Maintaining Discipline in Worship

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'Abdullah would rise before Fajr (dawn) each morning and rush to the Mosque to offer the prayer. He would return to the Mosque for Maghrib (sunset) and 'Ishaa' (evening) prayers as well. He read the Quran daily. He studied other Islamic books in his spare time. He spent much of his free time with his family and took his role as the spiritual leader in his home quite seriously.

Five years later, he found that he would go days, sometimes a whole week without performing a single prayer. He no longer attends congregational prayer at the Mosque—he didn't have time with his new job. This new job involved his working closely in nightclub establishments with people of questionable backgrounds. This resulted in his becoming very secretive about many of his work activities; he didn't even talk to his wife about them because he knew she would disapprove. Work kept him busy all night and throughout the entire weekend. Many of his new friends also worked with him and he began to spend a great deal of his free time with them. Because of this, he spent less time with his family. He had to sleep during the day in order to be able to work each night.

 

His wife noticed a great change in his demeanor. They had several discussions about his work and how it was affecting him and his relationship with Allah Almighty. He agreed, and would begin the process of searching for new work, but inevitably, chose to stay in his current job. He soon found himself feeling very distanced from his wife and children. Even though the money was abundant when he first began, it was now barely paying the bills.

 

He felt his marriage crumbling beneath the years of neglect. He found himself succumbing to depression over his circumstances, unmotivated to initiate the things he knew he would have to do in order for his life to change.

 

It is interesting to note that 'Abdullah's life seemed much more peaceful and balanced when he engaged in his regular religious duties, and began to suffer significantly when he abandoned them.

 

Could this simply be a coincidence? Imam Muhammad Baianouni  the scholar from North Carolina in USA accurately sums up situations like this stating: "The regulation of a man's conduct within one system of life is one of the most important reasons of success and stability. The absence of this regulation is one of the greatest crises a man suffers from in his life. This happens when man is left without guidance from Allah, The Most High, or without proper upbringing based on the Divine Guidance. Under these circumstances, man's life becomes miserable on this earth and he will be amongst the losers in the Hereafter".

 

A religion of discipline

 

It is only from the infinite wisdom and mercy of Allah that we have been given a system of belief that instructs and assists in guiding our actions and behavior. By participating in the daily obligations of our faith outlined in the Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad  we are more likely to enjoy Allah's bounty in this life, and reap the rewards in the Hereafter. Allah Almighty ordered all believers to be disciplined in their worship, and not to disobey Him. In the Quran, Allah Says (what means) "So remain on a right course as you have been commanded, [you] and those who have turned back with you [to Allah], and do not transgress. Indeed, He is Seeing of what you do." [Quran 11: 112]

 

The intensity of our faith changes throughout our lives. There are times when we are of strong faith, and times when we struggle. Many brothers and sisters who proudly claim Islam as their religion unintentionally find themselves "slipping" in their religious duties. Seemingly overnight their lives go from pleasurable and carefree to darkness and confusion. You may begin to acknowledge that you have landed in such a state because of the choices you made, but you are lost as to how to go about changing things.

 

Being steadfast in our duties to Allah Almighty is what keeps you from languishing during your darker moments. Remember that your ultimate return is to Him Almighty, so you must develop discipline and a consistency in your daily routine to keep your faith from sinking.

 

Developing discipline

 

Recognizing your shortcomings is the first step towards becoming more disciplined. Allah Almighty Says (what means): "…Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves..." [Quran 13: 11] When you decide to change for the sake of Allah Almighty, Allah will help you change. Each one is responsible for oneself and will be questioned accordingly on the Day of Judgment, with no one to intercede on your behalf. You must make the choice to live your life according to Allah's Will on your own. You will not benefit from being told about what you need to do and how you need to change in order to have a more fulfilling life. You must take an interest in making those changes for yourself. Only then can you reap the rewards. Think about the wives of the Prophets Noah and Lut, may Allah exalt their mention. Each Prophet tried unsuccessfully to offer the best guidance to his wife, but because there was no real interest on their part, it was said to each of women (what means): "…Enter the Fire with those who enter!"[Quran 66: 10]

 

I have a good friend who was going through a very rough time. Her faith was at an all time low. During several of our conversations, she lamented that Allah Almighty was punishing her for not being a "good Muslim." I asked her: "Why must Allah be punishing you? Allah puts us through many tests and trials in this life to give us the chance to know Him better." We debated back and forth about this for some time. She was really stuck in the debts of despair, and found my comments annoyingly optimistic. I reminded her that Allah Almighty is also Merciful and that this trial for her could be the wake up call she needed to have an opportunity to renew and redeem her faith and become closer to Him Almighty. Perhaps Allah had to put her through such difficulty to get her attention and give her a chance to make changes.

