Islam PROHIBITS looking at `Awrah – the Intimate Body Parts of others

Islam is not only a religion to usher its followers how to worship Allah. It in fact it provides a complete code of life that beside emphasis on worshiping and having faith in Allah, also lays down bounds of inter personal relations, intimacy, justice, legal and social. 

Talking of inter personal relations, Islam emphasises on respect and honour of both genders and strictly lays  down guidelines about the intimate relations. Unlike what happens in the West, where man and woman freely mix with each other, establish intimate relations without the bound of marriage, even now establishing relations between same gender look at the and exhibiting feelings about each other in the open, Islam strictly prohibits such intimacy and forbids believers to `Awrah – the Intimate Body Parts of others when in private and orders lowering down their gaze when looking at each other - lest the Evil entices them to go beyond the bounds set forth in Islam.

Before we share a Hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ on this very sensitive subject, let us explain in brief the meaning of Awrah:

'Awrah (Arabic: عورة , ستر, satr)  refers to the intimate parts of the human body, which must, according to Islam, be covered by clothing. Most of modern Islamic scholars agree that the 'awrah of a man is the area between the navel and the knees, and the 'awrah of a woman is the entire body except the face, hand; exposing the 'awrah of the body is against Islamic law. It may be seen that the emphasis of covering the 'Awrah of women is more emphasised as it is the unexposed body of the women that is the basis of all evil that gives misleading signals to men for establishment of illegal intimate relations, which in Islam are only restricted between a Husband and wife, and that too in complete privacy.

This Hadith is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: Book 3 The Book of Menstruation /   كتاب الحيض/  Chapter 17: The prohibition of looking at `awrah / باب تَحْرِيمِ النَّظَرِ إِلَى الْعَوْرَاتِ / as Hadith number # 338a as under:

'Abd al-Rahman, the son of Abu Sa'id al-Khudri, reported from his father:

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: A man should not see the private parts of another man, and a woman should not see the private parts of another woman, and a man should not lie with another man under one covering, and a woman should not lie with another woman under one covering.

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو بَكْرِ بْنُ أَبِي شَيْبَةَ، حَدَّثَنَا زَيْدُ بْنُ الْحُبَابِ، عَنِ الضَّحَّاكِ بْنِ عُثْمَانَ، قَالَ أَخْبَرَنِي زَيْدُ بْنُ أَسْلَمَ، عَنْ عَبْدِ الرَّحْمَنِ بْنِ أَبِي سَعِيدٍ الْخُدْرِيِّ، عَنْ أَبِيهِ، أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ "‏ لاَ يَنْظُرُ الرَّجُلُ إِلَى عَوْرَةِ الرَّجُلِ وَلاَ الْمَرْأَةُ إِلَى عَوْرَةِ الْمَرْأَةِ وَلاَ يُفْضِي الرَّجُلُ إِلَى الرَّجُلِ فِي ثَوْبٍ وَاحِدٍ وَلاَ تُفْضِي الْمَرْأَةُ إِلَى الْمَرْأَةِ فِي الثَّوْبِ الْوَاحِدِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

The hadith you referenced emphasizes the principles of modesty and privacy that are integral to Islamic teachings regarding interpersonal conduct and gender interactions. It aligns with similar guidance in the Quran and other Hadiths that stress the importance of maintaining personal boundaries and safeguarding one’s modesty. Here’s a detailed explanation of this hadith in the light of related Quranic verses and similar Hadiths:

Explanation of the Hadith:

• Prohibition of Seeing the Private Parts: This part of the hadith stresses that both men and women must maintain their privacy by not exposing their private parts (awrah) to others of the same gender. This reinforces the concept of personal modesty and respect for one's body.
• Prohibition of Sharing Bed Covers: The instruction against two men or two women lying together under the same cover further emphasizes the importance of boundaries and avoiding situations that could lead to immodesty or inappropriate behavior. It serves as a preventive measure against any actions that could compromise modesty.

It is even mentioned that  when brothers and sisters reach the age of ten, their beds must be separated for the Evil machination may even permeate between brothers and sisters and crossing the bounds of legitimate relations - something called incest in the Western world.

Quranic Commandments on Modesty:

• For Men: "Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do." Surah An-Nur (24:30-31)
• For Women: "And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their private parts and not expose their adornment except that which [necessarily] appears thereof and to wrap their headcovers over their chests..."

These verses highlight the general command for both men and women to practice modesty by guarding their private parts and lowering their gaze. The hadith complements these verses by specifically outlining situations that must be avoided to protect personal modesty.

Emphasis on Modesty in Other Hadiths:

• Hadith on Modesty as Part of Faith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized that modesty is a core aspect of a Muslim's faith. (Sahih Bukhari). This general principle underlines the importance of avoiding any actions that would compromise modesty, including exposing oneself or being in compromising situations.
• Hadith on the Awrah (Private Parts): Hadith: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Cover your awrah except from your spouse.” (Sunan Abu Dawood). This hadith underscores that the private parts should remain covered except in the specific context of marriage, reinforcing the same boundaries mentioned in the primary hadith.

