The Truth Message – Part – 3.8
The Religion of Prophet Muhammad (saw) – Islam
Islam is not a new religion. And, Allah is not a new God.
Islam has, in essence, the same message and guidance which Allah revealed to all prophets before Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). And, Allah is the same one God who is Supreme since time immemorial.
Allah is the name of the Supreme Being in the Arabic Language.
This word Allah is never used for any other being or thing. The names for God found in other languages are all attributive or descriptive and are often used in the plural, but the word “Allah” is never used in the plural. In the absence of a parallel word in the English language, the original name “Allah” has been retained throughout the translation.
God sent His Messengers to all the nations of the world Allah created mankind and took it upon Himself to guide them, as He says in the Qur’an…
“Surely, it is for Us to provide guidance.” (92:13).
Guidance and Law were given to every nation of the world through His Messengers, “And for every people there is a Messenger” (10:48).
“And there is a Guide for every people.” (13:8)
“And We did raise among every people a Messenger.” (16:36)
Thus the Qur’an affirms the truth of all the previous Revelations.
If God raised Prophet Muhammad (saw) from Arabia, He raised Moses (as) from Egypt and Jesus (as) from Judea; Zoroaster (as) from Iran, and Buddha (as) and Krishna (as) from India and so on… These Prophets were the propagators and disseminators of the same fundamental truths: their teachings differed in their quality and scope to match their times. Hence Islam recognized the truth that all these teachers of humanity were God’s great Messengers and it was made incumbent upon a Muslim to believe in them as s/he believes in Muhammad (saw).
Ransack the pages of all religious scriptures and you will not find this particular teaching in them.
A Christian may look upon Muhammad (saw) as an imposter, and a Jew regard Jesus (as) as a false Prophet, and a Hindu who believes in the finality of the Vedic revelation may consider Moses (as) a charlatan, but a Muslim ceases to remain a Muslim the instant he ceases to revere any one of them as he reveres the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw).
A Jew today believes only in the prophets of Israel; a Christian believes in Jesus Christ and, to a lesser degree, in the prophets of Israel; a Buddhist believes only in Buddha and a Zoroastrian in Zoroaster; a Hindu believes only in the sages who appeared in India and a Confucian believes only in Confucius. But a Muslim believes in all these prophets and also in the prophethood of Muhammad, peace be upon him.
Consistently with these teachings, a Muslim can never even think to criticize Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, and Hinduism when he regards the Old and the New Testament in their original form, the Vedas and the Zend Avesta in their pristine purity as the revealed Word of God. Does not this great principle of Islam strike at the very root of all religious rancors?
The Holy Qur’an says:
…there is no people to whom a Warner has not been sent. (Ch.35:V.25)
And We did send Messengers before thee; of them are some whom We have mentioned to thee, and of them there are some whom We have not mentioned to thee… (Ch.40:V.79)
Nay, it is a collection of clear Signs in the hearts of those who have been given knowledge… (Ch.29:V.50)
Indeed, the Holy Quran of Islam is the only revealed book in which God states that He sent Messengers to all people, so without exception, Muslims are commanded to believe in all.
As the Qur’an attests to the truth of other divine religions & books, all Muslims must believe in them. So no Muslim can say that other revealed religions are not from God. All Muslims must consider any prophet (peace be on them all) mentioned in any divine religious book, as a true Prophet and therefore, no Muslim, can be expected to resort to insults or slander towards other religions or prophets or books. We have been taught in the Holy Qur’an that as Prophets are from God, all Prophets are to be respected. Furthermore, God says: “I have sent Prophets to all people.”
According to us Muslims, this is the only way to maintain the peace. The feelings and sentiments of every religion and people must be respected.
Allah (God) says in the Qur’an to us: “Say, “We believe in ALLAH and that which has been revealed to us, and that which was revealed to Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and the tribes, and in that which was given to Moses and Jesus and other Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between any of them and to HIM (Allah) we submit.” (Qur’an 3-V85)
So all religions truly revealed by God to His Messengers are fully respected in Islam. This can only bring mankind to harmony, unity and peace among religions.
