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Sunday, 15 December 2024

Prohibited means of earning in Islam

Islam lays a great importance on Halal (Permissible) and Haram (Prohibited) for the adoption of either makes someone a true believer and follower of Allah or otherwise. Therefore, for earning money for living and secure one's means of sustenance, Islam places significant importance on earning halal (lawful) money for several reasons, all of which are rooted in the broader ethical and spiritual framework of Islam. The concept of halal and haram (unlawful) is central to Islamic teachings, and this extends to how one earns money and sustains oneself and their family. Here are the key reasons why Islam stresses earning halal money:

1. Preservation of Moral and Ethical Values
Earning halal money ensures that a person's livelihood is obtained through honest means, free from exploitation, fraud, and oppression. The actions taken to acquire wealth directly affect a person's character and integrity. Islam emphasizes that money should not be earned at the expense of others' rights or by engaging in immoral practices like theft, bribery, or cheating.

Quranic Reference: "O you who have believed, eat from the good things which We have provided for you and be grateful to Allah if it is [indeed] Him that you worship." (Quran 2:172)

2. Spiritual and Religious Purity
Earning halal money is crucial for maintaining spiritual purity. Islam teaches that the body and soul are interconnected, and what a person consumes, including money, affects their spiritual state. Consuming haram (unlawful) wealth (such as from riba, gambling, fraud, etc.) can tarnish a person's soul and hinder their relationship with Allah.

Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "A person who earns haram and then spends it on their family or charity, it will not be accepted from them." (Sahih Muslim)

3. Accountability on the Day of Judgment
Islam teaches that everyone will be held accountable for their actions, including how they earned and spent their money. If a person earns money through haram means, they will be held responsible for that on the Day of Judgment. This is a strong motivator to seek lawful means of earning, as one wants to avoid punishment and seek Allah's mercy and forgiveness.

Quranic Reference: “Indeed, those who consume the wealth of orphans unjustly are only consuming fire into their bellies, and they will be burned in a Blaze.” (Quran 4:10)

4. Social Justice and Fairness
Earning halal money fosters social justice, fairness, and the well-being of society. Islam advocates for the fair distribution of wealth and encourages people to work hard, be honest, and engage in practices that benefit others. Haram earnings, such as from exploitation, deception, or harmful industries, can create social inequality and injustice.

Quranic Reference: “Do not consume one another's wealth unjustly or send it [in bribery] to the rulers in order that [they might aid] you [to] consume a portion of the wealth of the people in sin, while you know [it is unlawful]." (Quran 2:188)

5. Ensuring Blessings and Barakah
Money earned through halal means is blessed (barakah). Islam teaches that when wealth is acquired lawfully, it will bring contentment, peace, and prosperity into one's life. On the other hand, wealth earned through haram means may bring temporary gain but can result in a lack of contentment, peace, and blessings.

Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever seeks wealth through lawful means, Allah will grant him sufficiency, and whoever seeks it through unlawful means, Allah will not suffice him." (Sahih Muslim)

6. Avoiding Harm to Society
Earning money through unlawful means, such as riba (interest), gambling, fraud, and exploitation, can have harmful effects on society. These practices foster greed, injustice, and social inequality. Halal earnings, by contrast, promote honesty, fairness, and ethical behavior, contributing to a more just and cohesive society.

Quranic Reference: “O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.” (Quran 5:90)

7. Respecting the Rights of Others
Islam stresses the importance of respecting the rights of others. When one earns money through unlawful means, they are often infringing on the rights of others, whether through exploitation, fraud, or taking what does not belong to them (such as in the case of theft or cheating). Earning halal money ensures that people's rights are protected and that wealth is earned in a manner that is just.

Quranic Reference: "Do not consume one another’s wealth unjustly or deny the rightful claims of others." (Quran 2:188)

8. Building a Strong and Stable Economy
When individuals in society earn halal money and engage in fair, honest business practices, it contributes to the overall economic stability and growth of the community. Conversely, widespread involvement in haram practices such as gambling or fraud can lead to economic instability, corruption, and societal harm.

