From: http://www.islamicity.com/
By: Dr. Jamal Badawi
Those who follow the Apostle, the unlettered Prophet, Whom they find mentioned in their own Scriptures, in the Torah and the Gospel... (Holy Qu'ran: VII - 157; Translation: Yusif Ali)
BIBLE PROPHECIES ABOUT THE ADVENT OF MUHAMMAD
Abraham is widely regarded as the Patriarch of monotheism and the common father of the Jews, Christians and Muslims. Through His second son, Isaac, came all Israelite prophets including such towering figures as Jacob, Joseph, Moses, David, Solomon and Jesus. May peace and blessings be upon them all. The advent of these great prophets was in partial fulfillment of God's promises to bless the nations of earth through the descendents of Abraham (Genesis12:2-3). Such fulfillment is wholeheartedly accepted by Muslims whose faith considers the belief in and respect of all prophets an article of faith.
BLESSINGS OF ISHMAEL AND ISAAC
Was the first born son of Abraham (Ishmael) and his descendants included in God's covenant and promise? A few verses from the Bible may help shed some light on this question;
Genesis 12:2-3 speaks of God's promise to Abraham and his descendants before any child was born to him.
Genesis 17:4 reiterates God's promise after the birth of Ishmael and before the birth of Isaac.
In Genesis, ch. 21. Isaac is specifically blessed but Ishmael was also specifically blessed and promised by God to become "a great nation" especially in Genesis 21:13, 18.
According to Deuteronomy 21:15-17 the traditional rights and privileges of the first born son are not to be affected by the social status of his mother (being a "free" woman such as Sarah, Isaac's mother, or a "Bondwoman" such as Hagar, Ishmael's mother). This is only consistent with the moral and humanitarian principles of all revealed faiths.
The full legitimacy of Ishmael as Abraham's son and "seed" and the full legitimacy of his mother, Hagar, as Abraham's wife are clearly stated in Genesis 21:13 and 16:3. After Jesus, the last Israelite messenger and prophet, it was time that God's promise to bless Ishmael and his descendants be fulfilled. Less than 600years after Jesus, came the last messenger of God, Muhammad, from the progeny of Abraham through Ishmael. God's blessing of both of the main branches of Abraham's family tree was now fullfilled. But are there additional corroborating evidence that the Bible did in fact foretell the advent of prophet Muhammad?
MUHAMMAD: The Prophet Like Unto Moses
Long time after Abraham, God's promise to send the long-awaited Messenger was repeated this time in Moses' words.In Deuteronomy 18:18, Moses spoke of the prophet to be sent by God who is:
From among the Israelite's "brethren", a reference to their Ishmaelite cousins as Ishmael was the other son of Abraham who was explicitly promised to become a "great nation".
A prophet like unto Moses. There were hardly any two prophets ,who were so much alike as Moses and Muhammad. Both were given comprehensive law code of life, both encountered their enemies and were victors in miraculous ways, both were accepted as prophets/statesmen and both migrated following conspiracies to assassinate them. Analogies between Moses and Jesus overlooks not only the above similarities but other crucial ones as well (e.g. the natural birth, family life and death of Moses and Muhammad but not of Jesus, who was regarded by His followers as the Son of God and not exclusively a messenger of God, as Moses and Muhammad were and as Muslim belief Jesus was).
THE AWAITED PROPHET WAS TO COME FROM ARABIA
Deuteronomy 33:1-2 combines references to Moses, Jesus and Muhammad. It speaks of God (i.e. God's revelation) coming from Sinai, rising from Seir (probably the village of Sa'ir near Jerusalem) and shining forth from Paran. According to Genesis 21:21, the wilderness of Paran was the place where Ishmael settled (i.e. Arabia, specifically Mecca).
Indeed the King James version of the Bible mentions the pilgrims passing through the valley of Ba'ca (another name of Mecca) in Psalms 84:4-6.
Isaiah 42:1-13 speaks of the beloved of God. His elect and messenger who will bring down a law to be awaited in the isles and who "shall not fail nor be discouraged till he have set judgement on earth." Verse 11, connects that awaited one with the descendants of Ke'dar. Who is Ke'dar? According to Genesis 25:13, Ke'dar was the second son of Ishmael, the ancestor of prophet Muhammad.
MUHAMMAD'S MIGRATION FROM MECCA TO MEDINA: PROPHECIED IN THE BIBLE?
Habakkuk 3:3 speaks of God (God's help) coming from Te'man (an Oasis North of Medina according to J. Hasting's Dictionary of the Bible), and the holy one (coming) from Paran. That holy one who under persecution migrated from Paran (Mecca) to be received enthusiastically in Medina was none but prophet Muhammad.
Indeed the incident of the migration of the prophet and his persecuted followers is vividly described in Isaiah 21:13-17. That section foretold as well about the battle of Badr in which the few ill-armed faithful miraculously defeated the "mighty" men of Ke'dar, who sought to destroy Islam and intimidate their own folks who turned -to Islam.
THE QUR'AN (KORAN) FORETOLD IN THE BIBLE?
For twenty-three years, God's words (the Qur'an) were truely put into Muhammad's mouth. He was not the "author" of the Qur'an. The Qur'an was dictated to him by Angel Gabriel who asked Muhammad to simply repeat the words of the Qur'an as he heard them. These words were then committed to memory and to writing by those who hear them during Muhammad's life time and under his supervision.
Was it a coincidence that the prophet "like unto Moses" from the "brethren" of the Israelites (i.e. from the lshmaelites) was also described as one in whose mouth God will put his words and that he will speak in the name of God, (Deuteronomy 18:18-20). Was it also a coincidence the "Paraclete" that Jesus foretold to come after Him was described as one who "shall not speak of himself, but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak (John 16:13)
Was it another coincidence that Isaiah ties between the messenger connected with Ke'dar and a new song (a scripture in a new language) to be sang unto the Lord (Isaiah 42:10-11). More explicitly, prophesies Isaiah "For with stammering lips, and another tongue, will he speak to this people" (Isaiah 28:11). This latter verse correctly describes the "stammering lips" of Prophet Muhammad reflecting the state of tension and concentration he went through at the time of revelation. Another related point is that the Qur'an was revealed in piece-meals over a span of twenty three years. It is interesting to compare this with Isaiah 28:10 whichspeaks of the same thing.
THAT PROPHET- PARACLETE- MUHAMMAD
Up to the time of Jesus (peace be upon him), the Israelites were still awaiting for that prophet like unto Moses prophecied in Deuteronomy 18:18. When John the Baptist came, they asked him if he was Christ and he said "no". They asked him if he was Elias and he said "no". Then, in apparent reference to Deuteronomy 18:18, they asked him "Art thou that Prophet" and he answered, "no". (John 1: 1 9-2 1).
In the Gospel according to John (Chapters 14, 15, 16) Jesus spoke of the "Paraclete" or comforter who will come after him, who will be sent by Father as another Paraclete, who will teach new things which the contemporaries of Jesus could not bear. While the Paraclete is described as the spirit of truth, (whose meaning resemble Muhammad's famous title Al-Amin, the trustworthy), he is identified in one verse as the Holy Ghost (John 14:26). Such a designation is however inconsistent with the profile of that Paraclete. In the words of the Dictionary of the Bible, (Ed. J. Mackenzie) "These items, it must be admitted do not give an entirely coherent picture."
Indeed history tells us that many early Christians understood the Paraclete to be a man and not a spirit. This might explain the followings who responded to some who claimed, without meeting the criteria stipulated by Jesus, to be the awaited "Paraciete".
It was Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) who was the Paraclete, Comforter, helper, admonisher sent by God after Jesus. He testified of Jesus, taught new things which could not be borne at Jesus' time, he spoke what he heard (revelation), he dwells with the believers (through his well-preserved teachings). Such teachings will remain forever because he was the last messenger of God, the only Universal Messenger to unite the whole of humanity under God and on the path of PRESERVED truth. He told of many things to come which "came to pass" in the minutest detail meeting, the criterion given by Moses to distinguish between the true prophet and the false prophets (Deuteronomy 18:22). He did reprove the world of sin, of righteousness and of judgment (John 16:8-11)
WAS THE SHIFT OF RELIGIOUS LEADERSHIP PROPHESIED?
Following the rejection of the last Israelite prophet, Jesus, it was about time that God's promise to make Ishmael a great nation be fulfilled (Genesis 21:13, 18)
In Matthew 21:19-21, Jesus spoke of the fruitless fig tree (A Biblical symbol of prophetic heritage) to be cleared after being given a last chance of three years (the duration of Jesus' ministry) to give fruit. In a later verse in the same chapter, Jesus said: "Therefore, say I unto you, The Kingdom of God shall be taken away from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruit thereof" (Matthew 21:43). That nation of Ishmael's descendants (the rejected stone in Matthew 21:42) which was victorious against all super-powers of its time as prophesied by Jesus: "And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken, but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder" (Matthew 21:44).
OUT OF CONTEXT COINCIDENCE?
Is it possible that the numerous prophecies cited here are all individually and combined out of context misinterpretations? Is the opposite true, that such infrequently studied verses fit together consistently and clearly point to the advent of the man who changed the course of human history, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Is it reasonable to conclude that all these prophecies, appearing in different books of the Bible and spoken by various prophets at different times were all coincidence? If this is so here is another strange "coincidence"!
One of the signs of the prophet to come from Paran (Mecca) is that he will come with "ten thousands of saints" (Deuteronomy 33:2 KJV). That was the number of faithful who accompanied Prophet Muhammad to Paran (Mecca) in his victorious, bloodless return to his birthplace to destroy the remaining symbols of idolatry in the Ka'bah.
Says God as quoted by Moses:
And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him. (Deuteronomy 18:19)
About the author:
Dr. Jamal Badawi was born in Egypt where he completed his undergraduate education. He completed his Ph.D. from the Indiana University and subsequently joined the faculty of Saint Mary's University in Halifax, Canada. In addition to teaching in his formal field of education (Management), he has been teaching a course on "Islamic Religious Tradition" which is part of the offerings of the Religious Studies department at the same university.Dr. Badawi has also taught a course on Islam at Stanford University (USA) and gave a series of lectures on the Quran at Oxford University (UK).Dr. Badawi is the author of several works on Islam, the last of which is 'Gender Equity in Islam'. He also researched, designed and presented 352 half hour TV programs on Islam broadcasted from several local cable stations and radio stations in the US and Canada, in addition to their use in several countries overseas. Audio and video copies of these programs were made available to users in nearly 35 countries around the world. Sets of these programs are included in the library collections of several universities.Dr. Badawi is a member of the Consultative Council of North America, a member of the Juristic Council of North America and the founder/chairman of the Islamic Information Foundation, a non-profit educational foundation registered in Canada and the US.
Prophet ISA(Jesus Christ) PBUH
Prophet ISA(Jesus Christ) PBUH will Return Part(1)
Prophet ISA(Jesus Christ) PBUH will Return Part(2)
Maryam(Mary) PBUH
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
The Throne Verse.
By: Maged Taman.
2:255 Allah! There is no God save Him, the Alive, the Eternal. Neither slumber nor sleep overtaketh Him. Unto Him belongeth whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth. Who is he that intercedeth with Him save by His leave? He knoweth that which is in front of them and that which is behind them, while they encompass nothing of His knowledge save what He will. His throne includeth the heavens and the earth, and He is never weary of preserving them. He is the Sublime, the Tremendous. اللّهُ لاَ إِلَـهَ إِلاَّ هُوَ الْحَيُّ الْقَيُّومُ لاَ تَأْخُذُهُ سِنَةٌ وَلاَ نَوْمٌ لَّهُ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الأَرْضِ مَن ذَا الَّذِي يَشْفَعُ عِنْدَهُ إِلاَّ بِإِذْنِهِ يَعْلَمُ مَا بَيْنَ أَيْدِيهِمْ وَمَا خَلْفَهُمْ وَلاَ يُحِيطُونَ بِشَيْءٍ مِّنْ عِلْمِهِ إِلاَّ بِمَا شَاء وَسِعَ كُرْسِيُّهُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضَ وَلاَ يَؤُودُهُ حِفْظُهُمَا وَهُوَ الْعَلِيُّ الْعَظِيمُ (2:255)
See the Glory of God in this great single verse:
1- God is one, no God besides him.
2- God is alive and eternal.
3- No slumber or sleep overtake him.
4- To whom belongs all in the heavens and earth.
5- No one intercedes to whom except by his permission.
6- He knows what is in front or behind people, the past and future and the elusive second between them.
7- People do not encompass any of his knowledge except by his permission.
8- His authority include the heaven and earth.
9- He is not weary of preserving them.
10- He is the sublime and tremendous.
This verse describes the glory of God as King of kings. He is like kings has throne, unlike them his throne is full of Glory as seen above. Thus He is only one God of the throne unlike the kings who are multiple and contentious. He is alive and eternal, in fact all kings will die and he will decide their eternity. He does not sleep or have a slumber like the kings of this world. He owns what is in heavens and earth, compare that by the limited possession of the kings of this world. He owns the day of judgement and no one intercedes except by his permission, unlike the kings of the world who will be judged by him in the day of judgement. He knows every thing about people the past and futures to the elusive second between them, even with best intelligence governments still can not know every thing about us. In fact the human knowledge including intelligence data is only permitted by him. In fact he can let them know certain data in certain times. His authority include the heavens and earth and not limited like the kings of the earth. In fact it is not difficult for him to maintain them. He authorizes the history and meantime he gives us the free will to do that. How he does that we do not know. Because of all of the above he is the sublime and tremendous.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVMUofvyA68
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYWd-oByZRQ&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wI9MjRVV10g&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNZ1wLq65Og
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF6xezLVggQ
2:255 Allah! There is no God save Him, the Alive, the Eternal. Neither slumber nor sleep overtaketh Him. Unto Him belongeth whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth. Who is he that intercedeth with Him save by His leave? He knoweth that which is in front of them and that which is behind them, while they encompass nothing of His knowledge save what He will. His throne includeth the heavens and the earth, and He is never weary of preserving them. He is the Sublime, the Tremendous. اللّهُ لاَ إِلَـهَ إِلاَّ هُوَ الْحَيُّ الْقَيُّومُ لاَ تَأْخُذُهُ سِنَةٌ وَلاَ نَوْمٌ لَّهُ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الأَرْضِ مَن ذَا الَّذِي يَشْفَعُ عِنْدَهُ إِلاَّ بِإِذْنِهِ يَعْلَمُ مَا بَيْنَ أَيْدِيهِمْ وَمَا خَلْفَهُمْ وَلاَ يُحِيطُونَ بِشَيْءٍ مِّنْ عِلْمِهِ إِلاَّ بِمَا شَاء وَسِعَ كُرْسِيُّهُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضَ وَلاَ يَؤُودُهُ حِفْظُهُمَا وَهُوَ الْعَلِيُّ الْعَظِيمُ (2:255)
See the Glory of God in this great single verse:
1- God is one, no God besides him.
2- God is alive and eternal.
3- No slumber or sleep overtake him.
4- To whom belongs all in the heavens and earth.
5- No one intercedes to whom except by his permission.
6- He knows what is in front or behind people, the past and future and the elusive second between them.
7- People do not encompass any of his knowledge except by his permission.
8- His authority include the heaven and earth.
9- He is not weary of preserving them.
10- He is the sublime and tremendous.
This verse describes the glory of God as King of kings. He is like kings has throne, unlike them his throne is full of Glory as seen above. Thus He is only one God of the throne unlike the kings who are multiple and contentious. He is alive and eternal, in fact all kings will die and he will decide their eternity. He does not sleep or have a slumber like the kings of this world. He owns what is in heavens and earth, compare that by the limited possession of the kings of this world. He owns the day of judgement and no one intercedes except by his permission, unlike the kings of the world who will be judged by him in the day of judgement. He knows every thing about people the past and futures to the elusive second between them, even with best intelligence governments still can not know every thing about us. In fact the human knowledge including intelligence data is only permitted by him. In fact he can let them know certain data in certain times. His authority include the heavens and earth and not limited like the kings of the earth. In fact it is not difficult for him to maintain them. He authorizes the history and meantime he gives us the free will to do that. How he does that we do not know. Because of all of the above he is the sublime and tremendous.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jVMUofvyA68
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYWd-oByZRQ&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wI9MjRVV10g&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNZ1wLq65Og
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UF6xezLVggQ
The World and the Hereafter
From: www.islamicity.com
By: Harun Yahya
Fair in the eyes of men is the love of things they covet: Women and sons; Heaped-up hoards of gold and silver; horses branded (for blood and excellence); and (wealth of) cattle and well-tilled land. Such are the possessions of this world's life; but in nearness to God is the best of the goals (To return to). Say: "Shall I give you glad tidings of things Far better than those? For the righteous are Gardens in nearness to their Lord, with rivers flowing beneath; therein is their eternal home; with companions pure (and holy); and the good pleasure of God." For in God's sight are (all) His servants. (Al- Imran 14-15)
Essentially all the attempts to seek in religion something crooked, stem from peoples' lack of understanding the reality of the Hereafter. As it is stated in the Qur'an, God has created the World as a temporary home for us. It is for testing the believers, having them purified, letting them to be worthy of heaven and witnessing the unbelievers.
The society of ignorance is in a state of deep sleep. It is clear that death is an unavoidable end and it will come sooner or later to everyone on earth. Yet, people of ignorance disregard this fact and keep it out of the agenda as much as possible. They insistently avoid thinking about it and hinder people from talking about it. Everybody leads his life as if he will never die, although most people do not deny the existence of God. When they are asked, they claim they do believe in the afterlife as well, as it is a prerequisite of being a Muslim. However their actions prove just the opposite. That is because of their lack of faith in the hereafter as it is stated in the verses as follows:
"As to these, they love the fleeting life, and put away behind them a Day (that will be) hard." (Al-Insan 27) "Thou wilt indeed find them, of all people, most greedy of life,-even more than the idolaters: Each one of them wishes He could be given a life of a thousand years: But the grant of such life will not save him from (due) punishment. For God sees well all that they do." (Al-Baqara 9)"Ah indeed! Are they in doubt concerning the Meeting with their Lord? Ah indeed! It is He that doth encompass all things!" (Fussilat 54)
Since they think their death will be an ultimate end for their being, their desire to live forever is fulfilled in another way. Most of the people of ignorance want to leave some kind of a work to make people remember them after their death. They think, by doing so, they will be living in people's minds. They are unaware how an unreasonable way of thinking it is. Instead of doing some good deeds for their afterlife, they try to leave a "name" in the world and want to be "unforgettable" after their death, which will bring no benefit to them.