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Point to be noted: Apart from Islam, none of the divine books of religions bear testimony to the truth of the founders of other religions. The absence of any recognition of the truth of prophets other than their own has brought disbelief in others, and we see each one religion claiming to monopolize truth and each viewing the prophets of other religions as impostors. Although in everyday life we do not find this expressed in such strong terms, the hard reality remains, that if the followers of any religion take their beliefs seriously, they have to consider all other religions to be false.
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Islam is a name given by Allah to Mohammad’s religion. The final religion for Mankind is named by Our Lord in his own words: Holy Prophet (saw)’s revelation (after the completion of Qur’an) says:
This day have I perfected your religion for you and completed My favour upon you and have chosen for you Islam as religion. (Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:4)
Islam is an Arabic word which literally means submission or obedience. It is derived from the Arabic root “SALEMA” which means peace.
The religion is called Islam because it offers peace and requires complete submission to the will of God. So ‘Islam’ would mean the path of those who are obedient to Allah and who establish peace with Him and His creatures. Its followers are called Muslims. The followers of Islam, the final religion for mankind are named by the Lord himself. The Quran says:
He named you Muslims both before and in this Book. (22:79).
The name Muslim derived from the word salām which again means Peace.
Islam is the last religion and contains in itself the essential principles of all earlier religions of this world.
Ch. 48:29: He it is Who has sent His Messenger, with guidance and the true Religion that He may cause it to prevail over all other religions. And sufficient is Allah as a Witness.
Islam is a strongly monotheistic religion with the worship of One God as its central theme.
Islam was founded by the Prophet Muhammad (saw) some 1432 years ago approximately, and establishes the continuity of God’s revelation which had descended upon earlier prophets such as Abraham, Moses, David, Jesus, etc. Islam, in fact, requires its followers to believe in all earlier prophets and scriptures. It is not I saying this – it’s the Quran, check in here:
[42:14] He has prescribed for you the religion which He enjoined on Noah, and which We have now revealed to thee, and which We enjoined on Abraham and Moses and Jesus, saying, ‘Establish obedience to Allah in the earth, and be not divided therein…
According to the Quran, there is only one religion acceptable to God and that is complete submission to His Will. In the broader sense of the word Islam was also the religion of the earlier prophets like Abraham, Moses and Jesus, because they also submitted themselves to the will and obedience of God. This element of universality is unique to Islam. Islam not only endorses the bonafide status of all earlier prophets and revealed books, but also of any future prophets that may come. Thus Islam is not a religion of an ethnic group or a nation, but the religion of mankind.
[What wonderful news for bringing all world people together! It is only the truth that is already divinely revealed, historically preserved and the perfect future of Mankind. Once we clean Christianity of the false doctrines of Trinity, Original Sin, Atonement, and Monasticism introduced by St. Paul and St. Augustine then what remains is purely a true subset of Islam. Same is the case with all other divine religions].
Islam was chosen as the last religion of this land by the lord and so it is bound to happen. It is not me who decided it; it’s a word from y/our Lord. This conversion of people to Islam will be entirely made by choice of the “believers”.
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Islam & Peace:
Allah presents himself as As-Salaam, or peace personified: the source of all peace
One who believes in Islam is called a Muslim and the definition of a Muslim is: ‘One who is entirely at peace with himself and who promotes peace in society.’
A more beautiful definition of a Muslim has been given by the very founder of Islam, the Holy Prophet Mohammad (saw). He is reported to have said:
‘A Muslim is that person from whose hands and from whose tongue all people are safe.’
The greeting of Muslims is ‘AssalamAlaykum’, that is, ‘peace be upon you.’
This is to be shared by all, Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
The place where Islam originated from, Mecca, is called as Balad-ul-Ameen, meaning a city of peace.
The Holy Quran was revealed to the Holy Prophet (saw) by the angel Gabriel who is known as Rooh-ul-Ameen, that is, the angel of peace.
