Mathematical correlation in Qur'an baffle those who claim that Qur'an has been written by man

Ever since the advent of Islam and revelation of Qur'an on the last of the prophets, Muhammad ﷺ, Qur'an and its contents have been debated, contested or even claimed that it is a man written document borrowing information from the earlier Divine scriptures. At the time of its revelation, the pagan of Makkah were very good at poetry and they dismissed Muhammad ﷺ being a poet and Qur'an as his collection of poetic thoughts. 

Even at that time, to rebut the rejecters of Qur'an, Allah asked them to produce one single verse like that of Qur'an or even near to it and despite their best efforts the pagan poets and intellectual could not do so. The question thus arises why is it not humanly possible to replicate Qur'an. The plain answer is that Qur'an is a well packed document where each verse perfectly fits into its place and interconnects it to other verses, same as mathematical complexities are bounded together.

And it is for this reason that men of wisdom, intellect and critical thinking have started to understand the mathematical correlation between verses of Qur'an, the numerical indicators that perfectly match the scientific knowledge of day, something that was amiss at the time of revelation of Qur'an. 

It is for this reason that Qur'an is revered as the word of Allah by Muslims, and its authenticity and miraculous nature are fundamental aspects of Islamic belief. While mathematics or scientific methods cannot "prove" religious truths in a direct, empirical way, there are aspects of the Quran that many scholars, both Muslim and non-Muslim, have pointed to as signs of its divine origin, including some aspects that appear to be linked to mathematical structures. 

Here are some ways in which mathematics is thought to be associated with the Quran:

Numerical Patterns in the Quran

• The Frequency of Certain Words: Some scholars have observed that certain words in the Quran appear in specific frequencies that may hold mathematical significance. For instance, the word "day" ("yawm") appears 365 times in various forms, which some scholars suggest could be a symbolic reflection of the number of days in a year. Similarly, the word "month" ("shahr") appears 12 times, which correlates with the number of months in a year.
• The Use of the Number 7: The number 7 appears frequently in the Quran. There are seven heavens (Quran 67:3), seven days of the week, seven verses in the opening chapter (Al-Fatiha), and seven circumambulations around the Ka'bah during Hajj. This recurrent usage of 7 could be seen as a reflection of a divine mathematical structure.

The Mathematical Miracle of the Quran's Structure

• Symmetry in the Quranic Text: One of the key mathematical features often pointed out is the symmetry between the number of times certain phrases or concepts appear. For example:
• The word "believers" ("mu’minun") appears 79 times in the Quran, and the word "disbelievers" ("kafirun") also appears 79 times.
• The word "angel" ("mala'ika") appears 88 times, and the word "devil" ("shayatin") also appears 88 times.
• Such symmetry is seen by many as an indication of the divine organization of the Quranic text.

The Mathematical Concept of Miraculous Numerical Structure

• The Number 19: One of the most well-known mathematical patterns discussed by some scholars is the number 19. The Quran’s chapter (Surah) 74 is called Al-Muddathir and contains 56 verses, but it is particularly significant because many Muslims have pointed to a series of mathematical properties of the number 19:
• Bismillah: The phrase “Bismillah al-Rahman al-Rahim” ("In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful") appears 114 times in the Quran, and when divided by 19, the number of occurrences of this phrase has specific mathematical significance.
• Scholars such as Rashad Khalifa have explored the idea that the number 19 plays a key role in the Quran’s structure, as the Quran’s length, the repetition of certain phrases, and the arrangement of verses are said to correspond to multiples of 19 in various ways.

Mathematical Coding and the Quranic Text

• Gematria (Abjad Numerology): This ancient Arabic numerical system, similar to Hebrew gematria, assigns numerical values to Arabic letters. When words are analyzed based on this system, some claim to find a mathematical structure or hidden codes within the Quran. For example, the numerical value of the word "Quran" (in Arabic: القرآن) can be explored and compared to other related words, revealing numerical relationships that some interpret as evidence of divine design.
• The Abjad System: The Abjad system, in which each Arabic letter has a specific numerical value, is sometimes used to draw connections between words or verses based on their numerical values. Some see patterns when words with the same numerical values appear in related contexts.