"Behold, their brother Hud said to them: 'Will ye not fear (God)? I am to you a messenger worthy of all trust: So fear God and obey me. No reward do I ask of you for it: my reward is only from the Lord of the Worlds. Do ye build a landmark on every high place to amuse yourselves? And do ye get for yourselves fine buildings in the hope of living therein (for ever)?'" (Al-Shuara 124-129)"Who pileth up wealth and layeth it by, Thinking that his wealth would make him last for ever!" (Al-Humaza 2-3)
The belief of the Hereafter is a kind of consolation to repress the pain experienced during the life in the world. Even the most religious ones hold a suspicious faith. They choose to believe in it "just in case". They believe they guarantee the gardens in the hereafter. What is interesting is those who approach the hereafter with such a suspicion, claim that they are people of the gardens. The person mentioned in the chapter Al-Kahf symbolizes this general point of view of the society of ignorance;
"Set forth to them the parable of two men: for one of them We provided two gardens of grape-vines and surrounded them with date palms; in between the two We placed corn-fields. Each of those gardens brought forth its produce, and failed not in the least therein: in the midst of them We caused a river to flow. (Abundant) was the produce this man had : he said to his companion, in the course of a mutual argument: 'more wealth have I than you, and more honor and power in (my following of) men' He went into his garden in a state (of mind) unjust to his soul: He said, 'I deem not that this will ever perish. Nor do I deem that the Hour (of Judgment) will (ever) come: Even if I am brought back to my Lord, I shall surely find (there) something better in exchange.' His companion said to him, in the course of the argument with him: 'Dost thou deny Him Who created thee out of dust, then out of a sperm-drop, then fashioned thee into a man? But (I think) for my part that He is God, My Lord, and none shall I associate with my Lord. Why didst thou not, as thou went into thy garden, say: 'God's will (be done)! There is no power but with God!' If thou dost see me less than thee in wealth and sons, It may be that my Lord will give me something better than thy garden, and that He will send on thy garden thunderbolts (by way of reckoning) from heaven, making it (but) slippery sand! Or the water of the garden will run off underground so that thou wilt never be able to find it.' So his fruits (and enjoyment) were encompassed (with ruin), and he remained twisting and turning his hands over what he had spent on his property, which had (now) tumbled to pieces to its very foundations, and he could only say, 'Woe is me! Would I had never ascribed partners to my Lord and Cherisher!' Nor had he numbers to help him against God, nor was he able to deliver himself. There, the (only) protection comes from God, the True One. He is the Best to reward, and the Best to give success" (Al-Kahf 32-44)
In another chapter of the Qur'an, we see another example of a person with such a mentality. While he says "if I am brought back to my Lord..." he, in fact, confesses his suspicion of the hereafter;
"When we give him a taste of some Mercy from Ourselves, after some adversity has touched him, he is sure to say, 'This is due to my (merit): I think not that the Hour (of Judgment) will (ever) be established; but if I am brought back to my Lord, I have (much) good (stored) in His sight!' But We will show the Unbelievers the truth of all that they did, and We shall give them the taste of a severe Penalty." (Fussilat 50)
It is in fact hard to understand the reason why people of the society of ignorance insist on their blindness. If someone believes in God, then he inevitably comes to the conclusion that the hereafter also exists. God creates the human, lets him live a life, gives him countless blessings and shows a great compassion and mercy. So, why should He want to annihilate him at a certain age?
Let's remember an example given by a great Islamic scholar about this subject: Can a mother execute her child after bringing him up all through the years? In fact, a mother cares about her child a lot and she feels a great deal of compassion towards her child. She does not even think about doing him any harm, let alone wanting him to die. While these feelings have been given to her by God as the ultimate owner of compassion and any concept we know of good, how can anyone believe that God annihilates humans whom he creates and bestows with all kinds of blessings, especially when those people are thankful to him and choose to be servants of God.
Perhaps we could have a reason to think that death was an end, if good people lived endlessly on the earth while evil ones died. However as mentioned in the verse: "Every soul shall have a taste of death" (Al-Anbiya 35) God ends one's life after allowing him to live for a certain period of time. As it has been stated in the verse; "Did We not give you long enough life so that he that would should receive admonition? and (moreover) the warner came to you" (Al-Fatr 37) and this period of time is sufficient for each one of us to make a choice.
During this period of time, people should realize that their souls are immortal. God has made us want various things and He has given all what we want and need. God has created us in such a way that we feel hunger and He has bestowed us with plenty of foods on earth. He has given us the feeling of thirst and he has created water resources for humans when he created the earth. Then, in the same way, will not God let us live forever, as He has made us desire to live forever?
God has created human as His caliph on the earth and given all other created things, like the Sun, stars and the earth to his service. After all that perfect creation of God, it would be unreasonable to think that God allows mankind to live on the earth for a period of time and ends his life forever. In short, when we pass away, we do not get lost in "nothingness" but we step into our real lives.
It is very obvious for a thinking person that life in the world is temporary and a simple sample of the real life. All the beauties in the world are temporary and bare many deficiencies. The most good-looking human can keep his good outlook only for one or two decades. As he gets older and older, his physical appearance changes, his skin becomes puckered, his body loses its shape and he starts to suffer many kinds of illnesses related with aging. It is not necessary to get older to witness the shortcomings of the life of this world. His body mechanisms are built with many weaknesses. If he does not take a shower for a few days, he starts to stink. No matter how attractive he is, he has to use lavatory as every human does and has to deal with this kind of weaknesses of himself every single day all through his life.
Since people are used to all of this, they usually are not aware that these weaknesses have been given to them on purpose. They consider the presence of these weaknesses very normal and never think another way could be possible. However, God's creation is perfect. When we look at the creation of the universe, the earth, the nature and all living creatures from complex organisms to single celled structures, we clearly see that there is a perfect order and design in everything.
So, if God had willed, people would not have any weaknesses as those mentioned above. But all these deficiencies are for reminding people of the fact that they stand in need of God. They are also for reminding people that, the life in this world is only an example of the real life in the hereafter, which is free of all deficiencies.
"Know ye (all), that the life of this world is but play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting and multiplying, (in rivalry) among yourselves, riches and children. Here is a similitude: How rain and the growth which it brings forth, delight (the hearts of) the tillers; soon it withers; thou wilt see it grow yellow; then it becomes dry and crumbles away. But in the Hereafter is a Penalty severe (for the devotees of wrong). And Forgiveness from God and (His) Good Pleasure (for the devotees of God). And what is the life of this world, but goods and chattels of deception." (Al-Hadid 20)
Then, one may ask, "what is the real life like? "It is known to all that, there will be two different places in the hereafter, one for the believers, Paradise, and the other for the unbelievers, Hell. However, the society of ignorance has not abstained from producing tales about Paradise, and Hell. Therefore, we again need to refer to the Qur'an to understand the true nature of the hereafter.
By: Harun Yahya
Fair in the eyes of men is the love of things they covet: Women and sons; Heaped-up hoards of gold and silver; horses branded (for blood and excellence); and (wealth of) cattle and well-tilled land. Such are the possessions of this world's life; but in nearness to God is the best of the goals (To return to). Say: "Shall I give you glad tidings of things Far better than those? For the righteous are Gardens in nearness to their Lord, with rivers flowing beneath; therein is their eternal home; with companions pure (and holy); and the good pleasure of God." For in God's sight are (all) His servants. (Al- Imran 14-15)
Essentially all the attempts to seek in religion something crooked, stem from peoples' lack of understanding the reality of the Hereafter. As it is stated in the Qur'an, God has created the World as a temporary home for us. It is for testing the believers, having them purified, letting them to be worthy of heaven and witnessing the unbelievers.
The society of ignorance is in a state of deep sleep. It is clear that death is an unavoidable end and it will come sooner or later to everyone on earth. Yet, people of ignorance disregard this fact and keep it out of the agenda as much as possible. They insistently avoid thinking about it and hinder people from talking about it. Everybody leads his life as if he will never die, although most people do not deny the existence of God. When they are asked, they claim they do believe in the afterlife as well, as it is a prerequisite of being a Muslim. However their actions prove just the opposite. That is because of their lack of faith in the hereafter as it is stated in the verses as follows:
"As to these, they love the fleeting life, and put away behind them a Day (that will be) hard." (Al-Insan 27) "Thou wilt indeed find them, of all people, most greedy of life,-even more than the idolaters: Each one of them wishes He could be given a life of a thousand years: But the grant of such life will not save him from (due) punishment. For God sees well all that they do." (Al-Baqara 9)"Ah indeed! Are they in doubt concerning the Meeting with their Lord? Ah indeed! It is He that doth encompass all things!" (Fussilat 54)
Since they think their death will be an ultimate end for their being, their desire to live forever is fulfilled in another way. Most of the people of ignorance want to leave some kind of a work to make people remember them after their death. They think, by doing so, they will be living in people's minds. They are unaware how an unreasonable way of thinking it is. Instead of doing some good deeds for their afterlife, they try to leave a "name" in the world and want to be "unforgettable" after their death, which will bring no benefit to them.
"Behold, their brother Hud said to them: 'Will ye not fear (God)? I am to you a messenger worthy of all trust: So fear God and obey me. No reward do I ask of you for it: my reward is only from the Lord of the Worlds. Do ye build a landmark on every high place to amuse yourselves? And do ye get for yourselves fine buildings in the hope of living therein (for ever)?'" (Al-Shuara 124-129)"Who pileth up wealth and layeth it by, Thinking that his wealth would make him last for ever!" (Al-Humaza 2-3)
The belief of the Hereafter is a kind of consolation to repress the pain experienced during the life in the world. Even the most religious ones hold a suspicious faith. They choose to believe in it "just in case". They believe they guarantee the gardens in the hereafter. What is interesting is those who approach the hereafter with such a suspicion, claim that they are people of the gardens. The person mentioned in the chapter Al-Kahf symbolizes this general point of view of the society of ignorance;
"Set forth to them the parable of two men: for one of them We provided two gardens of grape-vines and surrounded them with date palms; in between the two We placed corn-fields. Each of those gardens brought forth its produce, and failed not in the least therein: in the midst of them We caused a river to flow. (Abundant) was the produce this man had : he said to his companion, in the course of a mutual argument: 'more wealth have I than you, and more honor and power in (my following of) men' He went into his garden in a state (of mind) unjust to his soul: He said, 'I deem not that this will ever perish. Nor do I deem that the Hour (of Judgment) will (ever) come: Even if I am brought back to my Lord, I shall surely find (there) something better in exchange.' His companion said to him, in the course of the argument with him: 'Dost thou deny Him Who created thee out of dust, then out of a sperm-drop, then fashioned thee into a man? But (I think) for my part that He is God, My Lord, and none shall I associate with my Lord. Why didst thou not, as thou went into thy garden, say: 'God's will (be done)! There is no power but with God!' If thou dost see me less than thee in wealth and sons, It may be that my Lord will give me something better than thy garden, and that He will send on thy garden thunderbolts (by way of reckoning) from heaven, making it (but) slippery sand! Or the water of the garden will run off underground so that thou wilt never be able to find it.' So his fruits (and enjoyment) were encompassed (with ruin), and he remained twisting and turning his hands over what he had spent on his property, which had (now) tumbled to pieces to its very foundations, and he could only say, 'Woe is me! Would I had never ascribed partners to my Lord and Cherisher!' Nor had he numbers to help him against God, nor was he able to deliver himself. There, the (only) protection comes from God, the True One. He is the Best to reward, and the Best to give success" (Al-Kahf 32-44)
In another chapter of the Qur'an, we see another example of a person with such a mentality. While he says "if I am brought back to my Lord..." he, in fact, confesses his suspicion of the hereafter;
"When we give him a taste of some Mercy from Ourselves, after some adversity has touched him, he is sure to say, 'This is due to my (merit): I think not that the Hour (of Judgment) will (ever) be established; but if I am brought back to my Lord, I have (much) good (stored) in His sight!' But We will show the Unbelievers the truth of all that they did, and We shall give them the taste of a severe Penalty." (Fussilat 50)
It is in fact hard to understand the reason why people of the society of ignorance insist on their blindness. If someone believes in God, then he inevitably comes to the conclusion that the hereafter also exists. God creates the human, lets him live a life, gives him countless blessings and shows a great compassion and mercy. So, why should He want to annihilate him at a certain age?
Let's remember an example given by a great Islamic scholar about this subject: Can a mother execute her child after bringing him up all through the years? In fact, a mother cares about her child a lot and she feels a great deal of compassion towards her child. She does not even think about doing him any harm, let alone wanting him to die. While these feelings have been given to her by God as the ultimate owner of compassion and any concept we know of good, how can anyone believe that God annihilates humans whom he creates and bestows with all kinds of blessings, especially when those people are thankful to him and choose to be servants of God.
Perhaps we could have a reason to think that death was an end, if good people lived endlessly on the earth while evil ones died. However as mentioned in the verse: "Every soul shall have a taste of death" (Al-Anbiya 35) God ends one's life after allowing him to live for a certain period of time. As it has been stated in the verse; "Did We not give you long enough life so that he that would should receive admonition? and (moreover) the warner came to you" (Al-Fatr 37) and this period of time is sufficient for each one of us to make a choice.
During this period of time, people should realize that their souls are immortal. God has made us want various things and He has given all what we want and need. God has created us in such a way that we feel hunger and He has bestowed us with plenty of foods on earth. He has given us the feeling of thirst and he has created water resources for humans when he created the earth. Then, in the same way, will not God let us live forever, as He has made us desire to live forever?
God has created human as His caliph on the earth and given all other created things, like the Sun, stars and the earth to his service. After all that perfect creation of God, it would be unreasonable to think that God allows mankind to live on the earth for a period of time and ends his life forever. In short, when we pass away, we do not get lost in "nothingness" but we step into our real lives.
It is very obvious for a thinking person that life in the world is temporary and a simple sample of the real life. All the beauties in the world are temporary and bare many deficiencies. The most good-looking human can keep his good outlook only for one or two decades. As he gets older and older, his physical appearance changes, his skin becomes puckered, his body loses its shape and he starts to suffer many kinds of illnesses related with aging. It is not necessary to get older to witness the shortcomings of the life of this world. His body mechanisms are built with many weaknesses. If he does not take a shower for a few days, he starts to stink. No matter how attractive he is, he has to use lavatory as every human does and has to deal with this kind of weaknesses of himself every single day all through his life.
Since people are used to all of this, they usually are not aware that these weaknesses have been given to them on purpose. They consider the presence of these weaknesses very normal and never think another way could be possible. However, God's creation is perfect. When we look at the creation of the universe, the earth, the nature and all living creatures from complex organisms to single celled structures, we clearly see that there is a perfect order and design in everything.
So, if God had willed, people would not have any weaknesses as those mentioned above. But all these deficiencies are for reminding people of the fact that they stand in need of God. They are also for reminding people that, the life in this world is only an example of the real life in the hereafter, which is free of all deficiencies.
"Know ye (all), that the life of this world is but play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting and multiplying, (in rivalry) among yourselves, riches and children. Here is a similitude: How rain and the growth which it brings forth, delight (the hearts of) the tillers; soon it withers; thou wilt see it grow yellow; then it becomes dry and crumbles away. But in the Hereafter is a Penalty severe (for the devotees of wrong). And Forgiveness from God and (His) Good Pleasure (for the devotees of God). And what is the life of this world, but goods and chattels of deception." (Al-Hadid 20)
Then, one may ask, "what is the real life like? "It is known to all that, there will be two different places in the hereafter, one for the believers, Paradise, and the other for the unbelievers, Hell. However, the society of ignorance has not abstained from producing tales about Paradise, and Hell. Therefore, we again need to refer to the Qur'an to understand the true nature of the hereafter.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
The Ancient Kingdom of Israel: Prophet David
From: www.islamreligion.com
By Aisha Stacey
David Kills Goliath and Gains a Kingdom.
King Saul took his army through a series of tests in order to assure that his fighting force was made up only of pious yet strong willed men. From an initial recruitment of 80,000, the army that faced Goliath and the Philistines was a mere 300. Goliath challenged any man from King Saul’s army to single, mortal combat, but the only volunteer was a small, agile youth named David. [1] When it became clear to King Saul that no other man was willing to volunteer, he gave the young David permission to face the giant Goliath. Goliath roared with laughter at the sight of the small youth, and even Saul’s own army looked incredulously at the sight.
King Saul wanted to dress David in armour and supply him with weapons however, the youth refused. He bent down, picked up a handful of pebbles, and put them in the leather pouch he wore over his shoulder. David strode towards Goliath armed with only a sling shot. Saul was worried, but David reassured him by saying that God protected him on previous occasions from attacks by a bear and a lion while he was guarding his father’s sheep. David was confident that God would protect him once again, now that he was facing a brutish giant man.
When Goliath set eyes on the lean young man armed only with a small slingshot, he roared with laughter. David calmly took a pebble from his pouch, placed it in his slingshot, and took aim. The pebble flew across the divide between them with the speed and accuracy of a well-aimed arrow. It hit Goliath on the head with great force. The giant man staggered and blood poured from the wound, he did not even have time to unsheathe his sword before he fell to the ground dead. The army behind Goliath gasped in horror mingled with disbelief and turned their backs on the battlefield. Children of Israel surged forward to reclaim the honour lost to the army of Philistines years before.
“So they routed them by God’s Leave and David killed Goliath, and God gave him (David) the kingdom (after the death of Saul and Samuel) and Prophethood, and taught him of that which He willed. And if God did not check one set of people by means of another, the earth would indeed be full of mischief. But God is full of Bounty to mankind and all that exists.” (Quran 2:251)
Prophet David’s Miraculous Qualities
At the time of fighting Goliath, David was not yet a Prophet, but after the deaths of King Saul and Prophet Samuel, he was endowed with both a kingdom and prophethood. God gave David the wisdom and the knowledge necessary to lead an empire and more importantly to lead his people, the Children of Israel, on the straight path, worshipping One God. God empowered all of His Prophets with attributes indicating their prophethood and Prophet David was given miracles and unique qualities. David was given a beautiful voice. It is said that when he recited from the book of Psalms, (known in Islam as the Zaboor) the creation around David glorified God along with him. One of the unique things about Prophet David was that he understood the language of the animals and the birds.
“Verily, We made the mountains to glorify Our Praises with him (David) in the afternoon and morning. And (so did) the birds assembled: all with him (David) did turn to God and glorify His Praises.” (Quran 38:18-19)
Prophet David was also given another miracle. Iron would become soft in his hands; He could mould it to whatever shape he desired. Humans of that time had iron but the process of using it and softening it was very difficult. God taught David a new way of making shields and body armour. Before David’s invention of linking iron together in the form of small rings, the soldiers had to wear heavy iron sheets that restricted their movements.
“And We taught him (David) the making of metal coats of mail (for battle), to protect you in your fighting. Are you then grateful?” (Quran 21:80)
David was known for his piety and devotion to worshipping One God, and he fasted every other day. Prophet Muhammad is said to have told his companions that, “The most beloved fasting to God was the fasting of Prophet David, he used to fast alternate days. And the most beloved prayer to God was the prayer of David, he used to sleep the first half of the night, and pray for one third of it and again sleep for a sixth of it.”[2]
David was a just and righteous leader who brought peace and prosperity to the Children of Israel. He is thought to have divided his working day into four parts. One for earning a living and rest. Prophet David did not live off the proceeds of his empire. He was a skilled armourer and he made and sold weapons to support himself and his family. The second part of the day was to pray and spend time contemplating the greatness of God. The third part was to deliver his sermons and the final part was devoted to listening to the problems and complaints of his subjects. David also appointed deputies to meet with the people in all corners of his empire.
Prophet David was blessed with a son, Solomon. “And to David We gave Solomon. How excellent a slave! Verily, he was ever oft returning in repentance (to Us)!” (Quran 38:30) Both men were known to be just and wise rulers. David carved an Empire for the Children of Israel and Prophet Solomon led them into a Golden Age.
Footnotes:
[1] From the Stories of the Prophets by Imam Ibn Kathir
[2] Saheeh Al-Bukhari
By Aisha Stacey
David Kills Goliath and Gains a Kingdom.
King Saul took his army through a series of tests in order to assure that his fighting force was made up only of pious yet strong willed men. From an initial recruitment of 80,000, the army that faced Goliath and the Philistines was a mere 300. Goliath challenged any man from King Saul’s army to single, mortal combat, but the only volunteer was a small, agile youth named David. [1] When it became clear to King Saul that no other man was willing to volunteer, he gave the young David permission to face the giant Goliath. Goliath roared with laughter at the sight of the small youth, and even Saul’s own army looked incredulously at the sight.
King Saul wanted to dress David in armour and supply him with weapons however, the youth refused. He bent down, picked up a handful of pebbles, and put them in the leather pouch he wore over his shoulder. David strode towards Goliath armed with only a sling shot. Saul was worried, but David reassured him by saying that God protected him on previous occasions from attacks by a bear and a lion while he was guarding his father’s sheep. David was confident that God would protect him once again, now that he was facing a brutish giant man.
