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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the video above are those of the scholar concerned. We have shared this view as added information in better understanding of Islam. The reader may or may not agree with the view owing to their own perception. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

Photo | 

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to 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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What do we learn from Surah 36 Yaseen: Be the light - even if you stand alone

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

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

This explanation of Surah Yaseen is in addition to the exegesis / tafsir of the surah by some of the eminent Muslim scholars which has been published earlier, which can be accessed from the links given below:

• Summary
• Exegesis / Tafseer : 
• Part I (Ruku 1-3, verses 1-50) 
• Part II (Ruku 4-5, verses 51-83) 

Before we share the video, let us give out in gist form the theme of Surah Yaseen:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the video above are those of the scholar concerned. We have shared this view as added information in better understanding of Islam. The reader may or may not agree with the view owing to their own perception. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

Photo | 

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to 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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Understanding the essence of Surah 80. Abasa (He Frowned) - Scholars' Viewpoint

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

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

Before we do that, we present in gist form the key themes addressed in the surah:

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

The theme of Surah Abasa is centered on the lessons of compassion, humility, and equal treatment of all individuals when it comes to the message of Islam. It teaches that the true value of people lies in their spiritual openness and sincerity, not in their social status or wealth. The Surah encourages prioritizing those who seek guidance over those who are indifferent, and it underscores the importance of staying focused on the ultimate goal of spreading Allah's message. Additionally, it reminds believers of the reality of the Day of Judgment, where everyone will be held accountable for their actions.

Now, please watch the video in which Nouman Ali Khan explains the theme of the Surah 'Abasa and explains it in a manner that even a simple believer with least intellect can get to know what is being said in this surah and how it lays the foundation developing sincerity to Allah. Please watch the video:

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

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

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

Disclaimer: The views expressed in the video above are those of the scholar concerned. We have shared this view as added information in better understanding of Islam. The reader may or may not agree with the view owing to their own perception. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to 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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What should Riches mean to a believer

Have you ever gone to the people living in rag tags and watched them: You will be amazed to find them smiling, laughing and making merry the same way rich people do. Do you think they are faking happiness? Well despite many hardships and difficulties of life, there is a degree of self contentment and they really value it. 

The same way, the riches do not mean a great amount of wealth or property, it is the riches of self-contentment that keeps the heart of a believer cool, light and happy. This self contentment comes from the humility and patience that Islam teaches him and he is contended for he knows this the best for him decided by Allah Almighty.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has always advised his companions to find solace and happiness in self contentment and feeling sufficiency in their soul. 

This Hadith is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 81: To make the Heart Tender (Ar-Riqaq) / كتاب الرقاق / Chapter 15:  True riches is self-contentment / باب الْغِنَى غِنَى النَّفْسِ / as Hadith 6446, given herein under:

Narrated  by Abu Huraira: The Prophet (ﷺ) said, 

"Wealth is not in having many possessions, but rather (true) wealth is feeling sufficiency in the soul."

حَدَّثَنَا أَحْمَدُ بْنُ يُونُسَ، حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو بَكْرٍ، حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو حَصِينٍ، عَنْ أَبِي صَالِحٍ، عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صلى الله عليه وسلم قَالَ ‏ 

"‏ لَيْسَ الْغِنَى عَنْ كَثْرَةِ الْعَرَضِ، وَلَكِنَّ الْغِنَى غِنَى النَّفْسِ ‏"‏‏.

The hadith highlights the concept that true wealth is not measured by the accumulation of material goods or possessions, but by a sense of contentment, gratitude, and spiritual sufficiency within the heart.

In this hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is emphasizing that material wealth is not the key to happiness or true prosperity. While worldly possessions can provide comfort and security, they do not necessarily bring peace of mind or contentment. True wealth, according to this hadith, is an inner state of satisfaction and peace, where a person feels "sufficient" and does not constantly desire more or compare themselves with others.

This inner sufficiency is tied to a sense of gratitude, contentment with what one has, and trust in God's provision. A person with this type of wealth does not feel poor, even if they lack material goods, because their heart is at peace and they feel they have enough.

