Who and What Does Allah Love?

 

Your desire to know what Allah Almighty loves so that you can get closer and closer to your Creator.

This is a sign of sincere love.

Anyone who loves sincerely will want to know more about what his/her beloved loves so that they can do it and get closer to him/her.

In these regards, Allah’s direct speech in the Quran and the Prophet’s hadiths tell us about what Allah loves.

Verses from the Quran on What Allah Loves

Those Who Purify Themselves

“Indeed, Allah loves those who are constantly repentant and loves those who purify themselves.”(Quran 2:222)

“Do not stand [for prayer] within it – ever. A mosque founded on righteousness from the first day is more worthy for you to stand in. Within it are men who love to purify themselves; and Allah loves those who purify themselves.” (Quran 9:108)

The Doers of Good

“And spend in the way of Allah and do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction [by refraining]. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.” (Quran 2:195)

“So Allah gave them the reward of this world and the good reward of the Hereafter. And Allah loves the doers of good.” (Quran 3:148)

“There is not upon those who believe and do righteousness [any] blame concerning what they have eaten [in the past] if they [now] fear Allah and believe and do righteous deeds, and then fear Allah and believe, and then fear Allah and do good; and Allah loves the doers of good.” (Quran 5:93)

“And hasten to forgiveness from your Lord and a garden as wide as the heavens and earth, prepared for the righteous who spend [in the cause of Allah] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people – and Allah loves the doers of good.” (Quran 3:133-134)

Those Who Are Just

“[They are] avid listeners to falsehood, devourers of [what is] unlawful. So if they come to you, [O Muhammad], judge between them or turn away from them. And if you turn away from them – never will they harm you at all. And if you judge, judge between them with justice. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.” (Quran 5:42)

“And if two factions among the believers should fight, then make settlement between the two. But if one of them oppresses the other, then fight against the one that oppresses until it returns to the ordinance of Allah. And if it returns, then make settlement between them in justice and act justly. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.” (Quran 49:9)

“Allah does not forbid you from those who do not fight you because of religion and do not expel you from your homes – from being righteous toward them and acting justly toward them. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.” (Quran 60:8)

Those Who Fear Allah And Obey His Messenger

“Say, [O Muhammad], ‘If you should love Allah, then follow me, [so] Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.'” (Quran 3:31)

“But yes, whoever fulfills his commitment and fears Allah – then indeed, Allah loves al-mutaqeen (the God-conscious/those who fear Him).” (Quran 3:76)

“How can there be for the polytheists a treaty in the sight of Allah and with His Messenger, except for those with whom you made a treaty at al-Masjid al-Haram? So as long as they are upright toward you, be upright toward them. Indeed, Allah loves the righteous [who fear Him].” (Quran 9:7)

Those Who Trust in Him and Are Steadfast

“And how many a prophet [fought and] with him fought many religious scholars. But they never lost assurance due to what afflicted them in the cause of Allah, nor did they weaken or submit. And Allah loves the steadfast.“(Quran 3:146)

“So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them and consult them in the matter. And when you have decided, then rely upon Allah. Indeed, Allah loves those who rely [upon Him].” (Quran 3:159)

“O you who have believed, whoever of you should revert from his religion – Allah will bring forth [in place of them] a people He will love and who will love Him [who are] humble toward the believers, powerful against the disbelievers; they strive in the cause of Allah and do not fear the blame of a critic. That is the favor of Allah; He bestows it upon whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing.” (Quran 5:54)

Traditions from the Sunnah, illustrating what Allah loves

Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him-PBUH)) said that Allah the Exalted has said:

The most beloved thing with which My slave comes nearer to Me is what I have enjoined upon him; and My slave keeps on coming closer to Me through performing Nawafil (voluntary prayers or doing extra deeds besides what is obligatory) until I love him, (so much so that) I become his hearing with which he hears, and his sight with which he sees, and his hand with which he strikes, and his leg with which he walks; and if he asks Me something, I will surely give him, and if he seeks My Protection (refuge), I will surely protect him. (hadith qudsi Al-Bukhari)

Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:

“Allah is The Forbearer and loves forbearance in all matters.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

We ask Allah to make you among the patient, the steadfast, the doers of good, those who act justly, those who purify themselves and repent regularly, those who are righteous/God-fearing, God-conscious, those who do what their Creator asked them to do and refrain from what He prohibited them from doing- and those who earn His Love and closeness in this world and the eternal hereafter.