When Goliath set eyes on the lean young man armed only with a small slingshot, he roared with laughter. David calmly took a pebble from his pouch, placed it in his slingshot, and took aim. The pebble flew across the divide between them with the speed and accuracy of a well-aimed arrow. It hit Goliath on the head with great force. The giant man staggered and blood poured from the wound, he did not even have time to unsheathe his sword before he fell to the ground dead. The army behind Goliath gasped in horror mingled with disbelief and turned their backs on the battlefield. Children of Israel surged forward to reclaim the honour lost to the army of Philistines years before.
“So they routed them by God’s Leave and David killed Goliath, and God gave him (David) the kingdom (after the death of Saul and Samuel) and Prophethood, and taught him of that which He willed. And if God did not check one set of people by means of another, the earth would indeed be full of mischief. But God is full of Bounty to mankind and all that exists.” (Quran 2:251)
Prophet David’s Miraculous Qualities
At the time of fighting Goliath, David was not yet a Prophet, but after the deaths of King Saul and Prophet Samuel, he was endowed with both a kingdom and prophethood. God gave David the wisdom and the knowledge necessary to lead an empire and more importantly to lead his people, the Children of Israel, on the straight path, worshipping One God. God empowered all of His Prophets with attributes indicating their prophethood and Prophet David was given miracles and unique qualities. David was given a beautiful voice. It is said that when he recited from the book of Psalms, (known in Islam as the Zaboor) the creation around David glorified God along with him. One of the unique things about Prophet David was that he understood the language of the animals and the birds.
“Verily, We made the mountains to glorify Our Praises with him (David) in the afternoon and morning. And (so did) the birds assembled: all with him (David) did turn to God and glorify His Praises.” (Quran 38:18-19)
Prophet David was also given another miracle. Iron would become soft in his hands; He could mould it to whatever shape he desired. Humans of that time had iron but the process of using it and softening it was very difficult. God taught David a new way of making shields and body armour. Before David’s invention of linking iron together in the form of small rings, the soldiers had to wear heavy iron sheets that restricted their movements.
“And We taught him (David) the making of metal coats of mail (for battle), to protect you in your fighting. Are you then grateful?” (Quran 21:80)
David was known for his piety and devotion to worshipping One God, and he fasted every other day. Prophet Muhammad is said to have told his companions that, “The most beloved fasting to God was the fasting of Prophet David, he used to fast alternate days. And the most beloved prayer to God was the prayer of David, he used to sleep the first half of the night, and pray for one third of it and again sleep for a sixth of it.”[2]
David was a just and righteous leader who brought peace and prosperity to the Children of Israel. He is thought to have divided his working day into four parts. One for earning a living and rest. Prophet David did not live off the proceeds of his empire. He was a skilled armourer and he made and sold weapons to support himself and his family. The second part of the day was to pray and spend time contemplating the greatness of God. The third part was to deliver his sermons and the final part was devoted to listening to the problems and complaints of his subjects. David also appointed deputies to meet with the people in all corners of his empire.
Prophet David was blessed with a son, Solomon. “And to David We gave Solomon. How excellent a slave! Verily, he was ever oft returning in repentance (to Us)!” (Quran 38:30) Both men were known to be just and wise rulers. David carved an Empire for the Children of Israel and Prophet Solomon led them into a Golden Age.
Footnotes:
[1] From the Stories of the Prophets by Imam Ibn Kathir
[2] Saheeh Al-Bukhari
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Mountains in The Quran
By: Maged Taman
The Mountains like the seas in the Quran mentioned in great things and not trivial things since Quran is the word of God. The glory in the Quran everywhere in the use of words, its wisdom and style. The mountains in the Quran are used as signs of creation, related to a holy places like in Mount Sinai or Mecca. It is used also to give examples to the magnificent wave of the flood of Noah and the huge clouds of Hurricanes. The most impressive will be in the day of judgment when these mountains will be blown up and away and will be like a carded wool.
1- Mountains are signs of God great creation:
77:27 And placed therein high mountains and given you to drink sweet water therein? وَجَعَلْنَا فِيهَا رَوَاسِيَ شَامِخَاتٍ وَأَسْقَيْنَاكُم مَّاء فُرَاتًا (77:27)
35:27 Seest thou not that Allah sends down rain from the sky? With it We then bring out produce of various colours. And in the mountains are tracts white and red, of various shades of colour, and black intense in hue. أَلَمْ تَرَ أَنَّ اللَّهَ أَنزَلَ مِنَ السَّمَاء مَاء فَأَخْرَجْنَا بِهِ ثَمَرَاتٍ مُّخْتَلِفًا أَلْوَانُهَا وَمِنَ الْجِبَالِ جُدَدٌ بِيضٌ وَحُمْرٌ مُّخْتَلِفٌ أَلْوَانُهَا وَغَرَابِيبُ سُودٌ (35:27)
2- The mountains are like anchors that prevent the earth from shaking: From: http://www.islam-guide.com/ the verse 78:7 the mountains as pegs: Modern earth sciences have proven that mountains have deep roots under the surface of the ground (see figure 9) and that these roots can reach several times their elevations above the surface of the ground. So the most suitable word to describe mountains on the basis of this information is the word ‘peg,’ since most of a properly set peg is hidden under the surface of the ground. The history of science tells us that the theory of mountains having deep roots was introduced only in the latter half of the nineteenth century.
Mountains also play an important role in stabilizing the crust of the earth. They hinder the shaking of the earth. God has said in the Quran:
And He has set firm mountains in the earth so that it would not shake with you... (Quran, 16:15)
Likewise, the modern theory of plate tectonics holds that mountains work as stabilizers for the earth. This knowledge about the role of mountains as stabilizers for the earth has just begun to be understood in the framework of plate tectonics since the late 1960’s
16:15 And He has set up on the earth mountains standing firm, lest it should shake with you; and rivers and roads; that ye may guide yourselves; وَأَلْقَى فِي الأَرْضِ رَوَاسِيَ أَن تَمِيدَ بِكُمْ وَأَنْهَارًا وَسُبُلاً لَّعَلَّكُمْ تَهْتَدُونَ (16:15)
78:7 And the mountains as pegs? وَالْجِبَالَ أَوْتَادًا (78:7)
3- The Quran is very powerful using the mountains as an example to give you this impression: If the mountain can understand Arabic he would rent asunder by fear of God. Similarly it could cause the mountains to move, the earth to shatter and the dead to listen. So take him seriously the speaker is God.
59:21 If We had caused this Qur'an to descend upon a mountain, thou (O Muhammad) verily hadst seen it humbled, rent asunder by the fear of Allah. Such similitudes coin We for mankind that haply they may reflect. لَوْ أَنزَلْنَا هَذَا الْقُرْآنَ عَلَى جَبَلٍ لَّرَأَيْتَهُ خَاشِعًا مُّتَصَدِّعًا مِّنْ خَشْيَةِ اللَّهِ وَتِلْكَ الْأَمْثَالُ نَضْرِبُهَا لِلنَّاسِ لَعَلَّهُمْ يَتَفَكَّرُونَ (59:21)
13:31 Had it been possible for a Lecture to cause the mountains to move, or the earth to be torn asunder, or the dead to speak, (this quran would have done so). Nay, but Allah's is the whole command. Do not those who believe know that, had Allah willed, He could have guided all mankind? As for those who disbelieve, disaster ceaseth not to strike them because of what they do, or it dwelleth near their home until the threat of Allah come to pass. Lo! Allah faileth not to keep the tryst. وَلَوْ أَنَّ قُرْآنًا سُيِّرَتْ بِهِ الْجِبَالُ أَوْ قُطِّعَتْ بِهِ الأَرْضُ أَوْ كُلِّمَ بِهِ الْمَوْتَى بَل لِّلّهِ الأَمْرُ جَمِيعًا أَفَلَمْ يَيْأَسِ الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ أَن لَّوْ يَشَاء اللّهُ لَهَدَى النَّاسَ جَمِيعًا وَلاَ يَزَالُ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ تُصِيبُهُم بِمَا صَنَعُواْ قَارِعَةٌ أَوْ تَحُلُّ قَرِيبًا مِّن دَارِهِمْ حَتَّى يَأْتِيَ وَعْدُ اللّهِ إِنَّ اللّهَ لاَ يُخْلِفُ الْمِيعَادَ (13:31)
4- The waves of the flood of Noah were like mountains:
11:42 So the Ark floated with them on the waves (towering) like mountains, and Noah called out to his son, who had separated himself (from the rest): "O my son! embark with us, and be not with the unbelievers!" وَهِيَ تَجْرِي بِهِمْ فِي مَوْجٍ كَالْجِبَالِ وَنَادَى نُوحٌ ابْنَهُ وَكَانَ فِي مَعْزِلٍ يَا بُنَيَّ ارْكَب مَّعَنَا وَلاَ تَكُن مَّعَ الْكَافِرِينَ (11:42)
5- Mountain of Sinai is glorious and holy place to the Jews and all of us: God revealed himself to Moses and raised Mount Sinai above the Israeli as a Miracle to them.
19:52 And we called him from the right side of mount (sinai), and made him draw near to Us, for mystic (converse)وَنَادَيْنَاهُ مِن جَانِبِ الطُّورِ الْأَيْمَنِ وَقَرَّبْنَاهُ نَجِيًّا (19:52)
4:154 And for their covenant we raised over them (the towering height) of mount (sinai); and (on another occasion) we said: "Enter the gate with humility"; and (once again) we commanded them: "Transgress not in the matter of the sabbath." And we took from them a solemn covenant. وَرَفَعْنَا فَوْقَهُمُ الطُّورَ بِمِيثَاقِهِمْ وَقُلْنَا لَهُمُ ادْخُلُواْ الْبَابَ سُجَّدًا وَقُلْنَا لَهُمْ لاَ تَعْدُواْ فِي السَّبْتِ وَأَخَذْنَا مِنْهُم مِّيثَاقًا غَلِيظًا (4:154)
28:46 Nor wast thou (Muhammad) at the side of (the mountain of) Tur when we called (to Moses). Yet (art thou sent) as Mercy from thy Lord, to give warning to a people to whom no warner had come before thee: in order that they may receive admonition. وَمَا كُنتَ بِجَانِبِ الطُّورِ إِذْ نَادَيْنَا وَلَكِن رَّحْمَةً مِّن رَّبِّكَ لِتُنذِرَ قَوْمًا مَّا أَتَاهُم مِّن نَّذِيرٍ مِّن قَبْلِكَ لَعَلَّهُمْ يَتَذَكَّرُونَ (28:46)
6- The praise of King David to God was reciprocated by the mountains and birds:
34:10 We bestowed Grace aforetime on David from ourselves: "O ye mountains! Sing ye back the Praises of Allah with him! and ye birds (also)! And We made the iron soft for himوَلَقَدْ آتَيْنَا دَاوُودَ مِنَّا فَضْلًا يَا جِبَالُ أَوِّبِي مَعَهُ وَالطَّيْرَ وَأَلَنَّا لَهُ الْحَدِيدَ (34:10)7- The mountains would almost fall in ruins that people ascribe a son (Jesus- PBUH) to God:
19:88 And they say: The Beneficent hath taken unto Himself a son. وَقَالُوا اتَّخَذَ الرَّحْمَنُ وَلَدًا (19:88)
19:89 Assuredly ye utter a disastrous thingلَقَدْ جِئْتُمْ شَيْئًا إِدًّا (19:89)
19:90 Whereby almost the heavens are torn, and the earth is split asunder and the mountains fall in ruins, تَكَادُ السَّمَاوَاتُ يَتَفَطَّرْنَ مِنْهُ وَتَنشَقُّ الْأَرْضُ وَتَخِرُّ الْجِبَالُ هَدًّا (19:90)
19:91 That ye ascribe unto the Beneficent a son, أَن دَعَوْا لِلرَّحْمَنِ وَلَدًا (19:91)
19:92 When it is not meet for (the Majesty of) the Beneficent that He should choose a son. -
وَمَا يَنبَغِي لِلرَّحْمَنِ أَن يَتَّخِذَ وَلَدًا (19:92)
19:93 There is none in the heavens and the earth but cometh unto the Beneficent as a slave. -
إِن كُلُّ مَن فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضِ إِلَّا آتِي الرَّحْمَنِ عَبْدًا (19:93)
19:94 Verily He knoweth them and numbereth them with (right) numbering. لَقَدْ أَحْصَاهُمْ وَعَدَّهُمْ عَدًّا (19:94)
19:95 And each one of them will come unto Him on the Day of Resurrection, alone. وَكُلُّهُمْ آتِيهِ يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ فَرْدًا (19:95)
8- The clouds can be huge in size in hurricanes so they would look like mountains:
24:43 Seest thou not that Allah makes the clouds move gently, then joins them together, then makes them into a heap? - then wilt thou see rain issue forth from their midst. And He sends down from the sky mountain masses (of clouds) wherein is hail: He strikes therewith whom He pleases and He turns it away from whom He pleases, the vivid flash of His lightning well-nigh blinds the sight. أَلَمْ تَرَ أَنَّ اللَّهَ يُزْجِي سَحَابًا ثُمَّ يُؤَلِّفُ بَيْنَهُ ثُمَّ يَجْعَلُهُ رُكَامًا فَتَرَى الْوَدْقَ يَخْرُجُ مِنْ خِلَالِهِ وَيُنَزِّلُ مِنَ السَّمَاء مِن جِبَالٍ فِيهَا مِن بَرَدٍ فَيُصِيبُ بِهِ مَن يَشَاء وَيَصْرِفُهُ عَن مَّن يَشَاء يَكَادُ سَنَا بَرْقِهِ يَذْهَبُ بِالْأَبْصَارِ (24:43)
9- Man can not reach the height of the mountains: God speaks to us through Prophet Luqman that man if to feel arrogant he is limited he can not pierce and walk through depth of earth or grow to reach the length of the mountains.
17:37 Nor walk on the earth with insolence: for thou canst not rend the earth asunder, nor reach the mountains in height. وَلاَ تَمْشِ فِي الأَرْضِ مَرَحًا إِنَّكَ لَن تَخْرِقَ الأَرْضَ وَلَن تَبْلُغَ الْجِبَالَ طُولاً (17:37)
10- The mountains will be blown away in the day of resurrection:
52:10 And the mountains move away with (awful) movement, وَتَسِيرُ الْجِبَالُ سَيْرًا (52:10)
77:10 And when the mountains are blown away, وَإِذَا الْجِبَالُ نُسِفَتْ (77:10)
101:5 And the mountains will become as carded wool. وَتَكُونُ الْجِبَالُ كَالْعِهْنِ الْمَنفُوشِ (101:5)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvbgaw972c4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpjIsSdsT6A&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J9IXs9qOUL4&feature=related
Principles of Succes
From: www.islamicity.com
By: IslamiCitySource:
rbstudios.com
According to the Quran, Prophet Muhammad was the most excellent example for all of humanity. Even non-Muslim historians recognize him to be one of the most successful personalities in history. In 1946 Reverend R Bosworth-Smith in "Mohammed & Mohammedanism." wrote about the Prophet: "Head of the state as well as the Church, he was Caesar and Pope in one; but, he was pope without the pope's claims, and Caesar without the legions of Caesar, without a standing army, without a bodyguard, without a palace, without a fixed revenue. If ever any man had the right to say that he ruled by a right divine It was Mohammad, for he had all the power without instruments and without its support. He cared not for dressing of power. The simplicity of his private life was in keeping with his public life."In 1978 Michael Hart in his book " The 100 Most Influential Persons In History", selected Prophet Muhammad as the most influential person in history and had this to say about his choice: "My choice of Muhammad to lead the list of the world's most influential persons may surprise some readers and may be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the secular and religious level... It is this unparalleled combination of secular and religious influence which I feel entitles Muhammad to be considered the most influential single figure in human history."The Prophet's words and actions show us the way to achieve success, not just in this world but in the hereafter as well. In short, the Prophet of Islam was a positive thinker in the full sense of the word. All his activities were result-oriented. He refrained from all negative elements of behavior that are counter-productive to achievement such as hate, envy, arrogance, greed, etc. All the actions of the Prophet were solely based on a pure intention to please God. By studying the life of the Prophet we can identify some of the principles of success.The First Principle: Take the easier path.This principle is well explained in a saying of A'ishah. She said: Whenever the Prophet had to choose between two options, he always opted for the easier choice. (Bukhari) To choose the easiest option means that you should evaluate your options and choose the most feasible. One who begins from this starting point will surely reach his goal.The Second Principle: See advantage in disadvantage.In the early days of Makkah, there were many problems and difficulties. At that time, a guiding verse in the Quran was revealed. It said: With every hardship there is ease, with every hardship there is ease. (94:5-6). This means that if there are some problems, there are also opportunities at the same time. The way to success is to overcome the problems and avail the opportunities.The Third Principle: Change the place of action.This principle is derived from the Hijrah. The Hijrah was not just a migration from Makkah to Madinah, it was a journey to find a more suitable place to put Islam into action. Physical migration and perseverance is an important element in establishing Justice and Peace. This also planted the roots of intellectual migration from the subjugated minds to an awakened spirit.The Fourth Principle:Make a friend out of an enemy. The Prophet of Islam was repeatedly subjected to practices of antagonism by the unbelievers. At that time, the Qur'an enjoined upon him the return of good for evil. And then, as the Quran added: You will see your direst enemy has become your closest friend. (41:34) It means that a good deed in return of a bad deed has a conquering effect over your enemies. And the life of the Prophet is a historical proof of this principle. The greatest example of amnesty was shown by the Prophet after the blood-less conquest of Makkah. All enemies of Islam were granted pardon including Hinda, the wife of Abu Soofyaan who had disemboweled the martyred body of Hamza, the Prophet's uncle. In spite of her detestable mutilation of Hamza's body, the Prophet forgave her.The Fifth Principle:Education is central to success. After the battle of Badr, about 70 of the unbelievers were taken as prisoners of war. They were educated people. The Prophet announced that if any one of them would teach ten Muslim children how to read and write he would be freed. This was the first school in the history of Islam in which all of the students were Muslims, and all of the teachers were from the enemy rank.The Sixth Principle:Don't be a dichotomous thinker. In the famous battle of Mutah, Khalid Ibn Walid decided to withdraw Muslim forces from the battlefield because he discovered that they were disproportionately outnumbered by the enemy. When they reached Madinah, some of the Muslims received them by the word 'O deserters!' The Prophet said: 'No, they are men of advancement'. Those Madinan people were thinking dichotomously, either fighting or retreating. The Prophet said that there is also a third option, and that is to avoid war and find time to strengthen yourself. Now history tells us that the Muslims, after three years of preparation, advanced again towards the Roman border and this time they won a resounding victory.The Seventh Principle:Do not engage in unnecessary confrontation.This principle is derived from the treaty of Hudaybiyyah. At that time, the unbelievers were determined to engage Muslims in fighting, because they were in an advantageous position. But the Prophet , by accepting their conditions unilaterally, entered into a pact. It was a ten-year peace treaty. Until then, the meeting ground between Muslims and non-Muslims had been on the battlefield. Now the area of conflict became that of ideological debate. Within two years, Islam emerged as victorious because of the simple reason of its ideological superiority.The Eighth Principle:Gradualism instead of radicalism. This principle is well-established by a Hadith quoted in Bukhari. A'ishah says that the first verses of the Qur'an were related mostly to Heaven and Hell. After some time when faith had taken hold in peoples hearts, God revealed specific commands to desist from unjust and self-deprecating social practices that were prevalent in the Arabian dark ages. This is a clear proof that for social changes, Islam advocates the evolutionary method, rather than the revolutionary method.The Ninth Principle:Be pragmatic in controversial matters. During the writing of the Hudaybiyyah treaty, the Prophet dictated these words: 'This is from Muhammad, the Messenger of God.' The Qurayshan delegate raised objections over these words. The Prophet promptly ordered the words to be changed to 'Muhammad, son of Abdullah'. This simple change placated the Qurayshan delegate.These are just some of the principles by which the Prophet of Islam conducted his life. His achievements have been recognized by historians as the supreme success. We would be wise to live by following his example.You have indeed in the Messenger of God a beautiful pattern (of conduct) for any one whose hope is in God and the Final Day .. (Quran 33:21) Adapted from the "Principles of Success in the Light of Sirah" by Wahiduddin Khan - Renaissance Islamic Journal
By: IslamiCitySource:
rbstudios.com