Hadith: “The honest, trustworthy merchant is with the Prophets, the truthful, and the martyrs.” (Tirmidhi)

9. Strengthening Family and Community
Halal money supports the well-being of the family and the community. It allows individuals to provide for their families in a way that fosters love, respect, and dignity. The wealth that is earned through halal means can be used to help those in need, contribute to the welfare of society, and fulfill charitable obligations like zakat (obligatory alms).

Quranic Reference: "And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, 'My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small.'" (Quran 17:24), emphasizing the importance of providing for one's parents and family with lawful earnings.

10. Personal Integrity and Self-Respect
Earning halal money helps individuals maintain their personal integrity and self-respect. When a person earns money through halal means, they can hold their head high and take pride in their work, knowing that they have upheld their values and lived according to the teachings of Islam. Haram earnings, by contrast, can cause a person to feel guilty, ashamed, or conflicted.

Hadith: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The best of what you can eat is what you have earned with your own hands." (Sahih Bukhari)

Thus, by seeking lawful means of earning, Muslims are encouraged to live in accordance with Allah's guidance, contributing positively to their personal development, their families, and the community. While everyone knows by the prick of one's conscious what is Halal or Haram means of earnings, we list down prohibited means of earning as specified in Qur'an and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This page will then serve as a Reference Page to these prohibited means of earning and each means will be separately discussed in detail in our follow up posts.

Here are some of the prohibited means of earning money as mentioned in the Quran and Sunnah:
  • Beggary: Earning money by spreading one's hand in front of others and not trying to earn money by one's hands and effort falls into the prohibited means of earning. Please read our post on the subject: Warning for those who are always begging people (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)
  • Diminishing measures and weights: Those in business must ensure maintaining proper weights and measurements so as to not to rob the customers of full quantity being purchased. Those who exhibit dishonesty in this regard earn a Haram earning and this is strictly prohibited in Islam. Any money earned by cheating is the unlawful and haram money. for details, please read our post: Prohibited means of earning in Islam - Diminishing measures and weights
  • Consuming the Wealth of Orphans Unjustly: Taking the property of orphans or exploiting them is a serious sin in Islam. 
  • Riba (Usury/Interest): Riba is one of the most explicitly prohibited forms of earning money in Islam. It involves charging interest on loans or transactions, which exploits the borrower. The Quran and Hadith speak strongly against this practice, as it is seen as unjust and exploitative.
  • Gharar (Uncertainty/Speculation): Gharar refers to excessive uncertainty or ambiguity in transactions, particularly in contracts. This can include selling something that one does not own or has no control over, which creates an element of deceit.
  • Fraud and Deception: Engaging in fraudulent activities or cheating others in business deals is strictly prohibited.
  • Theft: Stealing is explicitly prohibited in Islam, as it involves taking someone else’s property without consent.
  • Gambling (Maysir): Gambling is considered a form of exploitation, where wealth is transferred from one person to another without any productive work or value being created. Please read our post on the subject: Prohibited means of earning in Islam - Gambling
  • Prostitution (Zina) and Related Practices: Earning money through immoral practices, such as prostitution or facilitating it, is strictly forbidden in Islam. Please read our post on the subject: Prohibited means of earning in Islam: Prostitution
  • Selling Intoxicants (Alcohol and Drugs): Selling or dealing in substances that harm people, such as alcohol or drugs, is prohibited because they are harmful to individuals and society.
  • Bribery (Rishwa): Accepting or offering bribes is prohibited in Islam because it is a form of corruption that undermines justice. 
  • Making and selling idols: Any form of statues or idols meant for worship is not allowed in Islam. However, making sculptures as a form of art is admissible provided it does not induce into it the concept of idol worshipping.
  • Human Trafficking and Exploitation: Any form of human trafficking or exploiting people for labor or sex is prohibited. Islam emphasizes the dignity of every human being, and such practices violate this dignity.
  • Unlawful Animal Slaughter: Earning money by slaughtering animals in an unlawful way or for prohibited purposes (such as selling meat from animals not slaughtered according to Islamic law) is forbidden. 
  • Engaging in Superstition or Magic: Earning money by practicing or promoting superstitions, witchcraft, or black magic is strictly prohibited.
  • Palmistry and fortune telling: What lies in the future is only known to Allah. Thus indulging into business of palmistry and thereby earning money by telling people about their future is strictly prohibited.
  • Misappropriation (of money when acting as a trustee): Trust assumes a great importance in Islam. If someone has been placed as a trustee then he should never misappropriate the money kept as a trust with him.
In our future posts, we will take each prohibited means of earning as mentioned above and expand the scope for better understanding and placing caution over those who indulge in practices that fall under prohibited means of earning.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎)  help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

