"UNEMPLOYMENT AND ISLAM: BRINGING UP HOPE AND FINDING SOLUTIONS"

 

Today the whole world is facing the problem of unemployment including the believers of Islam, the reasons behind it can be more than one and genuine but Islam has good guidance to individuals facing this difficult situation. In this blog post, I will delve into the Islamic principles, teachings, and real-life solutions that can be useful for individuals, to navigate unemployment with constant hope for productive and valuable opportunities.

Islamic Perspectives on Unemployment and Work

Islam places a high value on work and views it as a way for people to perform their obligations, find nourishment, and give back to society. The value of employment is emphasized in Islamic teachings, and people are urged to take an active role in their communities. Islam believes that employment is a way to meet one's religious commitments as well as a way to provide for oneself. Muslims can support themselves and their loved ones and perform their obligation to support and maintain their houses by working honestly and within the law. Islam places a strong emphasis on the idea of "Barakah," which is Arabic for blessings and prosperity.

Muslims are urged to consider their labor to be an act of worship when done honestly, morally, and with a feeling of accountability. Muslims can seek Allah's pleasure and experience spiritual fulfillment in everyday life by giving their all in their careers.

Muslims can learn from the Prophet Muhammad's (Peace be upon Him) life. He worked as a trader and then as a leader, exemplifying the value of actively participating in society and making a good contribution to its advancement. Muslims are urged to model their commitment to social welfare, work ethic, and dedication to charity.

Trust in Divine Wisdom

Islam places a great deal of emphasis on the idea of “tawakkul" (dependence on Allah), especially during difficult or unemployed times. It teaches Muslims to seek career possibilities with all possible diligence while putting their faith in Allah's almighty plan. Islam emphasizes that even though people must move proactively to find work, they should find comfort and inner tranquility in knowing that Allah controls all results. Muslims can face the hardships of unemployment with perseverance, optimism, and the conviction that Allah's direction and provision would materialize in due course by fusing earnest effort with unshakeable faith in Allah's wisdom and mercy.

It must be a good sign for you if you are continuously struggling but not getting enough rewards. Allah wants you to raise your strength and stability on success. If you will get everything so easily, it could make you arrogant or overconfident but Allah wants you to be a good Muslim with success, so be patient and remain consistent in a struggle. It is not just bringing you towards success but developing you personally.

Read that blog post for more information and motivation: Why Allah allows poverty, if He is all Powerful?

Maintaining the emotional balance

Numerous emotional difficulties, including anxiety, low self-esteem, and despair, can arise as a result of unemployment. Given the significance of these difficulties, it is essential to carefully address them and look for support from a variety of sources. Islam provides consolation and inspiration through its principles in trying times. Muslims are exhorted to draw courage and resiliency from their faith. In times of difficulty, finding consolation in acts of worship, recital of the Quran, and prayer can be a relief.

 

Islam provides direction and support to help people get through unemployment, which may be a difficult and emotionally taxing situation. People can find hope and strength in trying circumstances by adhering to the Islamic values of trusting in Allah's plan, seeking comfort in worship, and finding consolation in the teachings of the Quran. It is crucial to keep in mind that difficulties are transient and that Allah rewards those who are patient and persistent. Islam encourages the value of community and caring for one another, which also encourages seeking assistance from close companions and mental health experts. Unemployed people can find comfort and determination to overcome their difficulties and restore their confidence by incorporating faith, looking for assistance, and preserving emotional well-being.

 

FORGIVENESS IN ISLAM: BRACING THE RELATIONSHIPS AND NURTURING THE HEARTS

 

Islam places a high value on forgiveness, which includes the act of forgiving people and getting rid of grudges. It is an idea that has strong roots in the Quran's teachings and the customs of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This article seeks to put light on the Islamic concept of forgiveness and demonstrate how it may improve both people and relationships. We will gain a better understanding of forgiveness's significance in mending emotional wounds and creating stronger links between individuals and neighborhoods by investigating the Islamic perspective and prophetic lectures on it.

 QURANIC PERSPECTIVE

• Be merciful

We have not created the heavens and the earth and everything in between except for a purpose. And the Hour is certain to come, so forgive graciously. (Surah Al-Hijir: 85).

The above-mentioned verse of the Holy Quran commands us to be merciful and gracious with forgiveness. If we want forgiveness from Allah Almighty for our sins, we must have to forgive our brothers, sisters, friends, relatives, or neighbors.