Finally, the title that was bestowed upon the Holy Prophet of Islam (saw) by his opponents, prior to his claim to prophet hood, was Al-Ameen meaning that he is the most trustworthy and the most peaceful person on earth.
When you have reason and logic on your side and when you are in possession of the persuasive and beautiful teachings of Islam, you need neither force nor coercion to collect people for Islam: Islam does not permit the use of force to convert anyone as Allah in the Holy Qur’an declares:
And say: ‘It is the truth from your Lord. Wherefore let him who will, believe, and let him who will, disbelieve.’ (Ch.18: v.30)
I know what you are thinking… Present day Muslims do not match with this definition – the original meaning. And regrettably though, but you are not wrong.
Today people are being fooled in the name of Allah & His Holiness Prophet Mohammad (saw). Just as Paul for Christians many amateur Ulema (Muslim clergy) have bought in numerous changes and have taught a new religion in the name of Islam to the innocent masses… let they claim but they cannot be called Muslims if they deviate from this definition.
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Epitome of Islamic Shariah:
The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) said that Shariah has two main aspects safeguarding which is very important: 1. Haququllah (rights of God) and 2. Haququl ibaad (rights of people/ mankind).
Rights of God are to love, obey and worship Him and believe in His Oneness and not associate any partners with Him.
The rights of people/mankind relates to fulfillment of your duties towards your parents, wives, husbands, children, friends, relatives, neighbors’, orphans, travelers, etc.
The Promised Messiah (on whom be peace) drew attention to worship, devotion to God and Taqwa and along with this and with similar intensity, he drew attention to gentleness, brotherhood, humility and meekness. He says: Taqwa is perfected when the rights of parents, wives, husbands, children, friends, relatives… are all paid in full.
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In simple terms there are only two aspects of faith in Islam for two main purposes.
First, to recognize the One God as He exists and then to love Him and to put oneself in His true obedience as is the requirement of obedience and love.
The second purpose is to engage all capabilities in the service and well-wishing of his people and to treat gratefully and beneficially everyone—from a king to a beggar.
Islam was chosen as the last religion of this land by the lord and so it is bound to happen. Logically speaking: This conversion of people to Islam will be entirely made by choice. It is not me who decided it; it’s a word from the Lord.
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God presents himself as As-Salaam, or peace personified: the source of all peace, in the Holy Qur’an. God desires peace for all his creatures, and does not wish to limit it to any individual, or tribe, or people, or nation.
In Islam there is no notion of ‘Chosen People’ as against Gentiles or Samaritans.
There is no notion of high-caste or low-caste or of untouchables like in the Hindu or other similar religions.
BUT All human beings (Men and Woman) are pronounced equal, and have equal right to any guidance coming from God. Let’s learn more…
Islam on Society:
Introduction: Man is a social creature. From the moment of his creation, he is tied physically, emotionally and socially to all around him. If there is strife at any level of these human relationships, there will be disorder, and peace will be threatened. And so Islam has provided vital guidelines for every level of relationship to ensure that there is peace in all these spheres.
Allah / Islam / Quran on Parents:
After obedience to God & his prophets, obedience, love and respect for parents are enjoined again and again in Islam through the Holy Qur’an. Let me present a few verses where this is mentioned:
And we have enjoined on man to be good to his parents… (Chapter 46, verse 16)
The love, devotion and tenderness due to parents are repeatedly stressed in the Holy Quran:
“We have enjoined on man benevolence towards his parents.” (29:9).
“Say, O Prophet: Come, let me rehearse to you that which your Lord has enjoined; that you associate not anything as partners with Him; that you behave benevolently towards your parents;” (6:152).
“Worship Allah and associate naught with Him, and be benevolent towards parents.” (4:37).
“We have enjoined upon man concerning his parents: Be grateful to Me and to thy parents; unto Me is the final return. His mother bears him in travail after travail and his weaning takes two years.” (31:15).