The Fibonacci Sequence and Quranic Verses: The Fibonacci sequence is a series of numbers where each number is the sum of the two preceding ones (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, etc.). Some proponents suggest that certain structures in the Quran's verses, surah lengths, and even word frequencies may correspond to Fibonacci numbers. However, these claims are often debated and may not always hold up under rigorous mathematical scrutiny.

The Concept of Equilibrium: The Quran reflects a deep sense of balance and equilibrium in nature and creation, which can be linked to mathematical principles. For example, in Surah Ar-Rahman (55:7), Allah mentions that He "has raised the sky and established the balance (mizan)," referring to a divine order in nature that is in harmony, which resonates with the laws of physics, chemistry, and mathematics that govern the universe.

Cosmic Order and Mathematical Laws

• The Quran speaks of the creation of the universe, the balance in nature, the movement of celestial bodies, and the mathematical precision of the natural world. In Surah Al-Anbiya (21:33), it states: "It is He who created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon, each floating in an orbit." This aligns with modern scientific understanding of celestial mechanics, which relies heavily on mathematics.
• Order in Creation: Numerous references in the Quran (such as in Surah Al-Mulk, 67:3) talk about the perfection of the created world, which can be interpreted as a reference to the mathematical order present in nature.

The Uniqueness of the Quran’s Linguistic Structure: The Arabic language of the Quran is unique in its structure and rhythm, with some experts suggesting that it contains linguistic and mathematical patterns that enhance the poetic and rhetorical beauty of the text. The balance and rhythm of verses (known as Saj') also point to an underlying structure that some link to mathematical principles of harmony and proportion.

Limitations of Mathematical Proofs

While these numerical patterns and structures are intriguing, it's important to note that mathematics alone cannot serve as definitive proof of the Quran's divine origin. Mathematical patterns may point to a higher level of order or design, but the ultimate proof of the Quran’s truthfulness lies in its theological and spiritual messages, the consistency of its teachings, and the profound impact it has had on the lives of millions of people for over 1,400 years.

You may now like to watch an interesting video and discover the incredible true story of Dr. Jeffrey Lang, a committed atheist mathematician who set out to disprove the Quran and ended up embracing Islam through mathematical evidence and baffled by the mathematical connections he reverted to  Islam:

The mathematical properties discussed above are seen by many Muslims and non Muslims as signs or ayat (signs) of the Quran's divine nature, but these should be understood as part of a broader, multifaceted approach to understanding the Quran, which includes faith, reason, spiritual insight, and reflection, and of course an open mind to understand the Divine scriptures.

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 like to read more posts on similar theme in our series of posts related to: Divine Revelations in Qur'an validated by Scientific Discoveries (Reference Page)

You may read more posts on similar theme in our series of posts related to: The Rebuttal: Countering disinformation being spread about Islam (Reference Page)

For more Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects.

For more Selected Verses, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | References: | The Mathematical Marvels of the Holy Quran: The Divine signature of Number 19  | Quran code | God’s Miracle of 19 in Quran | 

Disclaimer: The material for this post has been collected from references given above and ChatGPT and other general sources. Therefore the author of this post is in way responsible for the authenticity or otherwise of the content of this post. 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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Lower your voice to respect the believers sitting in for I'tikaf (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

The last ten days are full of mercy for all believers, specially for those sitting in the masjids for I'tikaf, the voluntary seclusion and worship Allah be even sacrificing the comfort of their homes. We must respect these blessed believers and provide them conducive environment so they are able to concentrate fully in their worship with unhindered and undisturbed, and extreme devotion.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ made a special request to people outside the secluded chamber or portion of the masjid from reciting Qur'an or prayer in a lower tone so that worship of those in I'tikaf is not disturbed. 

This Hadith is mentioned in Sunan Abi Dawud (Book # 5  Prayer (Kitab Al-Salat): Voluntary Prayers / كتاب التطوع / Chapter # 466 Raising One's Voice With The Recitation During The Night Prayer / باب ي رَفْعِ الصَّوْتِ بِالْقِرَاءَةِ فِي صَلاَةِ اللَّيْلِ as Hadith number # 1332, quoted herein under:

Narrated AbuSa'id al-Khudri:

The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) retired to the mosque. He heard them (the people) reciting the Qur'an in a loud voice. He removed the curtain and said: Lo! every one of you is calling his Lord quietly. One should not trouble the other and one should not raise the voice in recitation or in prayer over the voice of the other.

