a feelingas if  one is standing in from of his Lord.

Remember Allah Constantly (Dhikr): Remembering Allah by taking His attributes and reflecting on the meaning of each and trying to practically demonstrate and incorportate these in our character, for what we expect from Allah, we should demonstrate it in our character for others. How can we do it:

• Fill your day with remembrance — not just on your tongue, but in your heart.
• "Remember Me and I will remember you." (Qur’an 2:152)
• Daily dhikr ideas:
• After prayer: SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar
• Morning/evening adhkar
• Saying "Bismillah" before actions
• Whispering du‘a from your heart throughout the day

You may  like to read our posts on: How reflection on attributes of Allah can boost your Iman and transform your life

4. Read the Qur’an As If Allah Is Speaking to You: The Qur’an isn’t just a book to be read—it’s Allah’s speech to you personally. Many are of the opinion that when when reads the Qur'an with understanding, a spiritual feelings sets in as if Allah is speaking to the reader. 

• Therefore, when you read Qur'an, ask: “What is Allah telling me here?”
• Let reading Qur'an shape your:
• Choices
• Relationships
• Reactions to hardship and ease

5. Talk to Allah in Du‘a — Constantly: Du'a / supplication is the best things one should do to rember Allah both in good and bad times. In fact, we should not reserve du‘a for hardship, rahter make it a habit to talk to Allah like you would to someone always near.

• The Prophet ﷺ said: "Let one of you ask his Lord for everything he needs—even a shoelace." (Tirmidhi)
• This builds your reliance on Allah — a key part of living in His presence.

For ease of our readers, we have published two reference pages which contain links to supplications / du'a mentioned in Qur'an and hadiths of Prophet ﷺ. These selected supplications give very well wordded supplications and suggested by Allah and His Prophet ﷺ. Links given herein under:

• Selected Invocations / Dua " دُعا " from Qur'an 
• Reference Page: Prophetic Supplication

6. Purify Your Heart: A heart attached to the world will struggle to feel Allah's nearness. How to purify one's heart which is otherwise tainted due to Satanic ingresses and influences. Herein under are some tips:

• Avoid arrogance, envy, anger
• Cultivate humility, contentment, gratitude
• Ask Allah for a qalb salīm (pure heart)

Remeber what Allah mentions in Qur'an (26:88–89): “The Day when neither wealth nor children will benefit, except one who comes to Allah with a sound heart.”

Please read our post: How to cleanse our tainted hearts - Tazkiyah al-Nafs (تَزْكِيَةُ النَّفْس) and listen to one of the most eminent female Muslim scholars of present times, Dr. Haifaa Younis how she deliberates on our efforts to cleanse our hearts and make it spacious for remembrance of Allah.

7. Treat Others As Allah Would Want You To: This is very important. When we want Allah to be merciful and helpful to us, let us also extend our helping hand to those in need of help and to ease their sufferings. Seeing others as Allah’s creation helps you:

• Forgive more easily
• Avoid pride or contempt
• Serve and uplift people for Allah’s sake
• “Have mercy on those on the earth, and the One above the heavens will have mercy on you.” (Tirmidhi)

8. Practice Ihsān

• The Prophet ﷺ defined ihsān as: "To worship Allah as though you see Him, and if you cannot see Him, then know that He sees you." (Hadith Jibril, Sahih Muslim). This is the essence of living in the presence of Allah.
• Serving others Sincerity, humility
• Purifying the heart Openness to divine light

Final Reflection:

The more you live in the presence of Allah, the less you'll need the validation of people. The less you'll fear the future. And the more your soul will feel peace — because it's near the One it was created for.

Let us then, our brothers and sisters, transform our life as we are living in presence of our Creator. When this feeling sets into our hearts, all evil thoughts and actions will be replaced with peaceful thoughts and an attitude to help others rather than torturing and harming them.

Let us now share an incredible explanation to the question we have posed by Javed Ahmed Ghamidi, an eminent Muslim scholar of our time. Please watch the video:

About Javed Ahmad Ghamidi: Javed Ahmad Ghamidi, (born 7 April 1952). is a Pakistani Islamic scholar and philosopher who is the founder of Al-Mawrid Institute of Islamic Sciences and its sister organisation Danish Sara. He is regarded as one of the most influential and popular philosophers of the modern era.

