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Wednesday, 18 February 2026

Incredible revert experience at 78 years of age - It is never too late to revert to Islam

Truth is something that keeps knocking at our hearts - but many of us do not pay any heed to the knocking - even some do not feel it at all for their hearts are so hardened that layers of falsehood wrapped around it cannot be broken. One may spend one's useful years of life to finally feel someone knock on our hearts for the knocking of the truth is persistent and continuous for truth finally prevails. 

Needless to mention that Islam is the eternal truth that moves even the hardest of hearts, specially that of atheists who are never willing to give in to the religion for for them religion is the comforting myth for the weak or the ignorant. For atheists, science and reasoning is the truth - for religions cannot stand a chance in this age of reasoning and scientific validation.

Today, we share a revert experience of a 78 years old retired professor of comparative literature, who for most part of her life was an atheist and her entire life was driven by logic. But then something suddenly changed when a grief led her to the streets of Morocco - and she felt truth knocking on her heart when she heard for the first time the Adhan - the Muslims' call for prayer. Unlike the church bells, which can sometimes be haunting, the melodious voice of the Adhan started to remove the stubborn layers over her hearts which otherwise would only let in something logical and scientific.

When I watched her revert experience from a video on YouTube, I was simply overwhelmed by her emotional state and what followed thereafter which finally led to embracing Islam at the age of 78. This experience makes me more proud to be a Muslim and my confidence in the Divine truth that finally breaks the stubborn barriers and drill in the truth in hearts of non Muslims.

Please watch the full video of a revert experience below and see how reading Islam melts hearts and lets non-Muslims enter the fold of Islam:
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 revert experience shared above is for educational purpose only and is not meant to force convert the non Muslims to Islam. However, the post invites non Muslims to view such videos to know the point of view of those who finally find the truth, after weighing their previous faith and comparing it with Islam to make the ultimate decision of their lives.

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.
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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.

Al-Qurʾān: Overview and selected verses from: Sürah 56 Al-Wāqiʻah الواقعة "The Inevitable"

Al-Wāqiʻah الواقعة "The Inevitable" or "The Event" is the 56th Surah (chapter) of Al Qur'an. It has 96 verses / ayat with four rukus, part of Juzʼ 27. It mainly discusses the afterlife and fate of different categories of people. The Surah takes its name from the word al-Wāqiʻah of the very first verse.  It was revealed in Makkah, specifically around 7 years before the Hijrah (622), the migration of Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم to Medina.

We have already shared the Tafseer / Exegesis of the Surah which can be read from links given below:
| Summary | Exegesis / Tafseer | Part I | Part II |  

Herein under we will only present an overview of the entire Sūrah, since the scope of this post is to only to introduce the Sūrah and provide links to some of the selected verses from this Sūrah for selective reading / references. This bird eye view includes the context, major themes and subjects and lessons that we can learn from this Sūrah, followed by references to  some of the selected verses already published.

Overview
The Surah is one of the most powerful Makkan surahs for shaking human complacency, redefining success and failure, and restoring a Hereafter-centered worldview in a society drunk on wealth, status, and denial of resurrection. It is a surah that re-orders reality itself.
  • Meaning and Context of Surah Al-Wāqi‘ah The title of the surah Al-Wāqi‘ah (الواقعة) means  “The Inevitable Event” - referring to the Day of Resurrection — something so certain that the Qur’an calls it already real in name. It was revealed when the Quraysh had vehemently denied resurrection. The affluent of Makkah obsessed with their lineage, power, honour and wealth  mocked the concept of accountability. So this surah came to shatter false securities and expose the illusion of worldly hierarchy.
  • Core Theme of Surah Al-Wāqi‘ah 
    • The afterlife (akhirah) is the main topic discussed in the chapter. Picking up from the preceding chapter, Surah Ar-Rahman, which discusses the rewards of Paradise (Jannah), this Surah also mentions them and then contrasts them with the punishment of hell. 
    • This surah teaches that the  world’s hierarchies are temporary and that true success is not what society celebrates but it is the Hereafter that will reclassify humanity.
    • It is a surah of: (1) Ultimate sorting (2) Final classification (3) Reality check on arrogance, and (4) True honor and true loss.
  • The Central Structure (hree Classes of Humanity): This is the backbone of the surah. The chapter distinguishes the three classes of people in the afterlife, "the foremost", "the companions of the right" and "the companions of the left": the first two groups will enter paradise while the companions of the left will go to hell.
    • As-Sābiqūn (السابقون) — The Foremost (56:10–11): “And the foremost — they are the foremost. Those are the ones brought near (to Allah).” These are the spiritually elite, not by class or wealth - But by sincerity, sacrifice, and early response to truth. This means in the eyes of Allah true elite are not celebrities or billionaires — but those closest to Allah. This completely inverts modern value systems.
    • Ashāb al-Yamīn — People of the Right (56:27–40): “And the companions of the right — what are the companions of the right!” They are the saved majority, righteous but not the foremost but will be given immense reward. That is Islam recognizes levels — but all based on faith and deeds, not status.
    • Ashāb al-Shimāl — People of the Left (56:41–56): “And the companions of the left — what are the companions of the left!” They are the deniers, arrogant, morally corrupt elite of dunya. Their punishment is described vividly. There is a lesson in it that power, wealth, and culture will not save anyone.
Key Verses That Demand Reflection Today
Surah Al-Wāqiʿah, Chapter 56, is centred on the certainty of Resurrection and the different destinations of humanity in the Hereafter. It moves from the upheaval of the Last Day to the three groups of people, then presents everyday signs—human creation, crops, water and fire—as proofs that Allah can recreate the dead. It concludes with the Qur’an’s divine origin and the helplessness of humanity at the moment of death.