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا الْحَسَنُ بْنُ عَلِيٍّ، حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الرَّزَّاقِ، أَخْبَرَنَا مَعْمَرٌ، عَنْ إِسْمَاعِيلَ بْنِ أُمَيَّةَ، عَنْ أَبِي سَلَمَةَ، عَنْ أَبِي سَعِيدٍ، قَالَ ‏:‏ اعْتَكَفَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صلى الله عليه وسلم فِي الْمَسْجِدِ فَسَمِعَهُمْ يَجْهَرُونَ بِالْقِرَاءَةِ، فَكَشَفَ السِّتْرَ وَقَالَ ‏:‏ ‏"‏ أَلاَ إِنَّ كُلَّكُمْ مُنَاجٍ رَبَّهُ فَلاَ يُؤْذِيَنَّ بَعْضُكُمْ بَعْضًا، وَلاَ يَرْفَعْ بَعْضُكُمْ عَلَى بَعْضٍ فِي الْقِرَاءَةِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏ أَوْ قَالَ ‏:‏ ‏"‏ فِي الصَّلاَةِ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

Grade: Sahih (Al-Albani)

Respecting others during I'tikaf is essential to maintaining the sanctity and purpose of this spiritual retreat. I'tikaf is a time when a Muslim isolates themselves from worldly distractions, focusing on worship, reflection, and strengthening their relationship with Allah. As I'tikaf is a deeply spiritual activity, it requires a person to maintain not only a good relationship with Allah but also to treat fellow worshippers with respect and kindness.

Here are several ways to show respect to others during I'tikaf:

• Respecting the Space and Environment:
• Quiet and Peaceful Environment: Since I'tikaf is typically observed in a mosque, it is important to maintain a peaceful and quiet environment for both yourself and others. Avoid loud conversations, unnecessary noise, and anything that may disturb fellow worshippers. This allows everyone to focus on their worship and reflection.
• Proper Behavior: Be mindful of your behavior in the mosque. Engage in acts of worship, prayer, and reflection, but avoid anything that may cause discomfort or disturbance to others. This includes avoiding unnecessary talking, playing with your phone, or engaging in actions that may distract others from their worship.
• Being Considerate of Others’ Needs:
• Sharing Space: If you are observing I'tikaf in a shared space, be considerate of others' need for privacy, comfort, and tranquility. Ensure you are not occupying excessive space or disturbing others' personal space during this time.
• Considerate Timing: Be mindful of others' prayer times and schedules, particularly when it comes to using communal areas for rest or food. Try to avoid interrupting others' worship or prayer by being in the way or taking up space at the wrong times.
• Avoiding Arguments or Disputes:
• Patience and Tolerance: During I'tikaf, you may be around a variety of individuals with different personalities, perspectives, and practices. It is important to exercise patience and tolerance. If any disagreements or conflicts arise, handle them calmly and respectfully, avoiding anger or harshness. Remember that I'tikaf is meant to purify the heart, and engaging in disputes can take away from the spiritual benefits.
• Being Humble: Maintaining humility is crucial in I'tikaf. Avoid any behavior that might show arrogance, superiority, or self-righteousness. Instead, focus on cultivating humility, being respectful to everyone regardless of their social status or background.
• Respecting Privacy:
• Respecting Personal Space: Some people may prefer solitude or quiet during I'tikaf to focus on personal reflection or worship. Respect their space and privacy, and avoid unnecessary interactions or intrusions.
• Avoiding Gossip or Negative Talk: It’s important to avoid engaging in gossip, backbiting, or speaking ill of others during I'tikaf. These negative behaviors harm the spiritual state of the person performing I'tikaf and can affect the peace and respect within the community. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said, "Do not backbite each other" (Quran 49:12), which is a principle to adhere to, especially during I'tikaf.
• Maintaining Cleanliness:
• Respecting the Cleanliness of the Mosque: Keep the mosque clean and free from clutter. This includes picking up after yourself, disposing of trash properly, and maintaining a clean environment for all. It is also respectful to maintain personal cleanliness, such as performing ablutions regularly and keeping your space tidy.
• Caring for Shared Resources: If you're sharing food, drinks, or other communal resources during I'tikaf, be respectful and avoid wastage. Share generously but with consideration for others' needs, and ensure that resources are used appropriately.
• Helping and Supporting Fellow Worshippers:
• Offering Assistance: Be kind and helpful to others who may need assistance, whether it's helping with chores, sharing knowledge, or offering advice in a gentle and respectful manner. If someone is struggling with a particular aspect of worship or needs help with logistics during I'tikaf, offer your assistance with humility and kindness.
• Being Encouraging: Encourage others in their acts of worship, whether it's offering a kind word, assisting them in their study of the Quran, or reminding them of good deeds. Support each other in the pursuit of greater spirituality.
• Respecting the Imam and Religious Authorities:
• Following the Guidance of the Imam: If the mosque has an Imam or religious leader leading prayers or giving lectures, it is important to show respect for their guidance. Listen attentively to their sermons, advice, or any instructions given during I'tikaf, and follow their direction in a respectful manner.
• Seeking Knowledge with Respect: If you're engaging in religious discussions or seeking knowledge during I'tikaf, always approach the scholars, teachers, and fellow worshippers with respect, humility, and a desire for learning.
• Respecting the Time of I'tikaf:
• Avoiding Time-Wasting Activities: The purpose of I'tikaf is to focus on worship, prayer, reflection, and deepening your connection with Allah. Therefore, avoid wasting time on unnecessary conversations, watching media, or engaging in activities that distract you from the main goal of I'tikaf.
• Respecting Other People’s Worship Time: Be conscious of when others are engaged in worship or prayer. For instance, during the Taraweeh prayers, or while others are doing dhikr (remembrance of Allah), refrain from unnecessary conversation or movement in a way that could distract or disturb their focus.
• Being Mindful of the Heart: Since I'tikaf is about purifying the heart, ensure that your inner intentions toward others are sincere. Avoid harboring negative thoughts, jealousy, or pride against anyone. Approach your time in I'tikaf with a clean heart, seeking to improve yourself spiritually.

