One of the wise wrote that man positively knows that ease comes after difficulty, just as the light of day comes after the dark of night. In spite of this knowledge, the weaker part of his nature takes over when calamity strikes. A person who goes through trials should take steps to remedy his situation or else hopelessness takes control of him. Contemplating the patience of those who were tested in the past is a means of strengthening one’s determination.
He mentioned later that hardship before comfort is analogous to hunger before food: food comes at a time when it has its greatest effect on the taste buds.
Plato said:
“Hardship is as beneficial to the soul as it is unwelcome in one’s life. Comfort is as harmful to the soul as it is welcome in life.”
When someone begins to understand his purpose in life, he will know that he is being tested either to gain reward from Allah (GOD) or to gain atonement for his sins.
After reading a book written by At-Tanooki, I derived three conclusions:
1. Relief comes after hardship. This is a consistent pattern in the life of man, as consistent as the coming of morning after darkness.
2. Hardship is more beneficial to the soul of man than are comfort and ease.
3. The One who brings good and drives away evil is Allah (GOD). Know that whatever happens to you was decreed for you, and whatever you have missed out was never meant for you.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Do not grieve, This world is not worth your grief
The Prophet (Blessings and Peace be upon him) said:
“If this world were worth the wing of a mosquito to Allah (GOD), He would not have given the disbeliever (even) a drink of water.”
This world is not even worth the wing of a mosquito! If this is the worth of this world, why do we grieve over it?
“If this world were worth the wing of a mosquito to Allah (GOD), He would not have given the disbeliever (even) a drink of water.”
This world is not even worth the wing of a mosquito! If this is the worth of this world, why do we grieve over it?
Pause to reflect
There is none worthy of worship except Allah (GOD). This means that none truly deserves, or has the right to be worshipped, except Allah (GOD), the Almighty, All-High, since He alone possesses those perfect qualities that are associated with omnipotence, divinity, and godhood.
The spirit and secret of this monotheistic phrase is to single out Allah (GOD) for love, fear, hope, veneration, and glorification. It also includes our depending upon Allah (GOD) and our repenting to Him. So our love is pure for none except Him, and everyone other than Him is only loved as a by, product of our love for Him, or as a means of increasing our love for Him.
Therefore we must fear Allah (GOD) Alone, and we must depend upon Him Alone, in Him Alone do we place our hopes; and of Him Alone are we in awe. We take an oath by His name only, we repent to Him Alone, and all obedience is for Him. In times of hardship, we may invoke none but Him and we may seek refuge in none save in Him. Also, we prostrate to Him only, and when we slaughter an animal, we do it, mentioning His name only.
All of the above can be summarized in one phrase: None has the right to be worshipped except Allah (GOD). This phrase is comprehensive of all forms of worship.
The spirit and secret of this monotheistic phrase is to single out Allah (GOD) for love, fear, hope, veneration, and glorification. It also includes our depending upon Allah (GOD) and our repenting to Him. So our love is pure for none except Him, and everyone other than Him is only loved as a by, product of our love for Him, or as a means of increasing our love for Him.
Therefore we must fear Allah (GOD) Alone, and we must depend upon Him Alone, in Him Alone do we place our hopes; and of Him Alone are we in awe. We take an oath by His name only, we repent to Him Alone, and all obedience is for Him. In times of hardship, we may invoke none but Him and we may seek refuge in none save in Him. Also, we prostrate to Him only, and when we slaughter an animal, we do it, mentioning His name only.
All of the above can be summarized in one phrase: None has the right to be worshipped except Allah (GOD). This phrase is comprehensive of all forms of worship.
Despair not, Handicaps do not prevent success
An interview was published in one of the daily newspapers, with a blind man. He studied books of literature through the eyes of others. He would listen as others read to him books of history and commentaries on the classics. He used to have one of his friends read to him until 3 o’clock in the morning. Today, he is considered to be a reference book in literature and history.
One of the wise, wrote:
“Be patient with oppressors and wrongdoers for only five minutes. After a short time, the whip will fall, the shackles will break, the prisoner will be released, and the clouds will dissipate; upon you, then, is only to be patient and to wait.”
A poet wrote:
“How many calamities cause one to lose patience?
But from them, the exit is with Allah (GOD).”
I once met with the Mufti of Albania. He told me of how the ruling communists imprisoned him with hard labor for twenty years. While serving his sentence in prison, he was constantly subjected to torture, darkness, and hunger. He would secretly perform the five daily prayers in a corner of the washroom, for fear of being caught. Through all of this he was patient and anticipated his reward with Allah (GOD), until finally relief came.
Consider Nelson Mandela, the one-time President of South Africa, who for twenty-seven years endured imprisonment. He sought freedom for his people and he struggled to break off the shackles of tyranny and oppression. He was steadfast and firm, and he almost appeared to be seeking out death. As a result, he reached his goal and achieved his worldly glory.
One of the wise, wrote:
“Be patient with oppressors and wrongdoers for only five minutes. After a short time, the whip will fall, the shackles will break, the prisoner will be released, and the clouds will dissipate; upon you, then, is only to be patient and to wait.”
A poet wrote:
“How many calamities cause one to lose patience?
But from them, the exit is with Allah (GOD).”
I once met with the Mufti of Albania. He told me of how the ruling communists imprisoned him with hard labor for twenty years. While serving his sentence in prison, he was constantly subjected to torture, darkness, and hunger. He would secretly perform the five daily prayers in a corner of the washroom, for fear of being caught. Through all of this he was patient and anticipated his reward with Allah (GOD), until finally relief came.
Consider Nelson Mandela, the one-time President of South Africa, who for twenty-seven years endured imprisonment. He sought freedom for his people and he struggled to break off the shackles of tyranny and oppression. He was steadfast and firm, and he almost appeared to be seeking out death. As a result, he reached his goal and achieved his worldly glory.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
If you embrace Islam, there is no reason for you to be sad
Miserable are those souls that are ignorant of Islam or that know Islam but have not been guided to it. Today, Muslims need a slogan or advertisement to be broadcast worldwide, for Islam is a great message that must be conveyed to the masses. The words of this slogan need to be clear, concise, and inviting because the happiness of humanity as a whole lies in this true Religion.