Here are some of the most revealing verses for our time:

1. The event that cannot be denied — 56:1–2
  • The Verse “When the Inevitable Event occurs, no one will be able to deny its occurrence.”
  • The name Al-Wāqiʿah means “the Event that will certainly happen.” The surah begins without discussing whether Resurrection is possible; it presents it as an approaching reality. People may deny it now, but when it arrives, denial will no longer have any meaning.
Reflection and lesson today Human beings often live as though death and accountability are distant possibilities. These verses awaken us from that illusion. A believer should make decisions while remembering that wealth, status and worldly disputes are temporary, but standing before Allah is certain. The question is not merely, “Do I believe in the Hereafter?” but, “Does my daily life show that I believe I will meet Allah?”

Please refer to our post: Verses 1-2: What is Inevitable - explained in one of the most philosophically powerful verses in the Qur’an for explanation of verses 1-2

2. The Day that lowers and raises — 56:3
  • The Verse “It will lower some and raise others.”
  • The Resurrection will completely reverse worldly standards. People who appeared powerful, admired and successful may be humbled, while believers who were poor, ignored or oppressed may be raised to honour.
  • Context The Makkan leaders judged people through wealth, ancestry and social influence. The Qur’an declares that Allah’s judgment will overturn such false measures. True rank is determined by faith, sincerity and obedience.
Reflection and lesson today Modern society frequently measures people by income, profession, followers, appearance or influence. This verse teaches that worldly prominence does not necessarily mean divine approval. We should neither feel inferior because we possess little nor become proud because we possess much. The only elevation that ultimately matters is elevation before Allah.

3. Humanity divided into three groups — 56:7–10
  • Verses: “You will become three groups: the companions of the right, the companions of the left, and the foremost—the foremost.”
  • The surah divides humanity according to spiritual condition, not nationality, race or worldly position:
    • The foremost—al-Sābiqūn: those nearest to Allah.
    • The companions of the right: the successful believers.
    • The companions of the left: those who rejected or persistently disobeyed Allah.
    • Reflection and lesson today
  • The passage forces each reader to ask: Toward which group are my choices taking me? Merely belonging to a Muslim family or community does not automatically make someone among the foremost. The foremost are those who take the lead in faith, repentance, worship, charity, courage, truthfulness and service to others.
The word foremost also teaches that we should not always aim for the religious minimum. A believer should aspire not merely to escape punishment, but to become close to Allah.

4. “The foremost are the nearest” — 56:10–12
  • The Verse “The foremost are truly the foremost. They are those brought near to Allah, in Gardens of delight.”
  • The greatest reward described here is not initially food, clothing or palaces; it is closeness to Allah. Paradise is precious because it is the place of Allah’s pleasure, honour and nearness.
Reflection and lesson today We often think of religion mainly in terms of reward and punishment. These verses direct us towards a deeper form of worship: seeking Allah Himself—His pleasure, love and nearness. The believer begins to ask:
  • Does this action bring me closer to Allah?
  • Does this habit harden or soften my heart?
  • Am I obeying Allah only to obtain something, or because I love and honour Him?
Closeness to Allah in the Hereafter begins with remembrance, obedience and sincerity in this world.