Respecting others during I'tikaf is crucial to maintaining the spiritual and communal harmony of the mosque and ensuring the purity of your worship. It requires mindfulness, humility, patience, and consideration for fellow worshippers. By following these guidelines, you contribute to a peaceful and respectful environment conducive to spiritual growth, both for yourself and others.  

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Photo | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Virtues of Laylat al-Qadr:

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

Virtue of I'tikaf During Ramadan:

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

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

Combining the Virtues:

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

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

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

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

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

وَمَا عَلَيۡنَاۤ اِلَّا الۡبَلٰغُ الۡمُبِيۡنُ‏ 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Please refer to our reference page: Collections of Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about Rewards for more Hadiths on the subject

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

Photo | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

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Supplication that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ made after saying the Taslim

The life of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ has been a role model for all Muslims and the entire mankind for as long as this world exists. He not only explained Qur'an through his personal example, but also taught his companions supplications in carefully selected words so that believers could make supplications in the words as taught by him.

We have already shared one of the supplications which the revered Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to make after finishing his prayer or saying taslim [What should a person supplicate after the Taslim ]. But that is one of the many supplications he made after the prayers. Today we share yet another Prophetic supplication which Prophet Muhammad ﷺ made after the Taslim.

[What is Taslim: After making all of the supplications that you want, you should end the prayer with taslim, which means to say the salutation: as-salāmu 'alaykum wa raḥmatullah to the right and left hand sides.]

This supplication is mentioned in Sunan Abi Dawud (Book # 8  Prayer (Kitab Al-Salat): Detailed Injunctions about Witr / كتاب الوتر / Chapter # 511 What A Person Should Say When He Says The Taslim / باب مَا يَقُولُ الرَّجُلُ إِذَا سَلَّمَ as Hadith number # 1509, quoted herein under:

'Ali b. Abi Talib said:

When the Prophet (ﷺ) uttered salutation at the end of the prayer, he used to say: "O Allah, forgive me my former and latter sins, what I have kept secret and what I have done openly, and what I have done extravagance; and what You know better than I do. You are the Advancer, the Delayer, there is no god but You."