{And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him…} (Qur’an 3: 85)
A famous caller to Islam settled in Munich, Germany some years ago. Upon reaching the entrance of this city, he noticed a large placard. Upon it was written, “You don’t know Yokohama Tires.” He later put up a sign beside it and it was just as large. He wrote on it, “You don’t know Islam. If you wish to know about it, call us at this number.” There was an inundation of calls from native Germans. In one year alone, thousands of people accepted Islam at this man’s hands. He also established a mosque, an Islamic center, and a school.
Most human beings are confused and are in dire need of this great religion. They need Islam so that a peaceful and serene life can take the place of the chaotic one that they are presently leading.
{Wherewith Allah guides all those who seek His Good Pleasure to ways of peace, and He brings them out of darkness by His Will unto light and guides them to a Straight Way [Islamic Monotheism].}
(Qur’an 5: 16)
A worshipper who was found living in a remote area, and who never had prior contact with other men, said:
“I never thought that anyone in the world worshipped other than Allah.”
{But few of My slaves are grateful.} (Qur’an 34: 13)
{And if you obey most of those on earth, they will mislead you far away from Allah’s path.} (Qur’an 6: 116)
{And most of mankind will not believe even if you desire it eagerly.} (Qur’an 12: 103)
One scholar informed me that during the time when Sudan was a colony under the British Empire, a desert nomad came to the capital city, Khartoum. When he saw a British policeman walking in the center of the city, he asked a passerby, “Who is that?” He was told that the man was a foreign policeman and that he was a disbeliever. The nomad asked, “A disbeliever in what?” “A disbeliever in Allah,” was the reply. Living in the desert for so long, this man’s inborn nature, unspoiled by evil ideas, had remained intact, and so, when he heard something so absurd, it made him astonished and sick. He said, “And does anyone disbelieve in Allah!” He then grabbed hold of his stomach and vomited from sheer disgust at what he heard.
{What is the matter with them, that they believe not?}
(Qur’an 84: 20)
{Then, by the Lord of the heaven and the earth, it is the truth [i.e. what has been promised to you], just as it is the truth that you can speak.} (Qur’an 51: 23)
One should think well of his Lord and should seek His favor and mercy. In an authentic hadith, the Prophet (bpuh) said that our Lord laughs. After hearing this, a desert Bedouin said, “We are not bereft of a Lord who laughs well.”
{And He it is Who sends down the rain after they have despaired...}
(Qur’an 42: 28)
{Surely, Allah ~ Mercy is [ever] near unto the good-doers.}
(Qur’an 7: 56)
{Yes! Certainly the Help of Allah is near!} (Qur’an 2: 214)
By reading the biographies of successful people, one finds that they have certain things in common, whether it is in their background, their qualities, or the circumstances that surrounded their success. Here are some of the conclusions I arrived at after having read some of their biographies.
1. A person’s value is based on the good he does. This is a saying of ‘Ali (may Allah be pleased with him), and it means that a person’s knowledge, character, worship, and generosity are the yardsticks by which we measure his worth.
{And verily a believing slave is better than a [free] Mushrik [idolater etc.], even though he pleases you.} (Qur’an 2: 221)
2. One’s status for this life and for the Hereafter depends on his determination, striving, and sacrifice.
{And if they had intended to march out, certainly, they would have made some preparation for it...} (Qur’an 9: 46)
{And strive hard in Allah c Cause as you ought to strive [with sincerity and with all your efforts that His Name should be superior].
(Qur’an 22: 78)
Every person, by the will of Allah, is the maker of his own history. He writes his life’s story with his good and bad deeds.
{We record that which they send before [them], and their traces [their footsteps and walking on the earth with their legs to the mosques for the five compulsory congregational prayers, Jihad (holy fighting in Allah’s Cause) and all other good and evil they did, and that which they leave behind]...} (Qur’an 36: 12)
4. Life is short and passes quickly. Do not make it shorter by sinning, by worrying, or by quarrelling.
{The Day they see it, [it will be] as if they had not tarried [in this world] except an afternoon or a morning.} (Qur’an 79: 46)
{And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him…} (Qur’an 3: 85)
A famous caller to Islam settled in Munich, Germany some years ago. Upon reaching the entrance of this city, he noticed a large placard. Upon it was written, “You don’t know Yokohama Tires.” He later put up a sign beside it and it was just as large. He wrote on it, “You don’t know Islam. If you wish to know about it, call us at this number.” There was an inundation of calls from native Germans. In one year alone, thousands of people accepted Islam at this man’s hands. He also established a mosque, an Islamic center, and a school.
Most human beings are confused and are in dire need of this great religion. They need Islam so that a peaceful and serene life can take the place of the chaotic one that they are presently leading.
{Wherewith Allah guides all those who seek His Good Pleasure to ways of peace, and He brings them out of darkness by His Will unto light and guides them to a Straight Way [Islamic Monotheism].}
(Qur’an 5: 16)
A worshipper who was found living in a remote area, and who never had prior contact with other men, said:
“I never thought that anyone in the world worshipped other than Allah.”
{But few of My slaves are grateful.} (Qur’an 34: 13)
{And if you obey most of those on earth, they will mislead you far away from Allah’s path.} (Qur’an 6: 116)
{And most of mankind will not believe even if you desire it eagerly.} (Qur’an 12: 103)
One scholar informed me that during the time when Sudan was a colony under the British Empire, a desert nomad came to the capital city, Khartoum. When he saw a British policeman walking in the center of the city, he asked a passerby, “Who is that?” He was told that the man was a foreign policeman and that he was a disbeliever. The nomad asked, “A disbeliever in what?” “A disbeliever in Allah,” was the reply. Living in the desert for so long, this man’s inborn nature, unspoiled by evil ideas, had remained intact, and so, when he heard something so absurd, it made him astonished and sick. He said, “And does anyone disbelieve in Allah!” He then grabbed hold of his stomach and vomited from sheer disgust at what he heard.