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 Islam. You 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.

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

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How reflecting on Attributes of Allah can boost your Iman and transform your life

Muslims believe in one God, called Allah, without any associates and assistants. While the very word Allah means the sole creator of the universe, there are many a attributes of Allah that explain eternal qualities — like knowledge, power, mercy. These attributes are unlike anything in creation. Understanding them strengthens faith, worship, and connection to Allah.

Reflecting on the attributes of Allah (Tadabbur fi Asma’illah wa Sifatih) means to deeply contemplate and internalize the meanings of Allah's names and qualities in a way that transforms your heart, mindset, and actions.

Although, Allah has mentioned 35 of His attributes in the Qur'an, there are 64 attributes (making these a total of 99) that are derived from the qualities of Allah. We have already written detailed posts explaining meaning of each attribute of Allah which can be read from our reference page: 99 Attribues of Allah.

If we ponder over each attribute of Allah and correlate it with our lives, we will be amzed to know how each attribute of Allah can have profound effect on our lives, strenghtening our Iman (Faith) in Allah and transforming our lives.

In fact, for example, it’s not just about knowing that Allah is Al-Rahman (The Most Merciful) or Al-Alim (The All-Knowing) — it's about letting that knowledge that shape our relationship with Him, our behavior, and our trust in His plan.

Let us deleibrate on the attributes of Allah in general and then please watch a very informative video on the subject given at the end of the post.

What Are the Attributes of Allah?

Allah has beautiful names and perfect attributes, known as Asma’ al-Husna (أسماء الله الحسنى) — the Most Beautiful Names of Allah.

"And to Allah belong the best names, so call upon Him by them..." (Qur’an 7:180)

There are 99 Names traditionally listed, though the actual number is not limited. Each Name reveals something about who Allah is — His mercy, power, justice, knowledge, etc.

What Does It Mean to Reflect on Them?

 1. Understanding the Name

• Go beyond translation — learn the deeper meaning behind each Name.
• Example: Al-Ghafoor means not just “The Forgiving,” but the One who constantly and repeatedly forgives, no matter how big the sin.

2. Seeing Its Relevance in Your Life

• How does this attribute affect your life?
• When you feel lost, reflecting on Al-Hadi (The Guide) gives hope.
• When you sin, remembering Al-Tawwab (The One who accepts repentance) brings you back.

3. Letting It Inspire Worship and Behavior

• If Allah is Al-Raheem (Most Merciful), show mercy to others.
• If Allah is Al-Adl (Most Just), strive to be just and fair.

4. Using the Name in Du‘a

• The Prophet ﷺ said: “Allah has 99 names... whoever memorizes (and lives by) them will enter Paradise.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
• Use relevant names in your prayers:
• "Ya Shafi, heal me."
• "Ya Razzaq, provide for me."
• "Ya Latif, be gentle with me."

Why Is It Important?

• Stronger faith (Iman): You begin to know Allah not just intellectually, but emotionally and spiritually.
• Deeper love of Allah: Knowing His mercy, forgiveness, and care increases your attachment and love.
• Spiritual comfort: You find peace in Allah’s wisdom, power, and mercy during difficult times.
• Better character: You begin to embody divine qualities like mercy, justice, patience, and gratitude.
• More meaningful du’a and worship: You call on Allah with specific names that match your needs and states.

Practical Example: Reflecting on a Name - Let’s take Ar-Razzaq (The Provider):

• Learn: Allah is the One who provides for all creation, even the ant in the rock.
• Reflect: All your provision — wealth, health, knowledge — is from Him alone.
• Act: 
• Trust Him in times of financial difficulty.
• Don’t chase haram means — He provides through halal.
• Be generous, knowing He will replace what you give.
• Pray: "Ya Razzaq, provide for me from where I do not expect."

How to Reflect on Allah's Names Regularly

• Study One Name a Day/Week and learn its meaning and relevance with tafsir or a trusted book.
• Use in Dhikr and Du’a: Mention names during prayer and remembrance.
• Journal Reflections:  Write how the name appears in your life or how you can embody it.
• Connect with Qur’an:  Look for how the Name is used in Quranic stories and verses.