Arabic Text:

حَدَّثَنَا عُبَيْدُ اللَّهِ بْنُ مُعَاذٍ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا أَبِي، حَدَّثَنَا عَبْدُ الْعَزِيزِ بْنُ أَبِي سَلَمَةَ، عَنْ عَمِّهِ الْمَاجِشُونَ بْنِ أَبِي سَلَمَةَ، عَنْ عَبْدِ الرَّحْمَنِ الأَعْرَجِ، عَنْ عُبَيْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ أَبِي رَافِعٍ، عَنْ عَلِيِّ بْنِ أَبِي طَالِبٍ، قَالَ كَانَ النَّبِيُّ صلى الله عليه وسلم إِذَا سَلَّمَ مِنَ الصَّلاَةِ قَالَ ‏ "‏ اللَّهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِي مَا قَدَّمْتُ وَمَا أَخَّرْتُ وَمَا أَسْرَرْتُ وَمَا أَعْلَنْتُ وَمَا أَسْرَفْتُ وَمَا أَنْتَ أَعْلَمُ بِهِ مِنِّي أَنْتَ الْمُقَدِّمُ وَأَنْتَ الْمُؤَخِّرُ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ أَنْتَ ‏"‏ ‏.‏

Grade: Sahih (Al-Albani)

This hadith, narrated by Ali b. Abi Talib, relates to a supplication that the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) used to recite at the end of the prayer, asking Allah for forgiveness. It contains a rich meaning, and when understood in light of the Qur'an, it provides deeper insights into the relationship between the believer and Allah.

Key Elements of the Hadith:

• Seeking Forgiveness: The Prophet (ﷺ) asks Allah to forgive his past and future sins, both those that are public and private, as well as any excesses or wrongs that may have been committed unknowingly.
• Acknowledging Allah’s Sovereignty: The Prophet (ﷺ) recognizes Allah as the one who has control over all matters (i.e., the Advancer and the Delayer), and emphasizes the uniqueness of Allah, declaring that there is no god but Him.

Explanation in Light of the Qur'an

• Seeking Forgiveness for Sins: The Prophet’s supplication includes a request for forgiveness of sins — both public and private, and those committed knowingly or unknowingly. This resonates with the Qur'anic guidance on seeking forgiveness from Allah, as it is central to a believer's relationship with Him.
• Allah commands believers to seek forgiveness for their sins:
• Surah Al-Furqan (25:70): “Except for those who repent, believe and do righteous work. For them Allah will replace their evil deeds with good. And ever is Allah Forgiving and Merciful.”
• Surah An-Nisa (4:110): “Whoever does an evil or wrongs himself but then seeks forgiveness of Allah will find Allah Forgiving and Merciful.”
• This emphasizes that Allah’s mercy is vast, and He is always ready to forgive those who repent sincerely.
• Public and Private Sins: The Prophet (ﷺ) explicitly mentions both the "secret" and "open" sins in his supplication, highlighting the comprehensive nature of human shortcomings.
• The Qur'an acknowledges that Allah is aware of both the public and private actions of people:
• Surah Al-Mujadila (58:6): “On the Day when their faces will be turned over in the Fire, they will say, ‘Woe to us! How could we have failed to respond to Allah’s call?’”
• Surah Al-Imran (3:29): "Say, 'Whether you conceal what is within your breasts or reveal it – Allah knows it.’"
• Allah’s knowledge encompasses all things, both seen and unseen, and He is fully aware of all that we do, making the Prophet’s supplication a reminder that we should seek forgiveness for all types of transgressions, even those that we may think are hidden.
• Excessive Actions (Extravagance): The Prophet (ﷺ) also asks for forgiveness regarding "what I have done extravagance," which may refer to any actions that were beyond moderation or were excessive, whether in worship or in worldly matters. Islam emphasizes the importance of balance and moderation.
• Surah Al-A’raf (7:31): “O children of Adam, take your adornment at every masjid and eat and drink, but be not excessive. Indeed, He likes not those who commit excess.”
• The Qur'an encourages believers to avoid extravagance, whether in material matters, worship, or other aspects of life.
• Allah as the Advancer and Delayer: The Prophet (ﷺ) concludes by referring to Allah as the "Advancer" (Muqaddim) and "Delayer" (Mu'akkhir). This refers to Allah’s control over all matters, especially in the context of life and death, blessings and trials.
• The Qur'an repeatedly mentions Allah's control over everything:
• Surah Al-Mulk (67:1): “Blessed is He in whose hand is the dominion, and He is over all things competent.”
• Surah Al-Ahzab (33:61): “They have been cursed wherever they are found, being seized and murdered in a massacre.”
• This aligns with the understanding that Allah has complete authority to advance or delay anything in creation, from the course of events to the granting of forgiveness.