{What is the matter with them, that they believe not?}
(Qur’an 84: 20)
{Then, by the Lord of the heaven and the earth, it is the truth [i.e. what has been promised to you], just as it is the truth that you can speak.} (Qur’an 51: 23)
One should think well of his Lord and should seek His favor and mercy. In an authentic hadith, the Prophet (bpuh) said that our Lord laughs. After hearing this, a desert Bedouin said, “We are not bereft of a Lord who laughs well.”
{And He it is Who sends down the rain after they have despaired...}
(Qur’an 42: 28)
{Surely, Allah ~ Mercy is [ever] near unto the good-doers.}
(Qur’an 7: 56)
{Yes! Certainly the Help of Allah is near!} (Qur’an 2: 214)
By reading the biographies of successful people, one finds that they have certain things in common, whether it is in their background, their qualities, or the circumstances that surrounded their success. Here are some of the conclusions I arrived at after having read some of their biographies.
1. A person’s value is based on the good he does. This is a saying of ‘Ali (may Allah be pleased with him), and it means that a person’s knowledge, character, worship, and generosity are the yardsticks by which we measure his worth.
{And verily a believing slave is better than a [free] Mushrik [idolater etc.], even though he pleases you.} (Qur’an 2: 221)
2. One’s status for this life and for the Hereafter depends on his determination, striving, and sacrifice.
{And if they had intended to march out, certainly, they would have made some preparation for it...} (Qur’an 9: 46)
{And strive hard in Allah c Cause as you ought to strive [with sincerity and with all your efforts that His Name should be superior].
(Qur’an 22: 78)
Every person, by the will of Allah, is the maker of his own history. He writes his life’s story with his good and bad deeds.
{We record that which they send before [them], and their traces [their footsteps and walking on the earth with their legs to the mosques for the five compulsory congregational prayers, Jihad (holy fighting in Allah’s Cause) and all other good and evil they did, and that which they leave behind]...} (Qur’an 36: 12)
4. Life is short and passes quickly. Do not make it shorter by sinning, by worrying, or by quarrelling.
{The Day they see it, [it will be] as if they had not tarried [in this world] except an afternoon or a morning.} (Qur’an 79: 46)
Things that bring about happiness
1. Good deeds.
2. A pious wife.
3. A spacious house.
4. Sustenance that is derived and earned through honest means.
5. Good manners and a spirit of fellowship with people.
6. Being debt-free and not being a profligate spender.
2. A pious wife.
3. A spacious house.
4. Sustenance that is derived and earned through honest means.
5. Good manners and a spirit of fellowship with people.
6. Being debt-free and not being a profligate spender.
The ingredients of happiness
1. A thankful heart and a tongue that is moist with the remembrance of Allah (GOD).
A poet said:
“Thankfulness, remembrance, and patience,
In them are blessings and rewards.”
2. Another ingredient of happiness is the keeping of secrets, especially one’s own secrets. Among the Arabs there is a famous story of a Bedouin who was entrusted with a secret for a fee of twenty dinars. At first he remained true to the deal and then suddenly, in a fit of impatience, he went and returned the money, he wanted to unburden himself from the load of the secret. This is basically because secrecy requires steadfastness, patience, and willpower.
A weakness of man, which is just one of his many weak traits, is that he constantly feels the urge to reveal the details of his personal affairs to others. This sickness is an old one in the annals of history. The soul loves to spread secrets and disseminate stories. The connection between this topic and that of this book is that whoever spreads his secrets will inevitably feel regret, sadness, and misery.
A poet said:
“Thankfulness, remembrance, and patience,
In them are blessings and rewards.”
2. Another ingredient of happiness is the keeping of secrets, especially one’s own secrets. Among the Arabs there is a famous story of a Bedouin who was entrusted with a secret for a fee of twenty dinars. At first he remained true to the deal and then suddenly, in a fit of impatience, he went and returned the money, he wanted to unburden himself from the load of the secret. This is basically because secrecy requires steadfastness, patience, and willpower.
A weakness of man, which is just one of his many weak traits, is that he constantly feels the urge to reveal the details of his personal affairs to others. This sickness is an old one in the annals of history. The soul loves to spread secrets and disseminate stories. The connection between this topic and that of this book is that whoever spreads his secrets will inevitably feel regret, sadness, and misery.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
You will not die before your appointed time
For every person there is an appointed time to die, it cannot be brought forward, nor can it be held back, even if all of the creation were to join together in the attempt.
And know that hoping in other than Allah (GOD) is misery.
1. Whoever places his hopes or trust in something or someone other than Allah (GOD), then Allah will abandon him and make that thing or person the cause of his ruin.
For Fir’aun (Pharoah) it was status; for Qaaroon (Korah) it was wealth, for Umayyah it was business, for Waleed it was his child.
For Abu Jahl it was status, for Abu Lahab it was lineage, for Abu Muslim it was the throne, for Al-Mutanabbi it was fame, and for Al-Hajjaj it was power and authority.
2. Whoever seeks honor with Allah (GOD) and does righteous deeds, Allah will honor him and bestow upon him ranking even if he has no wealth, status, or noble lineage.
For Bilal it was the call to prayer, for Sulmaan it was the Hereafter, for Suhaib it was his sacrifice, and for ‘Ataa it was knowledge (may Allah be pleased with them all).
And know that hoping in other than Allah (GOD) is misery.
1. Whoever places his hopes or trust in something or someone other than Allah (GOD), then Allah will abandon him and make that thing or person the cause of his ruin.
For Fir’aun (Pharoah) it was status; for Qaaroon (Korah) it was wealth, for Umayyah it was business, for Waleed it was his child.
For Abu Jahl it was status, for Abu Lahab it was lineage, for Abu Muslim it was the throne, for Al-Mutanabbi it was fame, and for Al-Hajjaj it was power and authority.
2. Whoever seeks honor with Allah (GOD) and does righteous deeds, Allah will honor him and bestow upon him ranking even if he has no wealth, status, or noble lineage.
For Bilal it was the call to prayer, for Sulmaan it was the Hereafter, for Suhaib it was his sacrifice, and for ‘Ataa it was knowledge (may Allah be pleased with them all).