5. The companions of the left — 56:41–47
  • The Passage “The companions of the left—what a miserable state they will be in… Indeed, before this they lived in luxury and persisted in the gravest sin.”
  • The passage does not condemn lawful comfort by itself. The problem is that their comfort made them careless, arrogant and spiritually insensitive. They enjoyed Allah’s gifts but denied accountability, persisted in wrongdoing and asked mockingly whether they would really be resurrected after becoming dust.
  • Reflection and lesson today
    • Luxury becomes dangerous when it makes a person forget Allah, ignore the suffering of others or believe that worldly ease proves divine approval. A comfortable life can be either a blessing used gratefully or a test that produces heedlessness.
    • The phrase “they persisted” is significant. Human beings sin, but destruction comes when sin becomes a settled lifestyle—without remorse, repentance or willingness to change.
6. “We created you—why do you not believe?” — 56:57–62
  • The Passage “We created you, so why do you not believe? Have you considered what you emit? Is it you who create it, or are We the Creator?”
  • After describing Resurrection, Allah points to the first creation of the human being. If Allah created us from an insignificant fluid, bringing us into conscious existence, then recreating us after death is not difficult for Him.
  • The argument is simple: the One who originated creation can certainly repeat it.
  • Reflection and lesson today
    • Human beings may understand many biological processes, but they do not create life independently. We may describe development, cells and genetics, but the existence of life, consciousness and human identity remains a sign of Allah’s power.
    • These verses should produce humility. We were not responsible for our own beginning, cannot guarantee the length of our lives and cannot prevent death. Therefore, pride in intelligence, beauty, ancestry or wealth is irrational.
7. The seed, the water and the fire — 56:63–73
  • The crops — 56:63–67
    • “Have you considered what you sow? Is it you who cause it to grow, or are We the One who makes it grow?”
    • Farmers prepare the soil, plant seeds and irrigate the land, but they do not create the seed’s life or command it to germinate. Allah could turn the crop into dry debris, leaving people shocked at their loss.
  • The water — 56:68–70
    • “Have you considered the water you drink? Is it you who bring it down from the clouds, or are We the One who sends it down? Had We willed, We could have made it bitter.”
    • Water is so common that people forget its miraculous nature. The verse invites us to imagine life if rainwater were permanently salty or undrinkable.
  • The fire — 56:71–73
    • The Passage “Have you considered the fire you kindle? Is it you who produced its tree, or are We its Producer?”
    • Fire provides heat, light, protection and the ability to prepare food. Yet even this familiar human tool depends upon materials and natural laws Allah created.
    • Reflection and lesson today
      • These passages teach gratitude through observation. Food, water and energy are not merely products of markets, technology or human skill; they ultimately come from Allah.
      • They also correct human arrogance. We make use of Allah’s systems, but we did not originate them. Science explains many mechanisms, while revelation teaches us Who established and sustains those mechanisms.
    • A believer should respond by: (1) avoiding food and water wastage; (2) showing gratitude before complaining; (3) treating natural resources responsibly; (4) remembering the poor and hungry; (5) recognizing human dependence upon Allah despite technological progress.
8. The oath by the positions of the stars — 56:75–80
  • The Passage “I swear by the positions of the stars—and indeed it is a tremendous oath, if only you knew—that this is truly a noble Qur’an, in a protected record; none touch it except the purified; a revelation from the Lord of all worlds.”
  • The surah directs attention from earthly signs to the vast order of the heavens. The positions, movements or settings of stars are presented as a tremendous sign. Just as the heavens possess order, the Qur’an comes from the Lord who established that order.
  • Context
    • The disbelievers alleged that the Qur’an was poetry, magic or human speech. These verses reject that claim: it is a noble revelation from the Lord of creation.
    • The phrase “none touch it except the purified” is commonly understood by many commentators in its immediate heavenly context as referring to the purified angels’ access to the protected record. Muslim jurists have also discussed whether the verse carries guidance concerning physical contact with the written Qur’an, but its primary passage-level message is the Qur’an’s purity and protected divine origin.
  • Reflection and lesson today
    • The Qur’an must not be treated merely as a ceremonial book, decoration or source of occasional quotations. Honouring it means reading it, understanding it, submitting to its correction and allowing it to shape our conduct.
    • The passage also asks us indirectly: If the Qur’an is truly from the Lord of the stars, why do we allow social fashion, personal desire or popular opinion to carry greater authority in our lives?
Please refer to our post for explanation of Verse 75: Why does Allah take Oaths in Al Qur'an

9. Humanity’s helplessness at death — 56:83–87
  • The Passage “Why, then, when the soul reaches the throat, while you are looking on—and We are nearer to him than you, though you do not see—why do you not restore the soul, if you are not to be judged?”
  • This is one of the most powerful scenes in the surah. A person lies dying while relatives and friends watch helplessly. They may possess love, money, medical treatment and influence, but they cannot order the departing soul to return.
  • Allah challenges those who deny His authority: if human beings are truly independent and will not be judged, why can they not reverse death?
  • Reflection and lesson today 
    • Death exposes the limits of human power. Technology can sometimes delay death, treat illness and reduce suffering, but it cannot abolish mortality. At the final moment, titles, possessions and achievements remain behind.
    • These verses teach us to settle our obligations before that moment: (1) repent before repentance is no longer possible; (2) return people’s rights; (3) seek forgiveness from those we have wronged; (4) perform neglected duties; (5) prepare good deeds whose benefit continues after death.
10. Three conditions at death — 56:88–94
  • The Passage “If the deceased is among those brought near, then there will be rest, fragrance and a Garden of delight. If he is among the companions of the right, then: ‘Peace be upon you; you are among the companions of the right.’ But if he is among the deniers who went astray, then there will be hospitality of boiling water and burning in Hell.”
  • The three groups introduced near the beginning of the surah reappear at its conclusion. This gives the surah a complete structure: humanity lives in different spiritual conditions, and those conditions eventually produce different endings.
  • Reflection and lesson today
    • The manner in which we wish to die should shape the manner in which we live. A good ending is not normally prepared in the last few minutes of life; it is prepared through years of faith, repentance, prayer, truthfulness and sincere effort.
    • The believer should regularly ask: If my soul were taken today, which direction has my life been travelling?
    • This is not intended to produce despair, because Allah is merciful and repentance remains open while life remains. Rather, it encourages urgency and honest self-examination.
11. “This is the truth of absolute certainty” — 56:95–96
  • Verses “Indeed, this is the truth of certainty. So glorify the name of your Lord, the Most Great.”
  • The Arabic expression ḥaqq al-yaqīn indicates reality experienced with complete certainty. The resurrection, judgment, Paradise and punishment are not metaphors or possibilities; they are realities that people will directly encounter.
  • The surah ends not merely by asking us to think, but by commanding us to worship: “So glorify the name of your Lord, the Most Great.”
  • Reflection and lesson today True reflection should lead to action. After considering death, creation, provision, revelation and judgment, the appropriate response is humility, glorification and obedience—not merely intellectual admiration.
Why Surah Al-Wāqi‘ah is Critically Important Today
While the modern civilization is built on:
  • Control illusion
  • Technological arrogance
  • Wealth obsession
  • Denial of accountability
  • Forgetfulness of death
Surah Al-Wāqi‘ah comes to say:
  • You are not in control.
  • You will be classified.
  • Your rank will be redefined.
  • Your death will expose reality.
Deep Civilizational Message
This surah is not just personal.  It is telling societies:
  • Your elites may be losers in Akhirah
  • Your ignored may be the true winners
  • Your systems are fragile
  • Your arrogance is temporary
This is why the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ loved this surah and why many companions would recite it often — it re-centers the soul on ultimate reality.