Key Themes and Lessons:

• Maintaining Modesty and Privacy: Islam places a high value on personal modesty, considering it a protective barrier against immoral behavior. The hadith warns against situations that could lead to immodesty or temptation, promoting a culture of respect and personal boundaries.
• Respecting Boundaries: The hadith serves as a guideline for how Muslims should interact with others of the same gender, ensuring that personal boundaries are respected. By not seeing or exposing the private parts and avoiding close physical situations, Muslims are better able to maintain modesty.
• Preventing Immorality and Impropriety: The prohibition against sharing a cover with another person of the same gender serves as a preventive measure against potential immorality or inappropriate behavior, promoting a safe and respectful environment.
• Encouraging Conscious Behavior: This hadith and similar teachings in Islam encourage believers to be conscious of their behavior, surroundings, and interactions, always prioritizing modesty and propriety in their conduct.

This hadith reflects a broader Islamic ethic of modesty, respect for privacy, and safeguarding personal boundaries. It aligns closely with the Quranic injunctions that call for guarding one’s private parts and lowering the gaze, as well as with other prophetic traditions that emphasize modesty as a key component of faith. These teachings collectively aim to foster a community where modesty is protected, inappropriate exposure is avoided, and personal dignity is upheld.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Warning and Cautions  and Hadith Collection: Morality 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 | Wikipedia

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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How did Allah Command the Prophet ﷺ (and his followers) to deal with the People of the Book

Since the introduction of Islam as the final Divine religion, disbelievers, non Muslims and even the people following the earlier Divine scriptures have not accepted Islam as a Divine religion. When Prophet Muhammad ﷺ invited the pagans of Makkah towards Islam, he was hotly contested to the extent of abuses and physical torture to give the "idea  of new religion" hatched by his very person. So much was the pain of sufferings that even a group of Muslims were to told to migrate to Habash, despite the fact that in those days was under the domination of the Christians. 

Yet, despite all the hardship suffered by the earlier Muslims, which sadly still continues in many a non Muslim country, the Prophet ﷺ was asked to exercise restraint and approach them in the fairest of manners, for hostility breeds hostility. This is the subject of of our today's post wherein we share the 46th verse of Surah 29, Al Ankabut (The Spider) given herein under:

وَلَا تُجَادِلُوۡٓا اَهۡلَ الۡكِتٰبِ اِلَّا بِالَّتِىۡ هِىَ اَحۡسَنُ ۖ اِلَّا الَّذِيۡنَ ظَلَمُوۡا مِنۡهُمۡ​ وَقُوۡلُوۡٓا اٰمَنَّا بِالَّذِىۡۤ اُنۡزِلَ اِلَيۡنَا وَاُنۡزِلَ اِلَيۡكُمۡ وَاِلٰهُـنَا وَاِلٰهُكُمۡ وَاحِدٌ وَّنَحۡنُ لَهٗ مُسۡلِمُوۡنَ‏  

(29:46) Argue not with the People of the Book except in the fairest manner, unless it be those of them that are utterly unjust. Say to them: “We believe in what was revealed to us and what was revealed to you. One is our God and your God; and we are those who submit83 ourselves to Him.”

Explanation of the Verse

• Engage in Dialogue with Respect and Wisdom: The verse emphasizes that when discussing religious matters with the People of the Book, Muslims should do so in a way that is characterized by wisdom, respect, and the best manners. This approach promotes understanding and reduces hostility, paving the way for constructive dialogue rather than confrontational disputes.
• Avoiding Hostile Disputes: Arguing in a hostile or aggressive manner often leads to animosity and deepens misunderstandings. The Qur'an advises against such disputes because they are counterproductive and can lead to negative feelings rather than bridging gaps between different faith communities. Sometimes, the people of Da'wah missions lose their cool when confronted with the hostile audience as in the case of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. When he went to the city of Taif, he was stoned by the people to an extent that his who body was covered up in blood.  Yet when Angel Gabriel (Jibraeel) came and permission to uproot the mountain and crush the disbelievers, the revered Prophet did not allow for he knew one day the people of Taif will enter the fold of Islam. And they did.
• Focusing on Common Beliefs: The verse also encourages Muslims to emphasize common beliefs when speaking with the People of the Book: the shared belief in one God, the respect for revealed scriptures, and the concept of submission to God’s will. This approach can help to foster mutual respect and understanding.
• Except Against Injustice: The exception mentioned in the verse refers to those who commit injustice or act with blatant hostility against Muslims. In such cases, Muslims are allowed to defend themselves and their beliefs but are still encouraged to maintain a level of dignity and avoid stooping to unjust behavior.

Supporting Hadith and Islamic Teachings

• Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) Example: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) often engaged with Jews and Christians in a respectful manner, setting an example of how to interact with people of different faiths. He would listen to their perspectives, share the message of Islam, and avoid unnecessary conflict.
• Hadith on Gentleness: The Prophet emphasized the importance of gentleness and avoiding disputes:

“Gentleness / kindness is not found in anything except that it beautifies it, and it is not removed from anything except that it disfigures it.” (Sahih Muslim, 2594a)

This teaching aligns with the Qur’anic guidance to avoid hostile arguments and instead choose a kind and gentle approach in discussions.

Broader Implications in Light of the Qur’an and Hadith

• Promoting Peaceful Coexistence: This guidance supports peaceful coexistence and mutual respect between Muslims and people of other faiths. It underscores the importance of building bridges rather than creating divisions.
• Focus on the Message Rather than Winning Arguments: The goal of engaging with the People of the Book is not to "win" arguments but to convey the message of Islam in a way that is sincere and respectful. The emphasis is on inviting people to truth with wisdom and good advice, as outlined in other Qur’anic verses, such as Surah An-Nahl (16:125).