To know Allah’s names is to know yourself — your need for Him, your limitations, and your purpose. It’s a path to love, trust, and surrender.

We now present an incredible antidote to cleanse our tailnted hearts as prescribed by one of the most eminent female Muslim scholars of present times, Dr. Haifaa Younis. Please watch the video:

About Dr Haifa Younis: Dr. Haifaa Younis is an American Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist with a strong background in Islamic studies. She is the founder and Chairman of Jannah Institute, an organization dedicated to Islamic education and personal development. Dr. Younis is known for her insightful commentary on the Quran and its practical application in daily life. She is also a resident scholar at the Islamic Center of Irvine (ICOI). 

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: Shahid Rana Calligraphy | 

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

How to cleanse our tainted hearts - Tazkiyah al-Nafs (تَزْكِيَةُ النَّفْس)

Dirt in any form obscures the beauty of any object and mars its inherent shine. Likewise, our hearts too get tainted when we ignore their regular cleansing. This happens when we ignore the teachings of Islam and continue to indulge in acts that are prohibited or disliked by Allah.

A "tainted heart" in the Islamic tradition refers to a heart that has been spiritually corrupted or diseased due to sins, heedlessness of Allah, arrogance, hypocrisy, or attachment to worldly desires. The heart (qalb) holds a central role in the Quran and Sunnah because it is considered the seat of faith, intention, and sincerity. When it becomes "tainted," it affects the person's actions, thoughts, and connection to Allah.

Let us dwell on the conditions that leave our herts tainted and how to cleanse these in light of Qur'an and Sunnah. At the end of the post, do watch a short lecture by an eminent Muslim scholar and preacher Dr Haifa Younis.

What Is a Tainted Heart?

In Islamic terms, a tainted heart may include:

• Hardness of the heart – No fear of Allah, no effect from Quranic reminders.
• Hypocrisy (Nifaq) – Saying one thing and doing another.
• Arrogance (Kibr) – Thinking one is better than others.
• Jealousy (Hasad) – Resenting others' blessings.
• Love of dunya – Being overly attached to material life.
• Neglect of dhikr (remembrance of Allah) – A sign of spiritual weakness.

What the Quran and Sunnah Say About Diseased/Tainted Hearts

• Quran: There are many a Divine cautions about the tainted hearts so that beleivers pay heed to their actions that obscure their hearts that has a bad impact on their character, personality and even their lives: 
• “In their hearts is a disease, so Allah has increased their disease...” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:10)
• “The Day when neither wealth nor children will benefit, except for one who comes to Allah with a sound heart.” (Surah Ash-Shu'ara 26:88-89)
• “Has the time not come for those who have believed that their hearts should become humbly submissive at the remembrance of Allah...” (Surah Al-Hadid 57:16)
• Hadith:
• Likewise, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ too has warned beleivers to keep their hearts clean and not let evil thoughts reside in their hearts. 
• The Prophet ﷺ said: “Verily, in the body is a piece of flesh which, if it is sound, the whole body is sound; and if it is corrupted, the whole body is corrupted. Verily, it is the heart.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

How to Clean a Tainted Heart (Tazkiyah of the Qalb)

In Islam cleansing of heart is referred to as Tazkiyah al-Nafs (تَزْكِيَةُ النَّفْس) which means purification of the soul/self in Islam. It refers to the spiritual process of cleansing one’s inner self from sins, bad traits, and worldly attachments, and developing noble character and closeness to Allah ﷻ.

Why Is Tazkiyah Important?

• Foundation of all good character and deeds
• Essential for salvation in the Hereafter
• Source of inner peace and clarity
• Brings one closer to Allah and strengthens Iman (faith)

The Three Stages of the Nafs (as per Qur’an & scholars)

• An-Nafs al-Ammarah (The Commanding Soul)
• This is the first stage of atainted heart which os full of Base desires, urges toward sin.
• Qur'an describe this stage in Surah Yusuf (12:53): "Indeed, the soul is ever inclined to evil..."
• An-Nafs al-Lawwāmah (The Self-Reproaching Soul)
• Once the heart starts to get tainted and abounds in evil, forcing a believer to commit sins, a feeling of guilt sers in and one tries his best tp struggle between right and wrong.
• This stage is mentioned in Qur'an in Surah Al-Qiyamah (75:2): "And I swear by the self-reproaching soul..."
• This is the stage when puts in his best to cleanse his tainted heart
• An-Nafs al-Muṭma’innah (The Tranquil Soul)
• The more pays attention to the cleansing of the shadowed heart, more he is at peace with Allah, and trusts in Him, does good consistently.
• In Surah Al-Fajr (89:27–30) this stage is mentioned: "O tranquil soul, return to your Lord, well pleased and pleasing..."