Ameen!

Salam

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(From Ask About Islam’s archives)

About Dina Mohamed Basiony

Dina Mohamed Basiony is a writer based in Cairo, Egypt. She specializes in Islam and spirituality. Dina holds an MA and BA in Journalism and Mass Communication from the American University in Cairo.

- aboutislam.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. - islamreligion.com

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

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FOOTNOTES:

[1]At-Tirmidhi

Scientific finds versus speculations of evolutionists

The teeth and claws of Archaeopteryx are no indication that they are descendants of dinosaurs.

The two important points evolutionists rely on when alleging Archaeopteryx to be a transitional form, are the claws on the bird’s wings and its teeth. 

It is true that Archaeopteryx had claws on its wings and teeth in its mouth, but these traits do not imply that this living creature bears any kind of relationship with reptiles. Besides, two bird species living today, Taouraco and Hoatzin both have claws to hold on to branches. These creatures are fully birds with no reptilian characteristics. That is why it is completely groundless to assert that Archaeopteryx is a transitional form just because of the claws on its wings.

Neither do the teeth in Archaeopteryx’s beak imply that it is a transitional form. Evolutionists make a purposeful trickery by saying that these teeth are characteristic of reptiles. However, teeth are not a typical characteristic of reptiles only. Today, some reptiles have teeth while others do not. Moreover, Archaeopteryx is not the only bird species that has teeth. It is true that birds with teeth do not exist today, but when we look at fossil records, we see that both in the same age as Archaeopteryx and afterwards, and even until fairly recently, a distinct bird genus existed that could be categorized as “birds with teeth”.

The most important point is that the teeth structure of Archaeopteryx and other birds with teeth are totally different from that of their alleged ancestors, the dinosaurs. The famous ornithologists Martin, Steward and Whetstone observed that Archaeopteryx and other birds with teeth have teeth with flat top surfaces and large roots. Yet, the teeth of theropod dinosaurs, the alleged ancestors of these birds, are protuberant like a saw and have narrow roots.

The researchers also compared the wrist bones of Archaeopteryx and their alleged ancestors, the dinosaurs and observed no similarity between them.

The studies of anatomists like Tarsitano, Hecht and A.D. Walker revealed that some “similarities” asserted to have existed between this creature and dinosaurs as put forward by John Ostrom, a prominent authority who claims that Archaeopteryx evolved from dinosaurs, were in reality misinterpretations.

All these findings indicate that Archaeopteryx was not a transitional link but only a bird that fell into a category that can be called “birds with teeth.”

Archaeopteryx and other ancient bird fossils

While evolutionists have for decades been proclaiming Archaeopteryx to be the greatest evidence for their scenario concerning the evolution of birds, some recently-found fossils invalidate this claim in other respects.

Lianhai Hou and Zhonghe Zhou, two paleontologists at the Chinese Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology, discovered a new bird fossil in 1995 that they named Confuciusornis. This bird was almost the same age as Archaeopteryx (around 140 million years old), but it did not have any teeth in its mouth. In addition, its beak and feathers shared the same features as today’s birds. Having the same skeletal structure of modern birds, this bird also had claws on its wings just like Archaeopteryx. The special structure called the “pygostyle” was present in this bird species that supported the tail feathers. In short, this bird which was the same age as Archaeopteryx (considered to be the oldest ancestor of all birds and accepted as a semi-reptile) looked very much like a modern bird. This fact invalidated all the evolutionist theses holding Archaeopteryx to be the primitive ancestor of all birds.