• Forgiveness is to embracing kindness and trusting in Allah

It was thanks to Allah's mercy that you were gentle to them. Had you been rough, hard-hearted, they would surely have scattered away from you. So, pardon them, and pray for their forgiveness, and take counsel from them in matters of importance. And when you are resolved on a course of action place your trust in Allah; surely Allah loves those who put their trust (in Him). (Surah Ali 'Imran 159).

We do not forgive people when we realize their harsh sayings of them for us or anything makes us down. Is this like not trusting in the presence of Allah? Any person who does wrong to anyone will be asked one day by Allah Almighty then why we do not let these people. So, forgiveness is also an act of trusting in Allah Almighty.

 

PROPHETIC EXAMPLE

As the personification of mercy and compassion, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) demonstrated forgiveness throughout his life. Even though he was subjected to severe suffering and persecution, he showed mercy to even his adamant detractors and forgave those who had wronged him. The Prophet showed unflinching mercy, pardoning those who plotted his death as well as the Ta'ifites who stoned him. His greatest act of mercy occurred when he forgave the people who had driven him and his supporters from their homes during his rule of Makkah. By illustrating the transforming effects of forgiveness, the strength in forgiving others, and the capacity to mend hearts and strengthen bonds, the forgiveness of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) serves as an everlasting example.

 

REAL LIFE EXAMPLE

• Significance of Forgiveness in Healing Emotional Wounds

Imagine Maidah, a young woman who has experienced a severe loss due to a close friend's treachery. She struggled with bitterness and hatred for months, unable to move on from the hurt her friend's actions had caused. Maidah’s heart would fill with resentment whenever she saw or thought about her friend, which harmed her emotional health.

One day, Maidah stumbled upon a Quranic verse that discussed forgiveness:

"And let them forgive and overlook. Wouldn't it be nice if Allah forgave you? (brief) (Surah An-Nur: 22)

After giving these remarks some thought, Maidah understood the significance of forgiveness in Islam and how it would help her recover from her emotional wounds. Maidah decided to start the process of forgiving with a sad heart. She contacted back to her friend, being open and honest about her emotions while also expressing a wish to repair their friendship. Maidah decided to forgive her buddy and let go of her grudge.

Maidah noticed a significant change in herself when she forgave her friend. Gradually, the weight of hurt and rage vanished, allowing room for healing and calm. Maidah emotional scars started to heal, and she noticed that she was feeling better overall.

By extending forgiveness, Maidah not only broke free from the bonds of bitterness but also made room for the prospect of restoring mutual respect and advancing her friendship. She discovered through forgiveness that overcoming emotional scars calls for bravery, sensitivity, and a readiness to let go of the past. This narrative serves as an illustration of how forgiveness can help to mend emotional wounds. Islam asserts that showing mercy is a symbol of strength and fortitude rather than a sign of weakness. People like Maidah can regain their emotional health, find tranquility within, and create healthier relationships by accepting forgiveness.

The Significance of Compassion in Islam: Strengthening the Heart

 

Walking along the roadsides, seeing homeless poor children, old people on the footpaths. I know you feel more compassion for them and most of us say;

When I will be a rich or I will have a good income, I will help these people. Some more determined will say; I will eradicate this poverty and distress from the world. Some of us do prayer to Allah on that scene, that may Allah make them able to help these poor people or may Allah help these poor people. All these thoughts and actions are really good. ALHAMDULILLAH

But being students or jobholders and having a lot of thoughts in our mind or due to busy routine or schedule we never try to show compassion to these poor people that we all can do.

When small poor children see the hostility or cold-heartedness around them, they evolve and grow the same as they observe in their environment and this is how we are developing our society.

Showing compassion is the most fundamental teaching of Islam. The first Kalmah that, we say to read the Quran or to start anything; is بِسْمِ ٱللّٰهِ ٱلرَّحْمٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ‎  (bi-semi llāhi r-raḥmāni r-raḥīmi),  here we praise Allah by calling Him the most Merciful and Compassionate. Then the very first chapter of the Holy Quran contains 2^nd verse (ٱلرَّحْمٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ ); that is again praising Allah Almighty by calling Him Compassionate.

Our Prophet Muhammad has the title of Rahmatal-lil-Aalamin. The repetition of verses in the Holy Quran, having the word “reham" shows the importance of compassion. The Prophet (P.B.U.H) set a wonderful example of compassion and was the personification of this virtue.

The Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) said:

“I commenced the prayer, and I intended to make it long, but I heard a child crying, so I cut my prayer short because of the distress I knew his mother would be feeling.

The Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) kissed the children, took the orphan boy to His home and one day a Bedouin came to the Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) and asked: 

"Do you kiss your sons?"

"I have ten children and I have never kissed any of them."

The Prophet (Peace Be Upon Him) looked at him and said:

“The one who does not show compassion will not be shown mercy.”

(Bukhari and Muslim)

 

This is how our prophet nurtured the hearts to develop more compassion in society. We all are living our lives depending on one another. If we will not be kind to each other, and to our environment, we may lose all the beauty of this life and most importantly the beauty of emotions or kindness. Try to show compassion to everyone, it will start controlling your anger and will make you happy in return.

Showing compassion is important and easy, let's show compassion to anyone, by just giving a cold-water bottle in this hot summer season. The person could be anyone, rich, poor, male or female. When you will do this, people may start developing the courage to show compassion to others as well. Let's try to nurture the heart. Let's try to make a bond of kindness, love, and respect.

“It is not the compassion of any one of you towards his friend, but it is compassion towards all people and compassion towards the common folk.” Reported by al-Tabarani; its men are rijal al-sahih.

Additionally, when compassion is practiced collectively, it has a contagious impact that leads to a more compassionate and peaceful society, where empathy and caring serve as the cornerstones of social cohesiveness and general well-being. In the end, adopting compassion as a way of life has transformative effects on both individuals and society as a whole.

WAYS TO DEVELOP SINCERITY IN WORSHIP

WAYS TO DEVELOP SINCERITY IN WORSHIP 

Achieving and developing a high degree of sincerity in worship and actions, is what every Muslim should constantly try to realize. There are some ways through which we can achieve sincerity and in worship of Allah Almighty and actions.

1. Improve your Secret Life

Secret Life means private life. In Islam we have excellent importance for our privacy. But it is the nature of man to have fear of visible authorities and in privacy, we cannot hide ourselves from Allah. With this belief, improvement in private life can develop sincerity in worship. "The primary stage of sincerity is that, your private and your public life should be similar".

2. Ask Allah Almighty for sincerity

Having deep fear for Allah Almighty, we should ask Him for sincerity and this is practiced by our Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace be Upon Him). Asking right path for your heart that interact with wrong beliefs. If a person attain Allah Almighty's guidance to develop sincerity that is the wonderful way to be strong and sincere believer.

3. Keep pure Intentions

Our intensions should always be closed to achieve the happiness of Allah Almighty and right cause or objectives of our doings. Good intentions can help us in transforming the attraction into rewarding action. For instance, our acts of eating, drinking, exercising with intension of attaining more strength to perform more worship of Allah Almighty can develop sincerity.

4. Adopt Patience to endure hardships in life

Hardships are the critical tests in a person's life. These are hard to bear if person doesn't have strong belief on Allah Almighty. The belief that every thing is just from Allah Almighty and every hardship has fruits behind it, can help a person in developing sincerity. The example of Life of Holy Prophet Muhammad Peace be Upon Him is like, how much his life was full of hardships but than his life is also a testament to success.

5. Keep motivated to do good deeds

Motivation is the inner quality that trigger to do something. If it trigger to do good deeds, with time the sincerity will be developed. It is the required element that should be developed by first. It is the development of determination and dedication. It is the sign of sincerity to practices strong determination for good deeds.

IF ALLAH ALMIGHTY IS ALL MERCIFUL THEN, WHY DOES HE NEEDS ANIMAL SACRIFICED IN HIS NAME?

 

IF ALLAH ALMIGHTY IS ALL MERCIFUL THEN, WHY DOES HE NEEDS ANIMAL SACRIFICED IN HIS NAME?

The word "sacrifice" is called "Qurban" in Arabic and the root word for this is "Qarraba". The meaning of Qarraba is "near'. Terminologically, it implies the slaughtering of livestock, life, money, to get "taqarrub" or to getting near to Allah Almighty.  It has been a part of Islam since the first Prophet Adam (May Allah Almighty be pleased with him). The true meaning of sacrifice is to show obedience and a broad gratitude for the favors of life that Allah Almighty bestowed upon us. It is mentioned in the Glorious Quran;

 

And for all religion We have appointed a rite [of sacrifice] that they may mention the name of Allah over what He has provided for them of [sacrificial] animals. For your god is one God, so to Him submit. And, [O Muhammad], give good tidings to the humble [before their Lord]. (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:34).

 

In  Surah Al-Maidah, Allah Almighty mentioned the story of two brothers who were asked to sacrifice. It depicts the true nature of sacrifice.