Central message for our lives
Surah Al-Wāqiʿah teaches that the Hereafter is inevitable, but our position within it is still being shaped by our present choices. It strips away the illusion of human independence by asking who created us, grows our food, sends our water, provides fire and controls the departure of the soul. It then reminds us that humanity will not be judged according to worldly labels or appearances, but according to faith, sincerity and deeds. Its deepest invitation is therefore: do not wait until the “Inevitable Event” makes truth undeniable; recognise Allah’s signs now, honour His Qur’an, compete in goodness and prepare to meet Him as one of the companions of the right—or, better still, among those brought nearest to Him.
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 exclusive reference pages: 
You may also refer to our Reference Pages  and Understanding Al Qur'an for knowing more about Islam and Qur'ān.
Photo: Pixabay | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |

An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān 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 and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. 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.

    Why does Allah take Oaths in Al Qur'an

    Those of us who study Al Qur'an deeply reflecting on each verse to know the why of what is being said, would often come across oaths that Allah takes at the beginning of some Surahs / Chapters of Al Qur'an. For example the 74th verse of Surah 56. Al-Waqi'ah as appended below:

    No! I swear by the positions of the stars 

    We will take this verse and its connected verses to explain how scholars say these oaths appear:

    Oaths in Arabic Rhetoric (Balāghah)
    Before we relate the topic as enumerated by the scholars, we need to understand the Arabic language of the times with its rich literature, specially poetry. Also taking oaths was a common custom to emphasise one's viewpoint or show one's truthfulness. Since Al Qur'an was revealed to the Arabs of the time, its language and phrasing was deliberately tailored to attract the literary love of the audience. Thus structuring AL Qur'an added rhythm, gravity, and intellectual engagement.

    With this understanding, let us now see how scholars of time explain the why of oaths in Al Qur'an.

    To Emphasize the Importance of What Follows
    In classical Arabic rhetoric, an oath is a powerful way to: Capture attention, Signal seriousness and Underscore truth

    When Allah swears by something, it highlights that what comes next is extremely important — often about revelation, resurrection, or divine power. In Surah 56, the oath about the stars is followed by affirmation that the Qur’an is noble and protected.

    To Draw Attention to Signs in Creation
    Unlike oaths taken by the Arabs of the time who took oaths on idols and their forefathers, Allah swears by created things, not because He needs them to strengthen His word (He doesn’t), but to: (1) Direct our attention to them, (2) Encourage reflection, and (3) Show their significance as signs (āyāt)

    For example: (1) By the sun and moon, (2) By time (Al-‘Asr), (3) By the dawn, (4) By the stars

    These are reminders of order, precision, and power in creation.

    To Show the Greatness of What Is Sworn By
    When Allah swears by something, scholars say it indicates that the thing itself is profound and meaningful.

    In 56:75, “the positions of the stars” can refer to: (1) Their precise orbits, (2) Their setting and rising, or (3) Metaphorically, stages of revelation. In any case, it emphasizes cosmic order and divine control.

    Allah Does Not Need to Swear — But We Need Emphasis
    Humans swear to convince others of truth. Allah does not need to prove anything. Classical scholars explain that divine oaths are:
    • For the benefit of the listener
    • A teaching method
    • A way to awaken reflection
    It’s a rhetorical and pedagogical device.

    A Deeper Layer in 56:75–76
    Allah says: “And indeed, it is a great oath — if you only knew.” This suggests: (1) The object of the oath is immense in reality, (2) Humans may not fully grasp its significance

    Some scholars even connect the “positions of the stars” with the gradual revelation of the Qur’an, linking the cosmos and revelation. That is why we should not merely correlate a Divine oath to its visible meaning but also what is invisible and what is being said to those who have wisdom and ability to reflect. 