Steps to take ‘if you are fearful of a jealous person
1. Remember Allah (GOD), and supplicate to Him.
2. Hide or keep secret your affairs from the jealous person.
3. Be generous to a person who attempts to harm you, for perhaps he will then desist.
At times, one becomes afflicted with a severe trial. If he turns to his Lord and surrenders his will to Him without associating any partners with Him, his hardship will go away.
2. Hide or keep secret your affairs from the jealous person.
3. Be generous to a person who attempts to harm you, for perhaps he will then desist.
At times, one becomes afflicted with a severe trial. If he turns to his Lord and surrenders his will to Him without associating any partners with Him, his hardship will go away.
Sleepless nights
If you toss and turn during the night without being able to fall asleep, do the following:
1. Remember Allah (GOD) with Prophetic supplications.
2. Avoid sleeping during the day, except when you have no other choice.
3. Read or write until sleep comes.
4. Work hard during the day.
5. Consume stimulants such as coffee and tea in moderation.
1. Remember Allah (GOD) with Prophetic supplications.
2. Avoid sleeping during the day, except when you have no other choice.
3. Read or write until sleep comes.
4. Work hard during the day.
5. Consume stimulants such as coffee and tea in moderation.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
The evil consequences of sinning
Listed below are some of the evil consequences of sinning:
1. A barrier develops between Allah (GOD) and the evildoer.
2. When a person perpetrates evil deeds on a continual basis, he will become despondent, losing hope of being saved.
3. The evildoer often falls into a state of depression and anxiety.
4. Fear permeates the heart of the evildoer.
5. Life becomes wretched for the evildoer.
6. The heart of the evildoer blackens and becomes hard.
7. An evildoer’s face loses its light and becomes morbid.
8. People feel contempt for an evildoer.
9. The worldly circumstances of an evildoer become straitened.
10. The wrath of Allah (GOD), a decrease in faith, and calamity, all of these are the lot of the evildoer.
1. A barrier develops between Allah (GOD) and the evildoer.
2. When a person perpetrates evil deeds on a continual basis, he will become despondent, losing hope of being saved.
3. The evildoer often falls into a state of depression and anxiety.
4. Fear permeates the heart of the evildoer.
5. Life becomes wretched for the evildoer.
6. The heart of the evildoer blackens and becomes hard.
7. An evildoer’s face loses its light and becomes morbid.
8. People feel contempt for an evildoer.
9. The worldly circumstances of an evildoer become straitened.
10. The wrath of Allah (GOD), a decrease in faith, and calamity, all of these are the lot of the evildoer.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Strive for your sustenance, but don’t be covetous
The Lord of the worlds provides for the worm in the ground, Allah (GOD) provides for the birds in the sky and for the fish in the sea.
You are worthier than a worm, bird, or fish, so don’t worry about sustenance.
I have known people who were stricken by poverty simply because of their distance from Allah (GOD). Some of them were rich and healthy, but instead of being thankful they turned away from obedience to Allah (GOD), they abandoned prayer, and they perpetrated major sins. Allah (GOD) took away from them their health and their wealth, replacing these with poverty, sickness, and anxiety. They were then afflicted with hardship upon hardship, calamity upon calamity.
You are worthier than a worm, bird, or fish, so don’t worry about sustenance.
I have known people who were stricken by poverty simply because of their distance from Allah (GOD). Some of them were rich and healthy, but instead of being thankful they turned away from obedience to Allah (GOD), they abandoned prayer, and they perpetrated major sins. Allah (GOD) took away from them their health and their wealth, replacing these with poverty, sickness, and anxiety. They were then afflicted with hardship upon hardship, calamity upon calamity.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
The secret of guidance
Contentment and happiness are blessings that are given only to those who follow the straight path. By happiness we mean this, when one adheres to the straight path, though he may be afflicted with hardships along the way, he is confident of a happy ending and a future abode in Paradise. One can sense the joy of a righteous person by his mannerisms and by his treading the straight path. He knows that he has a Lord and that he has a role model in the Messenger (bpuh), he has the Book of Allah(GOD) in his hand, illumination in his heart, and a conscience that prompts him to do well. He is advancing to a greater state of bliss and is always striving for betterment.
There are two paths, one that is figurative and the other that has a physical reality. The first path is that of faith, which one treads in this transient life, a life that is fraught with temptations and desires. The second path is in the Hereafter. Every person will have to go across that second path in order to reach Paradise. Anyone who fails will plunge into the Fire. This path or bridge is teeming with spikes. Whoever is guided to the path of faith and belief in this life will safely cross the path of the Hereafter, the speed at which he crosses will be proportional to the level of his faith. And know that if one is blessed with being guided to the straight path, his worries and anxieties will quickly vanish.
There are two paths, one that is figurative and the other that has a physical reality. The first path is that of faith, which one treads in this transient life, a life that is fraught with temptations and desires. The second path is in the Hereafter. Every person will have to go across that second path in order to reach Paradise. Anyone who fails will plunge into the Fire. This path or bridge is teeming with spikes. Whoever is guided to the path of faith and belief in this life will safely cross the path of the Hereafter, the speed at which he crosses will be proportional to the level of his faith. And know that if one is blessed with being guided to the straight path, his worries and anxieties will quickly vanish.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Nine gems for a good and noble life
1. Wake up in the last third of the night to beg forgiveness from Allah(GOD).
2. At least once in a while, seclude yourself from people in order to contemplate.
3. Stay in the company of the righteous.
4. Remember Allah often.
6. Recite the Book of Allah(GOD) with understanding and reflection.
7. Fast on a hot, dry day. (“He abandons his food, drink, and desire, all for Me.”)
8. Give charity secretly. (“Until the left hand doesn’t know what the right hand has spent.”)
9. Be as abstemious and abstinent as possible in this fleeting world.
2. At least once in a while, seclude yourself from people in order to contemplate.
3. Stay in the company of the righteous.
4. Remember Allah often.
6. Recite the Book of Allah(GOD) with understanding and reflection.
7. Fast on a hot, dry day. (“He abandons his food, drink, and desire, all for Me.”)
8. Give charity secretly. (“Until the left hand doesn’t know what the right hand has spent.”)
9. Be as abstemious and abstinent as possible in this fleeting world.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Don’t be sad, Learn to deal with your reality
In this life, if you inwardly disparage something you can’t have, its value will diminish for you. And if you are contented with not getting something that you really wanted, then your heart will find solace.