 

 And recite to them the story of Adam's two sons, in truth, when they both offered a sacrifice [to Allah ], and it was accepted from one of them but was not accepted from the other. Said [the latter], "I will surely kill you." Said [the former], "Indeed, Allah only accepts from the righteous [who fear Him]. (Surah Al-Maidah, 5:27)

 

In the Glorious Quran, Allah Almighty also mentioned the story of Prophet Ibrahim (May Allah be pleased with him). The Glorious Quran mention in several places that how Prophet Ibrahim (May Allah be pleased with him) loved his son Ismail. Allah Almighty wanted to test Prophet Ibrahim (May Allah be pleased with him) and it is mentioned in the Glorious Quran;

 And when he reached with him [the age of] exertion, he said, "O my son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I [must] sacrifice you, so see what you think."  He said, "O my father, do as you are commanded.  You will find me, if Allah wills, of the steadfast." (Surah As-Saffat, 37:102)

 

All aforementioned verses explain that Allah Almighty wants our sacrifices but He doesn't need our sacrifices because He order us to do these things because He knows that our betterment is in His worship. Dozens of verses in the Qur'an mention that Allah (the Glorified and Merciful) does not attains anything through being praised, or getting sacrifices in His name, but rather He is the Gracious Giver to performers of good and evil-performers alike. Without getting sufficient thought to the nature of the Almighty Allah, and without ingress to His revealed words, a person misperceives the Creator as a needy. (نعوذ بالله ) Considering that the Allah Almighty is egotistically driven to demand devotional service is neither common sense nor sound logic.  So, what is the reason that He is asking for worship and also saying that He doesn't need our worship? The reason is that Allah Almighty wants us to worship Him not because of His benefit but for our benefit. And Sacrifice is a most expressive way to show the obedience and a deep sense if gratitude. Allah Almighty test those people to whom He loves more. It is the most beloved worship form of Allah Almighty.

 

“There is not a single deed performed by human beings on Eid Adha that is more loved by Allah s.w.t than slaughtering sacrificial animals. Indeed, the sacrificial animal will come on the Day of Resurrection with its horns, feathers and nails. And indeed, before the blood of the victim touches the ground, he (his reward) will be accepted by Allah s.w.t. So, good luck to you all with (the reward) of the victim.”

 

(Tirmidhi)

 

 

 

TRUE MEANING OF SABR (PATIENCE) IN ISLAM

TRUE MEANING OF SABR (PATIENCE) IN ISLAM

The Glorious Quran says, human shows usually two types of responses, when they face any tragedy or crises. The first response that most of people show is, Ooh Allah! Why you chose me? Why is this happening to me? Everyone has good life but you put me in that worse situation. So, they use tragedy to run away from Allah Almighty. The second response is the response of true Believers. They use tragedy to be a means of returning to Allah Almighty. They say, Ooh Allah! We know, You know what is better for us and the wisdom behind this calamity. We believe that there is something better for us in it. Help us to understand it. Help us to appreciate it. Help us to get over it. You are Al-Hakeem, the All wise, help us to see better in this.

 

Ibn al-Qayyim wrote

“When a man’s patience is stronger than his whims and desires, then he is like an angel; but when his whims and desires are stronger than his patience, then he is like a devil. If his desire for food, drink and physical relations is stronger than his patience, then he is no better than an animal. Lying, cheating and self-admiration are his most common traits and his reason is held prisoner by Shaytan, who directs it to serve evil purposes. The main cause for his sorry fate is that he ran out of patience.”

It depicts that whatever our minds want or like to do, doesn't takes top priority but what Allah Almighty wants us to do takes top priority. Our limited minds cannot understand or comprehend that whatever is happening to us is better for us. All the calamities and difficulties that are destined for us are also good because they draw us closer to Allah Almighty.

 

The tests by Allah Almighty are not always negative or calamities but the blessings of Him are also tests. But man considers the calamities as test and behaves in different way. Allah Almighty says it in the Glorious Quran,

 

فَأَمَّا ٱلۡإِنسَٰنُ إِذَا مَا ٱبۡتَلَىٰهُ رَبُّهُۥ فَأَكۡرَمَهُۥ وَنَعَّمَهُۥ فَيَقُولُ رَبِّيٓ أَكۡرَمَنِ

And as for man, when his Lord tries him and [thus] is generous to him and favors him, he says, "My Lord has honored me."