    Let us mention Ibn Kathir, one of the eminent scholars and exegetes of Al Qur'an who mentions two major interpretations reported from earlier scholars:
    • What Does “Positions of the Stars” Mean?
      • The Literal Astronomical Meaning This view says mawāqiʿ al-nujūm refers to: (1) The places where stars rise and set, (2) Their precise orbits and positions, (3) Their ordered movement in the sky
      • According to this interpretation: (1) Allah is swearing by the immense precision and grandeur of the universe and (2) The complexity and vastness of the cosmos point to divine power.
      • The oath emphasizes the greatness of what follows (the Qur’an’s truth and nobility in 56:77).
      • Ibn Kathir notes that this view highlights how extraordinary and vast the star systems are—something humans barely comprehend.
    • The Gradual Revelation of the Qur’an
      • Another interpretation, also mentioned by Ibn Kathir and earlier authorities like Ibn ‘Abbās, connects “positions of the stars” to the stages of revelation of the Qur’an - The way it was sent down gradually over 23 years.
      • In Arabic, najm (star) can also mean something that appears in portions. So the “positions” may refer to: The specific occasions and timings when verses were revealed, The divine wisdom in spacing out revelation.
      • Under this interpretation: Allah is swearing by the precise, divinely measured way the Qur’an was revealed.
      • The oath directly reinforces the next verse: “Indeed, it is a noble Qur’an.”
    Ibn Kathir presents both interpretations without strictly limiting it to one, which is common in classical tafsir when multiple authentic reports exist.

    We have only introduced the subject with some explanation. Readers interested to expand its scope may carryout research by referring to the exegesis of Al Qur'an by eminent scholars.

    Now herein under we share a thought provoking lecture by one of the eminent scholars of present time, Nauman Ali Khan trying to explain the oats and the Divine philosophy behind these oaths for better understand:

    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.

    Photo | References: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 |

    For more Q&A about Understanding Islam, please refer to our reference page: Understanding Islam - Frequently asked Q&A. You may also refer to our refference page: Scholars' Viewpoint on important issue related to Islam to know more about Islam.

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

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

    Tuesday, 17 February 2026

    How to defend Hijab gracefully to turn barrier of Skepticism into respect and understanding

    Islam has always been and is still a religion which is viewed with skepticism and doubts in most of the non Muslim countries in the world. And Hijab of Muslim women is one of the most 'disliked' and irritating form of attire which is often downplayed and disliked by the Non Muslims, specially the women who label it as an act to harm to liberalism and freedom of women. 

    Why does it happen so? It is because non Muslims do not understand the "why" of wearing Hijab. Although the vast majority of Muslim women who wear hijab do so as a personal or religious choice, media coverage and political rhetoric have sometimes reinforced fear-based stereotypes. In fact, in her simple appearance lies a reclamation of Islam’s right to exist, and in her dignified presence there is a silent reminder of the path of Heaven amid the congestion of the earthly world.

    Media portrayals are also deliberate to focus heavily on stories of forced veiling, linking Islamic dress to conflict zones and very rarely showing  ordinary, diverse experiences of Muslim women. This imbalance can shape public perception.

    Some critics view the hijab as a symbol of female oppression. They argue that it represents patriarchal control. However, this perspective can oversimplify reality. To them is a counter question: While in some contexts, women are pressured to wear it - but what about the Muslim revert women from many European and Americas where the revert Muslim women have no pressure or compulsion to opt for Hijab - and they happily observe Hijab because they freely choose it as an expression of faith, identity, modesty, or empowerment.

    However, while Muslim men merge into the crowd on the streets for wearing the similar outfits, Muslim women wearing Hijab are easily singled out, more often than not looked at with skepticism, mocked and even sometimes their Hijab scarf snatched away by rowdy teenagers and men alike. Yet these beacon of Islam stand firmly and defend their Hijab gives them the status of modesty and humility. Many Muslim women state that wearing hijab is a personal decision tied to spirituality rather than coercion.

    Today, we share a video which teaches Muslim women how to defend their Hijab gracefully, confidently and firmly - something which usually turn barriers of skepticism and mockery into respect and understanding:

    We hope by watching this video, Muslim women will feel elevated and know how to stand tall when confronted with a mocking crowd.

    Disclaimer: The views expressed in the reference material contained in Islam: My Ultimate Decision are that of the Islamic scholars / websites. We have shared these view as added information for better understanding of Islam. The reader may or may not agree with the views owing to their own perception / faith / school of thought being followed. If any one differs with the material contained in this blog, 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 our posts all encompassing / comprehensive.

    Read more about Hijab from our reference page: What is Hijab in Islam - a broader viewpoint. You may also refer to our reference page on Women in Islam and other Reference Pages created so far, to know more about Islam.

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

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

    Friday, 13 February 2026

    Qur'an, Creation and Modern Science: Every living being made out of water

    Al-Qurʾān, the Gospel like Psalms, Torah and the Gospel, is Divine Scripture for the guidance of man. Yet those who do not believe in Al-Qurʾān and Islam, often try to question the validity of Al-Qurʾān and want to correlate it with scientific discoveries in order to accept it as a Divine Scripture. Although, no one has ever questioned the other three former Scriptures nor ever tried to pitch these against the science, they are always trying to shoot down Al-Qurʾān for not being validated by science.