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

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

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

For more specific subjects based on Selected Verses from Qur'an, please refer to our reference page: Selected verse from Al Qur'an about a Specific SubjectYou may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.
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An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  In addition, other sources which have been explored. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

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

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

Friday, 13 December 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is our duty to convey only to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

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

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

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For more Scholarly views and videos, please read our reference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on Important Issues Related to IslamYou may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Quran.
If you like Islam: My Ultimate Decision, and to keep yourself updated on all our latest posts to know more about Islam, follow us on Facebook. You may also refer to our Facebook  Group Islam: The Ultimate Truth for more on Islam and Da'wah.

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

Thursday, 5 December 2024

The virtue of remembering Allah in a gathering (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

Allah is the creator of all human beings and the entire universe and the Heaven (Jannah) and Hell (Jahannam). He, thus being the sole architect of everything exists around us and in space, needs to be remembered all the time and in doing anything that we embark upon commencing. Unless His infinite mercy and support is available, we cannot do anything and if at all we intend doing anything without His support, we are bound to fail.

That is why Allah advises us in Qur'an: "You remember me and I will remember you."

It is thus incumbent upon us to remember Allah whether alone or in a company. In fact, when in a company, instead of indulging in gossips and fruitless discussions, it is far better to remember Allah and teach others what He tells us to do through Qur'an and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. This is the subject of our post today based on a hadith attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

This Hadith is mentioned in Sahih Muslim  (Book 48: he Book Pertaining to the Remembrance of Allah, Supplication, Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness / كتاب  الذكر والدعاء والتوبة والاستغفار / Chapter 11:  The Virtue Of Gathering To Read Quran And To Remember Allah / باب فَضْلِ الاِجْتِمَاعِ عَلَى تِلاَوَةِ الْقُرْآنِ وَعَلَى الذِّكْرِ / as Hadith 2701, given herein under:

Abu Sa'id Khudri reported that Mu'awiya went to a circle in the mosque and said:

What makes you sit here? They said: We are sitting here in order to remember Allah. He said: I adjure you by Allah (to tell me whether you are sitting here for this very purpose)? They said: By Allah, we are sitting here for this very purpose. Thereupon, he said: I have not demanded you to take an oath, because of any allegation against you and none of my rank in the eye of Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) is the narrator of so few ahadith as I am. The fact is that Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) went out to the circle of his Companions and said: What makes you sit? They said: We are sitting here in order to remember Allah and to praise Him for He guided us to the path of Islam and He conferred favours upon us. Thereupon he adjured by Allah and asked if that only was the purpose of their sitting there. They said: By Allah, we are not sitting here but for this very purpose, whereupon he (the Messenger) said: I am not asking you to take an oath because of any allegation against you but for the fact that Gabriel came to me and he informed me that Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, was talking to the angels about your magnificence.