وَأَمَّآ إِذَا مَا ٱبۡتَلَىٰهُ فَقَدَرَ عَلَيۡهِ رِزۡقَهُۥ فَيَقُولُ رَبِّيٓ أَهَٰنَنِ

 But when He tries him and restricts his provision, he says, "My Lord has humiliated me."

(Surah Fajr, Verse 15-16)

 

Aspects of Sabr

1. Sabr means self-control or non-indulgence, which is required for abstaining from what Allah Almighty has prohibited and from all types of sins and disobedience. An Islamic narration says, “Sabr has two parts: patience for the sake of Allah concerning what He is pleased with (i.e. acts of worship and obedience), even if it is hard on the heart and the body, and patience when avoiding what He dislikes, even if it is desired. 
2. Sabr means acceptance of Allah Almighty's commandments in our actions. For example Allah Almighty reminds us to say when we lost our loved ones or wealth; Say, “Never will we be struck except by what Allah has decreed for us.” [Quran 9:51]
3. Sabr meaning tolerance and perseverance which is needed to fulfill the commandments of Allah Almighty. The directing of oneself towards good deeds and worship is of benefit to the soul. Knowing that what soul likes and dislikes being controlled helps us to manage it. For instance, to establish prayer under all circumstances of heat and cold, busy work schedules and health constraints.

 

[He] who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed. [Quran 67:2]

 

And We will surely test you until We make evident those who strive among you [for the cause of Allah] and the patient, and We will test your affairs. [Quran 47:31]

 

These Quranic words help us to tolerate all the difficulties with perseverance. Being a true Believer, we should ask for help from the Creator of Everything.

As Prophet Muhammad Peace be Upon Him used to say;

“O Allah, I ask You for steadfastness in all my affairs and determination in following the right path.” [An Nisa’i -Hasan]

 

 

HOW TO BECOME MORE GRATEFUL TO ALLAH ALMIGHTY?

 

HOW TO BECOME MORE GRATEFUL TO ALLAH ALMIGHTY?

What are the benefits of showing gratitude to Allah Almighty?

Nowadays Muslims are busy with various worldly matters and they sometimes because of difficult times say such words that show ungratefulness to Allah Almighty and sometimes they forget the splendid blessings that they have. However, it is obligatory upon all Believers to feel and show their gratitude to the most Beneficent and the most Merciful Allah Almighty throughout every day of our lives and ultimately it will strengthen our faith and helps to gain the goal of "Total submission to Allah Almighty's will. No doubt, Allah Almighty had designed us as an intelligent specie and blessed us with numerous things. Everything, we achieve related to professional, personal, or spiritual life - is eventually from Allah Almighty. In the Glorious Quran He mentioned;

 

وَءَاتَىٰكُم مِّن كُلِّ مَا سَأَلۡتُمُوهُۚ وَإِن تَعُدُّواْ نِعۡمَتَ ٱللَّهِ لَا تُحۡصُوهَآۗ إِنَّ ٱلۡإِنسَٰنَ لَظَلُومٞ كَفَّارٞ

And He gave you from all you asked of Him. And if you should count the favor of Allah, you could not enumerate them. Indeed, mankind is [generally] most unjust and ungrateful. (Surah Ibrahim: 34)

 

The above-mentioned verse of the Noble Quran depicts the need to regularly show gratitude to Allah Almighty. However, there is some confusion among people like what types of acts can show our gratitude? Some very simple acts, attitudes, or practices that you can adopt to express gratitude to Allah Almighty are mentioned below.

 

1. Make the Habit of saying "Alhamdullilah" whenever you feel something grateful to you. If a person is continuously facing a tough time in his life, he also has so many blessings of Allah Almighty including, Allah creating him and sustaining him, making him Muslim, giving him faith, and keeping the devil(Shaitaan) away.
2.  Make the Habit of spending a few minutes after each prayer thanking Allah Almighty- Everyone has some little or some big blessings in his life. Acknowledge that Allah Almighty always deserves our gratitude and feels unhappy when we are ungrateful to Him. It is not because He needs our gratitude, but simply because He knows that our gratitude to Him is good for us.

لَئِن شَكَرۡتُمۡ لَأَزِيدَنَّكُمۡ

"If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]" (Surah Ibrahim: 7)

So after each prayer try to say "Alhamdulillah" 33 times at least.

3.  Make Habit of reciting Du'a for waking up every morning. Express gratitude to Allah Almighty for making night and for giving you a new day to live. Thank Allah Almighty for a specific Du'a and for other limits or laws that He has to establish for us and promise an excellent reward for following them. 