Another fossil unearthed in China in November 1996, caused even greater confusion. The existence of this 130 million year old bird named Liaoningornis was announced in Science by Hou, Martin and Alan Feduccia. Liaoningornis had a chest bone on which the muscles for flight were attached, just like modern birds. This bird was indistinguishable from modern birds in other respects also. The only difference was the teeth in its mouth. This showed that birds with teeth did not have a primitive structure at all, as alleged by evolutionists. This was stated in an article in Discover: “Whence came birds? This fossil says that not from dinosaurs.”

Another fossil to refute the evolutionist claims regarding Archaeopteryx was Eoalulavis. The wing structure of Eoalulavis, which was said to be 30 million years younger than Archaeopteryx, was also observed in modern birds that flew slowly. This proved that 120 million years ago there were birds indistinguishable from modern birds in many respects flying in the skies.

These facts once more indicate for certain that neither Archaeopteryx nor other ancient birds similar to it were transitional forms. The fossils do not indicate that different bird species evolved from each other. On the contrary, fossil records prove that today’s modern birds and some archaic birds like Archaeopteryx actually lived together at the same time. Yet some of these bird species like Archaeopteryx and Confuciusornis have become extinct and only a part of the pre-existing species have been able to make it to the present day.

In brief, some peculiar features of Archaeopteryx do not indicate that this living thing is a transitional form! Stephan Jay Gould and Nailes Eldredge, two Harvard paleontologists and world famous evolutionists, accept that Archaeopteryx is a “mosaic” living thing housing various features in its form, yet that it can never be regarded as a transitional form!

The imaginary bird-dinosaur link

The claim of evolutionists trying to present Archaeopteryx as a transitional form is that birds have evolved from dinosaurs. However, one of the most famous ornithologists in the world, Alan Feduccia from the University of North Carolina, opposes the theory that birds have a kinship with dinosaurs, despite the fact that he is an evolutionist himself. Feduccia says on the subject:

"Well, I’ve studied bird skulls for 25 years and I don’t see any similarities whatsoever. I just don’t see it… The theropod origins of birds, in my opinion, will be the greatest embarrassment of paleontology of the 20^th century."

Larry Martin, a specialist on ancient birds from the University of Kansas, opposes the theory that birds come from the same lineage as dinosaurs. While discussing the contradiction evolution falls into on the subject, Martin states:

"To tell you the truth, if I had to support the dinosaur origin of birds with those characters, I’d be embarrassed every time I had to get up and talk about it."

To sum up, the scenario of the “evolution of birds from dinosaurs” erected solely on the basis of Archaeopteryx, is nothing more than a product of the prejudices and wishful thinking of evolutionists.  - islamweb.net

The message of the messengers

 

Allah, the All Wise, All Knowing, All Merciful and Just, created this Universe in order to test and examine His obedient slaves and reward them, and to punish the disobedient. He Says (what means): "We did not create the heavens and the earth and that between them in play. We did not create them except in truth, but most of them do not know." [Quran 44: 38-39]

Allah also made clear the main goal for the creation of mankind, Saying (what means): "I did not create the Jinn and Mankind except for My worship" [Quran 51: 56]
Allah, the Exalted, did not leave His slaves to rely upon their intellect and inclination to guide them to the correct way; rather He sent them Messengers as bringers of good tidings and warners. He sent the revealed Books with them to be a reference in those matters wherein they disagreed, so that no excuse would remain for the people and the proof would be established against them. Thus, after sending the Messengers, there would be no further excuse for people before Allah.

Indeed, their mission covered every good and banished every evil. They brought to humankind everything needed for their well being and happiness in this world and the Hereafter. There is nothing good, which they did not inform the people about and nothing evil that they did not warn the people against.