 

There are many things you can do to establish discipline in your daily life. Such consistency not only balances our faith, but all other aspects of our lives as well: 

•  Evaluate yourself regularly to make certain you are doing all that you can spiritually.
• Perform your daily prayers punctually each day.
• Read the Quran regularly, with an effort to truly understand what you are reading.
• Seek knowledge regularly, religious and other, through books, CDs/tapes, classes and lectures.
• Keep company with righteous people.
• Have confidence in your faith and, more importantly, in Allah Almighty.
• Regularly spend some time alone in contemplation and worship.

Islam is a complete way of life. As believers, we should desire the discipline that allows us to regulate our lives and keep chaos away. In choosing this way of life, peace and contentment are your right. Discipline comes as a result of performing certain duties consistently. Ask Allah to help you to establish discipline in your religious commitment and to be able to submit to all that pleases Him Almighty. -islamweb.net

CHAPTER 100, AL-ADIYAT (THOSE THAT RUN)

Introduction

Chapter 100 is named from the words of the first verse describing charging war horses, or those that run.  It is an eleven-verse chapter amongst the short Meccan chapters at the end of the Quran.  These chapters were predominantly revealed at the beginning of the prophethood of Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, and served to teach the new Muslims the basics of faith and to strengthen their hearts in the face of strong opposition and abuse.  At the time of this chapter’s revelation, the country was in chaos and turmoil.  Inter-tribal skirmishes and raids were a daily occurrence; thus the sight and sound of war horses was something that the people no doubt knew very well.   The subject matter is designed to show how evil a person can become if he constantly denies the Hereafter.

Verses 1 – 6 An oath by magnificent horses

God swears an oath by the charging steeds that pant, while producing sparks by striking their heels.  They make raids in the early morning when their enemies are unaware and stir up clouds of dust when they dash into the middle of the enemy troops.

When the Arabs of the time mounted raids on settlements or other tribes, they would leave at night in order to take the enemy by surprise when they launched their attack in the very early morning.   It was in this half-light that the sparks generated by the movement of horses would be visible.  God swears by these war horses and describes their movements.  In our mind’s eye we see a picture of the horses running, snorting, neighing, and arriving in the middle of the enemy.  Their hooves strike the rocky desert terrain producing sparks of fire, adding to the fear the enemy must have felt surrounded by these magnificent panting horses creating disorder and confusion.

This vision is one well-known to those persons to whom the Quran was at first addressed.  They were well aware of the widespread bloodshed, and the loot and plunder mentality that was prevalent at that time.  Thus God swears by this scene in order to make a statement and call attention to His words.  The horses God had bestowed upon them were, gifts and a blessing, they should not have been employed for unjust fighting, tyranny, and plunder.  God did not intend that these magnificent animals be used for this purpose.  To use them in this way demonstrates careless ingratitude.

Verses 6 – 8 People are ungrateful

God says that there is no doubt that the human being is disloyal to his master (God).  Most people are ungrateful for all the bounties and blessings He bestows upon them.  They deny God’s favors and this ingratitude is shown through their actions and verbal statements.  There are many who do not even believe that God exists let alone acknowledge the blessings He has bestowed.  On the Day of Judgment, each person will testify against him or herself because they will be unable to speak anything but the truth.   

Humankind’s love of wealth is excessive and intense.  He sees something that he wants or desires and becomes engaged in a relentless pursuit of it.  For many acquisition of wealth is the primary purpose of their lives irrespective of how it is obtained and without giving a thought to the legitimacy of the way it is earned.   However, having faith changes a person’s priorities, values, and concerns.  Faith brings God-consciousness and changes ingratitude to thankfulness.

Verses 9 – 11 Intentions and actions have consequences

Don’t people understand that when the contents of graves burst forth, and those who were dead are brought back to life, all their secrets will be made known? On that Day God will be fully aware of everything they did.

Pondering the final three verses provides a cure for ingratitude.  It describes a scene from the Day of Resurrection that makes any right-minded person shudder with fear.   We are shocked by a violent and frightening scene; the graves burst open scattering their contents.   People will exit their graves by being wrenched out and thrown around forcefully.  It leaves no doubt that the intense longing for wealth and multitudes of world possessions will provide no protection whatsoever. 

God will not pass judgment only on the apparent and obvious deeds but also the ones that a person tries to keep hidden.  All the intentions, aims, ideas and thoughts, as well as the motives behind a person’s acts and deeds, will be uncovered and examined in minute detail.  Everything that lies hidden in a person’s heart will be exposed. 