According to the Quran, Prophet Muhammad was the most excellent example for all of humanity. Even non-Muslim historians recognize him to be one of the most successful personalities in history. In 1946 Reverend R Bosworth-Smith in "Mohammed & Mohammedanism." wrote about the Prophet: "Head of the state as well as the Church, he was Caesar and Pope in one; but, he was pope without the pope's claims, and Caesar without the legions of Caesar, without a standing army, without a bodyguard, without a palace, without a fixed revenue. If ever any man had the right to say that he ruled by a right divine It was Mohammad, for he had all the power without instruments and without its support. He cared not for dressing of power. The simplicity of his private life was in keeping with his public life."In 1978 Michael Hart in his book " The 100 Most Influential Persons In History", selected Prophet Muhammad as the most influential person in history and had this to say about his choice: "My choice of Muhammad to lead the list of the world's most influential persons may surprise some readers and may be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the secular and religious level... It is this unparalleled combination of secular and religious influence which I feel entitles Muhammad to be considered the most influential single figure in human history."The Prophet's words and actions show us the way to achieve success, not just in this world but in the hereafter as well. In short, the Prophet of Islam was a positive thinker in the full sense of the word. All his activities were result-oriented. He refrained from all negative elements of behavior that are counter-productive to achievement such as hate, envy, arrogance, greed, etc. All the actions of the Prophet were solely based on a pure intention to please God. By studying the life of the Prophet we can identify some of the principles of success.The First Principle: Take the easier path.This principle is well explained in a saying of A'ishah. She said: Whenever the Prophet had to choose between two options, he always opted for the easier choice. (Bukhari) To choose the easiest option means that you should evaluate your options and choose the most feasible. One who begins from this starting point will surely reach his goal.The Second Principle: See advantage in disadvantage.In the early days of Makkah, there were many problems and difficulties. At that time, a guiding verse in the Quran was revealed. It said: With every hardship there is ease, with every hardship there is ease. (94:5-6). This means that if there are some problems, there are also opportunities at the same time. The way to success is to overcome the problems and avail the opportunities.The Third Principle: Change the place of action.This principle is derived from the Hijrah. The Hijrah was not just a migration from Makkah to Madinah, it was a journey to find a more suitable place to put Islam into action. Physical migration and perseverance is an important element in establishing Justice and Peace. This also planted the roots of intellectual migration from the subjugated minds to an awakened spirit.The Fourth Principle:Make a friend out of an enemy. The Prophet of Islam was repeatedly subjected to practices of antagonism by the unbelievers. At that time, the Qur'an enjoined upon him the return of good for evil. And then, as the Quran added: You will see your direst enemy has become your closest friend. (41:34) It means that a good deed in return of a bad deed has a conquering effect over your enemies. And the life of the Prophet is a historical proof of this principle. The greatest example of amnesty was shown by the Prophet after the blood-less conquest of Makkah. All enemies of Islam were granted pardon including Hinda, the wife of Abu Soofyaan who had disemboweled the martyred body of Hamza, the Prophet's uncle. In spite of her detestable mutilation of Hamza's body, the Prophet forgave her.The Fifth Principle:Education is central to success. After the battle of Badr, about 70 of the unbelievers were taken as prisoners of war. They were educated people. The Prophet announced that if any one of them would teach ten Muslim children how to read and write he would be freed. This was the first school in the history of Islam in which all of the students were Muslims, and all of the teachers were from the enemy rank.The Sixth Principle:Don't be a dichotomous thinker. In the famous battle of Mutah, Khalid Ibn Walid decided to withdraw Muslim forces from the battlefield because he discovered that they were disproportionately outnumbered by the enemy. When they reached Madinah, some of the Muslims received them by the word 'O deserters!' The Prophet said: 'No, they are men of advancement'. Those Madinan people were thinking dichotomously, either fighting or retreating. The Prophet said that there is also a third option, and that is to avoid war and find time to strengthen yourself. Now history tells us that the Muslims, after three years of preparation, advanced again towards the Roman border and this time they won a resounding victory.The Seventh Principle:Do not engage in unnecessary confrontation.This principle is derived from the treaty of Hudaybiyyah. At that time, the unbelievers were determined to engage Muslims in fighting, because they were in an advantageous position. But the Prophet , by accepting their conditions unilaterally, entered into a pact. It was a ten-year peace treaty. Until then, the meeting ground between Muslims and non-Muslims had been on the battlefield. Now the area of conflict became that of ideological debate. Within two years, Islam emerged as victorious because of the simple reason of its ideological superiority.The Eighth Principle:Gradualism instead of radicalism. This principle is well-established by a Hadith quoted in Bukhari. A'ishah says that the first verses of the Qur'an were related mostly to Heaven and Hell. After some time when faith had taken hold in peoples hearts, God revealed specific commands to desist from unjust and self-deprecating social practices that were prevalent in the Arabian dark ages. This is a clear proof that for social changes, Islam advocates the evolutionary method, rather than the revolutionary method.The Ninth Principle:Be pragmatic in controversial matters. During the writing of the Hudaybiyyah treaty, the Prophet dictated these words: 'This is from Muhammad, the Messenger of God.' The Qurayshan delegate raised objections over these words. The Prophet promptly ordered the words to be changed to 'Muhammad, son of Abdullah'. This simple change placated the Qurayshan delegate.These are just some of the principles by which the Prophet of Islam conducted his life. His achievements have been recognized by historians as the supreme success. We would be wise to live by following his example.You have indeed in the Messenger of God a beautiful pattern (of conduct) for any one whose hope is in God and the Final Day .. (Quran 33:21) Adapted from the "Principles of Success in the Light of Sirah" by Wahiduddin Khan - Renaissance Islamic Journal
Friday, April 17, 2009
The Unique Gift of Life
From: www.islamicity.com
By: Dr. Maher Hathout
The following is excerpted from the book "Islam 2.0" by Dr. Maher Hathout in which he shares a conversation with the Muslim youth.
Your life is a very precious gift from God. Count back to one year before your first birthday, and then try to imagine your state - your state of nothingness. You can not. You may be able to contain and grasp "things," not "nothing." You were born and came to life, not because you wanted to, but because you became. Through a decision by an authority higher than you, and through a process that you did not participate in, you came to occupy a place in existence.
With the dramatic event of your birth, you came to life with three huge realities.
First, you are unique. Nobody else is identical to you, not even your identical twin or, in this age of cloning, even your clone, because your psychological, spiritual and energetic content is poured into your physical being in a unique way. When God blows a spirit into each individual, it manifests in a special way. You are one of a kind.
Second, you are immortal. Your biological structure, which is the product of the substance of earth, will degrade and recycle in the biological cycle on earth, but your energy, soul and spirit will always be. If you appreciate your uniqueness and your immortality, your individual values, responsibility and accountability will emerge. God reminds us in the Qur'an that;"[And God shall say.'] "And now, indeed, you have come unto Us in a lonely state, even as We created you in the first instance,' and you have left behind you, all that We bestowed on you [in your lifetime]. And we do not see with you those intercessors of yours whom you supposed to have a share in Gods divinity with regard to yourselves! Indeed, all the bonds between you [and your earthly life] are now severed, and all your former fancies have forsaken you!" (6:94)"and every one of them will appear before Him on Resurrection Day in a lonely state. " (19:95)
The third reality that comes with the happy event of your birth is a cobweb of expanding circles of relationships. These are different from the countless relationships you acquire throughout your life, such as your friends, neighbors, teammates, and spouses. The first package of relationships that come with your birth day are not subject to your choice; you do not choose your parents, siblings, kin, ancestors, race, gender, place of birth or even country of origin. This category of relationships is a gift form God, you accept, appreciate, and nurture. While the acquired relationships like spouse, friends, and career need prudence.
While you will inevitably gain and lose, everything you lose may be regained, except one thing, time.
It is interesting that you probably know the exact time, date and place of when and where your birth took place, but this is only because you were told about it. What is less clear is the elusive and mystical moment you truly became aware of your existence. This blurry time, when you became cognizant that you are you, and that you actually exist, just snuck up on you. From the moment of that realization, each individual experiences life in a unique way. While you may be exposed to the same circumstances as many others, how you feel, perceive, taste, understand and react to life circumstances is unique to you.
During the predetermined length of your life, you embark on new information, experiences, and habits in which you learn and perform as a human on this planet. While you will inevitably gain and lose, everything you lose may be regained, except one thing, time. If you lose time, it is gone. Any period of time is a chunk of life, both precious and irretrievable. Based on these simple realities, you will have some basic decisions to make: Are you going to waste your life or are you going to use it? Is your life going to center around you or will you reach wider spheres of involvement and concern? Wasting life partially or totally, i.e. in one lump or in installments, all can be considered a crime close to murder or suicide, even if the gradual waste does not seem that dramatic.
There are many forms and ways to waste a lifetime. With a careful look around you, you can recognize many of them: leading an aimless and purposeless life; abusing your own body, mind and soul; eroding the environment, being shallow and inefficient; all are ways to let the wonderful opportunity that we call life slip away. A life centered on your own self is selfish and never provides fulfillment. Since human beings are interdependent, you will not be happy if surrounded by unhappiness, envy, and animosity. A life that is not dedicated to a higher cause is an elusive quest for unattainable happiness.
There are three elements to what may be described as a happy life:
a life that is fully utilized (i.e. a life of awareness and purposeful activism),
a life that is dedicated to a higher cause,
and a life that is lived in balance.
The concept of balance is very important because an imbalanced life is one that is not in harmony with the laws of nature or existence. Nature is in perfect balance and is all around us, from the orbits to the galaxies to the structure of molecules and atoms to the diversity of species to the physiology within any unit of these species. A simple example which demonstrates this point lies within your own body. Anatomically, you are a fusion of two halves in balance (eyes, ears, nostrils, limbs). The right and left brain are distinct but, through their connection, maintain balanced performance. Perfect balance further exists between the muscles of flexion and extension, the structure of your skeleton, and in the miraculous work of the endocrinal and hormonal system.
The balance that exists between the spiritual and moral, through the soul, body, and intellect, gives you the ability to see and recognize the fine lines in behavior, that if crossed, will lead to imbalance. The line that exists between courage and recklessness, caution and cowardice, saving and stinginess, honesty and rudeness, generosity and squandering, pride and arrogance.
Conversely, injustice, encroachment on the rights of others, bias and double standards all act to tilt the scale of balance and run contrary to the laws of existence and the nature of creation as manifested in the large and small creatures within the kingdom of God. God says in the Qur'an:"And the skies.' has He raised high and has devised [for all things] a measure so that you [too, 0 humanity,] might never transgress the measure [of what is right].' weigh, therefore, [your deeds] with equity, and cut not the measure short!" (55:7-9)
Within this framework of understanding and appreciation of the simple unadulterated nature of life and creation lies the true understanding of Islam. Islam is the affirmation of these basics. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) described the religion as "Deen al Fitra,Ó" meaning the way of the unadulterated original nature and as the Qur'an described:"And do, set thy face steadfastly towards the [one ever-true] faith, turning away from all that is false, in accordance with the natural disposition which God has instilled into humanity.' [for] not to allow any change to corrupt what God has thus created - this is the [purpose of the one] ever-true faith,' but most people know it not."(30:30)
Through integrating these basic realities of life with the message of God and His call to comply to His will - which is manifested in His natural laws of existence in its universality, global humanity and harmony as comprehensive, internal, and external peace - that you can become a Muslim, citizen of the world, mercy to all, guardian of justice, supporter and enjoiner of what is good, opposer of what is evil, and promoter of human dignity for all.
Only then can you cooperate with those who seek righteousness and awareness. Only then will Islam be your zone of comfort, will you come home to Islam, feel complete harmony and be liberated not shackled, lightened not burdened, natural not artificial. Only then will your life as a Muslim be to enjoy not endure, allowing you to be yourselves, not a facade.
So for the Human Race, We May Say: Happy Birthday!
Maher Hathout is a leading spokesperson for the American Muslim community, is a retired physician best known for his tireless commitment to public service. He is also the author of "In Pursuit of Justice: The Jurisprudence of Human Rights in Islam" and Jihad vs Terrorism. He serves as the senior advisor to the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC)
By: Dr. Maher Hathout
The following is excerpted from the book "Islam 2.0" by Dr. Maher Hathout in which he shares a conversation with the Muslim youth.
Your life is a very precious gift from God. Count back to one year before your first birthday, and then try to imagine your state - your state of nothingness. You can not. You may be able to contain and grasp "things," not "nothing." You were born and came to life, not because you wanted to, but because you became. Through a decision by an authority higher than you, and through a process that you did not participate in, you came to occupy a place in existence.
With the dramatic event of your birth, you came to life with three huge realities.
First, you are unique. Nobody else is identical to you, not even your identical twin or, in this age of cloning, even your clone, because your psychological, spiritual and energetic content is poured into your physical being in a unique way. When God blows a spirit into each individual, it manifests in a special way. You are one of a kind.
Second, you are immortal. Your biological structure, which is the product of the substance of earth, will degrade and recycle in the biological cycle on earth, but your energy, soul and spirit will always be. If you appreciate your uniqueness and your immortality, your individual values, responsibility and accountability will emerge. God reminds us in the Qur'an that;"[And God shall say.'] "And now, indeed, you have come unto Us in a lonely state, even as We created you in the first instance,' and you have left behind you, all that We bestowed on you [in your lifetime]. And we do not see with you those intercessors of yours whom you supposed to have a share in Gods divinity with regard to yourselves! Indeed, all the bonds between you [and your earthly life] are now severed, and all your former fancies have forsaken you!" (6:94)"and every one of them will appear before Him on Resurrection Day in a lonely state. " (19:95)
The third reality that comes with the happy event of your birth is a cobweb of expanding circles of relationships. These are different from the countless relationships you acquire throughout your life, such as your friends, neighbors, teammates, and spouses. The first package of relationships that come with your birth day are not subject to your choice; you do not choose your parents, siblings, kin, ancestors, race, gender, place of birth or even country of origin. This category of relationships is a gift form God, you accept, appreciate, and nurture. While the acquired relationships like spouse, friends, and career need prudence.
While you will inevitably gain and lose, everything you lose may be regained, except one thing, time.
It is interesting that you probably know the exact time, date and place of when and where your birth took place, but this is only because you were told about it. What is less clear is the elusive and mystical moment you truly became aware of your existence. This blurry time, when you became cognizant that you are you, and that you actually exist, just snuck up on you. From the moment of that realization, each individual experiences life in a unique way. While you may be exposed to the same circumstances as many others, how you feel, perceive, taste, understand and react to life circumstances is unique to you.
During the predetermined length of your life, you embark on new information, experiences, and habits in which you learn and perform as a human on this planet. While you will inevitably gain and lose, everything you lose may be regained, except one thing, time. If you lose time, it is gone. Any period of time is a chunk of life, both precious and irretrievable. Based on these simple realities, you will have some basic decisions to make: Are you going to waste your life or are you going to use it? Is your life going to center around you or will you reach wider spheres of involvement and concern? Wasting life partially or totally, i.e. in one lump or in installments, all can be considered a crime close to murder or suicide, even if the gradual waste does not seem that dramatic.
There are many forms and ways to waste a lifetime. With a careful look around you, you can recognize many of them: leading an aimless and purposeless life; abusing your own body, mind and soul; eroding the environment, being shallow and inefficient; all are ways to let the wonderful opportunity that we call life slip away. A life centered on your own self is selfish and never provides fulfillment. Since human beings are interdependent, you will not be happy if surrounded by unhappiness, envy, and animosity. A life that is not dedicated to a higher cause is an elusive quest for unattainable happiness.
There are three elements to what may be described as a happy life:
a life that is fully utilized (i.e. a life of awareness and purposeful activism),
a life that is dedicated to a higher cause,
and a life that is lived in balance.
The concept of balance is very important because an imbalanced life is one that is not in harmony with the laws of nature or existence. Nature is in perfect balance and is all around us, from the orbits to the galaxies to the structure of molecules and atoms to the diversity of species to the physiology within any unit of these species. A simple example which demonstrates this point lies within your own body. Anatomically, you are a fusion of two halves in balance (eyes, ears, nostrils, limbs). The right and left brain are distinct but, through their connection, maintain balanced performance. Perfect balance further exists between the muscles of flexion and extension, the structure of your skeleton, and in the miraculous work of the endocrinal and hormonal system.
The balance that exists between the spiritual and moral, through the soul, body, and intellect, gives you the ability to see and recognize the fine lines in behavior, that if crossed, will lead to imbalance. The line that exists between courage and recklessness, caution and cowardice, saving and stinginess, honesty and rudeness, generosity and squandering, pride and arrogance.
Conversely, injustice, encroachment on the rights of others, bias and double standards all act to tilt the scale of balance and run contrary to the laws of existence and the nature of creation as manifested in the large and small creatures within the kingdom of God. God says in the Qur'an:"And the skies.' has He raised high and has devised [for all things] a measure so that you [too, 0 humanity,] might never transgress the measure [of what is right].' weigh, therefore, [your deeds] with equity, and cut not the measure short!" (55:7-9)
Within this framework of understanding and appreciation of the simple unadulterated nature of life and creation lies the true understanding of Islam. Islam is the affirmation of these basics. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) described the religion as "Deen al Fitra,Ó" meaning the way of the unadulterated original nature and as the Qur'an described:"And do, set thy face steadfastly towards the [one ever-true] faith, turning away from all that is false, in accordance with the natural disposition which God has instilled into humanity.' [for] not to allow any change to corrupt what God has thus created - this is the [purpose of the one] ever-true faith,' but most people know it not."(30:30)
Through integrating these basic realities of life with the message of God and His call to comply to His will - which is manifested in His natural laws of existence in its universality, global humanity and harmony as comprehensive, internal, and external peace - that you can become a Muslim, citizen of the world, mercy to all, guardian of justice, supporter and enjoiner of what is good, opposer of what is evil, and promoter of human dignity for all.
Only then can you cooperate with those who seek righteousness and awareness. Only then will Islam be your zone of comfort, will you come home to Islam, feel complete harmony and be liberated not shackled, lightened not burdened, natural not artificial. Only then will your life as a Muslim be to enjoy not endure, allowing you to be yourselves, not a facade.
So for the Human Race, We May Say: Happy Birthday!
Maher Hathout is a leading spokesperson for the American Muslim community, is a retired physician best known for his tireless commitment to public service. He is also the author of "In Pursuit of Justice: The Jurisprudence of Human Rights in Islam" and Jihad vs Terrorism. He serves as the senior advisor to the Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC)
Thursday, April 16, 2009
The ICNA-MAS 34th Annual Convention being held May 23 -25, 2009 at the Hartford Convention Center in Hartford
There are more reasons than ever to attend the ICNA-MAS 34th Annual Convention being held May 23 -25, 2009 at the Hartford Convention Center in Hartford, Connecticut. This year’s theme is “Global Crisis — Islamic Solution”. Ultimately a global crisis requires a global solution. Find out what Islam can offer to stabilize the global turmoil.
The convention puts you in front of world renowned scholars with solutions designed specifically to address the crisis American Muslims are facing today. A weekend at the ICNA-MAS convention will put at your fingertips a holistic view of today’s most challenging issues and insight into Islamic Solutions.