‘Abdullaah bin `Amr bin Al-`Aas, may Allah be pleased with him, said that the Prophet  said: "There was never a Prophet before me except that it was a duty upon him that he should guide his nation to every good that he knew and warn them against every evil that he knew…" [Muslim]

Indeed, calling to Allah was the mission of the Messengers in order to bring the people out from darkness into light. There are many basic principles upon which their calls were based, which were the starting point for calling to Allah. These fundamental principles are:

1. Tawheed (Monotheism)

2. Prophethood

3. The Hereafter

Every book revealed by Allah gave great importance to these points. The most important and sublime of these three principles and the most fundamental of them all is Tawheed (Oneness) of Allah.

Allah Says (which means): "And We certainly sent into every nation a Messenger, (saying): 'Worship Allah and avoid Taaghoot (false objects of worship).' " [Quran 16: 36]

Allah has informed us about some of the Prophets, may Allah exalt their mention, and how they faced their people. We see that all of them proceeded upon the universal way laid down by Allah and followed the methodology Allah established for all of them. Not a single one of them is at variance with it, Allah Says (which means): "And We had certainly sent Nooh to his people, (saying): 'Indeed, I am to you a clear warner, that you not worship except Allah. Indeed, I fear for you the punishment of a painful Day.'" [Quran 11: 25-26]

The noblest of all Prophets and the last of them, Muhammad bin ‘Abdullaah  (who was sent with the greatest, most complete and comprehensive message), began with what all the Prophets, may Allah exalt their mention, started their Da’wah (call) -- calling to the 'Aqeedah (creed) of Tawheed (Oneness of Allah), and calling for all worship to be made purely and sincerely for Allah alone. Allah's Messenger  started with the principle: 'Witness that none has the right to be worshipped except Allah.'

Allah Says (what means): "Say, (O Muhammad): 'O mankind, indeed I am the Messenger of Allah to you all, (from him) to Whom belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. There is no deity except Him; He gives life and causes death.' So believe in Allah and His Messenger, the unlettered Prophet, who believes in Allah and His words, and follow him that you may be guided." [Quran 7: 158]

The verses in this regard are many, what we quote here is just one example. With regard to the Sunnah (traditions and approved actions of Prophet Muhammad ), there are many clear indications that Allah's Messenger began his call to Islam with Tawheed.

1.     `Amr bin Abasah As-Sulami, may Allah be pleased with him, said: "During the times of ignorance … I heard of a man in Makkah who received revelation. So I set upon my riding beast and came to him. At that time he was in hiding, due to the oppression of his people. So I behaved in a way that enabled me to gain access to him in Makkah. I said to him: "Who are you?" He replied: "I am a Prophet.' So I said: "And what is a Prophet?' He said: 'Allah has sent me as a Messenger.' So I said: 'And what is it that He has sent you with?' He said: 'I have been sent to order the joining of ties of relationship, to break the idols, so that Allah is worshipped Alone and nothing at all is associated in worship along with Him."  [Muslim]

2.     At the time of the peace of Hudaibiyyah, Hiraql (Heraclius) asked Abu Sufyaan some questions about Allah's Messenger, among which he asked: "What does he (Muhammad) command you?" Abu Sufyaan replied: "He says, 'Worship Allah Alone and do not worship anything else along with Him, and abandon what your fathers say. He also orders prayers, charity, and the joining of the ties of relationship.'" [Al-Bukhari]

 Consequently, the Prophets, may Allah exalt their mention, did not come to bring about the downfall of one State to replace it with another. They did not seek sovereignty, nor did they organize political parties for this reason. Rather, they came for the guidance of humankind, to save it from misguidance and Shirk (polytheism), and to take them out of darkness into light.

In this regard Prophet Muhammad  gave an example about himself. He   said: "The similitude of me and the message with which Allah has sent me, is like a man who came to some people and said: ‘I have seen the enemy forces with my own eyes and I am a mere warner (to you). So, save yourselves, save yourselves!’ A group of his people obeyed him and went out at night, slowly and steadily and was safe; while another group belied him and stayed in their place until the morning when the army destroyed them. Such is the similitude of those who obey me and follow what I have brought (i.e., Message) and of those who disobey me and belie the Truth which I have brought." [Al-Bukhari, Muslim and others]