(O Prophet), call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and goodly exhortation, and reason with them in the best manner possible. Surely your Lord knows best who has strayed away from His path, and He also knows well those who are guided to the Right Way.

• Avoiding Useless Disputes: Arguments often become emotional and can stray from the core issues, leading to wasted time and effort. By focusing on shared values and respectful dialogue, Muslims can avoid fruitless disputes and instead foster a meaningful exchange of ideas.

The Qur’anic guidance to avoid arguing with the People of the Book, except in the best manner, teaches Muslims the importance of respectful engagement, focusing on shared beliefs, and avoiding unnecessary hostility. This approach not only upholds the dignity of the dialogue but also reflects the true spirit of Islam, which emphasizes respect, wisdom, and compassion in all interactions.

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 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. 

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.

Please refer to our Selected verses from Sūrahs of Qur'an to highlight important topics with detailed explanation and Reference Page on Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'an. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

Photo | 

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, 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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Believers! Do not disparage Allah's favors (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Man has always been ungrateful. No matter how much, he is always eyeing the possessions and blessings on others rather than his own. In fact most of the times he is sandwiched between envy and contentment. Let us define these two opposite poles and then share a very meaningful advice by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ:

Envy is a negative emotional response characterized by a feeling of discontent or resentment aroused by someone else's possessions, qualities, achievements, or status. It often involves a desire to have what another person has, coupled with the wish that they would lose it.

Contentment is a state of inner peace and satisfaction with what one has, without constantly longing for more or feeling deprived. It involves being happy with Allah’s decree and finding joy in the present circumstances. 

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has always advised his companions and the would be followers to be always thankful and contended of what Allah has blessed them with, rather than envying the position and blessings of others and remaining uncontended all the time.

This Hadith is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: Book 55 The Book of Zuhd and Softening of Hearts /   كتاب الزهد والرقائق/  as Hadith number # 2963c as under:

Abu Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:

Look at those who stand at a lower level than you but don't look at those who stand at a higher level than you, for that is better-suited that you do not disparage Allah's favors.

In the chain narrated by Abu Mu'awiya's he said: Upon you.

Arabic Text:

وَحَدَّثَنِي زُهَيْرُ بْنُ حَرْبٍ، حَدَّثَنَا جَرِيرٌ، ح وَحَدَّثَنَا أَبُو كُرَيْبٍ، حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو مُعَاوِيَةَ، ح وَحَدَّثَنَا أَبُو بَكْرِ بْنُ أَبِي شَيْبَةَ، - وَاللَّفْظُ لَهُ - حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو مُعَاوِيَةَ، وَوَكِيعٌ، عَنِ الأَعْمَشِ، عَنْ أَبِي صَالِحٍ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏"‏ انْظُرُوا إِلَى مَنْ أَسْفَلَ مِنْكُمْ وَلاَ تَنْظُرُوا إِلَى مَنْ هُوَ فَوْقَكُمْ فَهُوَ أَجْدَرُ أَنْ لاَ تَزْدَرُوا نِعْمَةَ اللَّهِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ قَالَ أَبُو مُعَاوِيَةَ ‏"‏ عَلَيْكُمْ ‏"‏

This hadith emphasizes the importance of maintaining gratitude and contentment by shifting one’s perspective. It teaches that by focusing on those who are less fortunate, we can better appreciate Allah’s blessings in our own lives, thereby avoiding ingratitude and discontent. This message aligns closely with the teachings of the Qur’an, which frequently instructs believers to practice gratitude and be mindful of Allah’s favors.

Key Points of the Hadith:

• Look at Those Less Fortunate: The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) advises looking at those who are at a lower level than oneself in terms of worldly possessions, wealth, status, or health. This perspective helps one realize their own blessings and reduces the tendency to feel envious or dissatisfied.
• Avoid Comparing with Those More Fortunate: The hadith warns against constantly comparing oneself with those who have more. Such comparisons often lead to feelings of inadequacy, envy, and a lack of appreciation for what one already possesses.
• Promoting Gratitude: The primary aim of this advice is to nurture gratitude towards Allah. Recognizing one's own blessings in contrast to those who have less helps prevent disparaging Allah’s favors, thus fostering a positive and thankful attitude.

Explanation in Light of the Qur’an:

The guidance in this hadith reflects key teachings from the Qur’an, where Allah frequently calls upon believers to be grateful, avoid envy, and recognize His blessings. Here are some relevant verses:

• Gratitude as a Key Virtue: The Qur’an emphasizes gratitude as a fundamental quality that brings divine favor:

“And [remember] when your Lord proclaimed, ‘If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.’” (Surah Ibrahim 14:7)

This verse underscores the importance of being grateful. The hadith’s advice to look at those less fortunate helps cultivate this gratitude, ensuring believers do not overlook the blessings they have.

• Avoiding Covetousness and Excessive Worldly Aspirations: The Qur’an cautions against yearning for the worldly gains of others:

“And do not extend your eyes toward that by which We have given enjoyment to [some] categories of them, [its being but] the splendor of worldly life by which We test them. But the provision of your Lord is better and more enduring.” (Surah Ta-Ha 20:131)

This verse echoes the hadith’s teaching by advising against longing for what others have. Worldly possessions are temporary tests, and focusing on them can distract believers from what truly matters—faith, contentment, and thankfulness.