    Although, this comparison is simply absurd and illogical for Divine Scriptures are meant for guidance and not being text books of science, yet Al-Qurʾān contains many a mentions which has only been validated by science more than centuries after its revelation. We have already mentioned many verses from Al-Qurʾān which have been shared in our reference page: Divine Revelations in Qur'an validated by Scientific Discoveries. Today we share two scientific discoveries mentioned in one verse of Al-Qurʾān, mentioned in the 30th verse of Surah 21.Al-Anbiyaa given herein under:

    اَوَلَمۡ يَرَ الَّذِيۡنَ كَفَرُوۡۤا اَنَّ السَّمٰوٰتِ وَالۡاَرۡضَ كَانَـتَا رَتۡقًا فَفَتَقۡنٰهُمَا​ ؕ وَجَعَلۡنَا مِنَ الۡمَآءِ كُلَّ شَىۡءٍ حَىٍّ​ ؕ اَفَلَا يُؤۡمِنُوۡنَ‏ 
    (21:30) Did the unbelievers (who do not accept the teaching of the Prophet) not realize that the heavens and the earth were one solid mass, then We tore them apart, and We made every living being out of water? Will they, then, not believe (that We created all this)?

    From the wording of the text, it appears that at first the whole universe was a single mass of matter; then it was split into different parts and the earth and the other heavenly bodies were formed and that Allah made water the cause and origin of life. 

    Explanation
    This verse contains two major cosmic statements:
    • The heavens and earth were once joined, then separated.
    • All living things were made from water.
    • Let’s examine both in light of modern scientific discovery.
     “The heavens and the earth were joined together, then We separated them”
    The Arabic Key Words in this verse are:
    • Ratqan (رَتْقًا) something that is fused, closed up, joined together
    • Fataqnāhumā (فَفَتَقْنَاهُمَا) means We split them apart, tore them asunder
    Let us find out the modern day scientific Perspective of these two key words:
    • The Big Bang Theory
      • According to modern cosmology: The universe began about 13.8 billion years ago and that all matter, energy, space, and time were compressed into a single unified state. Then a massive expansion occurred — known as the Big Bang. And the universe has been expanding ever since.
      • This theory was supported by:
        • Edwin Hubble (discovery of expanding universe)
        • Detection of Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation
        • Mathematical models from general relativity
      • The idea that the heavens and earth were once a single joined entity aligns conceptually with the modern understanding of a unified early cosmos.
      • Important note: 
        • The Qur’an is not a physics textbook. It speaks in accessible language — but its description remarkably corresponds to later scientific discoveries.
        • The Qur’ān may refer to some universal facts, like the one stated here: “The heaven and the earth were once one single entity, which We then parted asunder.” We accept this as an absolute certainty simply because it is stated in the Qur’ān. We certainly do not know how the heavens and the earth were parted, or ripped one from the other. We accept astronomical theories which are not in conflict with this general fact mentioned in the Qur’ān. What we will not do however is take up the Qur’ānic text and try to fit it to any astronomical theory. We do not seek an endorsement of the Qur’ān through human theories, because the Qur’ān states only what is certain. The most we can say is that the astronomical theory accepted today is not in conflict with the general import of this Qur’ānic statement revealed many generations prior to it.
    • “We made from water every living thing”
      • This short sentence states a great and crucial fact. Indeed, scientists shower praise on Darwin for having identified that water was the first environment where life began. It is indeed a fact that should capture all our attentions. That it is mentioned in the Qur’ān neither fills us with wonder nor increases our belief in the truth of the Qur’ān. Our belief in the absolute truth of everything it states is based on our unshakeable belief that it is God’s revelation, not on its being confirmed by scientific discoveries or theories. The most that can be said here is that on this particular point, Darwin’s evolutionary theory is not in conflict with what the Qur’ān states.
      • Modern Biological Research describes the Composition of Living Organisms of Human body being 60–70% water. The cells in human body require water for: Metabolism, DNA stability, Protein folding and Nutrient transport. That is Water is not just supportive — it is structurally essential.
    • Origin of Life in Water
      • The dominant scientific view is that (1) Life began in the ancient oceans, (2) Early biochemical reactions occurred in aqueous environments
      • The first cells were aquatic microorganisms.
      • Astrobiology today operates on one principle: Where there is water, there may be life.
      • That is why scientists search for water on Mars, Europa (moon of Jupiter), and Enceladus (moon of Saturn).
    Deeper Reflection
    This verse connects:
    • Cosmic Origin: Physical separation and Biological Origin: Life began in water
    • Cosmic Origin: Universe began unified and Biological Origin: Biological emergence
    • Cosmic Origin: Cosmic expansion and Biological Origin: Organic development
    It ends with: “Will they not then believe?” - That is this verse invites reflection, not blind acceptance.

    Important Balance
    Scholars caution that Al Qur’an is primarily a book of guidance, not science. It speaks in universal language understandable across centuries. Thus while scientific discoveries may deepen appreciation, yet faith is not dependent solely on scientific confirmation.

    Why This Is Remarkable
    One last word of explanation: This verse was revealed in the 7th-century Arabia when there was no telescopes or microscopes and no cosmological mathematics. Yet the Qur’an speaks of a unified cosmic origin and life emerging from water. These are discoveries confirmed more than a millennium later.