The Message of the Messengers, by the Mercy of Allah, revives and enlightens the believer’s soul. This enlightenment is the revelation of Allah, which leads mankind from the darkness of Shirk (polytheism) and ignorance to the Light of Truth and Islam: "Allah is the ally  of those who believe. He brings them out from darkness into the light." [Quran 2: 257]

The Messenger and the Message are evidence against the disbelievers

Allah sent His Messengers and His Books so that there can be no excuse for mankind on the Day of Judgment. The Quran says (what means): "(we sent) Messengers as bringers of good tidings and warners so that mankind will have no argument against Allah after Messengers." [Quran 4: 165]

The Message of Allah deals with the rights of Allah on His bondsmen, the rights of man on His Creator, The Oneness of Allah and its influence on the creation, knowledge, admonition, the wisdom behind the creation, righteousness, mutual interactions, refutation of incorrect beliefs and deviations, lawful and unlawful, migration and Jihaad. In totality, it is the complete code for righteous living, which results in delight, pleasure and harmony in this life and the Hereafter. - islamweb.net

Islam: the perfect religion and way of life for all

It is imperative that we strive to know Islam. Allah’s  Messenger  (may Allah exalt his mention) who was sent to the whole mankind, encouraged us to acquire knowledge of Islam in order to comprehend it.      Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Prophet  said:   “Those who were the best in the pre-lslamic period of ignorance will be the best in Islam  provided   they comprehend the religious knowledge.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

‘Abdur Rahmaan bin Abi Bakrah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated on the authority of his  father  that   the  Prophet,   sallallaahu  ‘alayhi  wa sallam,  said: “If   Allah wants to do good to a person, he makes him comprehend the religion; and of course knowledge is attained by learning.” [Al-Bukhari] Mu‘aawiyah bin Abi Sufyaan, may Allah be pleased with him,  narrated that Allah’s Messenger   said: “Goodness is a (natural) habit while the evil is a stubbornness. To whomsoever Allah wills to show goodness, He favors him with the understanding in the Religion.” [Ibn Maajah]

When we study Islam or read the Quran and the authentic  Ahadeeth (narrations of the Prophet ) we learn that Islam is easy to follow and the perfect  religion and complete way of life for the entire humankind.  We read in the Quran and the Ahadeeth the following unique features of Islam:

Islam is easy

The Quran says (what means): “But whoever believes and works righteousness he shall have a goodly reward and easy  will  be his task as We order it  by  Our  command.”   [Quran 18:88]

Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Prophet, sallallaahu  ‘alayhi wa sallam said: “Religion (Islam) is very easy and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way.   So you should not be extremists, but  try to  be  near to perfection and receive the good  tidings   that you will be rewarded; and gain strength by offering the prayers in the mornings, afternoons and   during  the  last   hours   of the nights.”     [Al-Bukhari]

Anas bin Maalik, may Allah be pleased with him,   narrated   that the Prophet  said: "Make things easy for the people, and do not make it difficult for them, and make them calm (with glad tidings) and do not repulse (them).” [Al-Bukhari]

Islam is complete

The Quran says (what means):

“…He it is Who has sent unto you the Book, explained in detail. They know full well, to whom We have given the Book, that it has been sent down from your Rabb in truth. Never be then of those who doubt.” [Quran 6: 114]

And (what means):

For We had certainly sent unto them a Book based on knowledge, which We explained  in detail --  a guide and a mercy to all who believe.”     [Quran 7: 52]

And (what means):

“…(This is ) a Book with verses basic or fundamental (of established meaning) -- further explained in detail -- from One Who is Wise and Well-Acquainted (with all things).” [Quran 11: 1]

Islam is perfect

The Quran says (what means):

“...This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon you, and have chosen   for you Islam as your religion.”     [Quran 5: 3]

As the  perfect religion, Islam teaches humankind how to attain success in the most perfect way.  The following are some of the Ahadeeth that serve as a source of enlightenment and guidance to those who desire perfection.

Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Prophet, sallallaahu  ‘alayhi wa sallam,  said: "Goodness and comfort are for him who worships his Rabb in a perfect manner and serves his master sincerely.”  [Al-Bukhari]

Ibn ‘Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that Allah’s Messenger    said: "If a slave is honest and faithful to his master and worships his Lord in a perfect manner, he will get a double reward.” [Al-Bukhari]

Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him,  narrated that the Prophet  said: "Whoever believes in Allah and His Messenger, offers prayers perfectly and fasts (the month of) Ramadan then it is incumbent upon Allah to admit him into Paradise, whether he emigrates for Allah’s cause or stays in the land where he was born.” They (the companions of the Prophet,  ) said: "O Allah’s Messenger, sallallaahu  ‘alayhi wa sallam! Should we not inform the people of that?" He said: "There are one-hundred degrees in Paradise which Allah has prepared for those who carry on Jihaad in His Cause. The distance between every two degrees is like the distance between the sky and the Earth.  So if you ask Allah for anything, ask Him for the Firdaws, for it is the last part of Paradise and the highest part of Paradise, and at its top there is the Throne of The Beneficent, and from it gush forth the rivers of Paradise.”  [Al-Bukhari]

‘Abdullaah bin Hishaam, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated: “We were with the Prophet, sallallaahu  ‘alayhi wa sallam, and he was holding the hand of 'Umar bin Al-Khattaab, may Allah be pleased with him. 'Umar said to him: "O Allah’s Messenger! You are dearer to me than everything except my own self.” The Prophet  said: "No, by Him in Whose Hand my soul is, (you will not have complete or perfect faith) till I am dearer to you than your own self.” Then 'Umar said to him: "However, now, by Allah, you are dearer to me than my own self.” The Prophet,  sallallaahu  ‘alayhi wa sallam, said: "Now, O 'Umar, you are a believer.”  [Al-Bukhari] 

Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Prophet    said: “The most perfect believer in respect of faith is he who is best of them in manners.”  [Abu Daawood]

Abu Humamah, may Allah be pleased with him,   narrated that the Prophet  said: “If anyone loves for Allah’s sake, hates for Allah’s sake, gives for Allah’s sake and withholds for Allah’s sake, he will have perfect faith.” [Abu Daawood]

Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him,   narrated that the Prophet  said:  “Among the Muslims the most perfect, as regards his faith, is the one whose character is excellent, and the best among you are those who treat their wives well.”  [At-Tirmithi  and Abu Daawood]

‘Aa’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her,  narrated that Allah’s Messenger, sallallaahu  ‘alayhi wa sallam, said: "Among the believers who show most perfect faith are those who have the best disposition, and are kindest to their families.”  [At-Tirmithi]

All the above Prophetic teachings in addition to the Quranic Ayaat (verses) quoted earlier, clearly tell us that indeed, Islam is the perfect religion and hence the best way of life for all.  Islam as a universal religion is Allah’s Blessing and Mercy  for all of us.   It is for us to obey it and be successful in the eternal world to come.  The best way to attain success through Islam is to learn about the religion according to its authentic sources.  That is, to acquire knowledge of Islam  through the Quran and the Sunnah and the right deductions from these revealed sources of knowledge and guidance.

Since Allah Almighty is the One Who gives guidance, earnestly ask Him for authentic Islamic knowledge.  We must seek His help and guidance to be able to apply such knowledge and share them with others – all for His Pleasure.

May our Cherisher and Sustainer increase our knowledge of Islam and grant us the best life -- of being true Muslims forever.  Aameen.

By Dr. Norlain Dindang Mababaya

-islamweb.net

Justice: Islam’s ultimate value

 

Allah The Almighty Says (what means): "And the heaven He raised and imposed the balance. That you not transgress within the balance. And establish weight in justice and do not make deficient the balance.”[Quran 55:7-9]

These verses of the Quran, which are mentioned in the chapter Ar-Rahmaan, or “(God) the All-Merciful” stand out in their emphasis of the importance of justice because they unite justice with the important theological principle of Allah’s Khalq and Amr or His “Creation and Command.” These verses make justice both the basis of the creation and its source of continuity (by commanding justice). This is true because, in essence, the balance is the symbol of justice and its means of realization at the same time.