I once read about a man who fell out of a window. The ring he was wearing became stuck around a nail that wasn’t nailed down completely on the ledge, and consequently, his ring finger was pulled from its root, leaving him with four fingers. The amazing thing is not the incident itself, but the contentment shown by the man long after the accident, contentment that is illustrated in the following words, “It hardly ever crosses my mind that I have four fingers on one hand or that I have lost a finger. It only comes back when I remember the accident. Otherwise, my work is going well and I am content with what happened.”
“Allah (GOD) has made His decree, and as He pleases, He does.”
I know a man who lost his left arm as a result of a disease. He has lived for many years since he got married and has children. He drives his car without difficulty and performs the various tasks of his work with ease. He is so at ease that it is as if Allah (GOD) created him with only one arm to begin with.
“Be content with what Allah (GOD) has portioned out for you and you will be the richest of people.”
How quickly we adapt to our circumstances! And it is amazing how we adapt our thinking when a change in life-style is imposed upon us. Fifty years ago, a house consisted of a carpet made from palm tree leaves, a jug for water, a small amount of coal, and a few other paltry items. People managed as they do now, and a lack of resources or comfort did not make life any less important than it is now.
A poet said :
“The soul desires more if you encourage it, But it returns to contentment when it is disciplined.”
There are many lessons to be learned. One of them is that greatness is not in appearance or clothes; other lessons are that having few material possessions is not an indication of misery and that happiness does not reside in comfort and wealth.
Another lesson we should take away from the narrative is that a person’s character and qualities are the yardsticks of his worth, and not his clothes, shoes, or house. His worth is weighed by his knowledge, generosity, manners, and deeds.
You must learned that, happiness is not found in opulence, mansions, gold, or silver; instead, happiness is something that manifests itself in the heart through faith, contentment, and knowledge.
Train yourself to surrender your will to whatever is decreed for you. What will you do if you do not believe in the decree of Allah(GOD)? Whatever you plan other than complete submission to Allah’s Divine Decree will provide no benefit for you. And so, you may ask, what is the solution to hardships?...... The solution is to say sincerely, “We are contented, pleased, and have surrendered our wills.”
Al-Khansaa an-Nakh‘aiyah was told in one breath of the death of her four boys, who all died in the path of Allah, at the battle of AlQaadisiyah. Her only reaction was to praise Allah(GOD) and thank Him for choosing what was best. Faith fortifies one’s ability to persevere through hardship. And through gratitude, one achieves happiness in this life and in the Hereafter. If you are loath to follow this advice, then ask yourself this: is there a viable alternative? If that alternative is bitterness, complaining, and a refusal to accept what has happened, then you will only bring upon yourself pain in this life and in the Hereafter.
“Whoever is contented, then for him is pleasure, and whoever (displays) anger, then for him is wrath.”
The best remedy and course of action after a calamity is to say with sincerity, “Verily, We belong to Allah(GOD) and indeed, to Him is our return.” This means that we are all from Allah’s creation, that we belong to Him, that we are in His kingdom; and that we shall return to Him. The beginning is with Him and the return is to Him. The whole affair is in the Hands of Allah(GOD).
If you were shocked to learn that your house burned down, that your son died, or that your life’s savings were lost, what would you do? From this moment, prepare yourself mentally. Trying to escape or elude what is decreed is a fruitless endeavor that brings no benefit. Be satisfied with what has been decreed, acknowledge your reality, and earn your reward. You have no other option. Sure, you might say that there is another option, but it is a base one and I warn you to stay clear from it, it is to complain and grumble, and to lose your composure by flaring into rage and anger. What can this attitude and behavior possibly accomplish? You will earn anger from your Lord, and people will revile you. Furthermore, what you have lost will not return and your calamity will not be lightened for you.
I once read about a man who fell out of a window. The ring he was wearing became stuck around a nail that wasn’t nailed down completely on the ledge, and consequently, his ring finger was pulled from its root, leaving him with four fingers. The amazing thing is not the incident itself, but the contentment shown by the man long after the accident, contentment that is illustrated in the following words, “It hardly ever crosses my mind that I have four fingers on one hand or that I have lost a finger. It only comes back when I remember the accident. Otherwise, my work is going well and I am content with what happened.”
“Allah (GOD) has made His decree, and as He pleases, He does.”
I know a man who lost his left arm as a result of a disease. He has lived for many years since he got married and has children. He drives his car without difficulty and performs the various tasks of his work with ease. He is so at ease that it is as if Allah (GOD) created him with only one arm to begin with.
“Be content with what Allah (GOD) has portioned out for you and you will be the richest of people.”
How quickly we adapt to our circumstances! And it is amazing how we adapt our thinking when a change in life-style is imposed upon us. Fifty years ago, a house consisted of a carpet made from palm tree leaves, a jug for water, a small amount of coal, and a few other paltry items. People managed as they do now, and a lack of resources or comfort did not make life any less important than it is now.
A poet said :
“The soul desires more if you encourage it, But it returns to contentment when it is disciplined.”
There are many lessons to be learned. One of them is that greatness is not in appearance or clothes; other lessons are that having few material possessions is not an indication of misery and that happiness does not reside in comfort and wealth.
Another lesson we should take away from the narrative is that a person’s character and qualities are the yardsticks of his worth, and not his clothes, shoes, or house. His worth is weighed by his knowledge, generosity, manners, and deeds.
You must learned that, happiness is not found in opulence, mansions, gold, or silver; instead, happiness is something that manifests itself in the heart through faith, contentment, and knowledge.
Train yourself to surrender your will to whatever is decreed for you. What will you do if you do not believe in the decree of Allah(GOD)? Whatever you plan other than complete submission to Allah’s Divine Decree will provide no benefit for you. And so, you may ask, what is the solution to hardships?...... The solution is to say sincerely, “We are contented, pleased, and have surrendered our wills.”