Connection to the Qur'an

This teaching aligns closely with various verses in the Qur'an that emphasize the importance of contentment, reliance on Allah (God), and the futility of chasing material wealth for its own sake.

• Gratitude and Sufficiency: Allah says in the Qur'an:

"And it is He who enriched you with wealth and children." (Qur'an 53:48)

This verse reminds us that wealth is a blessing from Allah. True enrichment is not just about material wealth, but about understanding and appreciating the spiritual abundance granted by God. A person who feels sufficient and content in their soul is rich because they recognize that Allah’s blessings are enough for them.

• Contentment with What We Have:

“Do not wish for what We have given to some of them (disbelievers) to enjoy. But [wish for] the reward of the Hereafter, which is better and more enduring.” (Qur'an 4:77)

This verse encourages believers not to covet the wealth or status of others, which can often lead to dissatisfaction. It reminds us that the rewards of the Hereafter are far greater and more lasting than any material possessions we might accumulate in this life. Contentment with what we have is an important virtue in Islam, and the desire for more worldly possessions should not overwhelm the heart.

• Relying on Allah’s Provision:

“And He found you poor and made [you] self-sufficient.” (Qur'an 93:8)

Allah reminds us that He is the One who provides for our needs. True wealth is in knowing that Allah will provide what is necessary, and that this sufficiency comes not from material possessions, but from Allah’s blessings. When one feels "sufficient in the soul," they are recognizing that their true wealth is in their reliance on God’s provision, rather than in the accumulation of possessions.

The Example of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ):

The Prophet (ﷺ) himself exemplified this attitude of sufficiency. Despite his status, he lived simply and was content with whatever he had, trusting in Allah’s provision. In a famous hadith, the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “If you were to trust in Allah with true trust, He would provide for you as He provides for the birds: they go out hungry in the morning and return full in the evening.” (Tirmidhi)

This hadith beautifully illustrates the concept of relying on Allah and feeling sufficiency in the soul, trusting that whatever is meant for you will reach you, and that true wealth lies in contentment, not in material accumulation.

The hadith and the verses from the Qur'an together emphasize that material wealth is fleeting and that the real treasure is contentment, sufficiency, and peace of mind. The essence of wealth, as defined by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), is an inner state of sufficiency — feeling rich in the heart through trust in Allah’s provision, gratitude, and detachment from worldly desires. 

True believers should therefore believe that true prosperity is not in possessing more, but in feeling content with what one has and knowing that Allah’s plans for us are better than anything we could seek in this world.

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  for more Hadiths on the General Subjects.

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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Understanding the Wisdom of Prayer of Prophet Sulieman (Solomon)

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

بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ 

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

قَالَ رَبِّ اغۡفِرۡ لِىۡ وَهَبۡ لِىۡ مُلۡكًا لَّا يَنۡۢبَغِىۡ لِاَحَدٍ مِّنۡۢ بَعۡدِىۡ​ۚ اِنَّكَ اَنۡتَ الۡوَهَّابُ‏ 

"He said, 'My Lord, forgive me and grant me a kingdom such as will not belong to anyone after me. Indeed, You are the Bestower.'" (Quran 38:35)

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

Surah Ṣād - The Letter Saadh: Exegesis/Tafsir 38th Chapter of Qur'an - Part I

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

1. Humility and Self-awareness

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

2. Acknowledgment of Allah’s Sovereignty

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

3. Gratitude for Divine Blessings

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

4. Request for a Unique, Unmatched Kingdom

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

5. The Power of Prayer

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

6. Reflection of Prophetic Role

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

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

In his reinterpretation of the unique dua of Prophet Sulaiman in Surah Saad, Nouman Ali Khan opens new vistas into our understanding of the value of our engagement in this world. At first glance, Suleiman’s dua for a kingdom that is not befitting anyone after him seems materialistic, but in fact he is asking for the capability to do more good for the sake of Allah. 

As Muslims we must take a strong cue from this noble prophet. Excelling in this world for the right reasons is in itself, an act of worship. We do not separate worldly life from spiritual life in Islam, but we must shake off the delusional fear that we’re not capable, and submit this life (our career, education) to a higher goal. When our heart is in the right place, Allah will give us resources beyond the imagination.