Arabic Text:
حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو بَكْرِ بْنُ أَبِي شَيْبَةَ، حَدَّثَنَا مَرْحُومُ بْنُ عَبْدِ الْعَزِيزِ، عَنْ أَبِي نَعَامَةَ السَّعْدِيِّ، عَنْ أَبِي عُثْمَانَ، عَنْ أَبِي سَعِيدٍ الْخُدْرِيِّ، قَالَ خَرَجَ مُعَاوِيَةُ عَلَى حَلْقَةٍ فِي الْمَسْجِدِ فَقَالَ مَا أَجْلَسَكُمْ قَالُوا جَلَسْنَا نَذْكُرُ اللَّهَ ‏.‏ قَالَ آللَّهِ مَا أَجْلَسَكُمْ إِلاَّ ذَاكَ قَالُوا وَاللَّهِ مَا أَجْلَسَنَا إِلاَّ ذَاكَ ‏.‏ قَالَ أَمَا إِنِّي لَمْ أَسْتَحْلِفْكُمْ تُهْمَةً لَكُمْ وَمَا كَانَ أَحَدٌ بِمَنْزِلَتِي مِنْ رَسُولِ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم أَقَلَّ عَنْهُ حَدِيثًا مِنِّي وَإِنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم خَرَجَ عَلَى حَلْقَةٍ مِنْ أَصْحَابِهِ فَقَالَ ‏"‏ مَا أَجْلَسَكُمْ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ قَالُوا جَلَسْنَا نَذْكُرُ اللَّهَ وَنَحْمَدُهُ عَلَى مَا هَدَانَا لِلإِسْلاَمِ وَمَنَّ بِهِ عَلَيْنَا ‏.‏ قَالَ ‏"‏ آللَّهِ مَا أَجْلَسَكُمْ إِلاَّ ذَاكَ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ قَالُوا وَاللَّهِ مَا أَجْلَسَنَا إِلاَّ ذَاكَ ‏.‏ قَالَ ‏"‏ أَمَا إِنِّي لَمْ أَسْتَحْلِفْكُمْ تُهْمَةً لَكُمْ وَلَكِنَّهُ أَتَانِي جِبْرِيلُ فَأَخْبَرَنِي أَنَّ اللَّهَ عَزَّ وَجَلَّ يُبَاهِي بِكُمُ الْمَلاَئِكَةَ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

The hadith referred above involves a conversation between Mu'awiya and a group of people sitting in a circle to remember and praise Allah. Mu'awiya, questioning their intentions, urges them to swear that they are indeed gathered for the purpose of remembering Allah. He explains that the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) had asked a similar question of his companions, and that upon confirming their purpose, the Prophet revealed a remarkable response: the angel Gabriel had informed him that Allah was speaking to the angels about the great status of those sitting in that circle.

To understand the significance of this hadith in light of the Qur'an, let's break it down in relation to key Qur'anic principles:

1. Intention (Niyyah) and Sincerity in Worship:
The hadith highlights the importance of sincerity in one's actions, especially when it comes to worship. The companions were questioned about their intention to ensure that their gathering was solely for the remembrance of Allah, and not for any other reason. This is consistent with the Qur'an, which emphasizes that all acts of worship must be performed with pure intention for the sake of Allah:

"And they were not commanded except to worship Allah, [being] sincere to Him in religion..." (Qur'an, 98:5)

The purpose of remembering Allah (dhikr) is to purify one's heart and actions, which is why the Prophet (ﷺ) emphasized the necessity of sincerity in such gatherings.

2. The Virtue of Remembering Allah (Dhikr):
The gathering in the hadith was for the purpose of remembering Allah, which is a highly praised act in Islam. The Qur'an speaks about the importance and reward of dhikr:

"Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish prayer. Indeed, ˹genuine˺ prayer should deter ˹one˺ from indecency and wickedness. The remembrance of Allah is ˹an˺ even greater ˹deterrent˺. And Allah ˹fully˺ knows what you ˹all˺ do.." (Qur'an, 29:45)

The hadith shows that when the companions gathered for this noble purpose, Allah acknowledged their sincerity and honored them by informing the angels about their significance. This aligns with the Qur'anic teaching that those who remember Allah are honored by Him.

3. Angelic Intercession and Divine Praise:
In the hadith, the Prophet (ﷺ) reveals that Gabriel had informed him of Allah’s praise for those who were engaged in dhikr. The Qur'an similarly describes how angels speak about the believers and invoke blessings upon them:

"Those who believe and do righteous deeds – the Most Merciful will appoint for them affection." (Qur'an, 19:96)

Additionally, the angels are described as praising the believers:

"The ones who say, 'Our Lord, forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in faith and do not place in our hearts any resentment toward those who have believed.'" (Qur'an, 59:10)

The Qur'an teaches that Allah and His angels take notice of those who engage in acts of worship, especially when they do so with sincerity.