    This how our Creator shows us the immense depth of His wisdom which man has only recently has started to understand. Yet man a atheists still not believe as did the polytheists of Makkah when Al Qur’an was revelated. They did not believe then and the atheists still do not. That is why this verse ends with “Will they not then believe?” - That is this verse invites reflection, not blind acceptance.

    For fourteen centuries, the Qur’ān has drawn the attention of unbelievers to the great marvels God has placed in the universe, wondering how they could deny what they see everywhere: “Will they not, then, believe?” How could they persist in their disbelief when everything around them in this universe inevitably leads to faith in God, the Creator, the Wise who conducts all affairs?

    You may like to watch a video wherein Dr Zakir A Naik, a Muslim scholar of present times explaining that water is the basis of all living beings as per biology and botonny:
    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 now refer to some of the Selected verses from Sūrah 21 Al-Anbiyā (The Prophets) already published:  You may also refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

    For verses on 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 and 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 | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

    An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān 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 and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. 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, 12 February 2026

      What are the true emotional and spiritual signs of faith in Islam

      Have you ever watched a non Muslims taking Shahadah to enter the fold of Islam? If not, do watch the countless videos of reversion to Islam on the social media network and watch closely the abrupt change in the facial expression of the revert and the display of a sudden emotional outburst. This sudden emotional outburst stems from a profound sense of spiritual relief, overwhelming joy, and the immediate feeling of reconnection with the Creator. The uncontrollable gush of tears exhibits the relief one feels from the confusion that had harboured before reversion - the reversion in fact rids a person of the uncertainty of one's former belief (s) and suddenly finding how the light at the end of the tunnel really feels when falling on one's face and body.

      In fact the reverts frequently experience a release of pent-up spiritual longing, resulting in tears of happiness, a feeling of being "cleansed," and the overwhelming realization of truth. 

      The verse 2 of Surah Al-Anfāl explain the same phenomena and express the true emotional and spiritual signs of faith in Islam. 

      Before we go on to explain the verse 2, let me share my experience of emotional and spiritual reaction to one's faith when the Divine Scripture is being recited. I once had the opportunity to attend a religious congregation where the excerpts from Divine Scripture were being read. But to my amazement, a large segment of audience were not paying any attention to what was being said and despite many cautions by the preacher that everyone should silently and carefully listen to the sacred scripture, no one rally paid any heed to it. And when I compare this incident when the Al Qur'an is being recited, there is a pin drop silence among the audience. And some who really reflect on what is being recited are seen with tearful eyes. The some are the people who fit perfectly into the verse being shared herein under.

      The verse (meaning-focused translation)

      اِنَّمَا الۡمُؤۡمِنُوۡنَ الَّذِيۡنَ اِذَا ذُكِرَ اللّٰهُ وَجِلَتۡ قُلُوۡبُهُمۡ وَاِذَا تُلِيَتۡ عَلَيۡهِمۡ اٰيٰتُهٗ زَادَتۡهُمۡ اِيۡمَانًا وَّعَلٰى رَبِّهِمۡ يَتَوَكَّلُوۡنَ ​​ۖ ​ۚ‏ 
      (8:2) The true believers are those who, when Allah's name is mentioned, their hearts quake, and when His verses are recited to them their faith grows, and who put their trust in their Lord

      This short verse gives one of the most profound Qur’anic definitions of īmān (true faith) — not as a label, but as a living inner reality. Let us unpack these verses and their impact even today.

      Context of revelation (why this verse matters)
      To understand the above quoted verse, let us briefly explain when Surah Al-Anfāl was revealed and how this verse strengthened their faith during their first encounter with the polytheists of Makkah in the Battle of Badr. This was a test of faith of a very small, weak Muslim community confronting a powerful, arrogant Quraysh army.

      Despite being outnumbered, the Muslim victory came only by Allah’s help. Soon after the victory, there was a dispute on the distribution of the war spoils (anfāl). So Allah revealed this surah to correct attitudes, purify intentions and redefine what real belief looks like

      So 8:2 comes to say: Victory is not because of numbers or strategy alone. It comes from hearts that are alive with Allah.