Now we come to what actions one must undertake for cleansing of his heart. There are numerous ways which if taken seriously and regulary with faith and earnest desire to repent our wrongdoings and sins, Allah is sure to listen to our woes and may forgive us. Herein under are some corrective actions for Tazkiyah al-Nafs (تَزْكِيَةُ النَّفْس):

1. Tawbah (Sincere Repentance): 

• We should constantly and regularly seek forgiveness from Allah and Reflect on sins and turn back with sincerity.
• It is said in Qur'an: "Indeed, Allah loves those who repent..." (Quran 2:222)

2. Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah)

• Reciting Qur'an regualry brings us closer to Allah and prevents evil thoughts germinating in our hearts and minds. “Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (Quran 13:28)
• Additionally, say the following adhkar whenever being idle :
• Tasbih (SubhanAllah), 
• Tahmid (Alhamdulillah), 
• Takbir (Allahu Akbar), and 
• Tahlil (La ilaha illa Allah).

3. Du’a (Supplication): Continously ask Allah to purify your heart. One beautiful du’a of the Prophet ﷺ: "O Turner of the hearts, make my heart firm upon Your religion." (Tirmidhi)

Note: Please refere to our following reference pages on selcted supplications as mentioned in Qur'an and taught by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ:

• Selected Invocations / Dua " دُعا " from Quran (Reference Page)
• Supplications attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (Reference Page)

4. Regular Qur’an Recitation with Reflection (Tadabbur): 

• Mere recitation of Qur'an cannot heal our tainted hearts unless we reflect deeply on the meaning.
• We must remember that it is Divinely said that the Qur’an is a healing for the heart: “We send down in the Quran that which is healing and mercy...” (Quran 17:82)

5. Good Company (Suhbah):  It is the company of people one sits in from which one absorbs ideas and impressions, wheter good or bad. Therefore we must always bee in the comapny of righteous people who remind us of Allah. This will block the ingress of evil thoughts and the Satan into our hearts.

6. Avoiding Sins and Repenting Quickly

• Small sins pile up and darken the heart. Therefore we muct immediately repent our bad deeds and start afresh with good days, lest piling of small evil deeds pile up to an extent to taint our hearts.
• The Prophet ﷺ said: “When a servant commits a sin, a black spot appears on his heart...” (Tirmidhi)

7. Sincerity (Ikhlas) in Worship: Remove hidden pride or desire for showing off (riyaa) and do good deeds only for the pleasure of Allah.

Practical Daily Habits for Heart Purification

• Istighfar Say Astaghfirullah 100 times daily
• Morning & Evening Adhkar
• Salat with focus and pray with khushu (humility and awareness)
• Observance of Qiyam al-Layl / Tahajjad / Night prayer that softens the heart
• Giving Sadaqah (charity) clears greed from the heart
• Avoiding gossip, envy, pride Watch your tongue and heart motives

A tainted heart can be healed — Islam shows the path of purification and mercy. Through repentance, remembrance, Quran, and good deeds, the heart can return to its natural, pure state. The journey of purifying the heart is ongoing, but every step taken toward Allah brings light and healing.

Today, we present an incredible antidote to cleanse our tailnted hearts as prescribed by one of the most eminent female Muslim scholars of present times, Dr. Haifaa Younis. Please watch the video:

About Dr Haifa Younis: Dr. Haifaa Younis is an American Board Certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist with a strong background in Islamic studies. She is the founder and Chairman of Jannah Institute, an organization dedicated to Islamic education and personal development. Dr. Younis is known for her insightful commentary on the Quran and its practical application in daily life. She is also a resident scholar at the Islamic Center of Irvine (ICOI). 

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 / faith. 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 Islam. You 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.