4. Allah's Awareness of the Believers' Actions:
The fact that Allah informed the Prophet (ﷺ) through Gabriel about the status of those who were sitting in the circle for dhikr further emphasizes the idea that Allah is aware of all actions, even the ones done in private. The Qur'an often reminds believers of Allah's omnipresence and His knowledge of their inner thoughts:

"And Allah knows what you conceal and what you declare." (Qur'an, 2:77)

The hadith underscores that Allah’s attention is not limited to outward actions but extends to the sincerity and intention behind them.

5. The Significance of Community and Gathering in Islam:
The hadith also highlights the value of gatherings for religious purposes, especially those that aim to remember and praise Allah. Such gatherings are a means of strengthening the bonds of the Muslim community and benefiting from collective worship. The Qur'an encourages believers to come together for righteous purposes:

"And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided." (Qur'an, 3:103)

These types of gatherings, when done with sincerity, help to foster a sense of unity and collective spirituality among the believers.

This hadith, thus, illustrates the profound significance of sincere worship and the remembrance of Allah. It shows that acts of devotion, like sitting together to remember Allah, are not only observed by the believers but also acknowledged and praised by Allah Himself. The Qur'anic themes of sincerity, the importance of intention in worship, Allah’s knowledge of human actions, and the rewards for collective remembrance are all reflected in this hadith.
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: Collections of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Rewards for more Hadiths on the subject

For more hadiths on varying subjects, refer to our reference page: Sunnah and Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ to know more about Hadiths and Sunnah of Prophet of Allah. You may also refer to our Reference Pages for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | Source of HadithHelp 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.

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.

Wednesday, 4 December 2024

Hadiths related to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ on the subject of Morality

Hadiths related to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ cover almost every walk of life of the mankind. There loads of books in which these hadiths are mentioned and we have been sharing authentic hadiths from these Hadith compilations for the benefit of our readers. Our previous published posts have been divided into number of reference pages according to the subject matter of the hadiths.

Today, Alhamdolillah, we add another reference page on the subject of Morality - a subject which is central to teachings of Islam. Before we start adding posts to this reference page, let us first understand what morality is and how it takes a central place in Islam:

Morality refers to the principles, standards, or rules that guide individuals in distinguishing right from wrong, good from bad, or just from unjust. It involves behaviors, actions, and decisions that align with ethical values, social norms, and virtues. Morality is often shaped by cultural, religious, and philosophical influences, guiding individuals on how to treat others and behave in society.

In Islam, morality is rooted in the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah (the practices and sayings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ). It provides a comprehensive framework for living a life that aligns with divine guidance, ensuring that individuals not only fulfill their duties to Allah but also uphold their responsibilities to fellow human beings and the wider world. In fact the entire life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ exhibits the highest possible level of morality a man can achieve.

Herein under are links to some of the Hadiths on subject of Morality:
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.

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

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references as given below each post so shared. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

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

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

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ advised against speaking ill of the dead

No man is born perfect. All of us nothing less than the fictional character of Dr Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. We may be good to some but bad to others. And to those we are bad, our very personality is condemned for life and in many cases even they are dead. Generally speaking we condemn the dictators and demagogues and even ordinary people around us. But we forget to understand that those who are no more cannot listen to us what we are saying about them and cannot make make amends and be good.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ too has advised against taking ill against those who are dead. This is mentioned in Sahi al-Bukhārī  (Book 81: To make the Heart Tender (Ar-Riqaq) / كتاب  الرقاق / Chapter 42:  The stupors of death / باب سَكَرَاتِ الْمَوْتِ / as Hadith 6446, given herein under:

Narrated `Aisha:

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Do not abuse the dead, for they have reached the result of what they have done."

Arabic Text:
حَدَّثَنَا عَلِيُّ بْنُ الْجَعْدِ، أَخْبَرَنَا شُعْبَةُ، عَنِ الأَعْمَشِ، عَنْ مُجَاهِدٍ، عَنْ عَائِشَةَ، قَالَتْ قَالَ النَّبِيُّ صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ "‏ لاَ تَسُبُّوا الأَمْوَاتَ، فَإِنَّهُمْ قَدْ أَفْضَوْا إِلَى مَا قَدَّمُوا ‏"‏‏.‏

The hadith essentially emphasizes that once someone has passed away, their deeds are concluded, and it is not for the living to judge or criticize them, as the final judgment belongs to Allah.