4.  Make habit of making Dhikr while traveling or going somewhere. It would not become an excessive burden but you will feel comfortable and find the courage to face the difficulties of life. Whenever you feel hardships in life, try to remind the blessings that you have and express gratitude. This practice will build confidence in you and you will feel happy or comfortable.

You can use some little phrases to express gratitude e.g. "Astaghfirullah", "Subhanallah-Allahi wa bihamdihi" ( Allah is free from imperfection and all praise is due to Him).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RESPONSIBILITY OF HIJAB FOR MUSLIM MEN

HIJAB FOR MEN IN ISLAM 

As men attract women and Islam asks women to do the hijab, in the same way, women also attract men, does Islam also asks men to do the hijab? Why do men need to do hijabs?

 

Islam has highlighted the concept of dignity and modesty in the interaction between the members of the opposite sex. Dress code is the portion of all that teaching. Along with the topic of hijab for women, there is also another topic which hardly ever emphasized and that's the hijab for men in Islam.

 

In Islam, the hijab is both for men and women and most of the aspects of the hijab are the same for them but in some aspects, they differ. The extent of clothing is the only difference in hijab for men and women and the reason is that the man gets more attracted by looking at the woman as compared to the woman getting attracted by looking at the men and this is scientifically proven. There are many types of research done on this and today science tells us that when a man looks at a woman, his pupil dilated more and he is sexually more excited as compared to when a woman looks at a man, her pupil dilated less. So, based on human nature, the extent of hijab for women is much more as compared to the extent of hijab for men. In the Glorious Quran, Allah Almighty speaks about the hijab first for men and then for women. It is mentioned in Surah An-Nur:

 

قُل لِّلۡمُؤۡمِنِينَ يَغُضُّواْ مِنۡ أَبۡصَٰرِهِمۡ وَيَحۡفَظُواْ فُرُوجَهُمۡۚ ذَٰلِكَ أَزۡكَىٰ لَهُمۡۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ خَبِيرُۢ بِمَا يَصۡنَعُونَ

Tell the believing men to reduce [some] of their vision and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do. (Surah An-Nur: 30)

 

 

So, the hijab for men is to lower their gaze and to dress in loose clothing. So a Muslim man has this duty that he cannot show all his limbs or organs proudly, "I'm a Man". Hijab is not just for women. When Allah Almighty speaks of lowering the gaze and hijab, He speaks about the men first and then women. Nowadays, most men always think that hijab is just for women and they claim that most of the sins happening in society are just because of those women who do not take hijab. Yes, it is the cause of sin but not as a whole. Men who do not take the hijab that Islam teaches them, are also responsible for this.

 

Regarding the criteria of clothing or hijab for men, there are six criteria in Islam.

1. Covering the body from navel to knee
2. The clothes you wear shouldn't be so tight to reveal the figure
3. The clothes you wear shouldn't be transparent or translucent that shows the body
4. The dress you wear shouldn't be glamorous that can attract the opposite sex
5. The dress you wear shouldn't resemble the dress of the opposite sex
6. The dress you wear shouldn't resemble the dress of non-believers

 

The entire above mentioned are the hijab of clothing for Men, and besides this hijab is for the way of person talk, walk, looks, and thinks. It means the hijab is not only following all these rules but has deeper inside meanings that apply to both men and women. In Quran Allah Almighty mentioned the idea of righteousness and piety as more important than the physical covering of a body.

 

يَٰبَنِيٓ ءَادَمَ قَدۡ أَنزَلۡنَا عَلَيۡكُمۡ لِبَاسٗا يُوَٰرِي سَوۡءَٰتِكُمۡ وَرِيشٗاۖ وَلِبَاسُ ٱلتَّقۡوَىٰ ذَٰلِكَ خَيۡرٞۚ ذَٰلِكَ مِنۡ ءَايَٰتِ ٱللَّهِ لَعَلَّهُمۡ يَذَّكَّرُونَ 

O children of Adam, We have bestowed upon you clothing to conceal your private parts and as adornment. But the clothing of righteousness - that is best. That is from the signs of Allah that perhaps they will remember. (Surah Al-A'raf: 26)

 

Hence, the concept of the Hijab in its most popular understanding today has lost its true meaning. It has come to narrowly appear as a physical idea for women, whereas it was meant to be more spiritual for all. It has become a political tool utilizing gender politics within Islam, and socio-cultural politics within the world. Very few people are aware of the personal connotations that the Hijab holds. It is not simply a case of misinterpretation, but rather that of selective overlooking of facts and doctrines over time, to make the religion better suited for a patriarchal society.