 

Heavens and earth were originally created with justice in a balanced way and they can only (or were meant to) continue with it. Muslims accepted this magnificent guidance and ultimate value of life, more than 1400 years ago. The great Commentator of the Quran, Imaam Abu Ja'far At-Tabari (d. 310 AH) expounded the aforementioned verses, saying, “Allah created Heavens and Earth by (and in) justice so that all things in them exist (and interact) by (and in) justice.”

 

And there is not a single nation, past or present, but that it has asserted its claims of honoring justice and being just. Yet, the justice they claimed, at times, meant nothing more than what the “powers that be” wanted. Or sometimes justice represented what is recognized and utilized by a majority or a certain religion or ethnicity. What humans mean by justice, in other words, may differ in its meaning and means from one nation to another. It is interesting to note that Socrates (killed in 339 BC) defined justice as the, “Will of the powerful,” and it is also interesting that this applies the vast majority of the time in situations when religious values are absent or weak. It is even more interesting that some of the theories man has, overtime, developed using ‘rationality' and empiricism, and which exceedingly tilt the balance of justice in favor of the powerful or the rich, still flourish in modern times and continue to find advocates or even unabashed supporters who will kill or die for them.

 

In one of the 100 or so verses which deal with theessentials of justice and fairness, the Quran tells us of this perversion of justice that sometimes occurs in the course of human events. Verse 25 of the chapter (57) Al-Hadeed, “the Iron,” pregnant with meanings and profusely poignant, lay bear the reality about the roots of injustice among people. Many people mention being motivated by hearing this verse recited just once. Allah Says (what means): “We have already sent Our messengers with clear evidences and sent down with them the Scripture and the balance that the people may maintain [their affairs] in justice. And We sent down iron, wherein is great military might and benefits for the people, and so that Allah may make evident those who support Him and His messengers unseen. Indeed, Allah is Powerful and Exalted in Might.” [Quran 57:25] So many points of benefit, so much to learn and live by. For one, the balance of justice is mentioned along with the Books, guidance from Allah, to indicate that true justice needs a compass to save itself from relativism and free judgment from personal drive. This also means that the interpretation of Allah’s Guidance must be free from whims and ignorance, and this effort to free one’s self from whims and ignorance is what Muslim scholars—who are the interpreters of Allah’s Final Message— term Ijtihaad. The point is that Allah’s Guidance entails that only people of knowledge who are able and honest may interpret Divine texts. Ignoring this prerequisite has led—in many times and places—to gross justifications and evil consequences. Without this guidance, man has done enough to give Socrates’ definition of justice precedence over any other.

 

Another point worthy of our attention here is the fact that Allah is reminding us that He has provided the messengers with iron to go along with the guidance and the command to establish justice. Man has known, for untold centuries, that he cannot institute justice in almost any walk of life, or protect justice whenever needed, without the power of iron.

 

But the intent of the message of this verse is unambiguous. Allmessengers from Allah, who were sent to various nations throughout history, came with the very same message.

 

The implication of this is so profound, especially for today’s Muslims.

We must acknowledge and respect that loving and establishing justice is a human trait, not an attribute of the Muslim Ummahalone. In fact, our scholars have long asserted, based on the aforementioned verses among many others, that Allah grants supremacy to a just government or nation even though it may be disbelieving, and He takes away supremacy from an unjust government or nation even though it may be believing. This is how just the Islamic worldview is.

 

And a Muslim would not be completely truthful to his belief without accepting this view. Muslims should support justice and those who seek it and they should feel happy every time justice triumphs.

 

But judging by the current situation of most Muslim countries and communities around the world, itis not difficult to see that we have strayed from justice.

 

To lure itback home, we need to mend our ways and make them coincide with the guidance of our Kitaab (the Quran) first. - islamweb.net