Explanation of the Hadith in Light of the Quran:
The Quran offers guidance on how to deal with life, death, and judgment, and this hadith aligns with the broader Islamic teachings about the afterlife and the final reckoning. Here are some relevant Quranic verses that support the essence of this hadith:
  • Responsibility for Deeds: The Quran reminds us that each person is responsible for their own deeds and will be judged by Allah accordingly. Once someone has passed away, they can no longer alter their deeds or face further consequences from others. Allah says:
"Every soul will be (held) in pledge for what it has gained." (Quran 74:38)

This verse emphasizes individual accountability, meaning that once a person dies, the outcome of their actions is sealed, and no one else can change or pass judgment on that.
  • No One Can Judge Except Allah: The Quran also stresses that ultimate judgment belongs only to Allah, and humans are not to judge others beyond their capacity or knowledge. Allah says:
"Indeed, to Us is their return. Then indeed, it is upon Us to count them." (Quran 88:25-26)

This reinforces the concept that Allah will judge everyone according to their actions on the Day of Judgment. Therefore, to speak ill of the dead would be presumptuous and beyond human capacity, as only Allah knows the true state of each individual.
  • Encouragement to Speak Well of the Dead: Islam encourages speaking well of those who have passed away, especially those who were righteous. This is not only a sign of respect but also a reminder of the positive aspects of life. The Quran advises in several places to maintain good speech and behavior towards others.
"And speak to people good [words]." (Quran 2:83)

This is a general guideline that can be extended to the dead, where even in death, a person’s reputation should not be harmed by unkind words.
  • The Concept of Finality in Death: Death in Islam marks the end of a person's ability to change their fate or circumstances. The deceased cannot amend their wrongs or rectify their mistakes in this life; only Allah can forgive or judge them. As the Quran says:
"And Allah does not wrong anyone, even as much as an atom's weight." (Quran 4:40)

This emphasizes the justice of Allah in His judgment of the deceased, and thus, humans should refrain from making judgments on their behalf.

The Hadith's Moral Lesson:
The hadith reinforces the idea that once someone has passed away, they have already received the consequences of their actions (good or bad). It encourages Muslims to show restraint in their speech and not to speak ill of the deceased. Instead of focusing on criticizing those who are no longer able to defend themselves or amend their actions, the living should focus on their own deeds, striving to earn Allah’s mercy.

In sum, this hadith, when understood in light of the Quran, highlights the importance of humility, respect for the deceased, and the understanding that ultimate judgment belongs only to Allah. It serves as a reminder that the lives of others—especially after death—are not for us to judge, and we should focus on our own conduct, aiming to be mindful of our speech and actions.

Many of us are in the habit of talking ill of others even they are dead. This hadith thus cautions us to shun our difference with the dead or any harm that they may have caused us during their lives. Let us let them proceed to the journey to be judged by Allah on the Day of Judgement. And also let us be good to others so that when we are no more, others speak good of us.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

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

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

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

Please refer to our exclusive reference page Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Morality for more etiquettes attributed to Prophet Muhammad.

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 HadithHelp 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.

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.

Monday, 2 December 2024

Divine promise that removes the misconception about gender inequality in Islam

Today, in our series of posts on the faith in Allah and reward for those who act righteously for a reason. The reason behind sharing the 97th verse of Surah 16 An Nahal is two fold. In fact this verse was revealed to remove the wrong notions of both the Muslims and the disbelievers who are of the opinion that those who adopt a just honest and pious attitude, are most surely losers in this world, though they might be gainers in the Hereafter. Secondly, many liberals today and many in the West make a lot of hue and cry that Qur'an on mentions glad tidings and rewards for men only and women specifically are never mentioned, thus proponent of gender inequality.