 

 May Allah Almighty protect us and guide us. May He forgive us for what we do and don't do and may He open our eyes and grant us hidayah.

 

  

Muslim by Coincidence or Muslim by Choice

 

Muslim by Coincidence or Muslim by Choice

Have you ever thought of why a Muslim person was born into a Muslim family and a Non-Muslim one into a non-Muslim family? Is it the fault of humans born into a particular family? Have I been special for Allah Almighty that he make me Muslim since my birth? Do the people who are Muslims by birth have pure faith? 

Many times people ask these types of questions whenever they see a great number of people who opt for Islam by their choice and practice it more competitively.

I observed some of my Muslim Srilankan friends who are living in a non-Muslim country but practicing Islam in a far superior manner than us who are Muslims by birth and living in Muslim country. You also observed that people from non-Islamic religious systems converted to Islam and become good Muslim than the customary ones. What's the reason behind it?

In Glorious Quran Allah Almighty says;

 

وَإِذۡ أَخَذَ رَبُّكَ مِنۢ بَنِيٓ ءَادَمَ مِن ظُهُورِهِمۡ ذُرِّيَّتَهُمۡ 

وَأَشۡهَدَهُمۡ عَلَىٰٓ أَنفُسِهِمۡ أَلَسۡتُ بِرَبِّكُمۡۖ قَالُواْ 

بَلَىٰ شَهِدۡنَآۚ أَن تَقُولُواْ يَوۡمَ ٱلۡقِيَٰمَةِ إِنَّا كُنَّا عَنۡ هَٰذَا غَٰفِلِينَ

 And [mention] when your Lord took from the children of Adam -  from their loins - their descendants and made them testify of themselves, [saying to them], "Am I not your Lord?" They said, "Yes, we have testified." [This] -  lest you should say on the day of Resurrection, "Indeed, we were of this unaware." (Surah Al-A'raf: 172)

 

 

 This verse significantly illustrates the fact devotion of humans to Allah as the primary covenant and then messages escorted by all the Prophets of Allah Almighty as secondary covenant meant to revive the primary covenant.

In Hadith book;

Abu Huraira reported: The Prophet, peace, and blessings be upon him, said, "No child is born but that he is upon instinct. His parents make him a Jew, a Christian, or a Magian. As an animal delivers a child with limbs intact, do you detect any flaw?” Then, Abu Huraira recited the verse, “The nature of Allah upon which he has set people. (Sahih Bukhari: 1292)

 

Every human being is equally vulnerable to whether or not they revert to Islam. Allah Almighty is Just for everyone, He do not  prefer anyone to born in Muslim family. Here I used the word "revert" not "convert" because the word converted to Islam is wrong because every child is born a Muslim and when he comes back to Islam he is reverted to Islam or his instinct. Some people get influenced by their parents and remained Jewish or Christian. But some find the right path and came back to Islam irrespective of the influence of their parents.

 

Idealizing this journey as individuals, through our research, putting Allah Almighty as our foremost noteworthiness in life enables us to identify the energized Aqeedah (Faith) of the first covenant, the one instinct in us.  Quran is the most refined guidance as final truth till the day of Judgment for the whole of Mankind. Finding the virtuous path and journeying from non-Muslim to Muslim is to truly find Allah. It is to coordinate oneself to the frequency of Aqeedah (faith) and to realize the Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) instructions as our eventual Salvation.

 

Another thing, people born into a Muslim family, they all will not go to heaven and people born into a non-Muslim family, they all will not go to hell. Saying only the Kalima Tayibah can not ensure heaven for Muslims. The requirements of heaven are given in glorious Quran.

إِنَّ ٱلۡإِنسَٰنَ لَفِي خُسۡر(2)

إِلَّا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ وَعَمِلُواْ ٱلصَّٰلِحَٰتِ وَتَوَاصَوۡاْ بِٱلۡحَقِّ وَتَوَاصَوۡاْ بِٱلصَّبۡرِ(3)

 

Indeed, mankind is at a loss, Except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience.

 

These two verses explain four minimum requirement of Heaven.

First: “Except such as have Faith”

Second: “And do righteous deeds”

Third: “And recommend one another to the Truth”

Fourth: “And recommend one another to patience”

 

Therefore, being born into a Muslim or non-Muslim family doesn't matter. Everyone is Muslim by birth. The need is to find the righteous path by them. The people who are Muslims by coincidence or by birth, they also have to discover Allah Almighty and the purpose of their lives to become the Muslims by choice.