Discover innovative ways to prepare for today’s challenges at the ultimate information exchange. Whether you’re a novice or guru, customer or partner, you will benefit from a total immersion in this world of information.
Learn directly from Islamic scholars and experts from various disciplines including, religion, economics, finance, social work, child psychology, law, education, and many more. The ICNA-MAS convention offers over 50+ breakout sessions and a comprehensive agenda that includes keynotes, lectures, hands-on workshops, interfaith dialogue, matrimonial services, halal food, cultural bazaar and even Islamic entertainment.
Challenge your Islamic knowledge and expertise with a wide array of thought provoking topics and break-out sessions ranging from novice to expert.Explore the cultural bazaar with over 220+ exhibitors in the pavilion, featuring books, hijaabs, clothing, Islamic CD’s and much more at discount prices.
Connect with tens of thousands of your Muslim brothers and sisters from all over America who participate every year in this colossal event.
Hurry! Time is running out for early-bird registration to receive a 15% discount! Register by May 14 to avoid long lines and receive your registration badges in the mail.
A view of the beautiful city of Hartford
This Year’s Spotlight
Topics Include:
· Financial and Economic Turmoil
· Social and Environmental Issues
· Civil Rights and Media
· Parallel Youth and Sister Sessions
· Community Development
· Spiritual Development
· Programs in Ethnic Languages
· ...and much much more!!!
For more information visit www.icnaconvention.org or call 718-658-1199 ext 127
The convention puts you in front of world renowned scholars with solutions designed specifically to address the crisis American Muslims are facing today. A weekend at the ICNA-MAS convention will put at your fingertips a holistic view of today’s most challenging issues and insight into Islamic Solutions.
Discover innovative ways to prepare for today’s challenges at the ultimate information exchange. Whether you’re a novice or guru, customer or partner, you will benefit from a total immersion in this world of information.
Learn directly from Islamic scholars and experts from various disciplines including, religion, economics, finance, social work, child psychology, law, education, and many more. The ICNA-MAS convention offers over 50+ breakout sessions and a comprehensive agenda that includes keynotes, lectures, hands-on workshops, interfaith dialogue, matrimonial services, halal food, cultural bazaar and even Islamic entertainment.
Challenge your Islamic knowledge and expertise with a wide array of thought provoking topics and break-out sessions ranging from novice to expert.Explore the cultural bazaar with over 220+ exhibitors in the pavilion, featuring books, hijaabs, clothing, Islamic CD’s and much more at discount prices.
Connect with tens of thousands of your Muslim brothers and sisters from all over America who participate every year in this colossal event.
Hurry! Time is running out for early-bird registration to receive a 15% discount! Register by May 14 to avoid long lines and receive your registration badges in the mail.
A view of the beautiful city of Hartford
This Year’s Spotlight
Topics Include:
· Financial and Economic Turmoil
· Social and Environmental Issues
· Civil Rights and Media
· Parallel Youth and Sister Sessions
· Community Development
· Spiritual Development
· Programs in Ethnic Languages
· ...and much much more!!!
For more information visit www.icnaconvention.org or call 718-658-1199 ext 127
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Tafsir of Surah an Naba - The News (Surah 78)
by Shaykh 'Abdur-Rahmân ibn Nâsir as-Sa'dî (d. 1383 AH / n/a CE)
Translated by Abû Rumaysah
The Seventy-Eighth Chapter The News
1) Concerning what are they asking each other? 2) Concerning the momentous News, 3) about which they are in disagreement. 4) Nay, but they will soon know! 5) Nay, again, but they will soon know!
“Concerning what are they asking each other?” about what are those who deny the Signs of Allāh asking each other? The answer is then clarified in His saying“Concerning the momentous News, about which they are in disagreement” about which they had lengthy debate and the discord of which had spread far and wide, this by way of denial and declaring the news to be highly unlikely. However this news is not something that is open to uncertainty and does not allow doubt to enter it. Therefore the reality is that those who deny the meeting with their Lord will never believe, even if every Sign comes to them, until they themselves see the Painful Punishment. “Nay, but they will soon know! Nay, again, but they will soon know!” they will soon know what they used to deny when the punishments descends upon them, that time when they are“flung (disdainfully) into the Fire of Hell”;[1] it will be said to them,“This is the Fire which you were wont to deny!”[2]
6) Have We not made the earth a leveled carpet, 7) and the mountains as pegs, 8) and We have created you in pairs, 9) and have appointed your sleep as a cessation,[*] 10) and have appointed the night as a cloak, 11) and have appointed the day for earning a livelihood, 12) and We have built above you seven mighty ones, 13) and placed (therein) a dazzling lamp, 14) and have sent down from the rain-laden clouds[**] abundant water; 15) that We may bring forth thereby grain and plant; 16) and gardens of luxurious growth?
* Another interpretation is, “as a means of stretching/distending.” [Qurţubi]
** Another interpretation is “and have sent down, resulting from wind (driving the clouds), abundant water.” [Abū Ĥayyān]
Then Allāh, Transcendent is He!, mentions His blessings and the evidences pointing to the truth of His Messengers. He says, “Have We not made the earth a leveled carpet,”have we not granted you magnificent blessings such as leveling the earth and making it subservient to you? Have we not subjected it to you that you may extract benefit from it of crops, residence, and roadways? “And the mountains as pegs,” making firm the earth so that it does not shake and sway under you. “And We have created you in pairs,” male and female, of the same type, that one may find rest with the other, that love and mercy may ensue as a result of which offspring are given birth; the pleasure in the act of marital relations being yet another blessing. “And have appointed your sleep as a cessation,”of your activities and a rest for you. “And have appointed the night as a cloak,”were man’s activity perpetual and unceasing, it would harm him, so Allāh appointed the night and sleep as a means to cover him such that his movement, which would end up harming him, may find stillness and that he may find respite. “And have appointed the day for earning a livelihood, and We have built above you seven mighty ones,”i.e. seven heavens, mighty, firm, unshakable. Allāh holds them up via His power, making them as a roof for the earth. They contain many benefits, amongst which is the sun: “and placed (therein) a dazzling lamp,”referring to it as “dazzling” to highlight its quality of light which is necessary for the existence of man and as “a lamp” to highlight its heat which is also beneficial for man. “And have sent down from the rain-laden clouds abundant water; that We may bring forth thereby grain”such as wheat, barley, rice, and other such edible produce, “and plant;” all types of plants which Allāh has made fodder for their animals. “And gardens of luxurious growth?”intertwined growth containing every type of delicious fruit.
The One who has granted these magnificent blessings, the extent of which none can hope to estimate let alone count… how can you disbelieve in Him? How can you deny what He informs you of with regards the Resurrection? How can you use His blessings to disobey Him and be ingrates?
17) Lo! the Day of Decision is fixed, 18) the Day when the trumpet is blown and you come in droves, 19) and the heaven is opened and becomes doorways, 20) and the mountains are set in motion and become as a mirage.
Allāh, Exalted is He, proceeds to mention what will occur on the Day of Judgment about which the deniers are asking each other and the obstinate deniers are rejecting. It is a momentous Day, “Lo! the Day of Decision is fixed,”for the creation. “The Day when the trumpet is blown and you come in droves, and the heaven is opened and becomes doorways, and the mountains are set in motion and become as a mirage,” during this Day such violent and terrifying events are set in motion as would turn white the hair of a babe and render hearts into utter confusion and dismay. Mountains will be shaken until they become “scattered dust”[3]; and the heaven will be rent asunder such that it “becomes doorways”. On that Day will Allāh judge between the creations with His judgment that cannot be wrong or unjust, and the Fire of Hell which Allāh has made a place of ambush and a homecoming for the transgressors will be kindled to a blaze.
21) Truly Hell is a place of ambush, 22) for the transgressors, a homecoming: 23) abiding therein for (countless) ages, 24) they taste not therein coolness[*] nor (any) drink 25) save boiling water and a scalding pus[‡]: 26) a fitting recompense. 27) Lo! They expected not a reckoning; 28) and they roundly denied Our revelations. 29) Everything have We recorded in a Book. 30) So taste! No increase do We give you save of torment.
* Another interpretation has “sleep/rest” in place of “coolness.” [Abū Ĥayyān]
‡ Another interpretation is, “paralysing cold” [al-Qurţubi]
“Truly Hell is a place of ambush, for the transgressors, a homecoming: abiding therein for (countless) ages,” meaning many many ages, and the meaning of “age (ĥaqb)” here, in the view of many exegetes, is eighty years. When they enter it, “they taste not therein coolness nor (any) drink,” receiving not that which would cool their skins nor quench their thirst. “Save boiling water” that would scald their faces and rip apart their stomachs “and a scalding pus:” the pus of the denizens of Hell: a truly vile liquid with a foul taste. This atrocious punishment is “a fitting recompense” for what they worked. Allāh will not wrong them in the slightest; rather it was they who wronged themselves. This is why Allāh proceeds to mention their deeds which made them deserving of this recompense, “Lo! They expected not a reckoning;” they did not believe in the Resurrection, or in the fact that Allāh would recompense the creation for the good and bad that they worked. For this reason they neglected to work for the Hereafter, “And they roundly denied Our revelations,” they clearly denied them, leaving no shadow of doubt that would indicate otherwise. The clear proofs came to them but they obstinately denied them. “Everything”small and large, insignificant and significant, good and evil, “have We recorded in a Book,” i.e. We have recorded it in the Preserved Tablet. Therefore let not the sinners think that We have punished them for sins they did not commit, neither let them think that any of their deeds will be lost or forgotten – not even an atoms weight!“And the Book is placed, and you will see the guilty fearful of that which is therein, and they say, ‘What kind of a Book is this that leaves not a small thing nor a great thing but takes account thereof!’ And they find all that they did confronting them, and your Lord wrongs no-one.”[4] “So taste!” O deniers, this painful punishment and perpetual anguish. “No increase do We give you save of torment,” each period of time brings with it an increase in punishment. This verse is one of the most severest verses depicting the punishment of the Fire, may Allāh save us from it.
31) Lo! for those who ward off (evil) is triumph – 32) Gardens enclosed and vineyards, 33) and nubile maidens of equal age, 34) and an overflowing cup. 35) They hear not therein vain discourse, nor falsehood – 36) a recompense from your Lord; a gift, (amply) sufficient. 37) Lord of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them, the All-Merciful; with Whom they have no ability to converse.
After having mentioned the state of the sinners, Allāh mentions the end of those with taqwā, “Lo! for those who ward off (evil) is triumph,“i.e. those who ward off the displeasure of their Lord by adhering firmly to His obedience and avoid disobeying Him, for them is success and victory, and distance from the Fire. Amongst this victory is, “Gardens enclosed,” containing all types of luscious vegetation giving forth fruit, “and vineyards,” with rivers sprouting from them. Grapes have been specifically mentioned because of their excellence and because they are present in plenitude in those Gardens. “And nubile maidens,”full breasted women whose bosom never loses its firmness, eternally youthful and beautiful “of equal age,” i.e. of one age. The norm for people who are “atrāb” is that they be sociable and companionable, their age is thirty-three and this age is the peak of youth. “And an overflowing cup,” with the choicest wine,“delicious to the drinkers”.[5 ] “They hear not therein vain discourse,” words that contain no benefit, “nor falsehood” words calling to sin. Allāh says,“There hear they no vain speaking or sinful discourse.”[6 ]
Allāh gave them this magnificent reward out of His beneficence and grace, “A recompense from your Lord; a gift, (amply) sufficient,” by reason of their deeds which Allāh guided them to and made to be a cause leading to His grace. He is their Lord, “Lord of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them,” Who created them and regulated them, “the All-Merciful;” whose mercy extends to everything. Hence He nurtured them and extended His mercy to them until they attained this state of felicity. Then He mentioned His greatness and His Kingship on the Day of Judgment, “with Whom they have no ability to converse,” except “for whom the All-Merciful allows and who speaks right.” Therefore none will be able to speak unless he meets these two pre-requisites: Allāh grants him leave to speak and he speaks right. This is because “That is the True Day,” the day when falsehood cannot be circulated and lying is of no benefit.
38) That Day when the Spirit and the angels will stand arrayed. They speak not, save him whom the All-Merciful allows and who speaks right. 39) That is the True Day. So whoever wills should seek a way back unto his Lord. 40) Lo! We have warned you of a punishment at hand, a Day whereon a man will look to that which his own hands have sent before him, and the disbeliever will cry, “Would that I were dust!”
“That Day when the Spirit,” Jibrīl, the best of the angels “and the angels will stand arrayed,” submissively before Allāh. “They speak not, save him whom the All-Merciful allows and who speaks right.”After having encouraged, and discouraged, and given glad-tidings, and warned, He says, “That is the True Day. So whoever wills should seek a way back unto his Lord,”with deeds and a truthful footing to which he can recourse on the Day of Judgment. “Lo! We have warned you of a punishment at hand,”because it is approaching and everything that is approaching is at hand. “A Day whereon a man will look to that which his own hands have sent before him,” being concerned with it and being terrified of it. So look in this abode to what you are preparing for the Eternal Abode!“O you who believe! Observe your duty to Allāh and let every soul look to that which it sends on before for the morrow. And observe your duty to Allāh, Lo! Allāh is well-informed of what you do.”[7] Then, whoever finds good, let him praise Allāh, and whoever finds other than that, he has none to blame but himself. It is for this reason that the disbelievers will wish for death by reason of their extreme sorrow and anguish, “and the disbeliever will cry, ‘Would that I were dust!’”
We ask Allāh that He deliver us from disbelief and all evil. He is the Bestower of Good, the Kind.
1 52:13
2 52:14
3 56:6
4 18:49
5 47:15
6 56:25
7 59:18
Translated by Abû Rumaysah
The Seventy-Eighth Chapter The News
1) Concerning what are they asking each other? 2) Concerning the momentous News, 3) about which they are in disagreement. 4) Nay, but they will soon know! 5) Nay, again, but they will soon know!
“Concerning what are they asking each other?” about what are those who deny the Signs of Allāh asking each other? The answer is then clarified in His saying“Concerning the momentous News, about which they are in disagreement” about which they had lengthy debate and the discord of which had spread far and wide, this by way of denial and declaring the news to be highly unlikely. However this news is not something that is open to uncertainty and does not allow doubt to enter it. Therefore the reality is that those who deny the meeting with their Lord will never believe, even if every Sign comes to them, until they themselves see the Painful Punishment. “Nay, but they will soon know! Nay, again, but they will soon know!” they will soon know what they used to deny when the punishments descends upon them, that time when they are“flung (disdainfully) into the Fire of Hell”;[1] it will be said to them,“This is the Fire which you were wont to deny!”[2]
6) Have We not made the earth a leveled carpet, 7) and the mountains as pegs, 8) and We have created you in pairs, 9) and have appointed your sleep as a cessation,[*] 10) and have appointed the night as a cloak, 11) and have appointed the day for earning a livelihood, 12) and We have built above you seven mighty ones, 13) and placed (therein) a dazzling lamp, 14) and have sent down from the rain-laden clouds[**] abundant water; 15) that We may bring forth thereby grain and plant; 16) and gardens of luxurious growth?
* Another interpretation is, “as a means of stretching/distending.” [Qurţubi]
** Another interpretation is “and have sent down, resulting from wind (driving the clouds), abundant water.” [Abū Ĥayyān]
Then Allāh, Transcendent is He!, mentions His blessings and the evidences pointing to the truth of His Messengers. He says, “Have We not made the earth a leveled carpet,”have we not granted you magnificent blessings such as leveling the earth and making it subservient to you? Have we not subjected it to you that you may extract benefit from it of crops, residence, and roadways? “And the mountains as pegs,” making firm the earth so that it does not shake and sway under you. “And We have created you in pairs,” male and female, of the same type, that one may find rest with the other, that love and mercy may ensue as a result of which offspring are given birth; the pleasure in the act of marital relations being yet another blessing. “And have appointed your sleep as a cessation,”of your activities and a rest for you. “And have appointed the night as a cloak,”were man’s activity perpetual and unceasing, it would harm him, so Allāh appointed the night and sleep as a means to cover him such that his movement, which would end up harming him, may find stillness and that he may find respite. “And have appointed the day for earning a livelihood, and We have built above you seven mighty ones,”i.e. seven heavens, mighty, firm, unshakable. Allāh holds them up via His power, making them as a roof for the earth. They contain many benefits, amongst which is the sun: “and placed (therein) a dazzling lamp,”referring to it as “dazzling” to highlight its quality of light which is necessary for the existence of man and as “a lamp” to highlight its heat which is also beneficial for man. “And have sent down from the rain-laden clouds abundant water; that We may bring forth thereby grain”such as wheat, barley, rice, and other such edible produce, “and plant;” all types of plants which Allāh has made fodder for their animals. “And gardens of luxurious growth?”intertwined growth containing every type of delicious fruit.
The One who has granted these magnificent blessings, the extent of which none can hope to estimate let alone count… how can you disbelieve in Him? How can you deny what He informs you of with regards the Resurrection? How can you use His blessings to disobey Him and be ingrates?
17) Lo! the Day of Decision is fixed, 18) the Day when the trumpet is blown and you come in droves, 19) and the heaven is opened and becomes doorways, 20) and the mountains are set in motion and become as a mirage.
Allāh, Exalted is He, proceeds to mention what will occur on the Day of Judgment about which the deniers are asking each other and the obstinate deniers are rejecting. It is a momentous Day, “Lo! the Day of Decision is fixed,”for the creation. “The Day when the trumpet is blown and you come in droves, and the heaven is opened and becomes doorways, and the mountains are set in motion and become as a mirage,” during this Day such violent and terrifying events are set in motion as would turn white the hair of a babe and render hearts into utter confusion and dismay. Mountains will be shaken until they become “scattered dust”[3]; and the heaven will be rent asunder such that it “becomes doorways”. On that Day will Allāh judge between the creations with His judgment that cannot be wrong or unjust, and the Fire of Hell which Allāh has made a place of ambush and a homecoming for the transgressors will be kindled to a blaze.
21) Truly Hell is a place of ambush, 22) for the transgressors, a homecoming: 23) abiding therein for (countless) ages, 24) they taste not therein coolness[*] nor (any) drink 25) save boiling water and a scalding pus[‡]: 26) a fitting recompense. 27) Lo! They expected not a reckoning; 28) and they roundly denied Our revelations. 29) Everything have We recorded in a Book. 30) So taste! No increase do We give you save of torment.
* Another interpretation has “sleep/rest” in place of “coolness.” [Abū Ĥayyān]
‡ Another interpretation is, “paralysing cold” [al-Qurţubi]
“Truly Hell is a place of ambush, for the transgressors, a homecoming: abiding therein for (countless) ages,” meaning many many ages, and the meaning of “age (ĥaqb)” here, in the view of many exegetes, is eighty years. When they enter it, “they taste not therein coolness nor (any) drink,” receiving not that which would cool their skins nor quench their thirst. “Save boiling water” that would scald their faces and rip apart their stomachs “and a scalding pus:” the pus of the denizens of Hell: a truly vile liquid with a foul taste. This atrocious punishment is “a fitting recompense” for what they worked. Allāh will not wrong them in the slightest; rather it was they who wronged themselves. This is why Allāh proceeds to mention their deeds which made them deserving of this recompense, “Lo! They expected not a reckoning;” they did not believe in the Resurrection, or in the fact that Allāh would recompense the creation for the good and bad that they worked. For this reason they neglected to work for the Hereafter, “And they roundly denied Our revelations,” they clearly denied them, leaving no shadow of doubt that would indicate otherwise. The clear proofs came to them but they obstinately denied them. “Everything”small and large, insignificant and significant, good and evil, “have We recorded in a Book,” i.e. We have recorded it in the Preserved Tablet. Therefore let not the sinners think that We have punished them for sins they did not commit, neither let them think that any of their deeds will be lost or forgotten – not even an atoms weight!“And the Book is placed, and you will see the guilty fearful of that which is therein, and they say, ‘What kind of a Book is this that leaves not a small thing nor a great thing but takes account thereof!’ And they find all that they did confronting them, and your Lord wrongs no-one.”[4] “So taste!” O deniers, this painful punishment and perpetual anguish. “No increase do We give you save of torment,” each period of time brings with it an increase in punishment. This verse is one of the most severest verses depicting the punishment of the Fire, may Allāh save us from it.