Theological and Spiritual Insight

• Humility and Dependence on Allah: This supplication reveals the humility of the Prophet (ﷺ), despite his infallibility as the best of creation. It teaches the believer that no matter how righteous one is, seeking Allah's forgiveness and recognizing one's imperfections is crucial.
• Comprehensive Repentance: The mention of both secret and open sins encourages believers to reflect on all aspects of their actions, not just those that are visible to others.
• Trust in Allah’s Mercy: By acknowledging Allah’s sovereignty over all matters, the supplication instills trust in Allah’s ability to forgive and provide relief from one's sins, demonstrating reliance on Allah’s mercy.

In summary, this hadith encapsulates key themes of repentance, seeking Allah's forgiveness, and acknowledging Allah's control over all things. It aligns with the Qur’anic teachings on forgiveness and moderation while also emphasizing Allah's encompassing knowledge and mercy.

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 refer to our reference: page: Supplications attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for more prophetic supplications

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

Photo | Source of Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

Glad Tidings for believers: Inter prayer / fasting time period is expiation of the minor sins - Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ

Islam is a wonderful religion for it provides inbuilt opportunities to the believers for have their sins forgiven and written off. Those who are steadfast in their obligations specially with regard to the five daily Salat / prayers, the Jum'uah congregation and fasting in the month of Ramadan can easily benefit from having their minor sins automatically quashed by Divine decree. However, repenting and seeking forgiveness remain the pre-condition.

This glad tiding has been attributed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, mentioned Sahih Muslim in The Book of Purification as Hadith 552, given herein under:

Abu Hurairaؓ reported that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) used to say: "The five (daily) prayers, and Friday prayer to the next Friday prayer, and Ramadan to the next Ramadan, are expiation of the sins committed in between them, so long as major sins are avoided."

Arabic Text:

عَنْ أَبِي هُرَيْرَةَ، أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ كَانَ يَقُولُ: «الصَّلَوَاتُ الْخَمْسُ، وَالْجُمْعَةُ إِلَى الْجُمْعَةِ، وَرَمَضَانُ إِلَى رَمَضَانَ، 

مُكَفِّرَاتٌ مَا بَيْنَهُنَّ إِذَا اجْتَنَبَ الْكَبَائِرَ» .

 

Explanation of the Hadith:

This Hadith highlights the mercy of Allah and the purification that comes through regular acts of worship, particularly the daily prayers, the Friday prayer, and the fasting in Ramadan. These acts serve as a means for believers to erase minor sins and maintain spiritual cleanliness between these times, provided that the person avoids major sins.

• The Five Daily Prayers: Performing the obligatory prayers (Salah) five times a day is a fundamental act of worship in Islam. According to the Hadith, the prayers act as a purification for the believer, removing minor sins committed between the prayers. This implies that every time a Muslim prays, they are spiritually cleansed, with the exception of major sins.
• Friday Prayer (Jumu'ah): The weekly congregational prayer on Fridays holds a special status in Islam. The Hadith indicates that the Friday prayer serves as an expiation for the sins committed from one Friday to the next, as long as major sins are avoided. This highlights the significance of Jumu'ah in Islam.
• Ramadan: The month of Ramadan, where Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, is a time of intense worship and devotion. The Hadith points out that Ramadan to Ramadan acts as a purification for the sins committed in between these two months, as long as major sins are avoided. This emphasizes the spiritual benefits of fasting and the importance of self-reflection during Ramadan.