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

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

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.

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 Holy Qur'an - Insha Allah (Allah Willing) you shall be blessed with the best of both worlds.

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The Virtue of Planting and Cultivating (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Nature has always been greener with trees, jungles and grassy fields. With the passage of time and pave way for roads and railways and growing needs of expanding cities, the area under cultivation are being reduced, creating concerns among the environmentalists for deforestation is adding suffocation due to lack of oxygen emitted by trees and absorption of carbon, which injurious to health. Trees also filter harmful pollutants and trap dust, smoke, and particles to provide fresh and healthy breathable air. Trees also provide habitats for numerous species of birds, insects, and animals, besides regulating local and global ecosystems by stabilizing temperatures and rainfall patterns.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ cognizant of the value of trees and foliage, advised his companions to grow trees which in fact become a form of charity for the planters. 

This Hadith is quoted in Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim: (Book 22: The Book of Musaqah / كتاب المساقاة / Chapter 2:  The Virtue of Planting and Cultivating / باب فَضْلِ الْغَرْسِ وَالزَّرْعِ / as Hadith 1552a, given herein under:

Jabir (Allah be pleased with him) reported Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) as saying:

Never does a Muslim plants a tree except that he has the reward of charity for him, for what is eaten out of that is charity; what is stolen out of that, what the beasts eat out of that, what the birds eat out of that is charity for him. (In short) none incurs a loss to him but it becomes a charity on his part.

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا ابْنُ نُمَيْرٍ، حَدَّثَنَا أَبِي، حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الْمَلِكِ، عَنْ عَطَاءٍ، عَنْ جَابِرٍ، قَالَ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ مَا مِنْ مُسْلِمٍ يَغْرِسُ غَرْسًا إِلاَّ كَانَ مَا أُكِلَ مِنْهُ لَهُ صَدَقَةٌ وَمَا سُرِقَ مِنْهُ لَهُ صَدَقَةٌ وَمَا أَكَلَ السَّبُعُ مِنْهُ فَهُوَ لَهُ صَدَقَةٌ وَمَا أَكَلَتِ الطَّيْرُ فَهُوَ لَهُ صَدَقَةً وَلاَ يَرْزَؤُهُ أَحَدٌ إِلاَّ كَانَ لَهُ صَدَقَةٌ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ 

* This Hadith is also quoted in Sahi Bokhari as Hadith number 2320

This hadith emphasizes the reward for acts of environmental stewardship and benefiting others, even indirectly. Planting a tree or cultivating crops is seen as an act of charity because it provides ongoing benefits to Allah’s creation—humans, animals, and nature.

Reference to the Quran

This teaching aligns with several Quranic themes, emphasizing kindness, charity, and the care of Allah's creation.

• Charity as an Act of Righteousness: The Quran repeatedly emphasizes that acts of charity are highly rewarded:

"Indeed, the men who practice charity and the women who practice charity... it will be multiplied for them, and they will have a noble reward." (Surah Al-Hadid, 57:18)

By planting trees and benefiting others, a Muslim engages in Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity), which continues to bring rewards as long as it provides benefits.

• Care for the Earth and Stewardship: The Quran teaches that humans are stewards (Khalifah) of the Earth and have a responsibility to care for it:

"He brought you forth from the earth and settled you in it. So ask forgiveness of Him and turn to Him in repentance. Indeed, my Lord is near and responsive." (Surah Hud, 11:61)

Planting trees and cultivating the earth aligns with this stewardship, ensuring the sustainability of natural resources for future generations.

• Reward for Benefiting Others: The Quran highlights the importance of benefiting others, even in small ways:

"Whoever does an atom's weight of good will see it." (Surah Az-Zalzalah, 99:7)

When a tree or plant provides food, shade, or shelter, it is a source of ongoing blessings and reward for the one who planted it.