      Structure of the verse — three signs of true īmān
      The verse gives three internal indicators, not external slogans:
      • Hearts tremble when Allah is mentioned 
        • “When Allah is mentioned, their hearts tremble (وَجِلَتۡ قُلُوۡبُهُمۡ wajilat qulūbuhum)”
        • This is khashyah combination of awe and moral consciousness, not panic. It means: (1) Awareness of Allah’s greatness (2) Sensitivity to accountability (3) Softness of heart, not hardness
      Khashyah (Arabic: خشية) is a profound, reverential fear or awe of Allah, rooted in knowledge of His greatness, power, and perfection. Unlike general fear (khawf), khashyah is a deeply conscious, respectful awe that arises from understanding God's majesty, often leading to increased devotion and avoidance of sins. 
        • Not fear of punishment only, but: (1) Reverence (2) Presence (3) Moral alertness
        • Today’s relevance: Although, there are countless Muslims around the world who bow and prostrate to Allah five times a day, recite Al Qur'an. But if when Allah’s name is taken and it No Longer (1) Moves us, (2) Corrects us and (3) Humbles us, this reflects that our īmān has become routine, not reality.
      • Faith increases with Qur’an
        • “When His verses are recited, it increases them in faith”
        • This teaches a critical principle: Īmān is not static — it grows or shrinks.
        • That means reciting Qur’an should: (1) Strengthen conviction (2) Sharpen moral clarity (3) Renew purpose, and (4) Heal doubts
          • A man's faith grows as he is able to confirm and submit to the command of God which he comes across. This is especially so where he submits to commands which go against his own personal predilections. A man's faith attains great heights if instead of trying to twist and distort the commands of God and the Prophet (peace he on him), he develops the habit of accepting and submitting to all the commands of God and the Prophet (peace be on him); if he strives to shape his conduct to the teachings which go against his personal opinions and conceptions, which are contrary to his habits, interests and convenience, which are not in consonance with his loyalties and friendships. For if he hesitates to respond positively to God's command, his faith is diminished. One thus learns that faith is not a static, immobile object. Nor is every, act of belief, or unbelief, of the same quality. An act of belief may be better or worse than another act of belief. Likewise, an act of unbelief may differ in quality from another act of unbelief. For both belief and unbelief, are capable of growth and decline.
          • All this concerns the essence of belief and unbelief. However, when belief and unbelief are mentioned as a basis for membership of the Muslim community or in connection with legal rights and responsibilities as necessary corollaries of that membership, a clear line of demarcation has to be drawn between those who believe and those who do not. In this respect the determination of who is a believer and who is not will depend on the basic minimum of belief regardless of quality of belief. In an Islamic society all those who believe will be entitled to the same legal rights and will be required to fulfil the same duties regardless of the differences in the quality of their faith. Likewise, all unbelievers - regardless of the differences in the quality of their unbelief - will be placed in the category of unbelievers disregarding the question whether their unbelief is of an ordinary quality or an extremely serious one.
        • But many today hear Qur’an as: Background sound, Cultural habit or Ritual recitation 
        • But true believers experience Qur’an as spiritual nourishment, not spiritual noise. And it really moves their hearts and stirs their soul to get closer to Allah as is expected of them.
      • Reliance on Allah (tawakkul)
        • “And upon their Lord they rely” - this is the most important part of the verse. 
        • At Badr, Muslims had: Limited weapons, resources and extremely outnumbered. So tawakkul on Allah was not merely a slogan — it was survival.
        • Tawakkul is: Not laziness or fatalism - But doing your best and then trusting Allah with the outcome.
        • Today’s relevance:
          • In a world many find assurances in Insurance, Planning, Data and Control systems and think this will safeguard their lives and interest or even beat back adversary in conflicts.
          • But this verse reminds us that Means are not gods - Allah is still Al-Wakīl "The Trustee." (Read more about this particular attribute of Allah at: 99 Attributes of Allah: Al Wakil - The Trustee)
      How this verse redefines “real Muslim”
      This verse does not define believers by: Tribe, Label, Politics,  Appearance alone and Culture. But by:
      • Heart sensitivity
      • Growth through Qur’an
      • Dependence on Allah
      This is deeply relevant in an age where Identity is loud, but spirituality is weak

      Connection with surrounding verses (8:3–4)
      Immediately after, Allah says: "They establish prayer and spend from what We provided. Those are truly the believers." (8:3–4)

      This implies that the verse 2 shows the inner state of a true believer while verses 3-4 exhibits the emotional and spirituals signs outwardly. Remember True īmān (Faith) is the finely meshed combination of Alive heart and living obedience.

      A powerful modern mirror
      Having read the meaning and relevance of the above quoted verses, one must ask honestly:
      • Does Allah’s name still soften my heart?
      • Does Qur’an still increase my certainty?
      • Do I rely on Allah — or only on systems?
      Because this verse teaches that Faith is not what you claim - but true Faith is what moves your heart and directs your trust.

      Link to your earlier themes (khashyah & knowledge)
      Before end this discussion and explanation of verse 2 (and verse 3-4) of Surah Al-Anfāl, let us just links this to other verses of Qur'an and see how these perfectly aligns with other verses of Al Qur'an:
      • 35:28: Those who truly fear Allah are people of knowledge
      • 39:9: Are those who know equal to those who don’t?
      So 8:2 shows that Knowledge leads to Khashyah and Living īmān - Not dry information.

      One-line Qur’anic definition from 8:2
      A true believer is someone whose heart responds to Allah, whose faith grows with Qur’an, and whose trust is anchored in Allah — not in the world.  Now we must ask ourselves where do we stand with regard to our emotional and spiritual attachment to our faith!!
      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 more Selected Verses from Surah 8. Al-Anfāl  - سورة ٱلْأَنْفَال  (The Spoils of War)‎
       already published. You may also refer to our exclusive reference page: Selected verses from selected Surahs of Al-Qurʾān for compiled verses from other surahs.

      For verses on 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 and 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 | Reference: | 1 | 2 | 3 |

      An effort has been made to gather explanation / exegesis of the surahs and selected verses of Al-Qurʾān 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 and views of other scholars have been incorporated while explaining meaning of a verse. 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.

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