• Contentment and Recognizing Allah’s Provision: Allah reminds believers to find contentment in His provision:

“So eat from what Allah has provided for you, [which is] lawful and good. And be grateful for the favor of Allah, if it is [indeed] Him that you worship.” (Surah An-Nahl 16:114)

The instruction to be grateful for what Allah provides aligns perfectly with the hadith’s message. Recognizing the sufficiency of one’s own blessings leads to a life of contentment and prevents ingratitude.

• Gratitude as a Protection Against Disparaging Allah’s Blessings: By appreciating what we have and not focusing on what others possess, we protect ourselves from belittling or being dissatisfied with Allah’s favors. The Qur’an says:

“And He gave you from all you asked of Him. And if you should count the favor of Allah, you could not enumerate them. Indeed, mankind is [generally] most unjust and ungrateful.” (Surah Ibrahim 14:34)

This verse reflects human nature’s tendency towards ingratitude, which the hadith aims to counteract by urging believers to appreciate their blessings.

In light of the above explanation, we conclude that this hadith teaches a profound lesson in contentment and gratitude, which is mirrored in the Qur’anic guidance. By focusing on those less fortunate, believers can develop a deeper appreciation for Allah’s favors, avoid the pitfalls of envy, and maintain a grateful heart. This perspective fosters a balanced, peaceful mindset, rooted in recognizing and valuing the countless blessings bestowed by 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.

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

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

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Warning and Cautions 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.

Read More

Warning of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about the Unseen

If we look around, we find more people making merry completely oblivious of the end days and the life in the Hereafter. On the contrary, very few heed to the Divine warnings about a life that is yet to come after our death, which will be permanent and unending. Even a large number of believers, who otherwise claim to have faith in their Creator, are more drowned in the leisure and pleasure of this world, rather than making preparations for the day when all the people who ever lived on this earth will be resurrected and rewarded due to their fear of Allah and good deeds or awarded punishment for being unfaithful to Allah and for siding with the Satan by living a life completely forbidden by Allah.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in one of his hadiths cautioned and forewarned his companions about what they may encounter in the life of the Hereafter unless they heed to what is written in Qur'an or conveyed to them by him personally and tried to ward off the Satanic enticements and continued to live a life as expected of them as true believers.

This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 83 Oaths and Vows /  كتاب  الأيمان والنذور / Chapter 3:  How did the oaths of the Prophet (saws) use to be? / بَابُ كَيْفَ كَانَتْ يَمِينُ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم ) as Hadith 6637, given herein under:

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

Abu-l-Qasim (the Prophet) said, "By Him in Whose Hand Muhammad's soul is, if you know that which I know, you would weep much and laugh little."

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنِي إِبْرَاهِيمُ بْنُ مُوسَى، أَخْبَرَنَا هِشَام ٌ ـ هُوَ ابْنُ يُوسُفَ ـ عَنْ مَعْمَرٍ، عَنْ هَمَّامٍ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، قَالَ قَالَ أَبُو الْقَاسِمِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ وَالَّذِي نَفْسُ مُحَمَّدٍ بِيَدِهِ لَوْ تَعْلَمُونَ مَا أَعْلَمُ لَبَكَيْتُمْ كَثِيرًا، وَلَضَحِكْتُمْ قَلِيلاً ‏"‏‏.‏

This hadith, narrated by Abu-l-Qasim (another name for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ), expresses a profound message about the gravity of the knowledge that the Prophet possessed, particularly concerning the realities of the afterlife, the unseen, and the consequences of human actions.

Key Points of the Hadith:

• Oath Emphasizing the Seriousness: The Prophet begins with an oath, "By Him in Whose Hand Muhammad's soul is," emphasizing the truth and seriousness of his statement. This kind of oath underscores the weight of what he is about to say and demands the attention of the listener.
• The Depth of the Prophet’s Knowledge: The phrase "if you know that which I know" suggests that the Prophet had knowledge of profound and often unseen realities, including the consequences of sin, the severity of the Day of Judgment, the reality of Hellfire, the trials of the grave, and the fate of humanity in the Hereafter. This knowledge was given to him through divine revelation.
• Weeping Much and Laughing Little: The Prophet states that if people were fully aware of these realities, their behavior would change drastically: they would "weep much and laugh little." This reflects how the awareness of the spiritual consequences and the gravity of the afterlife would lead to a more serious, contemplative, and repentant demeanor, rather than one filled with excessive joy or heedlessness.

Implications of the Hadith:

• Awareness of the Afterlife: The hadith calls on believers to reflect deeply on the reality of life after death. It serves as a reminder of the Day of Judgment, the trials of the grave, and the accountability every soul will face. Awareness of these matters should encourage believers to live their lives with mindfulness, humility, and repentance.
• Balance Between Fear and Hope: While Islam encourages believers to have hope in Allah’s mercy, this hadith reminds them not to be complacent or neglectful of their spiritual responsibilities. The weeping mentioned here is not meant to induce despair but to inspire a sense of responsibility, introspection, and a balanced emotional response to life’s realities.
• Avoiding Excessive Heedlessness: Laughing in excess or being overly carefree about worldly matters often indicates a lack of awareness or concern for one's spiritual state. The hadith warns against this kind of heedlessness, reminding believers to keep in mind the serious and transient nature of life.
• Motivation for Good Deeds and Repentance: Understanding the severity of what awaits after death should motivate Muslims to increase in good deeds, seek forgiveness, and strive to live in accordance with Allah’s guidance. It encourages a life of awareness, where one's actions are aligned with the understanding of the greater spiritual realities.