• Kindness to All of Allah’s Creation: The Quran acknowledges the rights of all living beings, including animals and birds, as part of Allah’s creation:

"And there is no creature on [or within] the earth or bird that flies with its wings except [that they are] communities like you..." (Surah Al-An’am, 6:38)

Providing sustenance to creatures, whether intentionally or unintentionally, is an act of compassion and is rewarded in Islam.

Key Lessons from the Hadith and Quran

• Acts of Charity Are Diverse: Charity is not limited to financial contributions but includes any act that benefits others, such as planting trees or sowing seeds.

• Ongoing Rewards (Sadaqah Jariyah): Planting trees offers continuous rewards as long as they provide benefit, making it an enduring form of charity.

• Environmental Responsibility: Islam encourages the care of the environment, recognizing it as part of Allah’s trust to humanity.

• Kindness to All Creatures: The hadith and Quran both emphasize the importance of benefiting all of Allah’s creation—humans, animals, and even nature.

• Intentional and Unintentional Charity: The hadith shows that even unintended acts, such as birds or animals eating from plants, bring rewards.

This hadith beautifully encapsulates the Islamic values of charity, compassion, and environmental stewardship. It reflects the Quranic principles of benefiting others, caring for the Earth, and recognizing all living beings as part of Allah’s creation. 

Muslims are encouraged to see even small acts, like planting a tree, as significant contributions to the well-being of humanity and the environment, leading to immense rewards in this life and the Hereafter.

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

You may also refer to our reference page: Collection of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  for more Hadiths on the General Subjects.

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: Sahi Bokhari | Sahi Muslim | 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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If God of Everyone is the same, why there are so many religions?

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

The existence of many religions, despite the belief in one God by many, can be understood through theological, historical, and human factors. Here's an explanation in light of Islamic teachings, as well as general considerations:

• Reasons for Multiple Religions
• Human Free Will and Interpretation
• Humans are given the ability to think, interpret, and make choices. This freedom allows for diverse interpretations of divine messages.
• Over time, these interpretations can lead to differences in beliefs, practices, and the establishment of new religious systems.
• Distortion of Original Messages: Islam teaches that the original revelations given to earlier prophets (e.g., the Torah, Psalms, and Gospel) were true but were altered over time, leading to the emergence of various religions. "They change the words from their [proper] places..." (Quran 5:13)
• Sociocultural and Historical Factors
• Religion often develops in response to the cultural, social, and historical contexts of different communities.
• People adapted religious teachings to fit their lifestyles or political agendas, leading to the formation of unique traditions and beliefs.
• Test of Diversity Diversity in beliefs is part of Allah's test for humanity. The Quran states: "To each of you We prescribed a law and a method. Had Allah willed, He would have made you one nation [united in religion], but [He intended] to test you in what He has given you; so, compete in good deeds." (Quran 5:48)

Wisdom Behind Religious Diversity

From an Islamic viewpoint, the diversity of religions is part of Allah's divine plan. Some reasons might include:

• A Test for Humanity: Religious diversity tests humanity's sincerity in seeking the truth and submitting to it. "And We did not create the heavens and earth and everything between them, except in truth and [for] a specified term." (Quran 46:3)
• Evidence of Human Freedom: The variety of beliefs reflects the human exercise of free will, a gift from Allah.
• Opportunity for Dialogue: The existence of multiple religions encourages mutual learning, understanding, and striving for common ground.

"O mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another." (Quran 49:13)

The Oneness of God in Islam

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

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

Original Revelation of Oneness: Allah sent prophets to every nation to guide humanity to His worship alone. The Quran states:

"And We certainly sent into every nation a messenger, [saying], 'Worship Allah and avoid false gods.'" (Quran 16:36)

Over time, the original message became distorted or forgotten, leading to deviations and the formation of other religions.

Islam’s Perspective on the True Religion

Islam asserts that:

• The ultimate truth lies in the worship of Allah alone and following His guidance.
• Islam is the final and complete version of the original message sent to all prophets:
• "Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam." (Quran 3:19)
• Differences arose because of human actions, but Islam views itself as a corrective to these deviations.

Unity Amid Diversity

While Islam acknowledges the multiplicity of religions, it also emphasizes the unity of humanity under one Creator:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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