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

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Islam: Submission is not to surrender in defeat But to align one's will with the will of The Creator

Da'wah in Islam is calling non Muslims to Islam. Although the guidance and why to embrace Islam is amply made clear in the Qur'an, the last of thefour Dive Scriptures, and Sunnah of Prophet  MUhammad ﷺ, the last of the entire chain of prophets, it is incumbent upon every Muslim to invite non Muslims to Islam. 

We have already published a number of posts on the subject which contain viewpoint of Muslim scholars. But today, we share one of the most enlightening lecture on Islam to understand why submission is not to surrender to the will of God, but to align one's will to the will of The Creator. In fact it is one of the best lecture I have found on telling the world what Islam is in its real sense and how it turns subission to one true God by aligning personal will with the will of God.

This lecture is by one of the most renowned motivational speaker David Attenborough in which he shares a powerful personal reflection on life’s purpose, spirituality, and the moment he discovered Islam as a source of peace and meaning. Whether you’re on a spiritual journey, seeking purpose, or just need inspiration, this speech will resonate with your soul.

David Attenborough asserts that world is not based on random evetns without purpose but the patterns of life around us are infacct bonded in preccision and harmony that represent not randomism but wisdom, comsisitennt with natural laws and cosmos.

Explore how science, nature, and faith intersect — and why so many seekers are finding hope in unexpected places. Perfect for those curious about Islam, self-growth, or the deeper questions of life. You may now like to watch the 20 minutes lecture, titled "I Was Just Searching for Meaning… Then I Found Islam",and I am very sure that if you listen to the eminent scholar without prejudices and hostility to Islam, your lens of understanding Islam will be much more clearer:

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.

Disclaimer: This video is based on a personal journey and spiritual experience. It is not intended to "force" preach, convert, or criticize any belief system. The views shared are deeply personal and 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.

Photo | 

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to Islam and our exlusive reference page: How to extend Da'wah to Non Muslims.

You  may also like to refer to our refference page Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A.

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

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Should we use Fear of Allah approach to teach Islam to our children

Teaching Islam to our children is usually based on Fear of Allah approach, the same way mothers instill fear of fathers in her children. Should this be "the only" approach to attract children to Islam or should we induce of Allah into the hearts of our children so that they are naturally attracted to their Creator and look up to Him for loving guidance.

Normally word Taqwa is used in the negative term to attain closeness to Allah based on His fear. But shouldn't we explain Taqwa essentially as a meanto inculcate “awareness of Allah” or “piety,” rather than translating it as “fear of God,” though not with the usual meaning of “fear.”  The mere fear of Allah translates into Allah getting angry and feel like every breath that we take as a crime? Many immams use Friday prayers and the word of God as a platform to project their own fear and anxiety. Their words come from such an unwholesome place that it feels grating to the ears. 

In fact, we should use an approach which more related to love of Allah and less of inculcating fear of Allah. This approach will induce mercy of Allah into our hearts and which will be more refreshing rather than instilling fear which makes one feel like a criminal or a wrongdoer. 

When we love Allah, Worship becomes joy, not a burden and Obedience becomes natural, not forced. In fact, love of Allah induces hope in Allah’s forgiveness, mercy, and Paradise, especially after repentance. “But those who believe are stronger in love for Allah.” (Al-Baqarah 2:165)

Thus, a Muslim’s heart should not be driven by fear alone, but love as well, for love helps us keep us balanced, sincere, and spiritually strong.

Please listen to the video below in which eminent Muslim scholar Nauman Ali Khan dwells on the subject for the guidance of all those trying to understand between love that induces hope rather than fear which induces depression for feeling like being punished for every act of ours.

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 Islam. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

Photo | 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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The virtue of finding Laylat al-Qadr - the night better than thousand months while in I'tikaf

The month of Ramadan comes with bag overflowing with very many mercies of Allah for fasting during the thirty days of this sacred months is an exclusive form of worship of Allah. It is the month which Allah acknowledges the sacrifice made by the believers by abstaining from all otherwise Halal things during the duration of the fast during day solely to please Allah. And Allah never lets go the act of fasting believers and promises special rewards.