31) Lo! for those who ward off (evil) is triumph – 32) Gardens enclosed and vineyards, 33) and nubile maidens of equal age, 34) and an overflowing cup. 35) They hear not therein vain discourse, nor falsehood – 36) a recompense from your Lord; a gift, (amply) sufficient. 37) Lord of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them, the All-Merciful; with Whom they have no ability to converse.
After having mentioned the state of the sinners, Allāh mentions the end of those with taqwā, “Lo! for those who ward off (evil) is triumph,“i.e. those who ward off the displeasure of their Lord by adhering firmly to His obedience and avoid disobeying Him, for them is success and victory, and distance from the Fire. Amongst this victory is, “Gardens enclosed,” containing all types of luscious vegetation giving forth fruit, “and vineyards,” with rivers sprouting from them. Grapes have been specifically mentioned because of their excellence and because they are present in plenitude in those Gardens. “And nubile maidens,”full breasted women whose bosom never loses its firmness, eternally youthful and beautiful “of equal age,” i.e. of one age. The norm for people who are “atrāb” is that they be sociable and companionable, their age is thirty-three and this age is the peak of youth. “And an overflowing cup,” with the choicest wine,“delicious to the drinkers”.[5 ] “They hear not therein vain discourse,” words that contain no benefit, “nor falsehood” words calling to sin. Allāh says,“There hear they no vain speaking or sinful discourse.”[6 ]
Allāh gave them this magnificent reward out of His beneficence and grace, “A recompense from your Lord; a gift, (amply) sufficient,” by reason of their deeds which Allāh guided them to and made to be a cause leading to His grace. He is their Lord, “Lord of the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them,” Who created them and regulated them, “the All-Merciful;” whose mercy extends to everything. Hence He nurtured them and extended His mercy to them until they attained this state of felicity. Then He mentioned His greatness and His Kingship on the Day of Judgment, “with Whom they have no ability to converse,” except “for whom the All-Merciful allows and who speaks right.” Therefore none will be able to speak unless he meets these two pre-requisites: Allāh grants him leave to speak and he speaks right. This is because “That is the True Day,” the day when falsehood cannot be circulated and lying is of no benefit.
38) That Day when the Spirit and the angels will stand arrayed. They speak not, save him whom the All-Merciful allows and who speaks right. 39) That is the True Day. So whoever wills should seek a way back unto his Lord. 40) Lo! We have warned you of a punishment at hand, a Day whereon a man will look to that which his own hands have sent before him, and the disbeliever will cry, “Would that I were dust!”
“That Day when the Spirit,” Jibrīl, the best of the angels “and the angels will stand arrayed,” submissively before Allāh. “They speak not, save him whom the All-Merciful allows and who speaks right.”After having encouraged, and discouraged, and given glad-tidings, and warned, He says, “That is the True Day. So whoever wills should seek a way back unto his Lord,”with deeds and a truthful footing to which he can recourse on the Day of Judgment. “Lo! We have warned you of a punishment at hand,”because it is approaching and everything that is approaching is at hand. “A Day whereon a man will look to that which his own hands have sent before him,” being concerned with it and being terrified of it. So look in this abode to what you are preparing for the Eternal Abode!“O you who believe! Observe your duty to Allāh and let every soul look to that which it sends on before for the morrow. And observe your duty to Allāh, Lo! Allāh is well-informed of what you do.”[7] Then, whoever finds good, let him praise Allāh, and whoever finds other than that, he has none to blame but himself. It is for this reason that the disbelievers will wish for death by reason of their extreme sorrow and anguish, “and the disbeliever will cry, ‘Would that I were dust!’”
We ask Allāh that He deliver us from disbelief and all evil. He is the Bestower of Good, the Kind.
1 52:13
2 52:14
3 56:6
4 18:49
5 47:15
6 56:25
7 59:18
GOP accuses Obama of ‘groveling’ to Saudi King
GOP accuses Obama of ‘groveling’ to Saudi King
From CNN Political Editor Mark Preston
The NRSC has unveiled an ad that accuses the president of bowing before the Saudis.
WASHINGTON (CNN) — The campaign arm for Republican senators is soliciting donations in a new national Web ad that accuses President Barack Obama of bowing to Saudi Arabia King Abdullah during the recent G-20 Summit.
The ad, which appeared on the Drudge Report Friday and scheduled to run for several days, shows a picture of Obama greeting Abdullah at the summit with the headline: Should America Bow to a King?
Readers are asked to click on the “Yes” or “No” button on the ad and it directs them to a Web page where they are then asked to contribute or provide a name and e-mail address to the National Republican Senatorial Committee.
“Should the president of the world’s pre-eminent superpower be groveling at the feet of a Saudi King,” the NRSC asks visitors, who are also able to watch a short FOX News clip of former House Speaker Newt Gingrich knocking the White House for denying that Obama bowed to Abdullah.
“Well, I think he bent over with both – to shake with both hands to shake his hand,” Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said on Thursday. When asked again if Obama bowed, Gibbs answered “No.”
In addition to the Web ad, the NRSC e-mailed political supporters Thursday stating the same criticism.
"In light of the bizarre denial from the White House, the NRSC is simply presenting two questions to the American people: Do they believe the White House's explanation that this was not a bow? And if they don't, do they think it's appropriate for the leader of the free world to be bowing to the King of Saudi Arabia?” NRSC spokesman Brian Walsh said to CNN. “It's not an attack ad - it's simply raising a fair question."
Walsh also told CNN that in just a few hours of the Web ad appearing on the Drudge Report more than 4,000 people have provided the NRSC with their email addresses.
From CNN Political Editor Mark Preston
The NRSC has unveiled an ad that accuses the president of bowing before the Saudis.
WASHINGTON (CNN) — The campaign arm for Republican senators is soliciting donations in a new national Web ad that accuses President Barack Obama of bowing to Saudi Arabia King Abdullah during the recent G-20 Summit.
The ad, which appeared on the Drudge Report Friday and scheduled to run for several days, shows a picture of Obama greeting Abdullah at the summit with the headline: Should America Bow to a King?
Readers are asked to click on the “Yes” or “No” button on the ad and it directs them to a Web page where they are then asked to contribute or provide a name and e-mail address to the National Republican Senatorial Committee.
“Should the president of the world’s pre-eminent superpower be groveling at the feet of a Saudi King,” the NRSC asks visitors, who are also able to watch a short FOX News clip of former House Speaker Newt Gingrich knocking the White House for denying that Obama bowed to Abdullah.
“Well, I think he bent over with both – to shake with both hands to shake his hand,” Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said on Thursday. When asked again if Obama bowed, Gibbs answered “No.”
In addition to the Web ad, the NRSC e-mailed political supporters Thursday stating the same criticism.
"In light of the bizarre denial from the White House, the NRSC is simply presenting two questions to the American people: Do they believe the White House's explanation that this was not a bow? And if they don't, do they think it's appropriate for the leader of the free world to be bowing to the King of Saudi Arabia?” NRSC spokesman Brian Walsh said to CNN. “It's not an attack ad - it's simply raising a fair question."
Walsh also told CNN that in just a few hours of the Web ad appearing on the Drudge Report more than 4,000 people have provided the NRSC with their email addresses.
Iran's Elections: Why Arab Leaders Want Ahmadinejad to Win
From: http://www.islamicity.com/
By RANNIE AMIRI
Iran’s presidential elections are scheduled for June 12. Although yet to formally declare his candidacy, incumbent president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is fully expected to seek re-election. While the “Principalist” coalition thus seems settled on fielding a single candidate, the contest to head the “Reformist” list has proven much more dynamic.
Long assumed to be Ahmadinejad’s primary rival, former president Mohammad Khatami abruptly announced his withdrawal from the race so as not to split the vote between himself and the other reformist candidates – influential and popular former prime minister Mir-Hossein Mousavi, and former parliament speaker Mehdi Karroubi. Additionally, Khatami felt conservatives would be more likely to vote for Mousavi than himself.
“Rest assured that Mousavi will recruit a remarkable percentage of votes from the other side. I have reports that some conservatives will not vote for me and this guy [Ahmadinejad], but they would definitely vote for Mousavi,” he said.
By all measures, it was a selfless act to limit the chances that Ahmadinejad would be re-elected. Karroubi, under increasing pressure to likewise withdraw and unite reformists behind Mousavi, has declared he will remain in the race to the end.
Although it is true the final say in all of Iran’s political affairs rests with Ayatollah Khamenei, this does not make the position of president inconsequential, as the spirited campaign and endorsement or repudiation of candidates by influential persons bear witness. The choice of president is a reflection of the Iranian people’s will which, in turn, influences how Khamenei decides on important matters of state.
Indeed, the issues in the upcoming election are far-reaching and indicative of the great challenges Iran will face in the coming years. They include the effect of falling oil prices and double-digit unemployment and inflation; the need for civic reform; the role to be played in Middle East affairs, especially as it relates to Palestine and support for groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah; the ramifications of a possible rapprochement with the United States and obviously, the question of nuclear development.
The election will be closely watched in the Arab world, especially in countries exhibiting the most animus toward Iran, namely Egypt and Saudi Arabia (the latter broadly representative of the Arab Gulf nations with the exception of Qatar). One would surmise that they are hoping for a reprieve from Ahmadinejad’s bellicosity, as are many Iranians. That is, for a less controversial and more pragmatic, diplomatic and soft-spoken leader like Khatami (were he still in the race), Mousavi or Karroubi instead.
That however, is certainly not the case. What these nations’ rulers fear most is the election of a leader with exactly these qualities, regardless of who it may be.
In recent years, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and now Morocco have found comfort in laying blame for their domestic and regional woes on Iran and their (perceived) allies. The fiery rhetoric of Ahmadinejad, whether pertinent or not, has undoubtedly helped bolster their case.This has taken shape in many forms, including accusing Iran of “cultural infiltration” as Morocco has recently done, importing the “Shiite ideology” to Egypt, and “interfering” in the internal affairs of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. The latter is meant to redirect attention from a purely domestic issue – the fallout from longstanding discrimination against Bahraini and Saudi Shia Muslim citizens – abroad. Meanwhile, Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak seeks to ever legitimize his own rule by continuing to foment sectarianism.
These leaders also fear an Iranian president more amenable to overtures from the United States. A thawing of relations between the U.S. and Iran will render needless the monetary, military and diplomatic benefits that being guardians against “Iranian expansionism” bring.
The standing of many Arab rulers is now more than ever based on the politics of polarization. And there is little doubt that exploiting this polarization – upon which they are so dependent – will be facilitated if Ahmadinejad remains as Iran’s president. For this reason, they hope he emerges victorious in June.
Rannie Amiri is an independent Middle East commentator. He may be reached at: rbamiri at yahoo dot com.
By RANNIE AMIRI
Iran’s presidential elections are scheduled for June 12. Although yet to formally declare his candidacy, incumbent president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is fully expected to seek re-election. While the “Principalist” coalition thus seems settled on fielding a single candidate, the contest to head the “Reformist” list has proven much more dynamic.
Long assumed to be Ahmadinejad’s primary rival, former president Mohammad Khatami abruptly announced his withdrawal from the race so as not to split the vote between himself and the other reformist candidates – influential and popular former prime minister Mir-Hossein Mousavi, and former parliament speaker Mehdi Karroubi. Additionally, Khatami felt conservatives would be more likely to vote for Mousavi than himself.
“Rest assured that Mousavi will recruit a remarkable percentage of votes from the other side. I have reports that some conservatives will not vote for me and this guy [Ahmadinejad], but they would definitely vote for Mousavi,” he said.
By all measures, it was a selfless act to limit the chances that Ahmadinejad would be re-elected. Karroubi, under increasing pressure to likewise withdraw and unite reformists behind Mousavi, has declared he will remain in the race to the end.
Although it is true the final say in all of Iran’s political affairs rests with Ayatollah Khamenei, this does not make the position of president inconsequential, as the spirited campaign and endorsement or repudiation of candidates by influential persons bear witness. The choice of president is a reflection of the Iranian people’s will which, in turn, influences how Khamenei decides on important matters of state.
Indeed, the issues in the upcoming election are far-reaching and indicative of the great challenges Iran will face in the coming years. They include the effect of falling oil prices and double-digit unemployment and inflation; the need for civic reform; the role to be played in Middle East affairs, especially as it relates to Palestine and support for groups such as Hamas and Hezbollah; the ramifications of a possible rapprochement with the United States and obviously, the question of nuclear development.
The election will be closely watched in the Arab world, especially in countries exhibiting the most animus toward Iran, namely Egypt and Saudi Arabia (the latter broadly representative of the Arab Gulf nations with the exception of Qatar). One would surmise that they are hoping for a reprieve from Ahmadinejad’s bellicosity, as are many Iranians. That is, for a less controversial and more pragmatic, diplomatic and soft-spoken leader like Khatami (were he still in the race), Mousavi or Karroubi instead.
That however, is certainly not the case. What these nations’ rulers fear most is the election of a leader with exactly these qualities, regardless of who it may be.
In recent years, Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and now Morocco have found comfort in laying blame for their domestic and regional woes on Iran and their (perceived) allies. The fiery rhetoric of Ahmadinejad, whether pertinent or not, has undoubtedly helped bolster their case.This has taken shape in many forms, including accusing Iran of “cultural infiltration” as Morocco has recently done, importing the “Shiite ideology” to Egypt, and “interfering” in the internal affairs of Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. The latter is meant to redirect attention from a purely domestic issue – the fallout from longstanding discrimination against Bahraini and Saudi Shia Muslim citizens – abroad. Meanwhile, Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak seeks to ever legitimize his own rule by continuing to foment sectarianism.
These leaders also fear an Iranian president more amenable to overtures from the United States. A thawing of relations between the U.S. and Iran will render needless the monetary, military and diplomatic benefits that being guardians against “Iranian expansionism” bring.
The standing of many Arab rulers is now more than ever based on the politics of polarization. And there is little doubt that exploiting this polarization – upon which they are so dependent – will be facilitated if Ahmadinejad remains as Iran’s president. For this reason, they hope he emerges victorious in June.
Rannie Amiri is an independent Middle East commentator. He may be reached at: rbamiri at yahoo dot com.
Insanity of robots
From: www.islamicity.com
By: Robert C. Koehler
As our warrior robot drones eradicate evil - or at least "militancy" - from above, the Suicide Army of the East vows to keep blowing itself up until we call them off.This is not the plot of a bad sci-fi thriller. It's page one of the New York Times, described, as ever, with a sober politeness that doesn't quite do justice to geo-insanity's latest thrilling mutation:"Despite threats of retaliation from Pakistani militants, senior administration officials said Monday that the United States intended to step up its use of drones to strike militants in Pakistan's tribal areas and might extend them to a different sanctuary deeper inside the country.
"On Sunday, a senior Taliban leader vowed to unleash two suicide attacks a week like one on Saturday in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, unless the Central Intelligence Agency stopped firing missiles at militants."And by the way: "Pakistani officials have expressed concerns that the missile strikes from remotely piloted aircraft fuel more violence in the country, and some American officials say they are also concerned about some aspects of the drone strikes."What has ever mattered less to the war machine than "concerns" . . . that robot killers don't win friends, that violence, perhaps, is counterproductive? Women, children, collateral damage, blah blah blah. Sen. Carl Levin, Michigan Democrat, head of the Senate Armed Services Committee, good-guy-turned-war-enabler, "acknowledged," as the Times put it - or as I might say, channeled every morally compromised spokesperson who ever equivocated in the name of George Bush, Adolf Hitler or Attila the Hun - that "the price is very heavy." Now we know.But alas, as Levin went on to explain, drone-fired missiles are "an extremely effective tool." And really, they're no more than a technical update of the innovation that allowed the English to slaughter French noblemen at the battle of Crecy in 1346 and ushered in modern, impersonal warfare: the longbow. One difference is that the dead at Crecy were all soldiers.
In any case, "The principle . . . is action at a distance," Barbara Ehrenreich points out in "Blood Rites," her 1997 study of the roots of war. And action at a distance, as Sen. Levin could explain to you, has the advantage of allowing the heavy price to be paid only by the other side.To wit: "As many as 1 million people have fled their homes in the Tribal Areas to escape attacks by the unmanned spy planes as well as bombings by the Pakistani army," London's Sunday Times reports, describing the situation on the Af-Pak border as "a massive humanitarian emergency."
Our longbows are flattening villages. Furthermore, while "Pakistani forces say they have killed 1,500 militants since launching anti-Taliban operations in Bajaur (Pakistan) in August," the Sunday Times story continues, "locals who fled claim that only civilians were killed." History, common sense and objective analysis, even by the U.S. military, make clear that the tactics the U.S. is using - first with Bush at the helm, now with Barack Obama - are fostering hatred of the West and strengthening the Taliban.
All of which does nothing but make the point I've already made, that the war on terror that President Obama says he wants to widen, and win, in Afghanistan, is insane. Since Obama is neither insane himself nor indebted politically to a base that is, the enormous post-inaugural question we are now wrestling with is: Why is he pursuing it? And why are the Democrats so intent on fracturing their party in the pursuit of a war that is flawed at its core, just as they did in the '60s?
To quote from a comment made on Common Dreams in response to a piece I wrote last week about the new president and the war: "Demopublicans and Republicrats only see a narrow world of $elf-intere$t run by their corporate ma$ter$ who call the $hot$."Well, OK. I concede a piece of the truth to this viewpoint - but fear that there is no pure, chaste and financially uncompromised route to the American presidency. Lincoln, the Obama role model, was, after all, something less than an abolitionist when he got elected. He was a man of his time - only slightly off the racist political center of the day - but wound up altering the course of history.
Obama's trajectory is not on a collision course right now with the entrenched insanity of war. He's trying to make peace with this insanity and wage the "softer," PC war that Democrats prefer, building schools as well as blowing them up, going out of his way to say positive things about Muslims, etc.But he's still operating on the assumption that a robot war, which kills just as randomly and far more prolifically than suicide bombings in public squares do, can root evil out of its cave and secure U.S. and, while we're at it, world peace. History is waiting to tell him otherwise.
Robert Koehler, an award-winning, Chicago-based journalist, is an editor at Tribune Media Services and nationally syndicated writer. You can respond to this column at bkoehler@tribune.com or visit his Web site at commonwonders.com.
By: Robert C. Koehler
As our warrior robot drones eradicate evil - or at least "militancy" - from above, the Suicide Army of the East vows to keep blowing itself up until we call them off.This is not the plot of a bad sci-fi thriller. It's page one of the New York Times, described, as ever, with a sober politeness that doesn't quite do justice to geo-insanity's latest thrilling mutation:"Despite threats of retaliation from Pakistani militants, senior administration officials said Monday that the United States intended to step up its use of drones to strike militants in Pakistan's tribal areas and might extend them to a different sanctuary deeper inside the country.
"On Sunday, a senior Taliban leader vowed to unleash two suicide attacks a week like one on Saturday in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, unless the Central Intelligence Agency stopped firing missiles at militants."And by the way: "Pakistani officials have expressed concerns that the missile strikes from remotely piloted aircraft fuel more violence in the country, and some American officials say they are also concerned about some aspects of the drone strikes."What has ever mattered less to the war machine than "concerns" . . . that robot killers don't win friends, that violence, perhaps, is counterproductive? Women, children, collateral damage, blah blah blah. Sen. Carl Levin, Michigan Democrat, head of the Senate Armed Services Committee, good-guy-turned-war-enabler, "acknowledged," as the Times put it - or as I might say, channeled every morally compromised spokesperson who ever equivocated in the name of George Bush, Adolf Hitler or Attila the Hun - that "the price is very heavy." Now we know.But alas, as Levin went on to explain, drone-fired missiles are "an extremely effective tool." And really, they're no more than a technical update of the innovation that allowed the English to slaughter French noblemen at the battle of Crecy in 1346 and ushered in modern, impersonal warfare: the longbow. One difference is that the dead at Crecy were all soldiers.