This hadith thus serves as a powerful reminder of the unseen realities that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was privy to and urges the believers to reflect on these matters. It calls for a deeper consciousness of the afterlife, fostering an attitude of humility, repentance, and mindfulness in one's daily life. By contemplating this message, Muslims are encouraged to live with a balance of fear and hope, always mindful of their ultimate return to Allah.

Let us then, our sisters and brothers in Islam, live a life exactly as demanded of us by the Divine Commandments contained in the Qur'an and prompted by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in a large number of Hadiths. Time for us is too limited as death can catch us anytime completely by surprise, leaving us not even a fraction of second to repent our sins and wrong doings so as to seek forgiveness of 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.

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

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

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Warning and Cautions 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

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.

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

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Verily, Allah does not lay a responsibility on anyone beyond his capacity (Selected verses from Qur'an)

This world has been created as a test and trial for those who really have firm faith in Allah and rely entirely on Him in moments of hardships and persecution. These difficult times happen when Allah wants to clearly draw a line between those who obey Him and those love to enjy their lives by transgressing all barriers of good and follow what is forbidden, something more lucrative and enjoyable than rigours of life of the faithful.

However, the faithful and true believers are not tested beyond their capacity, for Allah knows they might break if burdened more than they bear. If a man does not have the ability to do a certain thing, Allah will not take him to task for not having performed it. In the same way, if it is really beyond a man's ability to abstain from something, Allah will not blame him for having failed to abstain from it. It should be noted here that man will not be the final judge as to whether he had the ability to do something or not. Such judgement will be made by God alone.

This is the subject of the last verse of Surah 2. Al Baqarah. Verse 286, is a powerful and comforting verse in the Qur'an that highlights Allah’s mercy, justice, and understanding of human limitations. The verse reads:

لَا يُكَلِّفُ اللّٰهُ نَفۡسًا اِلَّا وُسۡعَهَا ​ؕ لَهَا مَا كَسَبَتۡ وَعَلَيۡهَا مَا اكۡتَسَبَتۡ​ؕ رَبَّنَا لَا تُؤَاخِذۡنَاۤ اِنۡ نَّسِيۡنَاۤ اَوۡ اَخۡطَاۡنَا ​ۚ رَبَّنَا وَلَا تَحۡمِلۡ عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِصۡرًا كَمَا حَمَلۡتَهٗ عَلَى الَّذِيۡنَ مِنۡ قَبۡلِنَا ​​ۚرَبَّنَا وَلَا تُحَمِّلۡنَا مَا لَا طَاقَةَ لَنَا بِهٖ​ ۚ وَاعۡفُ عَنَّا وَاغۡفِرۡ لَنَا وَارۡحَمۡنَا اَنۡتَ مَوۡلٰٮنَا فَانۡصُرۡنَا عَلَى الۡقَوۡمِ الۡكٰفِرِيۡنَ

(2:286) Allah does not lay a responsibility on anyone beyond his capacity. In his favour shall be whatever good each one does, and against him whatever evil he does. (Believers! Pray thus to your Lord): “Our Lord! Take us not to task if we forget or commit mistakes. Our Lord! Lay not on us a burden such as You laid on those gone before us. Our Lord! Lay not on us burdens which we do not have the power to bear. And overlook our faults, and forgive us, and have mercy upon us. You are our Guardian; so grant us victory against the unbelieving folk.”

* We have already published a post explaining the entire verse at: 

Man laments: I'm overburdened - Allah replies: Allah will not burden a soul more than it can bear

Herein under we would try to explain only the opening verse as a few readers have specifically asked for its meaning:

لَا يُكَلِّفُ اللّٰهُ نَفۡسًا اِلَّا وُسۡعَهَا

Allah does not lay a responsibility on anyone beyond his capacity

1. Allah’s Mercy and Justice:

The verse emphasizes that Allah, in His infinite mercy and justice, does not impose any duty, command, or test on a person that is beyond their ability to handle. This principle is a source of immense comfort for believers, as it reassures them that whatever challenges, responsibilities, or trials they face are within their capacity to endure and overcome with patience, faith, and perseverance.

2. Personal Accountability:

The verse states that each person is responsible for their actions: they will be rewarded for the good they do and held accountable for their wrongdoings. This reinforces the concept of personal responsibility in Islam, where individuals are encouraged to strive for good deeds and avoid sinful behavior, knowing that they will bear the consequences of their actions.

3. Relief from Overburdening:

This verse also serves as a supplication to Allah, asking for His forgiveness and mercy, especially when one forgets or makes mistakes. It reflects the human tendency to err and forget and highlights Allah’s compassion in not holding people accountable for what is genuinely beyond their control or when they commit mistakes unintentionally.

Supporting Hadiths and Teachings

• Hadith on Accountability: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) explained this concept further in a hadith:

“Allah has pardoned my Ummah for their mistakes, what they forget, and what they are forced to do.” (Ibn Majah, 2043)

This hadith highlights that Allah’s mercy extends to actions done unintentionally, under duress, or out of forgetfulness, aligning with the Qur’anic principle of not overburdening a person beyond their capacity.