While all days and nights of Ramadan are special and each act of worship has its rewards multiplied by unimaginable times, the rewards during the last ten days, specially the odd nights carries special rewards, for during these odd nights comes a night, called Laylat al-Qadr (The night of Power) the rewards of worship during this night is promised to be better than worship of a thousand nights. And if one finds this night during I'tikaf, the rewards are innumerable.

In one of the Hadiths, Aishaؓ, revered wife of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ narrated: Allah's Messenger ﷺ used to practice I`tikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan, and used to say, “Look for the Night of Qadr in the last ten nights of the month of Ramadan. (Sahih Bukhari # 2020).

Finding Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree) while in I'tikaf (spiritual retreat) during Ramadan holds great significance in Islam. The night itself is described as being one of immense spiritual value, and engaging in I'tikaf during the last ten days of Ramadan increases the likelihood of witnessing it. The Qur'an and Hadith highlight the special virtues of Laylat al-Qadr, and I'tikaf provides an ideal environment for seeking it.

[Please read our earlier post on exegesis of Surah Al Qadr: Exegesis/tafsir of Surah Al Qadr ]

Virtues of Laylat al-Qadr:

• The Night of Great Value:
• Laylat al-Qadr is a night of immense spiritual reward. The Qur'an refers to it as a night better than a thousand months:
• Surah Al-Qadr (97:3): "The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months."
• This means that worship and good deeds performed on Laylat al-Qadr are rewarded as though they were performed for over 83 years, making it an opportunity for immense spiritual benefit.
• Revelation of the Qur'an: Laylat al-Qadr is the night on which the Qur'an was revealed. In Surah Al-Qadr (97:1), Allah says, "Indeed, We sent it [the Qur'an] down during the Night of Decree." This makes the night not just a time of great blessings but also of closeness to the message of Allah.
• Forgiveness of Sins:
• It is a night when Allah forgives the sins of those who seek His forgiveness sincerely. 
• The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: "Whoever prays during the Night of Decree with faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven." Sahih Muslim
• This makes Laylat al-Qadr a unique opportunity for repentance and spiritual renewal.

Virtue of I'tikaf During Ramadan:

I'tikaf is a practice where a person dedicates themselves to worship, prayer, and reflection, typically in the mosque, for a period of time during the last ten days of Ramadan. There are several reasons why I'tikaf during this period is especially virtuous, particularly when seeking Laylat al-Qadr:

• Increased Devotion and Focus:
• By entering into I'tikaf, a person completely isolates themselves from worldly distractions and focuses entirely on worship, prayer, Qur'an recitation, and dhikr (remembrance of Allah). This state of devotion creates a perfect environment to seek Laylat al-Qadr.
• Hadith (Sahih Bukhari): "The Prophet (ﷺ) used to perform I'tikaf in the last ten nights of Ramadan, seeking Laylat al-Qadr."
• Increased Chances of Finding Laylat al-Qadr:
• While the exact night of Laylat al-Qadr is unknown, it is believed to fall during one of the last ten odd nights of Ramadan (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, or 29th). I'tikaf during these last ten nights maximizes the chances of encountering this blessed night.
• The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) used to intensify his worship during the last ten days, seeking Laylat al-Qadr. By being in the mosque and engaged in worship during this time, a person is more likely to experience the night and its blessings.
• Spiritual Purity and Cleansing:
• I'tikaf offers a unique chance for spiritual renewal. By focusing on worship and avoiding worldly activities, a person can purify their heart and mind, making them more receptive to the mercy and blessings of Laylat al-Qadr.
• Hadith: "Whoever performs I'tikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan with faith and hope for reward, all of their past sins will be forgiven." (Sahih Bukhari)
• This purifying effect of I'tikaf increases the reward one can attain by seeking Laylat al-Qadr during this time.
• Immense Reward for the Worshipper:
• The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized that worship during I'tikaf, especially during the last ten days of Ramadan, brings great rewards. If a person spends their time in worship and devotion during I'tikaf, especially while seeking Laylat al-Qadr, they can attain the reward of a lifetime of worship.
• Hadith: "The one who observes I'tikaf is in prayer as long as they remain in the mosque, and the angels ask forgiveness for them." (Sahih Bukhari)
• Increased Knowledge and Reflection:
• I'tikaf also provides an opportunity for reflection, deepening one's knowledge of Islam, and engaging in supplication. It’s a time to strengthen one's connection to Allah, to seek His guidance, and to reflect on one's life and actions.
• The quiet and solitude of I'tikaf help foster an environment conducive to sincere supplication and supplication for forgiveness, as one asks for Allah's mercy and strives to improve their relationship with Him.