We have already shared many verses from Qur'an which addresses both men and women or where women are mentioned side by side men. Let us explain this verse to clear misconceptions about the gender issue and the reward for the righteous not only in the Hereafter, but also in our earthly world too:
مَنۡ عَمِلَ صَالِحًـا مِّنۡ ذَكَرٍ اَوۡ اُنۡثٰى وَهُوَ مُؤۡمِنٌ فَلَـنُحۡيِيَنَّهٗ حَيٰوةً طَيِّبَةً​ ۚ وَلَـنَجۡزِيَـنَّهُمۡ اَجۡرَهُمۡ بِاَحۡسَنِ مَا كَانُوۡا يَعۡمَلُوۡنَ‏  
(16:97) Whosoever acts righteously - whether a man or a woman - and embraces belief, We will surely grant him a good life; and will surely grant such persons their reward according to the best of their deeds.

As mentioned in the premise, in this verse Allah removes the misunderstanding, as if to say: This presumption of yours is wrong. The righteous attitude not only leads to a happy life in the Hereafter, but it also guarantees, by Allah’s grace, a pure and happy life even in this world. And this is a fact that those people who are sincerely righteous, honest, pure and fair in their dealings enjoy a much better life in this world. For they enjoy that confidence and real honor and respect because of their spotless character, which is not enjoyed by those who lack these virtues. They obtain such pure and outstanding success as are denied to those who employ dirty and disgusting ways to win success. Above all, they enjoy, even though they might be living in poor houses, that peace of mind and satisfaction of conscience which is denied to the wicked dwellers of mansions and palaces.

Let us expand the meaning of this verse:
  • Righteous deeds and belief: The verse begins by emphasizing that both men and women can attain reward from Allah when they combine two essential qualities:
    • Iman (Faith): Belief in Allah and the teachings of Islam.
    • Amal Saleh (Righteous deeds): Good deeds, which can include acts of worship, kindness, charity, justice, or anything that aligns with Islamic principles.
  • Equality between genders: The verse makes a significant point by clearly stating that both men and women are equally rewarded for their righteous actions if they have faith in Allah. This was a revolutionary message in the time the Quran was revealed, as it elevated the status of women in society and highlighted their equal potential for spiritual success and reward.
  • A good life in this world: Allah promises that those who believe and do good deeds will be granted a "good life" (Hayatan Tayyibah). This "good life" is interpreted in various ways:
    • Physical well-being: A life of peace, security, and provision.
    • Spiritual fulfillment: Inner contentment, peace of mind, and tranquility.
    • Blessings in this world: A life where a person finds joy, success, and satisfaction, regardless of external circumstances, as long as they remain faithful and righteous.
  • Reward in the Hereafter: The verse concludes with the assurance that such individuals will be rewarded in the Hereafter with even greater rewards than they can imagine, commensurate to the best of their deeds. This is a reference to the eternal and perfect rewards in Paradise, which will be given to the believers in accordance with the quality of their actions on earth.
This verse serves as both a motivation and a reminder for believers to consistently strive for righteousness and maintain their faith, knowing that both their earthly and eternal well-being are secured through these efforts. The verse speaks of two rules which we still like to explain and expand:

The First Rule:
The first item in this rule is that the two sexes, male and female, are equal with regard to their actions and the reward they receive for them. They enjoy the same relationship with God and the same standing in His regard. Hence, He rewards them equally, applying one measure to both of them. Although the term, ‘whoever’, with which the verse opens, includes both men and women, the Qur’ānic statement emphasizes this by stating it very clearly: “Whoever does righteous deeds, whether man or woman.” This equality is stressed emphatically in the same sūrah that gives us an image of how Arab jāhiliyyah society looked upon women.

It tells us how society looked down upon women, and the extent of the depression a father felt when he was given the news of the birth of a girl, leading him to hide away from his friends and acquaintances, because of the shame he felt.

The Second Rule:
Another aspect of this general rule is that good action must have a strong foundation, which must be faith. Without it, good action cannot be cemented into a well built structure. It remains haphazard, and it soon becomes like ashes blown in every direction by a strong wind. Faith provides the axis around which all bonds turn. It gives good action a motive and an aim. Thus it gives goodness a strong foundation so that it is not swayed by fleeting desires.