Condition: Avoiding Major Sins

The Hadith clearly states that this expiation of sins is conditional on avoiding major sins. Major sins, like shirk (associating partners with Allah), murder, theft, adultery, lying, and so on, require specific repentance (Tawbah) and cannot be erased merely by performing these acts of worship. Major sins are different from minor sins in terms of their severity, and they require sincere repentance and seeking forgiveness from Allah.

Quranic Reference to Support the Hadith

The concept of expiation of sins through good deeds is reinforced in the Qur'an, which mentions that acts of worship like prayer, fasting, and charity cleanse the believer from minor sins:

• The Five Daily Prayers and Expiation of Sins:
• Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:6): O you who have believed, when you rise to pray, wash your faces and your hands up to the elbows and wipe over your heads and wash your feet up to the ankles. And if you are in a state of janabah, then purify yourselves."
• The daily prayers are not only acts of worship but also a means of purification for the soul. While the verse speaks about physical purification for prayer, the underlying spiritual significance is that the prayers themselves purify a person from the minor sins committed in their daily lives.
• The Friday Prayer (Jumu'ah) as Expiation:
• Surah Al-Jumu'ah (62:9): “O you who have believed, when the call to prayer is made on the day of Friday, then proceed to the remembrance of Allah and leave trade. That is better for you if you only knew.”
• This verse emphasizes the significance of Jumu'ah and the need to focus on worship on Fridays, which aligns with the Hadith, indicating that the Friday prayer acts as an expiation for the sins of the week.
• Ramadan and Expiation of Sins:
• Surah Al-Baqarah (2:185): “Ramadan is the month in which was revealed the Qur'an, a guidance for the people and clear proofs of guidance and criterion. So whoever sights [the new moon of] the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey, then an equal number of other days. And Allah intends for you ease and does not intend for you hardship and [wants] for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that [to] which He has guided you, and perhaps you will be grateful.”
• The act of fasting in Ramadan is a means of spiritual purification. The Hadith specifically states that Ramadan expiates the sins committed in between the two Ramadans, and this is consistent with the Qur'an, which emphasizes the guidance and spiritual benefits that come from fasting during this holy month.

General Expiation through Good Deeds

• Surah At-Tawbah (9:103): "Take from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase, and invoke [Allah’s blessings] upon them. Indeed, your invocations are reassurance for them. And Allah is Hearing and Knowing."
• This verse speaks about charity and its purifying effects. While the specific context here is about zakat (obligatory charity), it illustrates the broader principle in Islam that good deeds can purify believers and expiate sins.

Allah’s Forgiveness and Mercy

• Surah Al-Furqan (25:70): “Except for those who repent, believe and do righteous work. For them Allah will replace their evil deeds with good. And ever is Allah Forgiving and Merciful.”
• This verse highlights the general principle that repentance and good deeds can replace evil actions, which corresponds to the Hadith that certain actions like the five daily prayers, Ramadan, and Jumu'ah serve as expiation for minor sins.

The Hadith thus underscores the importance of consistent acts of worship like the five daily prayers, the Friday prayer, and the fasting in Ramadan, all of which serve to expiate minor sins. This aligns with various Qur'anic verses that describe how acts of worship purify a person and erase sins. However, the Hadith also stresses the importance of avoiding major sins, which require specific repentance, as these cannot be forgiven by these acts alone. This reinforces the idea that Allah’s mercy and forgiveness are accessible to those who maintain a relationship with Him through sincere worship and avoidance of sinful behavior.

May Allah help us to stay away from all forms of sins and acts that are tangent to the teachings of Islam and help us to do good deeds that He likes and loves us to do. Ameen

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 Hadith | Help taken from ChatGPT for expanding meaning of the Hadith

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

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

Follow @IslamUltimate

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

Read More

Understanding Shirk - Grave sin of Associating Partners with Allah (Reference Page)

Islam is a monotheistic religion for it is about belief in the oneness of Allah (God). The central concept in Islam is the belief that Allah is the only God, the sole Creator and Sustainer of the universe, and that there is no deity or god other than Him. This belief in the oneness of God is known as Tawhid, which is the foundation of Islamic theology and spirituality.