On that fateful Day of Resurrection, God will be fully aware of what is on the inside and what is on the outside. He will know what is what, who is who, what was visible and what was hidden, and He will know what punishment or reward is deserved. 

The chapter began with people carefree and unconcerned about consequences, however, it ends with the knowledge that a record was definitely kept, nothing is hidden from God, and there will indeed be consequences.  -islamreligion.com

HINDU KARMA VS. ISLAM

Karma is a Sanskrit word meaning actions or deeds, and a spiritual concept in several Eastern religions, primarily Hinduism and Buddhism. Generally speaking, it is the principle of retributive justice determining a person's state in this life and in his reincarnations. Kar means the physicality of action and ma means producing or creating. Thus, karma is that which is created or produced by one's physical organs. However, karma as a concept does not mean only physical actions, because mental actions also create karma.

The concept of karma in the West, which is vastly different and often misunderstood, has developed over the past two centuries. Its popularity can be traced back to the formation of the Theosophical Society. The society modified and introduced Hindu beliefs to the West, but this view of karma is only loosely connected to the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh or Jain philosophies. In some ways, the concept of karma that was developed in the West resembles the Islamic understanding of righteousness rather than the principles of Hindu karma. This idea of karma has gained enormous popularity and is often expressed in popular phrases such as, ‘what goes around comes around’ and ‘you will reap what you sow.’ Many people express the principles of karma in their everyday lives without realizing that reincarnation is a major doctrine of the laws of karma. Some people deny reincarnation while accepting the idea that positive actions will be rewarded whilst negative ones will be punished. They often view karma as a law of spiritual dynamics related to actions in their daily lives. This definition of karma suggests that actions can influence the future's quality and has become very popular.

As mentioned before, some people embrace karma without understanding its relationship to reincarnation and the immutable nature of its laws. Reincarnation refers to recurring rebirths or the transmigration of the soul from one physical body to another.  In Hinduism, karma is regarded as a fundamental law that is automatic and mechanical. It is not imposed by God, or a god; it is universal and cannot be interfered with. It is completely impersonal, and it is believed to be wholly just and fair. This karmic law is applicable to all living beings, including plants, animals and microorganisms.

Hindu karma tells us that when a person with good deeds dies, he goes to the next world through the path of light and enjoys the heavenly pleasures. When the karma that he had accumulated over his lifetime is exhausted, he returns to the earth to continue his life in a new incarnation. When a person with evil deeds dies, he goes to the dark world along a path of darkness and suffers there until his bad karma is exhausted, after which he returns to the earth reincarnated. Thus the consequence of having lived, what is, in Hinduism, considered a good or a bad life is exhausting karma in a pleasurable way or suffering in darkness.  When the soul begins its new life, it is free to begin again, accumulating both good and bad karma and attempting to free itself from the cycle of rebirth.

When discussing karma and Islam, it is important to understand that Islam categorically rejects any concept of reincarnation. In Islam, we have one life, with one chance to get it right, and then we experience one death. There is no going back and no moving between species or genders.

"Until when death comes to one of them, he says ‘My Lord, send me back, so I may do good in that which I left behind.’ Never! It is only a word he is saying; and behind them (the disbelievers) is a barrier until the Day they are resurrected." (Quran 23:99 & 100)

Death is the end of our transitory life in this world and the beginning of our infinite life in the Hereafter. Islam, therefore, requires us to believe in Paradise and Hell.  We are born into this life, and then we die; after we are resurrected we will begin a new and everlasting life in the Hereafter. God also explains that if we were to ‘go back and try again’ it would be pointless because we would undoubtedly repeat our mistakes.

"But if they were returned to the world, they would certainly revert to that which they were forbidden." (Quran 6:28)

Our actions, deeds and beliefs determine our Hereafter, and we have free will to choose how we behave. Thus, our behavior in this world is crucial. In order to guarantee our place in Paradise, a believer must live a good and righteous life.

"Whoever acts righteously — whether male or female — and is a true believer, We will surely give them a good life (in this world with respect, contentment and lawful provision), and We shall pay them certainly a reward in proportion to the best of what they used to do (i.e., Paradise in the Hereafter)." (Quran 16:97)

While there is no concept of karma in Islam, there is indeed a connection between our deeds and actions and our future, both in this world and in the next. Every person must face the consequences of their actions. But rather than being subject to an immutable law where man is helpless, Islam offers us ways to change our destiny and choose our destination. When we obey God’s laws and instructions we are on a path to a blissful Hereafter. If on the other hand, we choose to disobey God there is always a door open to forgiveness. God will accept our repentance, and He makes it easy for us to turn to Him.  He judges all our actions and is the One who determines our ultimate outcome.