Al-Khansaa an-Nakh‘aiyah was told in one breath of the death of her four boys, who all died in the path of Allah, at the battle of AlQaadisiyah. Her only reaction was to praise Allah(GOD) and thank Him for choosing what was best. Faith fortifies one’s ability to persevere through hardship. And through gratitude, one achieves happiness in this life and in the Hereafter. If you are loath to follow this advice, then ask yourself this: is there a viable alternative? If that alternative is bitterness, complaining, and a refusal to accept what has happened, then you will only bring upon yourself pain in this life and in the Hereafter.
“Whoever is contented, then for him is pleasure, and whoever (displays) anger, then for him is wrath.”
The best remedy and course of action after a calamity is to say with sincerity, “Verily, We belong to Allah(GOD) and indeed, to Him is our return.” This means that we are all from Allah’s creation, that we belong to Him, that we are in His kingdom; and that we shall return to Him. The beginning is with Him and the return is to Him. The whole affair is in the Hands of Allah(GOD).
If you were shocked to learn that your house burned down, that your son died, or that your life’s savings were lost, what would you do? From this moment, prepare yourself mentally. Trying to escape or elude what is decreed is a fruitless endeavor that brings no benefit. Be satisfied with what has been decreed, acknowledge your reality, and earn your reward. You have no other option. Sure, you might say that there is another option, but it is a base one and I warn you to stay clear from it, it is to complain and grumble, and to lose your composure by flaring into rage and anger. What can this attitude and behavior possibly accomplish? You will earn anger from your Lord, and people will revile you. Furthermore, what you have lost will not return and your calamity will not be lightened for you.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Don’t be sad, Sooner or later everything in this world perishes
Death is the end of us all: the oppressor and the oppressed, the mighty and the feeble, the rich and the poor. Your death is no novelty. Nations before have gone and nations after will perish.
Ibn Batoota is an arab explorer related that in the north, there is a graveyard with one thousand kings buried in it. At the entrance of this graveyard is a sign that reads:
“The Kings: ask the dirt about them, and about the great leaders, they are all bones now.”
A cause for wonder is the forgetfulness of man and how he remains heedless of death, the menace of which hangs over him day and night. Man deludes himself into thinking that he is immortal on this earth.
Ibn Batoota is an arab explorer related that in the north, there is a graveyard with one thousand kings buried in it. At the entrance of this graveyard is a sign that reads:
“The Kings: ask the dirt about them, and about the great leaders, they are all bones now.”
A cause for wonder is the forgetfulness of man and how he remains heedless of death, the menace of which hangs over him day and night. Man deludes himself into thinking that he is immortal on this earth.
Depression leads to misery
According to a newspaper reported that in 1990 two million people suffered from depression around the world. Depression is a sickness that has quietly wreaked havoc on humankind. It does not distinguish between people from the west or east, or between the rich and poor. It is a malady that attacks all kinds of people and may in certain cases lead to suicide.
Depression does not recognize or stand in awe of wealth, nobility, or power. However, it does stay aloof from the believer. Some statistics indicate that 200 million people are now suffering from depression.
The findings of a recent study showed that at least one out of every ten people has at one time or another suffered from this dangerous sickness. The danger is not restricted to adults; even the young are now susceptible to depression. Even the fetus in the womb is at risk, for a depressed mother can turn to abortion as a means of escaping from her problems.
Depression does not recognize or stand in awe of wealth, nobility, or power. However, it does stay aloof from the believer. Some statistics indicate that 200 million people are now suffering from depression.
The findings of a recent study showed that at least one out of every ten people has at one time or another suffered from this dangerous sickness. The danger is not restricted to adults; even the young are now susceptible to depression. Even the fetus in the womb is at risk, for a depressed mother can turn to abortion as a means of escaping from her problems.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Depression may lead to suicide
Reports were leaked that former President Ronald Reagan fell victim to a state of severe depression. His situation was attributed to his being over seventy years of age while still having to face tremendously stressful problems and to his having undergone periodic operations.
Many famous people, suffer from depression. It has been said that Napoleon Bonaparte, while still in exile, died in a state of depression.
Not too long ago, a German woman killed three of her children. It later became clear that her reason for doing this horrible act stemmed from her state of depression. Since she loved her children a great deal, she feared that they would have to go through the pain and hardship that she had undergone in her life. Thus, she decided to “give them comfort” and “to save each one of them” from the difficulties and vicissitudes of life. After murdering them, she took her own life.
The numbers issued by the World Health Organization indicate the severity of the situation. In 1973 it reported that three percent of the world’s population was afflicted with depression. The figures increased dramatically and in 1978 the figure was up to five percent. What might come as a surprise to some is that some studies have shown that one out of every four Americans suffers from depression. During the conference of Mental Disorders that was held in Chicago in 1981, the chairman of the conference announced that one hundred million people in the world suffer from depression. What might come as a surprise to some is that most of them were from developed countries. Other studies have even proclaimed a number of two hundred million.
It is said that, “The intelligent person is not he who is able to increase his profits, but he who transforms his losses into profits.”
things that are over and finished with should not be dwelt upon, since doing so leads only to anxiety, worry, and wastage of time.
When having no work to do, one can fill his time with many useful activities. These are some such activities doing good deeds, helping others, visiting the sick, visiting the graveyard (to remember and reflect on one’s final destination), participating in charitable work, doing physical exercise, visiting loved ones, organizing one’s affairs, and lending aid to the old, the poor, and the weak.
A poet said:
“A generous deed is singular in its sweet taste And in its beautiful appearance.”
Look through any history book and you will find among its pages stories of pain, privation, and misery.
Another poet said:
“Read History as it is filled with morals,
A Nation will sink if it knows nothing of its annals.”
An old scholar said :
“Let the days bring what they may, And be contented when a decree has come to pass, When the execution of it comes in a land of some nation, Neither earth nor sky can prevent it.”
How many times have we feared death and then nothing came of it? How many times have we felt the end near, yet we then returned stronger than before? How many times have we found ourselves in difficulties, yet after the passing of a short time were allowed to taste the sweetness of ease and relief ?
Or how many times have we been sick only to be restored to health ?
When one knows with certainty that Allah (GOD) controls everything, how then can he feel any fear of anyone other than Him? And when one fears Allah (GOD), how can he fear others alongside Him.