This monotheistic is tangent to all forms of beliefs and worship where partners are associating with Allah in power sharing or even someone at par with Allah. This act in Islam is called Shirk " شرك " an Arabic word meaning "the deification or worship of anyone or anything besides One True God."  Shirk is polytheism, the outright negation of monotheism. It is for this reason, shirk is the most disliked thing by the Almighty Allah, despite He being the Most Merciful and immensely Forgiving. For this reason, It is considered as the greatest sin in Islam and is explicitly condemned in the Qur'an and Hadith.

“Indeed, Allah does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills. And he who associates others with Allah has certainly fabricated a tremendous sin.” Surah An-Nisa (4:48)

Please read exegesis / tafsir of 112th verse of Qur'an wherein Allah tells that He alone is to be worshiped and He alone is the Master of the entire universe: Sürah 112.  Al Ikhlas (The Declaration of [God's] Oneness)  And also the attribute of Allah: Al Ahad - The One and Only

Shirk may take different forms, which must be avoided by all believers. Shirk may take following forms, as given below:

• Shirk in Worship (Ritualistic Shirk): This involves directing acts of worship (such as prayer, supplication, fasting, or sacrifice) to someone or something other than Allah, like idols, saints, or any other being considered to have divine power.
• Shirk in Belief: This refers to attributing divine qualities, such as creation, omnipotence, or knowledge, to someone or something other than Allah, such as believing that a human being, angel, or other entity shares Allah’s attributes.
• Shirk in Lordship (Rububiyyah): This involves attributing Allah's sovereign control over creation, sustenance, or the universe to someone else. For example, believing that a person or object has control over the natural world or life events in a way that only Allah does.
• Shirk in Names and Attributes (Asma wa Sifat): This involves assigning Allah’s unique names or attributes (such as "the Most Merciful" or "the All-Knowing") to anyone other than Him.

Why is Shirk so Important to Avoid in Islam?

Shirk is regarded as the most severe offense in Islam, and its consequences are dire both in this life and the Hereafter. Here are the key reasons why Muslims are urged to avoid shirk:

• Violates the Concept of Tawhid (Monotheism): Tawhid, or the oneness of Allah, is the core of the Islamic faith. Shirk undermines this fundamental principle by introducing multiple powers or deities and thereby distorting the understanding of Allah’s singular sovereignty.
• The Greatest Sin in Islam: Shirk is considered the ultimate form of injustice (zulm), as it assigns divine qualities to something other than Allah. Allah has stated in the Qur'an that He will forgive all sins, except for shirk, if a person dies without repentance.
• Consequences in the Afterlife: One of the most serious consequences of shirk is that Allah does not forgive it if a person dies without repenting. Those who commit shirk and do not repent are warned of eternal punishment in Hell.
• Disconnection from Allah's Mercy: Committing shirk is seen as a barrier between a person and the mercy of Allah. It breaks the relationship of pure worship that should exist between the believer and their Creator.

Committing shirk not only endangers a person’s soul but also disrespects Allah’s sovereignty and mercy. Muslims are urged to uphold pure monotheism, placing their trust and worship solely in Allah, who is the Creator and Sustainer of the universe. Avoiding shirk is essential to maintaining the integrity of one’s faith and ensuring a successful Hereafter.

We have already published a number of posts covering aspects of Shirk. Through this reference page, we are providing links to already published posts hereinunder for the information of our readers to know more about shirk and will keep adding more posts on shirk as and when published:

• Selected Verses from Quran: The Sin of Shirk - Associating Partners with God
• An eye opener verse from Qur'an for those who commit Shirk by turning to deities other than Allah 
• Is it Right to Ask the Dead by visiting their graves for Help?
• Who will be among the worst creatures on the Day of Resurrection (Hadith Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)
• Allah alone is the Deliverer - Yet you associate others with Allah in His divinity
• What is the Reality of Shirk - the sin of idolatry or polytheism (Scholars' Viewpoint)
• A parable in the Qur’an which teaches absurdity of idolatry and worshiping beings other than Allah

In time, we shall add more posts as this severely detested act of worship by Allah abounds in many verses of Qur'an and teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

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 Selected Subjects, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from Al Qur'an about a Specific Subject (Reference Page) to know more about what Qur'an says about specific subjects.

For more Selected Verses, please refer to our reference page: Selected Verses from the Qur'an. You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.

Photo | 

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

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