Combining the Virtues:

• I'tikaf during the last ten nights of Ramadan provides the perfect opportunity to catch Laylat al-Qadr, a night where worship holds the reward of a thousand months.
• By engaging in I'tikaf, you can increase your chances of witnessing Laylat al-Qadr while maximizing your worship, prayer, and supplication. The tranquility and focus of I'tikaf help make this period even more spiritually rewarding.
• Additionally, I'tikaf is a means of isolating oneself from worldly distractions, giving more time for acts of worship like Tahajjud (night prayer), Qur'an recitation, dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and dua (supplication) — all of which are highly recommended during Laylat al-Qadr.

In short, finding Laylat al-Qadr while in I'tikaf during Ramadan is one of the most spiritually enriching experiences a Muslim can seek. I'tikaf during the last ten nights enhances the likelihood of encountering the Night of Decree, which brings great spiritual rewards and forgiveness. The combination of sincere devotion, prayer, and purification through I'tikaf provides a powerful means to connect deeply with Allah, cleanse the soul, and attain the immense blessings associated with Laylat al-Qadr.

You may like to watch an insight as How to Catch Laylat al-Qadr and Maximize Its Rewards by eminent Muslim scholar Nouman Ali Khan, In the video the scholar talks about the importance of Laylat al-Qadr which is the most powerful night of the year and asks are you ready for it? He also breaks down the meaning of Surah Al-Qadr and the immense blessings of this night. He also emphasises on Why does the Quran call it ‘better than a thousand months’? What happens when angels descend to the earth? Why is your destiny for the next year decided on this night?

So my brothers and sisters in Islam, don’t miss out on the most significant night of Ramadan seek its rewards. Who knows we will find the next Ramadan in our lives or not. 

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 exclusive reference page Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about As Salat for more Sunnah and Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad exclusive to As Salat.

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

Please refer to our reference page: Collections of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Rewards 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.

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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What is your goal for your spiritual development this Ramadan?

Alhamdolillah, we are the blessed ones to be fasting during this month of Ramadan. We have been fasting all our lives, or at best most of our lives, and this year too Allah has blessed us the opportunity to fast yet again. We cannot find words to express our gratitude to the favour of Allah of bestowing us yet another opportunity to fast for the love of Allah.

But have ever pondered over how should we live through this Ramadan of our lives? What is something special that we would love and like to concentrate while fasting and making all related worships and prayers specific to Ramadan?

Or in simple words: What is our GOAL for this Ramadan?

I think most of of us do not make a pledge to be different than all previous months of Ramadan. We just begin the month by fasting, going to Taraweeh prayers, reciting Qur'an more than the usual and giving out more in charity. This is what we did last year and the years before. So how do we make this Ramadan different by setting a goal for ourselves?

I  came across a very mind boggling lecture by Dr. Haifaa Younis | Mifftaah and I was really moved what she said. She paves a way for me to be spiritually better than I was last Ramadan. In fact, we should carryout a self appraisal every Ramadan and ponder over whether we have moved a notch above than las t year. And even if we have moved even an inch above on the scale of purity and spirituality than last year, we should be proud of achieving a great deal than the previous year. Let us be benefitted from her soul searching talk on "What is your goal for Ramadan?"

After listening to this lecture, I hope I will make this Ramadan different from all the previous years and concentrate on one aspect of of our lives and make an endeavour to be better than before. In Sha Allah.

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.

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

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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How to better benefit from the month of Ramadan

Month of Ramadan is once a year opportunity for the believers to get close to Allah by fasting, an act of worship which is exclusively to please Allah. In this month, the life style of the Muslims undergoes a phenomenal change whereby they abstain from all Halal things which are otherwise allowed to them during the remaining eleven months of the year. This month comes both in winters and summers owing to alignment of Lunar Calendar in Islam. 