• Trials are Proportional to One’s Strength: Another hadith reflects how trials are measured according to a person’s strength:

“The most severely tested people are the prophets, then the next best, then the next best. A man is tested according to his level of religious commitment. If he is strong in his commitment, his test is increased, and if he is weak in his religious commitment, his test is lightened for him.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi, 2398)

This hadith teaches that tests and responsibilities are proportionate to a person’s faith and ability, echoing the principle in the verse that Allah does not burden a soul beyond what it can bear.

Broader Implications in Light of the Qur’an and Hadith

• Encouragement to Persevere in Trials: The verse and related teachings encourage believers to remain steadfast and patient during difficult times, knowing that their challenges are not insurmountable. Allah’s wisdom in setting boundaries on what He expects from His servants provides a sense of reassurance and encourages believers to seek His help in overcoming obstacles.
• Mercy in Worship and Obligations: This principle is reflected in various Islamic rulings that accommodate human capacity, such as the allowance of tayammum (dry ablution) when water is unavailable, the shortening of prayers while traveling, or the exemption from fasting for those who are ill. These rulings demonstrate Allah’s kindness and His desire to make worship manageable for believers.
• Seeking Forgiveness and Help: The verse ends with a heartfelt supplication, reflecting the believer’s dependence on Allah for forgiveness, mercy, and assistance. It teaches Muslims to turn to Allah in times of need, ask for His forgiveness for their shortcomings, and seek His protection from challenges beyond their strength.

Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 286, thus encapsulates the core Islamic belief in Allah’s mercy, justice, and compassion. It assures believers that they will not be overburdened beyond their capacity, emphasizing personal responsibility while also providing comfort that Allah understands human limitations. The verse encourages patience, reliance on Allah, and the pursuit of good deeds, reminding Muslims that every challenge they face is surmountable with faith, effort, and trust in Allah’s divine wisdom.

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 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. 

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.

Please refer to our Selected verses from Sūrahs of Qur'an to highlight important topics with detailed explanation and Reference Page on Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'an. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.

Photo | 

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

Please share this page to your friends and family members through Facebook, 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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Why Does Not Allah Show Himself in Islam? - Qur'an Explains

When Allah chose selected human beings as His messengers, the obvious query that came to their mind was who is Allah and how does He look like? Even today, many non Muslims ask this question from Muslim scholars: Why Does Not Allah Show Himself in Islam?

Let us answer this question in the light of Qur'an. Surah 7. Al A'raf  that mentions the meeting Allah with Prophet Musa (Moses, may peace be upon him) atop the Mt. Sanai and the revered Prophet asked Allah to show Him to him. The Divine reply is mentioned in verse 143 as mentioned herein under:

بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ 

"In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful"

وَلَمَّا جَآءَ مُوۡسٰى لِمِيۡقَاتِنَا وَكَلَّمَهٗ رَبُّهٗ ۙ قَالَ رَبِّ اَرِنِىۡۤ اَنۡظُرۡ اِلَيۡكَ​ ؕ قَالَ لَنۡ تَرٰٮنِىۡ وَلٰـكِنِ انْظُرۡ اِلَى الۡجَـبَلِ فَاِنِ اسۡتَقَرَّ مَكَانَهٗ فَسَوۡفَ تَرٰٮنِىۡ​ ۚ فَلَمَّا تَجَلّٰى رَبُّهٗ لِلۡجَبَلِ جَعَلَهٗ دَكًّا وَّخَرَّ مُوۡسٰى صَعِقًا​ ۚ فَلَمَّاۤ اَفَاقَ قَالَ سُبۡحٰنَكَ تُبۡتُ اِلَيۡكَ وَاَنَا اَوَّلُ الۡمُؤۡمِنِيۡنَ‏ 

(7:143) And when Moses came at Our appointment, and his Lord spoke to him, he said: 'O my Lord! Reveal Yourself to me, that I may look upon You!' He replied: 'Never can you see Me. However, behold this mount; if it remains firm in its place, only then you will be able to see Me.' And as soon as his Lord unveiled His glory to the mount, He crushed it into fine dust, and Moses fell down in a swoon. And when he recovered, he said: 'Glory be to You! To You I turn in repentance, and I am the foremost among those who believe.'

When Prophet Musa (Moses) asked to see Allah, a profound and awe-inspiring event took place that highlighted the transcendence and incomparability of Allah. This incident is mentioned in the Quran in Surah Al-A'raf (7:143), where it is narrated that Musa requested to see Allah directly. Here’s a detailed account of what happened according to the Quran:

Explanation of the Event:

• Musa's Request to See Allah: Prophet Musa, who had been granted the honor of speaking directly to Allah (hence known as "Kalimullah," or the one who spoke to Allah), was filled with a desire to see Allah with his own eyes. In his deep longing and devotion, he made a humble request: "My Lord, show me [Yourself] that I may look at You."
• Allah’s Response: Allah responded to Musa by saying, "You will not see Me," indicating that it is impossible for any human being to see Allah in this worldly life due to their limited capacity and the overwhelming nature of Allah's essence. Allah's being is beyond physical form and cannot be perceived by the human eye.
• The Test with the Mountain: To illustrate the impossibility of seeing Him, Allah set a condition: He directed Musa to look at a nearby mountain. Allah said, "Look at the mountain; if it remains in place, then you will see Me." This statement implied that the mountain, a massive and solid structure, would serve as a test to demonstrate the immense and overpowering nature of even a glimpse of Allah’s presence.
• The Manifestation and the Collapse: When Allah manifested a tiny fraction of His glory to the mountain, the mountain could not withstand it and instantly crumbled to dust. The sheer magnitude of Allah’s presence caused a tremendous upheaval, demonstrating that even the most solid and steadfast parts of creation cannot bear His manifestation.
• Musa’s Reaction: 
• Upon witnessing this, Musa was overwhelmed by the majesty and power of the event. He fell unconscious from the awe and shock of the sight. When he regained consciousness, Musa immediately recognized the limits of human capacity and the majesty of Allah. 
• He exclaimed, "Exalted are You! I have repented to You, and I am the first of the believers." This was an acknowledgment of Allah’s greatness, his own limitations, and a reaffirmation of his faith and submission to Allah’s will.