 

Answer this question.

Are you a Muslim by Coincidence or a Muslim by Choice?

 

 

 

 

The basic principles of Religion Islam, 10 Commandments for Muslims

 

The basic principles of Religion Islam, Commandments and Prohibitions for Muslims

The Five Pillars of Islam

It is the need of time, to discuss the fundamental principles of this religion. The Five Pillars might be act as cornerstone of Religion Islam, even they explain the core concepts and regulations that every single Muslim has to accept and follow. 

1.     Shahadah (ٱلشَّهَادَةُ

The first and most basic pillar is called Shahadah. It describes the proclamation of one's faith in All-powerful and All-knowing Allah that is holding the existence of every living and nonliving thing. Furthermore, Shahadah makes the belief in worthiness of Prophets, angles and sanctities of Religious Books. Finally, believing in this pillar, Muslims must believe that Prophet Mohammad PBUH is the Marvelous Prophet of Allah. Shahadah is the key pillar of Islam. Every root of belief of Muslim grow from this pillar. 

لا الہ الا اللہ محمد رسول اللہ

There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is his messenger. 

2.     Salat (Salah)

The second Pillar of Islam is Salat. The word Salat means Prayer. For Muslim, it is the set of prayers that he has to offer 5 times a day. Allah commands more than 700 times in Quran to offer Salat.

Command to Pray

وَأَقِيمُوا الصَّلَاةَ وَآتُوا الزَّكَاةَ وَارْكَعُوا مَعَ الرَّاكِعِينَ

“And establish Salah and give Zakah, and bow down (in worship) along with those who bow down (in worship)” (Surah Baqarah 2:43)

 

3.     Zakat

The Third Pillar of Religion Islam is realted to Zakat. This principle compels every Muslim to help poor people. Every believer has the responsibility of alms-giving.

4.     Sawm

The fourth core tenet of Islam is fasting during the month of Ramadan. The fast is from dawn to dusk of the day and its purpose is to practice generosity, self-control or self-resistance and piety.

5.     Hajj

 It commands to every Muslim to make a Hajj or Pilgrimage to Mecca once on a whole life.

"And proclaim that the people shall observe Hajj pilgrimage. They will come to you walking or riding on various exhausted (means of transportation). They will come from the farthest locations."

If any person, follow these principles, he has the strong pillars of his building of belief. Islam distinguishes from all other religions on the base of these five pillars. For example, Christians believe that, Jesus is the Son of God, and for Muslims Jesus was the great Prophet of Allah. Muslims believe that Allah is indivisible and only one (monotheistic). Muslims cannot agree with the statements of Jews, Christians or any non-Muslim who do not consider Muhammad PBUH and Jesus PBUH, the Prophets of Allah.

 

10           Most important Prohibitions and Commandments for Muslims

1. Do not Insult the Gods of others

“And insult not those whom they (disbelievers) worship besides Allah, lest they insult Allah wrongfully without knowledge” [al-An‘aam 6:108] 

2.     Do not lie"

Quran says about Liers

O you who believe! Be afraid of Allah, and be with those who are true (in word and deeds).[Al-Tawbah 9:119]

3.      Grateful to your Parents, Respect your Parents

“Be grateful to me and both your parents...” (Sura Luqman: Ayat 14).

 4.            Do not you hate Guests?

5.     Control your anger

6.      Feed the poor

وَيُطْعِمُونَ ٱلطَّعَامَ عَلَىٰ حُبِّهِۦ مِسْكِينًۭا وَيَتِيمًۭا وَأَسِيرًا

And they give food, out of their love for Him (Allah), to the needy, and the orphan, and the captive, (Surah Al-Insan) 

7.           Do not take bribes, it is a Sin

8.     Do not waste

9.    Do not harm others (Believers)

10.   Do not make Fun of others

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا يَسْخَرْ قَوْمٌ مِنْ قَوْمٍ عَسَىٰ أَنْ يَكُونُوا خَيْرًا مِنْهُمْ

O ye who believe! Let not some men among you laugh at others: It may be that the (latter) are better than the (former) (Surah Al-Hujarat verse: 11)

There are many other commandments are also mentioned in Quran. These commandments are the basic need of every Muslim and also the keys of his success. Success needs Act, regulations, limitations, boundaries, self reflection and connection. Islam teach all of these.