In any case, "The principle . . . is action at a distance," Barbara Ehrenreich points out in "Blood Rites," her 1997 study of the roots of war. And action at a distance, as Sen. Levin could explain to you, has the advantage of allowing the heavy price to be paid only by the other side.To wit: "As many as 1 million people have fled their homes in the Tribal Areas to escape attacks by the unmanned spy planes as well as bombings by the Pakistani army," London's Sunday Times reports, describing the situation on the Af-Pak border as "a massive humanitarian emergency."
Our longbows are flattening villages. Furthermore, while "Pakistani forces say they have killed 1,500 militants since launching anti-Taliban operations in Bajaur (Pakistan) in August," the Sunday Times story continues, "locals who fled claim that only civilians were killed." History, common sense and objective analysis, even by the U.S. military, make clear that the tactics the U.S. is using - first with Bush at the helm, now with Barack Obama - are fostering hatred of the West and strengthening the Taliban.
All of which does nothing but make the point I've already made, that the war on terror that President Obama says he wants to widen, and win, in Afghanistan, is insane. Since Obama is neither insane himself nor indebted politically to a base that is, the enormous post-inaugural question we are now wrestling with is: Why is he pursuing it? And why are the Democrats so intent on fracturing their party in the pursuit of a war that is flawed at its core, just as they did in the '60s?
To quote from a comment made on Common Dreams in response to a piece I wrote last week about the new president and the war: "Demopublicans and Republicrats only see a narrow world of $elf-intere$t run by their corporate ma$ter$ who call the $hot$."Well, OK. I concede a piece of the truth to this viewpoint - but fear that there is no pure, chaste and financially uncompromised route to the American presidency. Lincoln, the Obama role model, was, after all, something less than an abolitionist when he got elected. He was a man of his time - only slightly off the racist political center of the day - but wound up altering the course of history.
Obama's trajectory is not on a collision course right now with the entrenched insanity of war. He's trying to make peace with this insanity and wage the "softer," PC war that Democrats prefer, building schools as well as blowing them up, going out of his way to say positive things about Muslims, etc.But he's still operating on the assumption that a robot war, which kills just as randomly and far more prolifically than suicide bombings in public squares do, can root evil out of its cave and secure U.S. and, while we're at it, world peace. History is waiting to tell him otherwise.
Robert Koehler, an award-winning, Chicago-based journalist, is an editor at Tribune Media Services and nationally syndicated writer. You can respond to this column at bkoehler@tribune.com or visit his Web site at commonwonders.com.
Friday, April 10, 2009
A Message to the Non-Muslims
By Shaykh Abu Baseer Mustafa Haleemah at-Tartoosee
Bismillaahir Rahmaanir Raheem
Dear Reader,
The purpose of this message is to invite you to think of and contemplate about the real purpose of your life on this earth and where you will end up in the Hereafter. Will you end up in Paradise or in Hell-Fire? Please, take note, that when you have read this message, you are considered to have legislatively been given proof and been informed of the admonition of all messengers, and after which you will not be excused by ignorance:
Take note that Allah the Almighty is the One and Only God. He is Eternal. He is Absolute. He has not begotten and has not been begotten and no one is like Him.
Allah says: “Say: He is Allah, the One; Allah, the Eternal, Absolute; He begetteth not, nor is He begotten; and there is none like unto Him.” Surah No.112, Verses 1-4.
Allah says: “He is the Creator of the heavens and the earth: He has made for you pairs from among cattle: by this means does He multiply you: there is nothing whatever like unto Him, and He is the One that hears and sees.” Surah No. 42, Verse No. 11.
Learn that Allah the Almighty is the Creator of all creatures. There is no god for this universe and what it holds but Allah.
Allah says: “Allah is the Creator Of all things, and He is the Guardian and Disposer of all affairs.” Surah No.39 Verse 62.
Allah says: “Such is Allah, your Lord, The Creator of all things, there is no god but He: Then how you are deluded away from the Truth!” Surah No.40, Verse No.62.
Allah says: “To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and earth: To Allah do all matters return.” Surah No.3 Verse No. 109.
Be informed that Allah the Almighty has created you for one single purpose which is to worship Him alone.
Allah says: “I have only created Jinns and men, that they may serve Me”. Surah No.51 Verse No. 56.
Allah says: “And they have been commanded no more than this: To worship Allah, offering Him sincere devotion, being true (in faith); to establish regular prayer; and to give zakat (i.e. charity given to the needy); and that is the Religion Right and Straight”. Surah No.98, Verse No. 5.
Understand that it is out of sincerity and purity of worship to Allah to avoid worshipping the created whoever and whatever they may be.
Allah says: “Certainly they disbelieve who say: “(Allah) is Christ the son of Mary." But said Christ: "O Children of Israel! Worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord.” Whoever joins other gods with Allah, - Allah will forbid him the Garden, and the Fire will be his abode. There will for the wrong-doers be no one to help.” Surah No. 5, Verse No. 72.
Allah says: “Say: "I do no more than invoke my Lord, and I join not with Him any (false god).” Surah No 72, Verse No. 20.
Allah says: “Say: "I am but a man like yourselves, (but) the inspiration has come to me, that your God is one God: whoever expects to meet his Lord, let him work righteousness, and, in the worship of his Lord, admit no one as partner.” Surah No. 18, Verse No. 110.
Allah says: “Those to whom We have given the Book rejoice at what hath been revealed unto thee: but there are among the clans those who reject a part thereof. Say: "I am commanded to worship Allah, and not to join partners with Him. Unto Him do I call, and unto Him is my return.” Surah No. 13, Verse No. 36.
Learn that he, who worships Allah joining with Him another whoever or whatever it may be, has associated partners with Allah and consequently his deeds will turn fruitless and he will be among the losers.
Allah says: “But it has already been revealed to thee, - as it was to those before thee, - “if thou wert to join (gods with Allah), truly fruitless will be thy work (in life), and thou wilt surely be among the losers.” Surah No. 29, Verse No. 65.
Allah says: “This is the Guidance of Allah: He giveth that guidance to whom He pleaseth, of His servants if they were to join other gods with Him, all that they did would be vain for them.” Surah No. 6, Verse No.88.
Take note that Allah the Almighty sent all Prophets and Messengers to reinforce and remind people that there is no god but Allah. That is nothing is worthy of being worshipped but Allah.
Allah says: “For we assuredly sent amongst every people a Messenger, (with the command), “serve Allah, and eschew Evil”: of the people were some whom Allah guided, and some on whom Error became inevitably (established). So travel through the earth, and see what was the end of those who denied (the Truth).” Surah No.16, Verse No. 36.
Allah says: “Not a messenger did We send before thee without this inspiration sent by Us to him: that there is no god but I; therefore worship and serve Me.” Surah 21 Verse 25. There is no prophet who said to his people but: “We sent Noah to his people. He said: “O my people! Worship Allah! Ye have no other god but Him. I fear for you the Punishment of a dreadful Day!” Surah No. 7, Verse No. 59.
Be informed that having faith and believing in all Prophets and Messengers is a must. If anyone rejects faith or doesn’t believe one Prophet or Messenger of Allah’s the Almighty, they are rejecting faith in Allah and disbelieving Him and all His Prophets and Messengers.
Allah says: “The Messenger believeth in what hath been revealed to him from his Lord, as do the men of faith, each one (of them) believeth in Allah, His angels, His books, and His Messengers. “We make no distinction (they say) between one and another of his Messengers.” And they say: “We hear, and we obey: (we seek) Thy forgiveness, our Lord, and to Thee is the end of all journeys.” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 285.
Allah says: “‘Verily it has been revealed to us that the Chastisement (awaits) those who reject and turn away.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 48.
Allah says: “And who does more wrong than he who invents a lie against Allah or rejects the Truth when it reaches him? Is there not a home in Hell for those who reject Faith?” Surah No.29, Verse No. 68.
Allah says: “Those who reject the Book and the (revelations) with which we sent Our messengers: but soon shall they know.” Surah No. 40, Verse No. 70.
Be informed that Muhammad (PBBUH ) is the Messenger of Allah, who was sent by Allah as mercy to the worlds, giving glad tidings and warnings and that he is the seal of all Prophets and messengers and there is no Prophet after him.
Allah says: “Muhammad is no more than a Messenger: many were the Messengers that passed away before him. If he died or were slain, will ye then turn back on your heels? If any did turn back on his heels, not the least harm will he do to Allah; but Allah (on the other hand) will swiftly reward those who (serve Him) with gratitude.” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 144.
Allah says: “Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered Prophet whom they find mentioned in their own (Scriptures),-in the Taurat and the Gospel; - for he commands them what is just and Forbids them what is evil; he allows them as lawful what is good (and pure) and prohibits them from what is bad (and impure): He releases them from their heavy burdens and from the yokes that are upon them. So it is those who believe in him, honour him, help him, and follow the Light which is sent down with him, - it is they who will prosper.” Surah No. 7, verse No. 157.
Allah says: “Say: “O men! I am sent unto you all, as the Messenger of Allah, to who belongeth the dominion of the heavens and the earth: there is no god but He: it is He that giveth both life and death. So believe in Allah and His Messenger. The unlettered Prophet, who believeth in Allah and His words, follow him that (so) ye may be guided.” Surah No. 7, Verse No. 158.
Allah says: “Now hath come to you a Messenger from amongst yourselves: it grieves him that you should suffer, ardently anxious is he over you: to the Believers is he most kind and merciful”. Surah No. 9, Verse No. 128.
Allah says: “Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Messenger of Allah, and the Seal of the Prophets. And Allah has full knowledge of all things.” Surah No. 33, Verse No. 40.
Allah says: “Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah…” Surah No 48, Verse No. 29.
Allah says: “And remember, Jesus, the Son of Mary, said: “O Children of Israel! I am the messenger of Allah (sent) to you, confirming the Taurat (which came) before me, and giving Glad Tidings of a messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad. But when he came to them with Clear Signs, They said, “This is evident sorcery!” Surah No.61, Verse No.6.
Take note that Allah the Almighty revealed to Muhammad (PBBUH) the Holy Quran which is the word of Allah and which contains Guidance and Light for the worlds. It has also explanation of everything.
Allah says: “Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down The Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (between right and wrong) so every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spent it in fasting, but if anyone is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you: He does not want to put you to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.” Surah No.2, Verse No.185.
Allah says: “Say: “What thing is most weighty in evidence?” say: “Allah is witness between me and you; this Qur’an hath been revealed to me by inspiration. That I may warn you and all whom it reaches. Can ye possibly bear witness that besides Allah there are other gods?” say: “Nay! I cannot bear witness!” Surah No. 6, Verse No. 19.
Allah says: “Verily this Quran doth guide to that which is most right (or stable), and giveth the glad tidings to the Believers who work deeds of righteousness, that they shall have a magnificent reward.” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 9.
Allah says: “We send down (stage by stage) of the Quran that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe: to the unjust it causes nothing but loss after loss.” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 82.
Allah says: “As for thee, thou receives the Quran from One All-Wise, All-Knowing.” Surah No. 27, Verse No. 6.
Allah says: “And We have explained to man, in this Quran, every kind of similitude: yet greater part of men refuse (to receive it) except with gratitude!” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 89.
Appreciate that the Holy Quran, which was revealed to Allah’s Prophet (PBBUH), has been the Greatest Evident Miracle Ever. It is continuing and everlastingly challenging all mankind gathered together to produce something like it or like one of its Surahs.
Allah says: “Say: ‘if the whole of mankind and Jinns were to gather together to produce the like of this Quran, they could not produce the like thereof, even if they backed up each other with help and support.’” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 88.
Allah says: “And if ye are in doubt as to what We have revealed from time to time to Our servant then produce a Sura like thereunto; and call your witness or helpers (if there are any) besides Allah, if ye are truthful.” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 23.
Be informed that Allah has ordered all mankind no matter what their colours, sexes; languages may be to believe in Muhammad the Prophet (PBBUP), follow him and obey him. He who obeys the Prophet (PBBUH) obeys Allah and consequently he will be on the right path; and; he who disobeys the Prophet (PBBUH), disobeys Allah and consequently he will be on the wrong path.
Allah says: “Say: “Obey Allah and His Messenger”: but if they turn back, Allah loveth not those who reject faith.” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 32.
Allah says: “O ye who believe! Obey Allah and His Messenger, and turn not away from him when ye hear (him speak).” Surah No. 8, Verse No. 20.
Allah says: “He who obeys the Messenger, obeys Allah…” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 80.
Allah says: “Say: “if ye do love Allah, follow me: Allah will love you and forgive you your sins: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most merciful.” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 31.
Take note that he who hears of Muhammad the Prophet (PBBUH) and neither believes in him nor follows him is a disbeliever in Allah, rejecting faith in Him and consequently worthy to be tortured on the Day of Judgement.
Allah says: “We know indeed the grief which their words do cause thee: It is not thee they reject: It is the Signs of Allah, which the wicked deny.” Surah No. 6, Verse No. 33.
Allah says: “On that day those who reject Faith and disobey the Messenger will wish that the earth were made one with them: but never will they hide a single fact from Allah!” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 42.
Allah says: “If anyone contends with the Messenger even after Guidance has been plainly conveyed to him, and follows a path other than that becoming to men to Faith, we shall leave him in the path he has chosen, and land him in Hell,- What an evil refuge!” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 115.
The Prophet (PBBUH) says: “By the One in whose hands Muhammad’s soul is, if anyone, anywhere in the world, whether a Jew or Christian hears of me and dies without believing in my Message will definitely be amongst those in Hell-Fire.” (Muslim)
Take note that the Religion before Allah is Islam and it is the religion of all Prophets and Messengers. No religion is accepted of anyone but Islam.
Allah says: “And Abraham enjoined upon his sons and so did Jacob;” Oh my sons! Allah hath chosen the Faith for you; then die not except in the state of submission (to Me).” Surah No. 2, Verse No.132.
Allah says: “The Religion before Allah is Islam..” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 19.
Allah says: “If anyone desires a religion other than Islam (submission to Allah) never will it be accepted of him; and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost.” Surah No. 3, Verse No.85.
Be informed that resurrection after death is coming and absolutely true; the Hour is coming and absolutely true and the accountability on doomsday is absolutely true.
Allah says: “Lost indeed are they who treat it as a falsehood that they must meet Allah, - until on a sudden the Hour is on them, and they say: “Ah! Woe unto us that we neglected; for they bear their burdens on their backs, and evil indeed are the burdens that they bear?” Surah No. 6 Verse No. 31.
Allah says: “Verily the Hour is coming- I have almost kept it hidden- for every soul to receive its reward by the measure of its Endeavour.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 15.
Allah says: “And verily the Hour will come: there can be no doubt about it, or about (the fact) that Allah will raise up all who are in the graves.” Surah No. 22, Verse No. 7.
Allah says: “The Unbelievers say, “Never to us will come the Hour”: say, “Nay! But most surely, by my Lord, it will come upon you;…” Surah No 34, Verse No. 3.
Allah says: “The Hour will certainly come: therein is no doubt: yet most men believe not.” Surah No. 40, Verse No. No. 59.
Allah says: “Again, on the Day of Judgement, will ye be raised up.” Surah No. 23, Verse No. 16.
Allah says: “Allah is never unjust in the least degree: if there is any good (done), He doubleth it, and giveth from His Own self a great reward.” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 40.
Allah says: “Then shall anyone who has done an atom’s weight of good, see it! And anyone who has done an atom’s weight of evil, shall see it.” Surah No. 99, Verses Nos. 7-8.
Learn that Paradise and its bounties are absolutely true, therein everlasting goodness and bounties of which no ear has ever heard of, or an eye has ever seen or a mind has ever been able to imagine. All this has been prepared Allah’s righteous believers.
Allah says: “The parable of the Garden which the righteous are promised! - beneath it flow rivers; perpetual is the fruits therof and the shade therein: such is the End of the Righteous and the End of the Unbelievers is the Fire.” Surah No. 13, Verse No. 35.
Allah says: “But give glad tidings to those who believe and work righteousness, that their portion is Gardens, beneath which rivers flow, every time they are fed with fruits therefrom, they say: “Why, this what we were fed with before,” for that are given things in similitude; and they have therein spouses purified; and they abide therein (forever).” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 25.
Allah says: “But those who believe and work deeds of righteousness- to them shall We give a Home in Heaven, - lofty mansions beneath which flow rivers, -to dwell therein for aye; an excellent reward for those who do (good)!” Surah No. 29, Verse No. 58.
Allah says: “Verily the Companions of the Garden shall that Day have joy in all that they do.” Surah No. 36, Verse No. 55.
Allah says: “(Here is) the description of the Garden which the righteous are promised: in it are rivers of water unstaling; rivers of Milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine, a joy to those who drink; and rivers of honey pure and clear. In it there are for them all kinds of fruits; and Forgiveness from their Lord, (can those in such Bliss) be compared to such as shall dwell fro ever in the Fire and be given to drink, boiling water, so that it cuts up their bowels (to pieces)?” Surah No.47, Verse No. 15.
Allah says: “Be quick in the race for forgiveness from your Lord and for a Garden whose width is that (of the whole) of the heavens and of the earth, prepared for the righteous.” Surah No.3 Verse No 133.
Allah says: “Be ye foremost (in seeking) forgiveness from your Lord, and a Garden (of Bliss), the width whereof is as the width of heaven and earth prepared for those who believe in Allah and His messengers: that is the Grace of Allah, which He bestows on whom He pleases: and Allah is the Lord of Grace abounding.” Surah No. 57, Verse No. 21.
Learn that the Hell fire is absolutely true; its torture in is true; and fierce. It has a torture that is extremely fierce, harsh, and perpetual. Its torture is something that no ear has ever heard of, or an eye has ever seen or a mind has ever been able to imagine. All this has been prepared for those who associate partners with Allah and who made it false to believe in Allah.
Allah says: “Know they not that for those who oppose Allah and His Messenger is the Fire of Hell? - Wherein they shall dwell. That is the supreme disgrace.” Surah No.9, Verse No. 63.
Allah says: “…on the Day of Judgement we shall gather them together, prone on their faces, blind, dumb, and deaf: their abode will be Hell: every time it shows abatement, We shall increase for them the fierceness of the Fire.” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 97.
Allah says: “And We shall drive the sinners to hell, (like thirsty cattle driven down to water)” Surah No. 19, Verse No. 86.
Allah says: “Verily he who comes to his Lord as a sinner (at Judgement), -for him is Hell: therein shall he neither die nor live.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 74.
Allah says: “But those who reject (Allah) - for them will be the Fire of Hell: not term shall be determined for them, so they should die, nor shall its Chastisement be lightened for them. Thus do WE reward every ungrateful.” Surah No. 35, Verse No. 36.
Allah says: “The Unbelievers will be led to Hell in groups: until, when they arrive there, its gates will be opened. And its Keepers will say, “Did not messengers come to you from among yourselves, rehearsing to you the Signs of your Lord, and warning you of the Meeting of this Day of yours?” The answer will be: “True: but the Decree of Chastisement has been proved true against the Unbelievers!” Surah No. 39, Verse No. 71.
Take note that if you die believing in the oneness of God and in Muhammad (PBBUH), Allah’s last Messenger, you will be amongst those who will be saved and led into Paradise to live in its bounties for ever.