Islam says that good actions lead to good outcomes and bad actions inevitably lead to bad outcomes. However, we have the chance to wipe out our sins with repentance and good behavior.

"…Verily, good deeds wipe out misdeeds (i.e., small sins). That is a reminder for the mindful (those who accept advice)." (Quran 11:114)

Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, tells us to fear God and that following a bad deed with a good deed will wipe out the bad deed. He continues his advice by reminding us to have a good attitude and good manners towards others.[1] 

The concept of karma, due to its undeniable and unbreakable association to reincarnation, is a theory that is not acceptable in Islam. However, karma, as it is incorrectly understood nowadays, is close to the Islamic idea that righteousness is always attainable.  A person is strongly encouraged to be morally upright and respectful to everyone and everything on this earth. Islam is a set of guidelines made specifically for humankind by our Creator.

Bibliography

Castro, J, 2013 What is Karma? Accessed at: https://www.livescience.com/41462-what-is-karma.html

Jayaram, V, The Concept of Karma in Hinduism.  Accessed at: https://www.hinduwebsite.com/conceptofkarma.asp

ReligionFacts.com Karma (Hinduism). 2016. Accessed at: www.religionfacts.com/hinduism/karma

-islamreligion.com

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FOOTNOTES:

[1]At-Tirmidhi

LIQUID GOLD - THE BENEFITS OF HONEY

The benefits of honey don’t just stop at the satisfaction of our taste buds.  The powerful healing attributes of honey have long been used to promote health and healing.  Both the holy Quran and Hadiths (Prophetic traditions) refer to honey as a healer of disease.  In the Quran we read, “And thy Lord taught the bee to build its cells in hills, on trees and in people’s habitations… there issues from within their bodies a drink of varying colors, wherein is healing for humankind.  Verily in this is a Sign for those who give thought.” 

Additionally, in Sahih Bukhari we read that the Prophet, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, said: “Honey is a remedy for every illness and the Quran is a remedy for all illness of the mind, therefore I recommend to you both remedies, the Quran and honey.”

Honey offers incredible antiseptic, antioxidant and immune boosting properties for our body and health.  It not only fights infection and helps tissue healing but also helps reduce inflammation and is often used for treating digestive problems such as indigestion, stomach ulcers and gastroenteritis.

Researchers from around the world are discovering new and exciting medical benefits of honey and other healing items produced in the hive such as propolis, royal jelly and bee pollen.

As in all foods, the health benefits of honey largely depend on its quality.  Raw honey, the purest form, comes straight from the comb and is placed into the honey extractor or press.  This is unheated, unpasteurized and unprocessed honey.  Because it is raw, it tends to have fine textured crystals in it that occur naturally when glucose, one of three main sugars in honey, spontaneously precipitates out of the super saturated honey solution.  If your raw honey crystallizes, simply place the container in hot water for 15 minutes and this will help return it to its liquid state.

Most honey found on supermarket shelves today is not raw honey, but rather commercial honey which has been heated and filtered so that it has a smoother, more appealing look to it.  When honey is heated and processed in such a way it will maintain a long shelf life but the vitamins and minerals which benefit the body’s immune system are largely destroyed in the process.  As such, it is not as nutritious as raw honey. 

Honey varieties differ widely in color, texture and flavor.  Comb honey, taken straight from the hive, is the rawest and purest form of honey.  Its characteristic hexagon-shaped wax cells that are filled with honey can be chewed like gum.

Liquid honey is the most recognizable and easiest to find.  It is pressed from the comb and filtered to remove any particles such as pollen grains, wax or crystals.

Creamed honey, also known as whipped honey, granulated honey or honey fondant, has a smooth and creamy consistency.  Cream honey does not drip as does liquid honey, and can be spread easily.

The color of honey, largely determined by the floral source of the nectar from which the bees have collected it, is graded into light, amber and dark categories, with darker varieties being more medicinally potent.  In general, lighter honey varieties, such as wild flower honey that has been collected from the nectar of several flowers, have a milder flavor.  The darker varieties, such as buckwheat honey, collected from the nectar of the flower of the buckwheat grain, have a more robust and stronger flavor.  Approximately 23 common varieties of honey include buckwheat, clover, linden, sage, tupelo and wildflowers. 