The Third Rule:
The rule also establishes that when good action is coupled with faith, it is rewarded by a goodly life in this world. It need not be a life of affluence and riches. It may be a goodly life with or without plenty of money. There are many things in life, other than money, which provide a goodly feeling and happiness. A strong bond with God and a feeling of trust in Him and His abounding grace make life happy indeed. Life may also be blessed with good health, a peaceful and blessed living, love and compassion. It may have the rejoice generated by good action and its effects on oneself and society. Money is only one aspect, and little of it is sufficient when one looks up to what is more blessed and longer lasting.

This general rule also makes clear that a goodly life in this world will not reduce in any way one’s good reward in the life to come. Indeed the reward is based on the best actions believers do in this world. This implies, as we have stated earlier, that God will forgive them their sins. This is indeed the best reward to which human beings may aspire.

So let believers, whether men or women, be rest assured of the rewards if the act righteously and do not deviate from the path prescribed for them, the Siraat e Mustaqeem or the righteous path. And let those women who have any reservations about being left out of rewards, bounties and blessings of Allah be rest assured as promise of Allah can never go wrong.

May Allāh (سبحانه و تعالى‎)  help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us to be like the ones He loves and let our lives be lived helping others and not making others' lives miserable or unlivable. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

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

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

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

You may read more posts on similar theme in our series of posts related to: Compiled verses from Qur'an on specific subjects: Faith in Allah and Divine Rewards

For more Selected Verses, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'anYou may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.
Photo | Tafsir References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Input has also been taken from ChatGPT for expanding the meaning of the verse

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of the Qur'ān from authentic sources and then present a least possible condensed explanation of the surah. In that the exegesis of the chapters of the Quran is mainly based on the "Tafhim al-Qur'an - The Meaning of the Qur'an" by one of the most enlightened scholars of the Muslim World Sayyid Abul Ala Maududi.  
In addition, references of other sources which have been explored have also been given above. Those desirous of detailed explanations and tafsir (exegesis), may refer to these sites. For expansion of meaning and themes / contextual background help from ChatGPT is also taken.

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from the references given above. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

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

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

Thursday, 28 November 2024

Journey of a born Muslim to being an atheist to an eminent Muslim scholar

Many years ago, when I started writing this blog, my aim was to know why non Muslims take the ultimate decision of their lives from leaving the religion of their birth to Islam. And let me say, each revert experience that I read and shared in my blog was so heart warming for these came direct from the hearts of the reverts. 

We Muslims call those embracing Islam after leaving their previous faith as REVRTS for in Islam it is believed that every child who is born is born as Muslim. It is only after the environment and the faith adopted by the parents, one chooses another religion. So when a person decides to embrace Islam, it is in fact REVERSION and not conversion as many believe.
 
Having shared so many revert experiences, there still continue to be many more which are very reassuring that Islam continues to grow with each reversion while many are aspiring to join in.

The experience shared today is somewhat similar to the following experiences already shared:
Today I share the revert experience of a born Muslim, who somehow had drifted into atheism due to the company was in. But then something happened in his life that not only brought him back to Islam but also showed him the light of Islam to share with others. Today he is one of the most eminent and prominent Muslim scholar spready the word of Islam and in the process attracting many non Muslims to Islam. This is the story of Nauman Ali Khan, my favourite Islamic scholar of present time:
May Allah (سبحانه و تعالى‎) help us understand Qur'ān and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, which is embodiment of commandments of Allah contained in the Qur'ān. May Allah help us have unflinching faith and trust in Divine Wisdom and decisions and should never lament for we do not know that something better has been planned for us by our most caring Lord. May all our wrong doings, whether intentional or unintentional, be forgiven before the angel of death knocks on our door. 
وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 
(36:17) and our duty is no more than to clearly convey the Message.”
That is Our duty is only to convey to you the message that Allah has entrusted us with. Then it is for you to accept it or reject it. We have not been made responsible for making you accept it forcibly, and if you do not accept it, we shall not be seized in consequence of your disbelief, you will yourselves be answerable for your actions on Day of Resurrection.

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

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

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

Disclaimer: The data / video for this post has been collected from the references given below or YouTube. If anyone differs with the material contained in this post, one may consult the references and their authors.  If someone has more material about the subject, he/she is most welcome to share in the comments box to make the post all encompassing.

To read personal accounts of many who have reverted to Islam, please visit our page: Embracing Islam: Revert Experiences.

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

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

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