Allah says: “But such as come to Him as Believers who have worked righteous deeds, for them are ranks exalted.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 75.
Whereas, if you die associating partners with Allah, disbelieving in Him and rejecting faith in Him, you will be among those who will be in Hell Fire for ever and ever.
Allah says: “But whosoever turns away from My Message, verily for him is a life narrowed down, and We shall raise him up blind on the Day of Judgement.” Surah No. 20, Verse 124.
Allah says: “And who does more wrong than one to whom are recited the Signs of his Lord, and who then turns way therefrom? Verily from those who transgress We shall exact (due) retribution.” Surah No. 32, Verse no. 22.
Allah says: “Verily he who comes to his Lord as a sinner (at Judgement),-for him is Hell: therein shall he neither die nor live.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 74
Allah says: “…and if any of you turn back from their faith and die in unbelief, their works will bear no fruit in this life and in the Hereafter; they will be companions of the Fire and will abide therein.” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 217
Be informed that there is no force in religion; the right path is clear and the wrong path is clear. So after you have read and thought of and contemplated about the above message, you will not be excused by ignorance. As the warnings and message of all messengers have now reached you, you will be brought to account and be accountable on the Day of Judgment when there is no benefit for money or children but only for those who will come with good deeds and clear hearts.
Finally take note that the devils of mankind and Jinn’s and the wicked of the learned among them are scheming day and night to prevent you from listening to this message and to any other message that speaks of the Truth.
We pray to Allah that He helps you find the right path and guide you to what pleases Him
Praise be to Allah, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds
Bismillaahir Rahmaanir Raheem
Dear Reader,
The purpose of this message is to invite you to think of and contemplate about the real purpose of your life on this earth and where you will end up in the Hereafter. Will you end up in Paradise or in Hell-Fire? Please, take note, that when you have read this message, you are considered to have legislatively been given proof and been informed of the admonition of all messengers, and after which you will not be excused by ignorance:
Take note that Allah the Almighty is the One and Only God. He is Eternal. He is Absolute. He has not begotten and has not been begotten and no one is like Him.
Allah says: “Say: He is Allah, the One; Allah, the Eternal, Absolute; He begetteth not, nor is He begotten; and there is none like unto Him.” Surah No.112, Verses 1-4.
Allah says: “He is the Creator of the heavens and the earth: He has made for you pairs from among cattle: by this means does He multiply you: there is nothing whatever like unto Him, and He is the One that hears and sees.” Surah No. 42, Verse No. 11.
Learn that Allah the Almighty is the Creator of all creatures. There is no god for this universe and what it holds but Allah.
Allah says: “Allah is the Creator Of all things, and He is the Guardian and Disposer of all affairs.” Surah No.39 Verse 62.
Allah says: “Such is Allah, your Lord, The Creator of all things, there is no god but He: Then how you are deluded away from the Truth!” Surah No.40, Verse No.62.
Allah says: “To Allah belongs all that is in the heavens and earth: To Allah do all matters return.” Surah No.3 Verse No. 109.
Be informed that Allah the Almighty has created you for one single purpose which is to worship Him alone.
Allah says: “I have only created Jinns and men, that they may serve Me”. Surah No.51 Verse No. 56.
Allah says: “And they have been commanded no more than this: To worship Allah, offering Him sincere devotion, being true (in faith); to establish regular prayer; and to give zakat (i.e. charity given to the needy); and that is the Religion Right and Straight”. Surah No.98, Verse No. 5.
Understand that it is out of sincerity and purity of worship to Allah to avoid worshipping the created whoever and whatever they may be.
Allah says: “Certainly they disbelieve who say: “(Allah) is Christ the son of Mary." But said Christ: "O Children of Israel! Worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord.” Whoever joins other gods with Allah, - Allah will forbid him the Garden, and the Fire will be his abode. There will for the wrong-doers be no one to help.” Surah No. 5, Verse No. 72.
Allah says: “Say: "I do no more than invoke my Lord, and I join not with Him any (false god).” Surah No 72, Verse No. 20.
Allah says: “Say: "I am but a man like yourselves, (but) the inspiration has come to me, that your God is one God: whoever expects to meet his Lord, let him work righteousness, and, in the worship of his Lord, admit no one as partner.” Surah No. 18, Verse No. 110.
Allah says: “Those to whom We have given the Book rejoice at what hath been revealed unto thee: but there are among the clans those who reject a part thereof. Say: "I am commanded to worship Allah, and not to join partners with Him. Unto Him do I call, and unto Him is my return.” Surah No. 13, Verse No. 36.
Learn that he, who worships Allah joining with Him another whoever or whatever it may be, has associated partners with Allah and consequently his deeds will turn fruitless and he will be among the losers.
Allah says: “But it has already been revealed to thee, - as it was to those before thee, - “if thou wert to join (gods with Allah), truly fruitless will be thy work (in life), and thou wilt surely be among the losers.” Surah No. 29, Verse No. 65.
Allah says: “This is the Guidance of Allah: He giveth that guidance to whom He pleaseth, of His servants if they were to join other gods with Him, all that they did would be vain for them.” Surah No. 6, Verse No.88.
Take note that Allah the Almighty sent all Prophets and Messengers to reinforce and remind people that there is no god but Allah. That is nothing is worthy of being worshipped but Allah.
Allah says: “For we assuredly sent amongst every people a Messenger, (with the command), “serve Allah, and eschew Evil”: of the people were some whom Allah guided, and some on whom Error became inevitably (established). So travel through the earth, and see what was the end of those who denied (the Truth).” Surah No.16, Verse No. 36.
Allah says: “Not a messenger did We send before thee without this inspiration sent by Us to him: that there is no god but I; therefore worship and serve Me.” Surah 21 Verse 25. There is no prophet who said to his people but: “We sent Noah to his people. He said: “O my people! Worship Allah! Ye have no other god but Him. I fear for you the Punishment of a dreadful Day!” Surah No. 7, Verse No. 59.
Be informed that having faith and believing in all Prophets and Messengers is a must. If anyone rejects faith or doesn’t believe one Prophet or Messenger of Allah’s the Almighty, they are rejecting faith in Allah and disbelieving Him and all His Prophets and Messengers.
Allah says: “The Messenger believeth in what hath been revealed to him from his Lord, as do the men of faith, each one (of them) believeth in Allah, His angels, His books, and His Messengers. “We make no distinction (they say) between one and another of his Messengers.” And they say: “We hear, and we obey: (we seek) Thy forgiveness, our Lord, and to Thee is the end of all journeys.” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 285.
Allah says: “‘Verily it has been revealed to us that the Chastisement (awaits) those who reject and turn away.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 48.
Allah says: “And who does more wrong than he who invents a lie against Allah or rejects the Truth when it reaches him? Is there not a home in Hell for those who reject Faith?” Surah No.29, Verse No. 68.
Allah says: “Those who reject the Book and the (revelations) with which we sent Our messengers: but soon shall they know.” Surah No. 40, Verse No. 70.
Be informed that Muhammad (PBBUH ) is the Messenger of Allah, who was sent by Allah as mercy to the worlds, giving glad tidings and warnings and that he is the seal of all Prophets and messengers and there is no Prophet after him.
Allah says: “Muhammad is no more than a Messenger: many were the Messengers that passed away before him. If he died or were slain, will ye then turn back on your heels? If any did turn back on his heels, not the least harm will he do to Allah; but Allah (on the other hand) will swiftly reward those who (serve Him) with gratitude.” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 144.
Allah says: “Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered Prophet whom they find mentioned in their own (Scriptures),-in the Taurat and the Gospel; - for he commands them what is just and Forbids them what is evil; he allows them as lawful what is good (and pure) and prohibits them from what is bad (and impure): He releases them from their heavy burdens and from the yokes that are upon them. So it is those who believe in him, honour him, help him, and follow the Light which is sent down with him, - it is they who will prosper.” Surah No. 7, verse No. 157.
Allah says: “Say: “O men! I am sent unto you all, as the Messenger of Allah, to who belongeth the dominion of the heavens and the earth: there is no god but He: it is He that giveth both life and death. So believe in Allah and His Messenger. The unlettered Prophet, who believeth in Allah and His words, follow him that (so) ye may be guided.” Surah No. 7, Verse No. 158.
Allah says: “Now hath come to you a Messenger from amongst yourselves: it grieves him that you should suffer, ardently anxious is he over you: to the Believers is he most kind and merciful”. Surah No. 9, Verse No. 128.
Allah says: “Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Messenger of Allah, and the Seal of the Prophets. And Allah has full knowledge of all things.” Surah No. 33, Verse No. 40.
Allah says: “Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah…” Surah No 48, Verse No. 29.
Allah says: “And remember, Jesus, the Son of Mary, said: “O Children of Israel! I am the messenger of Allah (sent) to you, confirming the Taurat (which came) before me, and giving Glad Tidings of a messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad. But when he came to them with Clear Signs, They said, “This is evident sorcery!” Surah No.61, Verse No.6.
Take note that Allah the Almighty revealed to Muhammad (PBBUH) the Holy Quran which is the word of Allah and which contains Guidance and Light for the worlds. It has also explanation of everything.
Allah says: “Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down The Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (between right and wrong) so every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spent it in fasting, but if anyone is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you: He does not want to put you to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.” Surah No.2, Verse No.185.
Allah says: “Say: “What thing is most weighty in evidence?” say: “Allah is witness between me and you; this Qur’an hath been revealed to me by inspiration. That I may warn you and all whom it reaches. Can ye possibly bear witness that besides Allah there are other gods?” say: “Nay! I cannot bear witness!” Surah No. 6, Verse No. 19.
Allah says: “Verily this Quran doth guide to that which is most right (or stable), and giveth the glad tidings to the Believers who work deeds of righteousness, that they shall have a magnificent reward.” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 9.
Allah says: “We send down (stage by stage) of the Quran that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe: to the unjust it causes nothing but loss after loss.” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 82.
Allah says: “As for thee, thou receives the Quran from One All-Wise, All-Knowing.” Surah No. 27, Verse No. 6.
Allah says: “And We have explained to man, in this Quran, every kind of similitude: yet greater part of men refuse (to receive it) except with gratitude!” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 89.
Appreciate that the Holy Quran, which was revealed to Allah’s Prophet (PBBUH), has been the Greatest Evident Miracle Ever. It is continuing and everlastingly challenging all mankind gathered together to produce something like it or like one of its Surahs.
Allah says: “Say: ‘if the whole of mankind and Jinns were to gather together to produce the like of this Quran, they could not produce the like thereof, even if they backed up each other with help and support.’” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 88.
Allah says: “And if ye are in doubt as to what We have revealed from time to time to Our servant then produce a Sura like thereunto; and call your witness or helpers (if there are any) besides Allah, if ye are truthful.” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 23.
Be informed that Allah has ordered all mankind no matter what their colours, sexes; languages may be to believe in Muhammad the Prophet (PBBUP), follow him and obey him. He who obeys the Prophet (PBBUH) obeys Allah and consequently he will be on the right path; and; he who disobeys the Prophet (PBBUH), disobeys Allah and consequently he will be on the wrong path.
Allah says: “Say: “Obey Allah and His Messenger”: but if they turn back, Allah loveth not those who reject faith.” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 32.
Allah says: “O ye who believe! Obey Allah and His Messenger, and turn not away from him when ye hear (him speak).” Surah No. 8, Verse No. 20.
Allah says: “He who obeys the Messenger, obeys Allah…” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 80.
Allah says: “Say: “if ye do love Allah, follow me: Allah will love you and forgive you your sins: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most merciful.” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 31.
Take note that he who hears of Muhammad the Prophet (PBBUH) and neither believes in him nor follows him is a disbeliever in Allah, rejecting faith in Him and consequently worthy to be tortured on the Day of Judgement.
Allah says: “We know indeed the grief which their words do cause thee: It is not thee they reject: It is the Signs of Allah, which the wicked deny.” Surah No. 6, Verse No. 33.
Allah says: “On that day those who reject Faith and disobey the Messenger will wish that the earth were made one with them: but never will they hide a single fact from Allah!” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 42.
Allah says: “If anyone contends with the Messenger even after Guidance has been plainly conveyed to him, and follows a path other than that becoming to men to Faith, we shall leave him in the path he has chosen, and land him in Hell,- What an evil refuge!” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 115.
The Prophet (PBBUH) says: “By the One in whose hands Muhammad’s soul is, if anyone, anywhere in the world, whether a Jew or Christian hears of me and dies without believing in my Message will definitely be amongst those in Hell-Fire.” (Muslim)
Take note that the Religion before Allah is Islam and it is the religion of all Prophets and Messengers. No religion is accepted of anyone but Islam.
Allah says: “And Abraham enjoined upon his sons and so did Jacob;” Oh my sons! Allah hath chosen the Faith for you; then die not except in the state of submission (to Me).” Surah No. 2, Verse No.132.
Allah says: “The Religion before Allah is Islam..” Surah No. 3, Verse No. 19.
Allah says: “If anyone desires a religion other than Islam (submission to Allah) never will it be accepted of him; and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost.” Surah No. 3, Verse No.85.
Be informed that resurrection after death is coming and absolutely true; the Hour is coming and absolutely true and the accountability on doomsday is absolutely true.
Allah says: “Lost indeed are they who treat it as a falsehood that they must meet Allah, - until on a sudden the Hour is on them, and they say: “Ah! Woe unto us that we neglected; for they bear their burdens on their backs, and evil indeed are the burdens that they bear?” Surah No. 6 Verse No. 31.
Allah says: “Verily the Hour is coming- I have almost kept it hidden- for every soul to receive its reward by the measure of its Endeavour.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 15.
Allah says: “And verily the Hour will come: there can be no doubt about it, or about (the fact) that Allah will raise up all who are in the graves.” Surah No. 22, Verse No. 7.
Allah says: “The Unbelievers say, “Never to us will come the Hour”: say, “Nay! But most surely, by my Lord, it will come upon you;…” Surah No 34, Verse No. 3.
Allah says: “The Hour will certainly come: therein is no doubt: yet most men believe not.” Surah No. 40, Verse No. No. 59.
Allah says: “Again, on the Day of Judgement, will ye be raised up.” Surah No. 23, Verse No. 16.
Allah says: “Allah is never unjust in the least degree: if there is any good (done), He doubleth it, and giveth from His Own self a great reward.” Surah No. 4, Verse No. 40.
Allah says: “Then shall anyone who has done an atom’s weight of good, see it! And anyone who has done an atom’s weight of evil, shall see it.” Surah No. 99, Verses Nos. 7-8.
Learn that Paradise and its bounties are absolutely true, therein everlasting goodness and bounties of which no ear has ever heard of, or an eye has ever seen or a mind has ever been able to imagine. All this has been prepared Allah’s righteous believers.
Allah says: “The parable of the Garden which the righteous are promised! - beneath it flow rivers; perpetual is the fruits therof and the shade therein: such is the End of the Righteous and the End of the Unbelievers is the Fire.” Surah No. 13, Verse No. 35.
Allah says: “But give glad tidings to those who believe and work righteousness, that their portion is Gardens, beneath which rivers flow, every time they are fed with fruits therefrom, they say: “Why, this what we were fed with before,” for that are given things in similitude; and they have therein spouses purified; and they abide therein (forever).” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 25.
Allah says: “But those who believe and work deeds of righteousness- to them shall We give a Home in Heaven, - lofty mansions beneath which flow rivers, -to dwell therein for aye; an excellent reward for those who do (good)!” Surah No. 29, Verse No. 58.
Allah says: “Verily the Companions of the Garden shall that Day have joy in all that they do.” Surah No. 36, Verse No. 55.
Allah says: “(Here is) the description of the Garden which the righteous are promised: in it are rivers of water unstaling; rivers of Milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine, a joy to those who drink; and rivers of honey pure and clear. In it there are for them all kinds of fruits; and Forgiveness from their Lord, (can those in such Bliss) be compared to such as shall dwell fro ever in the Fire and be given to drink, boiling water, so that it cuts up their bowels (to pieces)?” Surah No.47, Verse No. 15.
Allah says: “Be quick in the race for forgiveness from your Lord and for a Garden whose width is that (of the whole) of the heavens and of the earth, prepared for the righteous.” Surah No.3 Verse No 133.
Allah says: “Be ye foremost (in seeking) forgiveness from your Lord, and a Garden (of Bliss), the width whereof is as the width of heaven and earth prepared for those who believe in Allah and His messengers: that is the Grace of Allah, which He bestows on whom He pleases: and Allah is the Lord of Grace abounding.” Surah No. 57, Verse No. 21.
Learn that the Hell fire is absolutely true; its torture in is true; and fierce. It has a torture that is extremely fierce, harsh, and perpetual. Its torture is something that no ear has ever heard of, or an eye has ever seen or a mind has ever been able to imagine. All this has been prepared for those who associate partners with Allah and who made it false to believe in Allah.
Allah says: “Know they not that for those who oppose Allah and His Messenger is the Fire of Hell? - Wherein they shall dwell. That is the supreme disgrace.” Surah No.9, Verse No. 63.
Allah says: “…on the Day of Judgement we shall gather them together, prone on their faces, blind, dumb, and deaf: their abode will be Hell: every time it shows abatement, We shall increase for them the fierceness of the Fire.” Surah No. 17, Verse No. 97.
Allah says: “And We shall drive the sinners to hell, (like thirsty cattle driven down to water)” Surah No. 19, Verse No. 86.
Allah says: “Verily he who comes to his Lord as a sinner (at Judgement), -for him is Hell: therein shall he neither die nor live.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 74.
Allah says: “But those who reject (Allah) - for them will be the Fire of Hell: not term shall be determined for them, so they should die, nor shall its Chastisement be lightened for them. Thus do WE reward every ungrateful.” Surah No. 35, Verse No. 36.
Allah says: “The Unbelievers will be led to Hell in groups: until, when they arrive there, its gates will be opened. And its Keepers will say, “Did not messengers come to you from among yourselves, rehearsing to you the Signs of your Lord, and warning you of the Meeting of this Day of yours?” The answer will be: “True: but the Decree of Chastisement has been proved true against the Unbelievers!” Surah No. 39, Verse No. 71.
Take note that if you die believing in the oneness of God and in Muhammad (PBBUH), Allah’s last Messenger, you will be amongst those who will be saved and led into Paradise to live in its bounties for ever.
Allah says: “But such as come to Him as Believers who have worked righteous deeds, for them are ranks exalted.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 75.
Whereas, if you die associating partners with Allah, disbelieving in Him and rejecting faith in Him, you will be among those who will be in Hell Fire for ever and ever.
Allah says: “But whosoever turns away from My Message, verily for him is a life narrowed down, and We shall raise him up blind on the Day of Judgement.” Surah No. 20, Verse 124.
Allah says: “And who does more wrong than one to whom are recited the Signs of his Lord, and who then turns way therefrom? Verily from those who transgress We shall exact (due) retribution.” Surah No. 32, Verse no. 22.
Allah says: “Verily he who comes to his Lord as a sinner (at Judgement),-for him is Hell: therein shall he neither die nor live.” Surah No. 20, Verse No. 74
Allah says: “…and if any of you turn back from their faith and die in unbelief, their works will bear no fruit in this life and in the Hereafter; they will be companions of the Fire and will abide therein.” Surah No. 2, Verse No. 217
Be informed that there is no force in religion; the right path is clear and the wrong path is clear. So after you have read and thought of and contemplated about the above message, you will not be excused by ignorance. As the warnings and message of all messengers have now reached you, you will be brought to account and be accountable on the Day of Judgment when there is no benefit for money or children but only for those who will come with good deeds and clear hearts.
Finally take note that the devils of mankind and Jinn’s and the wicked of the learned among them are scheming day and night to prevent you from listening to this message and to any other message that speaks of the Truth.
We pray to Allah that He helps you find the right path and guide you to what pleases Him
Praise be to Allah, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)