In addition to carbohydrates, honey contains protein (including enzymes) and amino acids, and is high in vitamins and minerals.  Some of the vitamins present in honey are B6, thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid and certain amino acids.  The minerals include calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and zinc.  While the amino acid content is minor, the broad spectrum of approximately 18 essential and nonessential amino acids present in honey is unique and varies by floral source.  Also present are polyphenols, that can act as antioxidants and play a role in cleansing the body of free radicals and reactive compounds that can contribute to serious illness such as cancer and heart disease.  It is believed that honey contains a similar range of antioxidants that are found in green vegetables and fruit including broccoli, spinach, apples, oranges and strawberries.

To fight high cholesterol, look no farther than buckwheat honey.  In their 2004 study, Effect of honey consumption on plasma antioxidant status in human subjects, biochemist H.  Gross and his colleagues from the University of California, Davis, examined the blood results of 25 participants who were each given four tablespoons of buckwheat honey daily for 29 days in addition to their regular diets.  At given intervals, samples taken from them following honey consumption showed that there was a direct link between the subjects’ honey consumption and the level of polyphenolic antioxidants in their blood.  With its high levels of mineral, vitamin and high antioxidant content, a small amount of buckwheat honey added daily could help lower cholesterol by increasing blood levels of protective antioxidant compounds in the body.

People with diabetes often question whether they can take honey.  In his book, The Honey Revolution – Restoring the Health of Future Generations, Ron Fessenden MD says that a tablespoon of honey consists of nearly the same carbohydrate content as a cupful of quartered raw apple, and that a diabetic patient can be assured that consuming honey will produce a significantly lower blood sugar response than an equivalent amount of sugar or other glucose-rich starches.  The balance of sugars and the presence of multiple co-factors in honey serve to make this natural food quite different from table sugar, high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) or other artificial sweeteners.

Dr.  Fessenden goes on to say that when consumed regularly over several weeks or months, honey will lower blood sugar and glycated hemogobin levels.  He says that generally adding three-to-five tablespoons of honey a day to the diet and eliminating most sugar and HFCS should be recommended to people with Type 2 Diabetes.

For centuries, pure honey has been used in children as a home remedy to help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with the common cold.  In the December 2006 study on cough suppressants, Effect of Honey and Dextromethorphan on Nocturnal Cough and Sleep from Penn State College of Medicine researchers compared honey to over-the-counter medicines for symptomatic relief of upper respiratory infection, such as cough, in children 2-to-18-years of age.  The conclusion was that honey provided a safe alternative for children.  Honey outperformed cough medicine in offering a better night’s sleep and reducing severity of cough.  Across the board, parents in the study rated honey as significantly better than cough medications or no treatment for symptomatic relief of their children’s nighttime cough and sleep difficulties.

The American Academy of Pediatrics and other children’s health professionals have raised concerns about common over-the-counter remedies, the safety of these cough suppressant products and whether the benefits justify any potential risks from the use of these products in children, especially in children under 2 years of age.  Ian Paul MD, M.Sc., a pediatrician, researcher and associate professor of pediatrics at Penn State College of Medicine and Penn State Children’s Hospital said, “Additional studies should certainly be considered, but we hope that medical professionals will consider the positive potential of honey as a treatment...” However, do not feed honey-containing products or use honey for infants under one year of age.

In caring for a wound, the American Journal of Dermatology, in Honey in the Treatment of Wounds and Burns says honey applied topically to a wound can promote healing just as well, or in many cases better than conventional ointments and dressings.  Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling and pain while its antibacterial properties prevent infection.

To keep your energy levels up use honey as an excellent source of easily assimilated energy; honey is one of the most effective forms of carbohydrates to ingest just prior to exercise and to replenish your energy levels.  The glucose contained in honey is absorbed by the body quickly, giving an immediate energy boost, while the fructose content is absorbed more slowly, providing sustained energy.  Honey has also been found to keep levels of blood sugar fairly constant compared to other types of sugar, and it appears to be a carbohydrate source that is relatively mild in its effects upon blood sugar compared to other carbohydrate sources.

Honey has been used for thousands of years to help calm a child’s cough, aid in cholesterol relief and digestion and to promote healing of wounds.  Honey, in its purest form truly is a head-to-toe cure that will surely be used more and more in the years to come. -islamreligion.com

Thinking Well of Others Relieves the Heart

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Nothing relieves the heart and makes one happy more than thinking well of others. It protects one from the harm of worrisome thoughts that disturb his peace of mind and exhaust the body. Thinking well of others leads to a sound heart, strengthens the ties of cordiality and love among the individuals of a community, and frees the hearts from hatred and rancor. The Prophet, , said: “Beware of assumptions, for assumption is the falsest of speech, and do not be inquisitive, and do not spy upon one another, and do not vie with one another, and do not envy one another, and do not hate one another, and do not shun one another; be fellow-brothers and slaves of Allah.”If only the members of the Muslim community would adhere to this sublime behavior, their enemies would never dare to attack them and their famous policy of “divide and rule” will never succeed because the hearts are united and the souls are pure.