Key Lessons from the Incident:

• Allah’s Transcendence and Majesty: 
• The event emphasizes Allah’s absolute transcendence, indicating that His essence is beyond any form that creation can endure or perceive. Even the slightest glimpse of Allah's glory was enough to demolish a mountain, showing the limits of human and worldly capacity.
• Islam teaches about Emphasis on Allah’s Immanence and Transcendence and that Allah is both close to His creation and entirely beyond it. His presence is known through His signs, guidance, and the effects of His will rather than through physical appearance.
• Surah Qaf (50:16): "And We have already created man, and We know what his soul whispers to him, and We are closer to him than [his] jugular vein." That is Allah’s closeness is not a physical proximity but a spiritual and metaphysical nearness that transcends physical form.
• Humility and Recognition of Limitations: Musa’s reaction underscores the importance of humility and recognition of one’s own limitations when approaching the divine. Despite being a prophet with a special status, Musa understood that certain aspects of Allah’s nature are beyond human comprehension. 
• Allah is Beyond Human Perception: Allah’s nature is beyond anything that human beings can comprehend or visualize. He is not like His creation and does not conform to the physical attributes that characterize created beings.
• Surah Ash-Shura (42:11): "There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the Hearing, the Seeing."
• This verse emphasizes the uniqueness and incomparability of Allah. Since He is unlike anything in existence, He cannot be perceived in any form that human senses could comprehend.
• Faith in the Unseen: 
• The incident reinforces the Islamic principle of faith in the unseen. Allah’s existence and attributes are known through His signs, revelations, and prophets, rather than through physical sight. Believers are encouraged to have faith in Allah’s presence without needing to see Him physically. 
• Faith in the unseen is a foundational aspect of a Muslim’s relationship with Allah. Believing in Allah without seeing Him tests and strengthens the believer's sincerity, trust, and devotion.
• Surah Al-Baqarah (2:3): "[This is] the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah, who believe in the unseen..."
• Avoiding Idolatry and Misrepresentation
• One reason why Allah does not manifest Himself physically is to prevent any possibility of idolatry or the worship of forms. Islam strictly prohibits any depiction or representation of Allah to maintain the purity of monotheism (Tawhid).
• Surah Al-Ikhlas (112:1-4): "Say, 'He is Allah, [who is] One, Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, nor is there to Him any equivalent.'"
• By not showing Himself, Allah ensures that He remains beyond all forms and likenesses, preserving the concept of absolute monotheism.
• Allah’s Compassion in Teaching: Allah’s response to Musa was not a punishment but a compassionate teaching moment. It allowed Musa and, by extension, all believers to understand the profound reality of Allah’s nature in a way that respects human limitations while still affirming His unparalleled power.
• Reward of the Hereafter
• The ultimate reward for believers is the vision of Allah in the Hereafter, an experience that is promised to those who attain Paradise.
• Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “You will see your Lord on the Day of Resurrection as you see the full moon; you will have no difficulty in seeing Him.” (Sahih Bukhari)
• This Hadith suggests that the vision of Allah is reserved for the Hereafter as a reward for the righteous, providing a powerful motivation for faith and obedience in this life.
• However, this grace will be only for those who are rewarded the highest level of Jannah, that is Jannah tul Firdous.

In the light of the above verse and its explanation, we can safely conclude that Allah does not show Himself in Islam because His nature is beyond human perception, and His invisibility serves as a test of faith. The belief in the unseen strengthens the believer’s trust in Allah and reinforces the core principles of monotheism. Allah’s presence is known through His signs, guidance, and attributes, and the ultimate reward of seeing Him is reserved for the Hereafter. This approach preserves the purity of worship and ensures that Allah remains unique, transcendent, and free from any form of misrepresentation or idolatry.

You may now like to listen to Dr Zakir A Naik explaining Why Does Not Allah Show Himself in Islam?:

As explained by Dr Zakir Naik, only those lucky ones will be able to see Allah who enter the highest level of Jannah, called Jannah tul Firdous. This means the those residing in lower levels of Jannah will be devoid of this honour. This thus gives the reason why Allah doesn't show himself is that he wants us to work hard in the unseen and believe in Allah and His commandments and live a life as perfectly as so commanded and try to endure every test that comes our way with steadfastness and Sabr / patience. Allah wants us to work hard into making our faith stronger in Allah, Islam or anything else in our lives. And if we pass all our tests be remaining steadfast, let us pray to be awarded an abode in Jannah tul Firdous and be a contender of seeing Allah, In sha Allah.

Photo | 
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.