Another old scholar said that, with the phrase, “There is neither might nor power except with Allah (GOD),” heavy things are carried, obstacles are overcome, and honor is achieved. So remember this phrase constantly, since it is a treasure from the treasures of Paradise and a pillar of happiness and contentment.
Many famous people, suffer from depression. It has been said that Napoleon Bonaparte, while still in exile, died in a state of depression.
Not too long ago, a German woman killed three of her children. It later became clear that her reason for doing this horrible act stemmed from her state of depression. Since she loved her children a great deal, she feared that they would have to go through the pain and hardship that she had undergone in her life. Thus, she decided to “give them comfort” and “to save each one of them” from the difficulties and vicissitudes of life. After murdering them, she took her own life.
The numbers issued by the World Health Organization indicate the severity of the situation. In 1973 it reported that three percent of the world’s population was afflicted with depression. The figures increased dramatically and in 1978 the figure was up to five percent. What might come as a surprise to some is that some studies have shown that one out of every four Americans suffers from depression. During the conference of Mental Disorders that was held in Chicago in 1981, the chairman of the conference announced that one hundred million people in the world suffer from depression. What might come as a surprise to some is that most of them were from developed countries. Other studies have even proclaimed a number of two hundred million.
It is said that, “The intelligent person is not he who is able to increase his profits, but he who transforms his losses into profits.”
things that are over and finished with should not be dwelt upon, since doing so leads only to anxiety, worry, and wastage of time.
When having no work to do, one can fill his time with many useful activities. These are some such activities doing good deeds, helping others, visiting the sick, visiting the graveyard (to remember and reflect on one’s final destination), participating in charitable work, doing physical exercise, visiting loved ones, organizing one’s affairs, and lending aid to the old, the poor, and the weak.
A poet said:
“A generous deed is singular in its sweet taste And in its beautiful appearance.”
Look through any history book and you will find among its pages stories of pain, privation, and misery.
Another poet said:
“Read History as it is filled with morals,
A Nation will sink if it knows nothing of its annals.”
An old scholar said :
“Let the days bring what they may, And be contented when a decree has come to pass, When the execution of it comes in a land of some nation, Neither earth nor sky can prevent it.”
How many times have we feared death and then nothing came of it? How many times have we felt the end near, yet we then returned stronger than before? How many times have we found ourselves in difficulties, yet after the passing of a short time were allowed to taste the sweetness of ease and relief ?
Or how many times have we been sick only to be restored to health ?
When one knows with certainty that Allah (GOD) controls everything, how then can he feel any fear of anyone other than Him? And when one fears Allah (GOD), how can he fear others alongside Him.
Another old scholar said that, with the phrase, “There is neither might nor power except with Allah (GOD),” heavy things are carried, obstacles are overcome, and honor is achieved. So remember this phrase constantly, since it is a treasure from the treasures of Paradise and a pillar of happiness and contentment.
Asking Allah (GOD) for forgiveness opens locked doors
An old scholar said :
“When I am confused in my understanding of an issue in religion, I forthwith beseech Allah (GOD) to forgive me one thousand times, maybe a little more or maybe a little less. Then Allah opens what was closed for me and I come to understand.”
One way of finding inner peace is to constantly seek forgiveness from Allah (GOD). Even a sin can be a blessing if it causes the believer to turn to his Lord in repentance.
I always feel wonder when reflecting on some famous historical figures. Even though they faced hardships, it seems as if to them their hardships were as gentle as drops of water. One of these is Qays ibn ‘Aasim al-Manqari, famous among the Arabs for his patience, was once narrating a story to some of his companions, when a man came and told Qays, “Your son has been murdered. The son of so and so was the culprit.” Qays didn’t cut his story short, but instead continued relating it in a calm demeanor until he finished. Then he said, “Wash my son, shroud him, and allow me to pray over him!”
“When I am confused in my understanding of an issue in religion, I forthwith beseech Allah (GOD) to forgive me one thousand times, maybe a little more or maybe a little less. Then Allah opens what was closed for me and I come to understand.”
One way of finding inner peace is to constantly seek forgiveness from Allah (GOD). Even a sin can be a blessing if it causes the believer to turn to his Lord in repentance.
I always feel wonder when reflecting on some famous historical figures. Even though they faced hardships, it seems as if to them their hardships were as gentle as drops of water. One of these is Qays ibn ‘Aasim al-Manqari, famous among the Arabs for his patience, was once narrating a story to some of his companions, when a man came and told Qays, “Your son has been murdered. The son of so and so was the culprit.” Qays didn’t cut his story short, but instead continued relating it in a calm demeanor until he finished. Then he said, “Wash my son, shroud him, and allow me to pray over him!”
People should depend on you and not you on them
The noble hearted one works for people and does not allow them to serve him. Therefore he doesn’t embark on a project that will require him to rely upon others.
In helping others, people have a limit or point, up to which they are willing to strive and sacrifice for others. And this limit is seldom exceeded.
In helping others, people have a limit or point, up to which they are willing to strive and sacrifice for others. And this limit is seldom exceeded.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Prudence
No one spends prudently except that he is saved from having to depend on others.
A poet said:
“Save your money, for with wealth comes respect, And you can do without asking uncle or cousin.”
The philosophy that promotes extravagance in spending is false and is detrimental to one’s well being. The roots of such ideas are found in India, or originate from the ignorant among the Sufis. Must earning money honestly and spending it in a proper way. Applying these two principles is what makes one honorable through his wealth. In contrast to him is one who is inundated in debt or one who is indigent. The former is always troubled and worried that all of his possessions will be taken away from him, and the latter is continuously struggling just to find the means of staying alive.
Yet suppose it to be other than weak, and the meaning is that you should be content with having the bare necessities, and you should be satisfied with that amount of provision which saves you from having to beg or ask for people’s help. At the same time, you should be noble and self-dependent and have sufficient means to prevent you from asking others for help.
“Whoever wishes to be free from dependence on others, Allah (GOD) will make him so.”
A poet said:
“I never had my hands outstretched except to the Creator, And I never sought a dollar from one who reminds others of his favors.”
one should not be fulsome in praising people in order to receive financial assistance from them, since Allah (GOD) has guaranteed our sustenance.