Ways to Think Well of Others

 

There are certainly many ways that a Muslim can think well of others; some of which are:

 

1-    Supplication

 

Supplicating to Allah The Almighty is the gate to every goodness. The Prophet, , would ask his Lord to grant him a sound heart.

 

2-    Putting Oneself in the Place of Others

 

If each one of us puts himself in the place of his brother when the latter does or says something, this will help him think well of others. Allah The Almighty directs His slaves to this meaning in the verse where He Says (what means): {Why, when you heard it [the falsehood against ‘Ai'shah, may Allah be pleased with her], did not the believing men and believing women think good of one another?}[Quran 24:12] In another verse, Allah The Almighty makes the believers feel as if they are one single entity, to the extent that when one of them meets his brother and greets him, it is as if he is greeting himself. Allah The Almighty Says (what means): {But when you enter houses, give greetings of peace upon yourselves - a greeting from Allah.} [Quran 24:61]

 

3-    Interpreting the Words of Others in the Best Possible Way

 

This was the habit of the righteous predecessors. ‘Umar  said, “Do not think ill of a word that your believing brother utters as long as it can be interpreted in a good way.”

 

Imam Ash-Shafi‘i  was ill once, and some of his brothers came to visit him; one of them said, “May Allah strengthen your weakness [He intended to supplicate to Allah in order to eliminate his weakness].” Ash-Shafi‘i  said, “If Allah strengthens my weakness, it would kill me!” The man said, “By Allah, I intended nothing but goodness.” Ash-Shafi‘i  replied, “Even if you insulted me, I know that you sought goodness.” Thinking well of others is true brotherhood, even in things that cannot be interpreted in a good way.

 

4-    Making Excuses for Others

 

When anyone says or does something that annoys or grieves one, he should try to find excuses for him and recall the status of the righteous who used to think well of their fellows and make excuses for them. They would say, “You should make seventy excuses for your brother.” Ibn Seereen  said, “If you come to know that a brother has harmed you with either a word or a deed, you should make an excuse for him; if you did not find one, you should say, ‘There may be an excuse that I do not know of.’” When you exert your utmost to make excuses for the words and deeds of others, you will save yourself the trouble of assuming and you will avoid blaming your fellows excessively.

 

5-    Abstaining from Judging the Intentions of Others

 

This is one of the greatest causes that help one think well of others. One leaves the intentions to the only One who knows them: Allah The Almighty, for He did not command us to check each others' hearts and intentions, and thus we have to avoid harboring ill-thoughts about others. 

 

6-    Recalling the Harmful Consequences of Evil Assumptions

 

The one who thinks ill of others lives in endless trouble and grief, to say nothing of the fact that he loses all those who socialize with him, even the closest people to him. It is natural that people make mistakes, even unintentionally. Accusing others along with thinking well of oneself is one of the evil consequences of thinking ill of others. This is one way a person may be guilty of ascribing purity to oneself that Allah The Exalted forbade in His Book. Allah The Almighty Says (what means): {So do not claim yourselves to be pure; He is most knowing of who fears Him.} [Quran 53:32] In another verse, Allah The Exalted criticizes the Jews when they ascribed purity to themselves. Allah The Almighty Says (what means): {Have you not seen those who claim themselves to be pure? Rather, Allah purifies whom He wills, and injustice is not done to them, [even] as much as a thread [inside a date seed].} [Quran 4:49]

 

Thinking well of others requires extensive training and striving against one’s self, particularly because the devil is inseparable from man like the blood that runs through his body. He never stops his attempts to sow dissension within the Muslims and stir up disputes among them. Thinking well of others is one of the greatest means to block this way before the devil. We ask Allah The Almighty to Grant us sound hearts and Help us to think well of our brothers and sisters. -islamweb.net

HINDU KARMA VS. ISLAM

Karma is a Sanskrit word meaning actions or deeds, and a spiritual concept in several Eastern religions, primarily Hinduism and Buddhism. Generally speaking, it is the principle of retributive justice determining a person's state in this life and in his reincarnations. Kar means the physicality of action and ma means producing or creating. Thus, karma is that which is created or produced by one's physical organs. However, karma as a concept does not mean only physical actions, because mental actions also create karma.