It is Divinely said in In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:185):

"Ramadan is the month in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights the new moon of the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey, then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship, and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that to which He has guided you, and perhaps you will be grateful."

This verse is often interpreted as describing the blessings, ease, and mercy that Allah provides to His believers during the month of Ramadan. Let’s break down the specific meanings related to "ease and mercy" that Allah intends:

Ease in Fasting:

• Allah does not intend for you hardship: The verse directly states that Allah’s intent in prescribing fasting during Ramadan is not to make things difficult for His believers, but rather to make it easy for them. While fasting can seem physically demanding, the rewards and spiritual benefits make it easier for a believer who is sincere in their faith. The overall goal is to spiritually strengthen the individual, not to burden them. Allah has created the fast in such a way that the believer can endure it, and through His mercy, makes it possible for them to achieve the reward.
• Flexibility for illness or travel: The verse also specifies that those who are ill or traveling are permitted to postpone their fast to a later time, highlighting Allah’s mercy and ease. This flexibility ensures that those who may not be able to fast during Ramadan due to health or travel are not unduly burdened, but rather allowed to make up the fasts later.

Ease in the Process of Repentance and Forgiveness:

• Spiritual Mercy: Ramadan is a month of intense worship, prayer, and reflection, where Allah’s mercy is abundant. The fast itself serves as a means of spiritual purification. In many hadiths, it is mentioned that during Ramadan, Allah’s mercy is poured out, and believers who seek forgiveness are granted it.
• Forgiveness for Sins: Ramadan is seen as a time when Allah’s mercy is especially prevalent. It’s a time when sins are forgiven, prayers are accepted, and the believer can purify themselves. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and hoping for reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 38). This hadith shows Allah’s mercy and His willingness to forgive those who strive in worship during Ramadan.

Spiritual Benefits and Ease of Worship:

• Closer Connection to Allah: During Ramadan, believers engage in more prayer (such as Taraweeh), recitation of the Qur'an, and acts of charity. Allah provides ease in this spiritual growth. The act of fasting itself purifies the soul and allows for a deeper connection with Allah. The peace and tranquility of Ramadan make it a time when a believer can engage in worship more readily, as the distractions of daily life are minimized.
• Increased Reward for Acts of Worship: Allah’s mercy in Ramadan also includes multiplying the rewards of good deeds. The rewards for acts of worship, such as prayer, charity, and fasting, are heightened during Ramadan. This makes it easier for the believer to earn great rewards in a relatively short period of time.

Implications of not observing Ramadan in its true spirit

When Allah has promised so much ease and concessions to us, we would utter losers if we do not draw maximum benefit from the mercy of Allah by fasting the way it is meant for us. This calls for a complete transformation of our lifestyle during this sacred month and leave every thins that takes us away from remembrance of Allah. Let us have a brief look at our acts which we keep doing even when fasting and thus fail to receive mercy of Allah for Allah does not require of us to abstain from eating and drinking.

• Sleeping the day altogether: Many a fasting brothers and sisters elect to sleep over the entire day, if not committed in their work, in order to evade the rigours of being hungry and thirsty. This certainly is not the spirit of fasting for it robs us from remembrance of Allah, reciting Qur'an and other forms of worship.
• Busying oneself with mobile apps / games: Many youngsters are often seeing playing games on computers and cellular phones to preoccupy them  and kill time. There are apps of Qur'an and Sunnah which we could listen to instead that not only spiritually nurtures us but also helps to understand Islam much better.
• Watching films on TV / Netflix: Films on TV and channels like Netflix are easy means of whiling away time in between the Sahoor (the pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (the meal of breaking fast at sunset). Imagine this time being devoted to reciting Qur'an or offering voluntary prayers (Nafl) and thus bagging immense dividends from Allah as promised by Him.

We could go on and on for such activities wasted away in leisure rather than activities that go by the spirit of Ramadan and harnessing oneself from every act that may take us from the pleasure of Allah.

For now, we share a very informative lecture by one of the most eminent scholars of present times, Nouman Ali Khan, who elaborates the verse quoted above and advises the Muslim brethren specially the youth as how to spend the day while fasting. 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 absorb 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 Islam. 

You may also like to refer to our reference page: Ramadan: The Month of Fasting and Blessings to know more about Ramadan. Also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

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