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs of the Holy Qur'an from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that:

• The plain translation has been taken from the Holy Quran officially published by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. [3]
• And the exegesis of the chapters of the Holy Quran are basically 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. [1]
• In addition the 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. 

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

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

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Prophetic Warning about rapid passing of time and moral degeneration

In our  present times, many people are of the opinion that time is passing much too rapidly. And if we look around us, we will see the events unfolding exactly as forewarned by Prophet Muhammad ﷺ more than 1400 years ago. We share one such hadith, narrated by Abu Huraira, that reflects prophetic insights into the conditions that would prevail as the Day of Judgment approaches. This hadith describes a series of signs that are relevant to the modern era, and it offers a profound reflection on the social and moral decline that would characterize the end times. 

This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 78 Good Manners and Form (Al-Adab) /  كتاب  الأدب / Chapter 39:  Good character, generosity, and miserliness / بَابُ حُسْنِ الْخُلُقِ، وَالسَّخَاءِ، وَمَا يُكْرَهُ مِنَ الْبُخْلِ‏ ) as Hadith 6037, given herein under:

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said, "Time will pass rapidly, good deeds will decrease, and miserliness will be thrown (in the hearts of the people), and the Harj (will increase)." They asked, "What is the Harj?" He replied, "(It is) killing (murdering), (it is) murdering (killing).

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو الْيَمَانِ، أَخْبَرَنَا شُعَيْبٌ، عَنِ الزُّهْرِيِّ، قَالَ أَخْبَرَنِي حُمَيْدُ بْنُ عَبْدِ الرَّحْمَنِ، أَنَّ أَبَا هُرَيْرَةَ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏"‏ يَتَقَارَبُ الزَّمَانُ وَيَنْقُصُ الْعَمَلُ، وَيُلْقَى الشُّحُّ وَيَكْثُرُ الْهَرْجُ ‏"‏‏.‏ قَالُوا وَمَا الْهَرْجُ قَالَ ‏"‏ الْقَتْلُ، الْقَتْلُ ‏"‏‏.‏

Let us examine the above referred Hadith in context with our present times:

1. Time Will Pass Rapidly:

In today’s world, the perception that time is passing quickly is a common feeling among many people. The fast pace of life, fueled by technological advancements, instant communication, and the demands of modern living, often makes days, weeks, and years seem to fly by. This feeling of time passing rapidly can also be attributed to the overwhelming busyness of life, where individuals are often preoccupied with worldly matters, leaving little room for reflection or spiritual pursuits.

2. Good Deeds Will Decrease:

Despite the increasing awareness of global issues and access to information, the overall engagement in good deeds and acts of worship has diminished in many communities. People are often distracted by worldly desires, materialism, and the pursuit of personal success. The prevalence of sin and immoral behavior, coupled with a decline in religious observance, reflects a decrease in virtuous actions, kindness, and charitable works.

The emphasis on self-gratification and a loss of community spirit has contributed to this decline in good deeds. Even when people do engage in good deeds, the sincerity (ikhlas) behind these actions may be lacking, as acts are sometimes performed for recognition or social media validation rather than for the sake of Allah.

3. Miserliness Will Be Thrown in the Hearts of the People:

The hadith's reference to miserliness indicates a growing selfishness and reluctance to share wealth or resources. In contemporary society, despite widespread wealth and economic progress, there is often an increase in greed, hoarding, and a lack of generosity. Many people prioritize their own needs and desires over the welfare of others, even when they have the means to help.

Economic inequality, a heightened focus on individualism, and the desire for more wealth have led to a decrease in charity and communal support. The emphasis on acquiring and protecting personal wealth often outweighs the duty to assist the less fortunate.

4. Harj (Killing) Will Increase:

The term "Harj" in the hadith refers to senseless killing and widespread violence. In today’s world, this is alarmingly relevant, as we witness an increase in conflicts, wars, terrorism, mass shootings, and other forms of violence. The value of human life seems diminished, and the frequency of killings has increased significantly, often without just cause or in the pursuit of power, revenge, or misguided ideologies.

The rise of violent crime, domestic violence, gang-related killings, and other forms of murder highlight how this prophecy is unfolding in current times. Modern media, social, political, and economic pressures can exacerbate feelings of anger, hatred, and resentment, leading to more frequent and senseless acts of violence.

Broader Lessons and Reflections

• Moral Decline: This hadith highlights a general moral decline, where time is wasted, good deeds are neglected, and violence becomes normalized. The increasing distance from spiritual values and ethical behavior indicates a need for a return to faith and conscious living.
• The Importance of Repentance and Good Deeds: Despite the difficulties of the times, this hadith serves as a reminder for believers to strive against these negative trends. It encourages Muslims to engage in good deeds, to be generous, and to actively work towards peace and reconciliation.
• The Role of Faith: Maintaining faith and adherence to Islamic principles is crucial in such times. The hadith serves as a warning and a guide for Muslims to hold steadfastly to their religious values, avoid contributing to the decline, and be proactive in performing good deeds.

The hadith about the rapid passage of time, the decrease in good deeds, the rise of miserliness, and the increase in senseless killing offers a sobering reflection on the state of the world today. It calls for awareness, self-reflection, and a renewed commitment to living a life that aligns with the teachings of Islam. It is a call to resist these negative trends by fostering faith, kindness, generosity, and a commitment to peace in our communities.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

Please refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Warning and Cautions 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

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.

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