The concept of karma in the West, which is vastly different and often misunderstood, has developed over the past two centuries. Its popularity can be traced back to the formation of the Theosophical Society. The society modified and introduced Hindu beliefs to the West, but this view of karma is only loosely connected to the Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh or Jain philosophies. In some ways, the concept of karma that was developed in the West resembles the Islamic understanding of righteousness rather than the principles of Hindu karma. This idea of karma has gained enormous popularity and is often expressed in popular phrases such as, ‘what goes around comes around’ and ‘you will reap what you sow.’ Many people express the principles of karma in their everyday lives without realizing that reincarnation is a major doctrine of the laws of karma. Some people deny reincarnation while accepting the idea that positive actions will be rewarded whilst negative ones will be punished. They often view karma as a law of spiritual dynamics related to actions in their daily lives. This definition of karma suggests that actions can influence the future's quality and has become very popular.

As mentioned before, some people embrace karma without understanding its relationship to reincarnation and the immutable nature of its laws. Reincarnation refers to recurring rebirths or the transmigration of the soul from one physical body to another.  In Hinduism, karma is regarded as a fundamental law that is automatic and mechanical. It is not imposed by God, or a god; it is universal and cannot be interfered with. It is completely impersonal, and it is believed to be wholly just and fair. This karmic law is applicable to all living beings, including plants, animals and microorganisms.

Hindu karma tells us that when a person with good deeds dies, he goes to the next world through the path of light and enjoys the heavenly pleasures. When the karma that he had accumulated over his lifetime is exhausted, he returns to the earth to continue his life in a new incarnation. When a person with evil deeds dies, he goes to the dark world along a path of darkness and suffers there until his bad karma is exhausted, after which he returns to the earth reincarnated. Thus the consequence of having lived, what is, in Hinduism, considered a good or a bad life is exhausting karma in a pleasurable way or suffering in darkness.  When the soul begins its new life, it is free to begin again, accumulating both good and bad karma and attempting to free itself from the cycle of rebirth.

When discussing karma and Islam, it is important to understand that Islam categorically rejects any concept of reincarnation. In Islam, we have one life, with one chance to get it right, and then we experience one death. There is no going back and no moving between species or genders.

"Until when death comes to one of them, he says ‘My Lord, send me back, so I may do good in that which I left behind.’ Never! It is only a word he is saying; and behind them (the disbelievers) is a barrier until the Day they are resurrected." (Quran 23:99 & 100)

Death is the end of our transitory life in this world and the beginning of our infinite life in the Hereafter. Islam, therefore, requires us to believe in Paradise and Hell.  We are born into this life, and then we die; after we are resurrected we will begin a new and everlasting life in the Hereafter. God also explains that if we were to ‘go back and try again’ it would be pointless because we would undoubtedly repeat our mistakes.

"But if they were returned to the world, they would certainly revert to that which they were forbidden." (Quran 6:28)

Our actions, deeds and beliefs determine our Hereafter, and we have free will to choose how we behave. Thus, our behavior in this world is crucial. In order to guarantee our place in Paradise, a believer must live a good and righteous life.

"Whoever acts righteously — whether male or female — and is a true believer, We will surely give them a good life (in this world with respect, contentment and lawful provision), and We shall pay them certainly a reward in proportion to the best of what they used to do (i.e., Paradise in the Hereafter)." (Quran 16:97)

While there is no concept of karma in Islam, there is indeed a connection between our deeds and actions and our future, both in this world and in the next. Every person must face the consequences of their actions. But rather than being subject to an immutable law where man is helpless, Islam offers us ways to change our destiny and choose our destination. When we obey God’s laws and instructions we are on a path to a blissful Hereafter. If on the other hand, we choose to disobey God there is always a door open to forgiveness. God will accept our repentance, and He makes it easy for us to turn to Him.  He judges all our actions and is the One who determines our ultimate outcome.

Islam says that good actions lead to good outcomes and bad actions inevitably lead to bad outcomes. However, we have the chance to wipe out our sins with repentance and good behavior.

"…Verily, good deeds wipe out misdeeds (i.e., small sins). That is a reminder for the mindful (those who accept advice)." (Quran 11:114)

Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, tells us to fear God and that following a bad deed with a good deed will wipe out the bad deed. He continues his advice by reminding us to have a good attitude and good manners towards others.[1] 

The concept of karma, due to its undeniable and unbreakable association to reincarnation, is a theory that is not acceptable in Islam. However, karma, as it is incorrectly understood nowadays, is close to the Islamic idea that righteousness is always attainable.  A person is strongly encouraged to be morally upright and respectful to everyone and everything on this earth. Islam is a set of guidelines made specifically for humankind by our Creator.