A poet said:
“I have no intention of kissing someone’s hand. For me, cutting it off is better than that kiss, When one gives me a favor he enslaves me, Or if not, at least I feel ashamed.”
A poet said:
“Save your money, for with wealth comes respect, And you can do without asking uncle or cousin.”
The philosophy that promotes extravagance in spending is false and is detrimental to one’s well being. The roots of such ideas are found in India, or originate from the ignorant among the Sufis. Must earning money honestly and spending it in a proper way. Applying these two principles is what makes one honorable through his wealth. In contrast to him is one who is inundated in debt or one who is indigent. The former is always troubled and worried that all of his possessions will be taken away from him, and the latter is continuously struggling just to find the means of staying alive.
Yet suppose it to be other than weak, and the meaning is that you should be content with having the bare necessities, and you should be satisfied with that amount of provision which saves you from having to beg or ask for people’s help. At the same time, you should be noble and self-dependent and have sufficient means to prevent you from asking others for help.
“Whoever wishes to be free from dependence on others, Allah (GOD) will make him so.”
A poet said:
“I never had my hands outstretched except to the Creator, And I never sought a dollar from one who reminds others of his favors.”
one should not be fulsome in praising people in order to receive financial assistance from them, since Allah (GOD) has guaranteed our sustenance.
A poet said:
“I have no intention of kissing someone’s hand. For me, cutting it off is better than that kiss, When one gives me a favor he enslaves me, Or if not, at least I feel ashamed.”
Do not cling to other than Allah (GOD)
If Allah (GOD), the Exalted, is the One Who brings to life, causes death, and if He alone provides for all creation, why fear people or be distressed by their actions? I think that in our society much grief and anxiety is caused by our attachment to people, in seeking to please them, trying to gain their favor, striving to praise the important ones among them, and feeling wounded by their disparaging treatment. And all of this indicates a weakness in one’s belief in Allah (GOD).
A poet said:
“Would that you were pleased when life is bitter, And would that you were contented when people are angry, If your love for Allah (GOD) is true, then all else is insignificant, And all above the dirt is dirt.”
A poet said:
“Would that you were pleased when life is bitter, And would that you were contented when people are angry, If your love for Allah (GOD) is true, then all else is insignificant, And all above the dirt is dirt.”
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Doing those things that make you at peace with your self
A Pious scholar enumerated some of the factors that bring about tranquility:
1. worshipping Allah (GOD) exclusively without associating any partners with him (in worship), and without associating any partners with Him in all qualities that belong to Him alone. The disbeliever and the one who associates partners with Allah (GOD), the Almighty, are, for all effective purposes, dead and not alive.
2. Useful knowledge, because the most happy, easy-going, and contented kind of person is the scholar.
3. Good deeds. A good deed brings light both to the heart and to the face. Doing good deeds results in being blessed in one’s sustenance, and the hearts of people are naturally attracted to the doer of good.
4. Bravery, for the courageous person is firm and strong and fears Allah (GOD) alone. Difficulties and hardship neither shake nor disturb him.
5. Avoiding sins. Sinning ruins one’s peace of mind and makes one feel lonely and in the dark.
A poet said:
“I saw that sins cause the heart to die
And addiction brings disgrace to the addicted.”
6. Not being extravagant in that which is lawful. In other words, one should be moderate in speaking, sleeping, and mixing with people, and likewise one should be abstemious in one’s eating habits.
A poet said:
“O’ companion of the bed, you have slept excessively,
Don’t you know that after death is a long sleep.”
1. worshipping Allah (GOD) exclusively without associating any partners with him (in worship), and without associating any partners with Him in all qualities that belong to Him alone. The disbeliever and the one who associates partners with Allah (GOD), the Almighty, are, for all effective purposes, dead and not alive.
2. Useful knowledge, because the most happy, easy-going, and contented kind of person is the scholar.
3. Good deeds. A good deed brings light both to the heart and to the face. Doing good deeds results in being blessed in one’s sustenance, and the hearts of people are naturally attracted to the doer of good.
4. Bravery, for the courageous person is firm and strong and fears Allah (GOD) alone. Difficulties and hardship neither shake nor disturb him.
5. Avoiding sins. Sinning ruins one’s peace of mind and makes one feel lonely and in the dark.
A poet said:
“I saw that sins cause the heart to die
And addiction brings disgrace to the addicted.”
6. Not being extravagant in that which is lawful. In other words, one should be moderate in speaking, sleeping, and mixing with people, and likewise one should be abstemious in one’s eating habits.
A poet said:
“O’ companion of the bed, you have slept excessively,
Don’t you know that after death is a long sleep.”
The sweet taste of freedom
A man who had a mental disorder and an extreme anxiety problem sought advice from a doctor, who advised him, saying, “Know that no matter what the plans are that someone has for the future, there is no movement, not so much as a whisper, in this world but that it occurs by the permission of Allah (GOD).”
A scholar wrote:
“Small things are greatly magnified in the eyes of the small one, And great things are diminished in size in the eyes of the great one.”
A pious scholar wrote:
“Whoever possesses three hundred sixty loaves, a canister of oil, and one thousand six hundred dates (i.e., enough provision for one year), then none can enslave him.”
Another pious scholar once said:
“The one who is satisfied with dry bread and water will be free from slavery except the slavery to Allah (GOD).”
“My aspirations and desires enslaved me since I obeyed them,
If I had only been contented, I would have been free.”
Those who seek to make wealth or status a means to happiness will come to know in the end how futile and fruitless their efforts were.
A scholar wrote:
“Small things are greatly magnified in the eyes of the small one, And great things are diminished in size in the eyes of the great one.”
A pious scholar wrote:
“Whoever possesses three hundred sixty loaves, a canister of oil, and one thousand six hundred dates (i.e., enough provision for one year), then none can enslave him.”
Another pious scholar once said:
“The one who is satisfied with dry bread and water will be free from slavery except the slavery to Allah (GOD).”
“My aspirations and desires enslaved me since I obeyed them,
If I had only been contented, I would have been free.”
Those who seek to make wealth or status a means to happiness will come to know in the end how futile and fruitless their efforts were.
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