Bibliography

Castro, J, 2013 What is Karma? Accessed at: https://www.livescience.com/41462-what-is-karma.html

Jayaram, V, The Concept of Karma in Hinduism.  Accessed at: https://www.hinduwebsite.com/conceptofkarma.asp

ReligionFacts.com Karma (Hinduism). 2016. Accessed at: www.religionfacts.com/hinduism/karma

FOOTNOTES:

[1]At-Tirmidhi

-islamreligion.com

CHAPTER 75, AL-QIYAMAH (THE RESURRECTION)

Introduction

The Resurrection is a forty-verse chapter revealed in Mecca.  Most Meccan chapters deal exclusively with the fundamentals of faith, and this one concentrates particularly on the Day of Resurrection and humankind’s habit of denying its inevitability.   The name of the chapter is taken from the first verse, and it also describes the theme and subject matter.  It is believed to be one of the earliest chapters revealed, and its style indicates that the concepts and teachings were presented to the people of Mecca in brief yet forceful sentences.  This chapter predominantly addresses those who deny the Hereafter and replies to their doubts and objections.

Verses 1 – 15 The inevitability of the Day of Resurrection

The chapter begins with two short introductory sentences.  God swears by the Day of Resurrection and by the self-reproaching soul.  The Day of Resurrection is something that is inevitable; everything in this world will come to an end it is neither eternal nor everlasting.  The self-reproaching soul is what we today call the conscience.  Humankind is always questioning their actions, for example, in our minds we ask ourselves, should I have done this or that or perhaps something else.   Thus God swears by two inescapable things.  There will be a resurrection and people will always question themselves.

Do people think that God will not be able to reassemble their bones? Because He can do that easily, in fact, He can even reshape the very tips of a person’s fingers.  But alas, people want to deny what is ahead of them, a day of certainty, the Day of Resurrection and mockingly asks when this day will occur? God answers that it will come when the eyes are dazzled, and the moon darkens.  On that day the sun and the moon will be joined together, and people will ask where to find a place of refuge.  On that day there is no refuge except with God.  That is the only answer to that question.  On that fateful and inevitable day, people will be informed about their deeds, good or bad, big or small; and even bear witness against themselves.

Verses 16 – 19 Prophet Muhammad and the Quran

These next four verses give Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, instructions regarding the revelation of the verses of the Quran.  He is told not to rush when trying to memorize the recitation being revealed to him.  God will most assuredly make sure you remember it.   And when it is recited to you (Prophet Muhammad) repeat it, and God will make it clear and understandable for you.  God takes total responsibility for the Quran, its revelation, its recitation, its collection, and its preservation.

Verses 20 – 30 Opposite outcomes

People love this fleeting life and are heedless of the Hereafter.  On the Day of Judgment, some faces will be radiant and beaming, turned towards their Lord, looking at indescribable beauty.   Others, however, will look dreadful and despairing, anticipating something devastating to befall them.  Their sins and misdeeds cast a dark shadow over them. 

When a person is on the verge of death, someone cries out, "Who will cure him?" The person will then understand that he is dying.  The road ahead becomes clear.  It is the final parting, from his family, friends, and all worldly possessions.  Shortly thereafter he is wrapped in his shroud and prepared for burial.   He will then be led towards his Lord, as if in a procession, along a road that every living being will eventually have to take.  Death separates a person from their loved ones and does not respond to pleading or an outpouring of grief.  It takes the most powerful as easily as it takes the weakest, and the tyrant succumbs in exactly the same manner as the one who was oppressed.   The chapter moves on from this distressing death scene, but its image remains in our consciousness. 

Verses 31 – 40 Arrogant rejection and the power of God

In this life the disbeliever denies the truth, fails to pray, and then turns away, walking back to his people with arrogance and conceit.  Some people refuse to do anything other than deny the truth.  They do not fear God or prepare for the inevitable; instead, they indulge in sinful behavior not even bothering to conceal their arrogance.  Here the Quran issues a clear warning to these people.  Woe to you.  Woe is repeated four times in two short verses.  The day comes closer and closer; nearer and nearer.  It is a strong threat, more than a warning.  Keep in mind that when the time of death arrives, it cannot be altered, it cannot be moved forward or backward even by a nanosecond.

Do some people really think that they will not be returned to the Creator for judgment? Humankind will not be left to wander about without purpose.  Each person began as a drop of sperm, changed into a clinging clot (mass of cells) that God proportioned and shaped and made into one or other of the two sexes, male or female.   Just as the reader recognizes the truth of this, the chapter concludes by asking a simple question.  Knowing all this do people still think that God does not have the power to bring the dead back to life? -islamreligion.com