“We have enjoined upon man to act benevolently towards his parents…” (46:16).
“Thy Lord has commanded that ye worship none but Him, and has enjoined benevolence towards parents. Should either or both of them attain old age in thy lifetime, never say: Ugh; to them, nor chide them, but always speak gently to them; be humbly tender with them and pray: Lord have mercy on them even as they nurtured me when I was little.” (17:24-25).
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Muslims are enjoined to be just and good to their relatives, to their neighbors, their friends, even if they belong to other faiths (for all religions are from the One & Only God).
O ye who believe! Be steadfast in the cause of Allah, bearing witness in equity; and let not a people’s enmity incite you to act otherwise than with justice. Be always just, that is nearer to righteousness. (Chapter 5, Verse 9)
Islam never makes any distinction of race or color among men. It considers the white and the black, the nomad and the settled farmer, the ruler and the subject as all alike.
In his last sermon, the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) declared:
‘You all are equal. All men, to whichever tribe or nation they belong, and whatever their place in society, are equal. No one can claim any right or any superiority over others. So, every distinction or privilege, whether pertaining to color, race or caste to family lineage, rank or wealth, is abolished in Islam.
Islam makes all mankind into one great family, and exhorts us all to win the pleasure of God through righteousness and good conduct towards each other. And in the houses of worship there will be no special place reserved for the powerful. All must stand together, shoulder to shoulder, in their prayer to God.’
Therefore, as you see, the aim through all these injunctions is to establish peace at all costs. It is for the same reason that believers are enjoined to adopt good qualities in all circumstances; Good qualities such as truthfulness, humility, forgiveness, charity, honesty, sincerity, chastity and many such other positivities. Others characteristics such as falsehood, rebellion, indecency, causing harm to others, etc. are strongly condemned and prohibited. Islam introduced all these to preserve peace at every level of the society.
This subject matter is presented beautifully by another verse of the Holy Qur’an which assigns a great status to the believers (who believe in the One Lord & all his prophets): ‘You are the best people raised for the good of mankind; you enjoin good and forbid evil and believe in Allah…’ (Ch.3: V.111)
To keep peace in the family and society, Muslims are warned not to indulge in indecent activities or in gambling or drinking.
O ye who believe, intoxicants, gambling idols and divining arrows are but abominations and Satan’s devices; therefore, shun each one of them that you might prosper. (Ch.5:V.91)
The Motto of Islam as understood is ‘Love for All, Hatred for None’.
In discharging its duties to humanity, Islam always admonishes its adherents to do so purely for the sake of God. The verses oft quoted in this regard are from the Holy Qur’an:
And they feed, for the love of Him, the poor, the orphan and the prisoner; assuring them: ‘We feed you for Allah’s pleasure only. We desire neither reward nor thanks from you. (Ch.76: Vs.9-10)
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QUR’AN AGAINST SUSPICION, BACKBITING, AND RACISM
[49:13] O ye who believe! avoid most of suspicions; for suspicion in some cases is a sin. And spy not, nor backbite one another. Would any of you like to eat the flesh of his brother who is dead? Certainly you would loath it. And fear Allah, surely, Allah is Oft-Returning with compassion and is Merciful.
God / Islam / Quran on Bribe:
[2:189] And do not devour your wealth among yourselves through false means, and offer it not as bribe to the authorities that you may knowingly devour a part of the wealth of other people wrongfully while you know.
And, when the Lord forbids something, then you know what can be the consequences if you disobey… be warned!
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Allah / Islam / Quran on Interest:
[4:162] And because of their taking interest, although they had been forbidden it, and because of their devouring people’s wealth wrongfully. And We have prepared for those of them who disbelieve a painful punishment.
Clearly warned!
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Allah / Islam / Quran on Life here and the Hereafter:
Ch.6: V33: And the life of the world is nothing but a sport and a pastime. And surely the abode of the Hereafter is better for those who are righteous. Will you not then understand?
Verily, he indeed will prosper who purifies himself, and remembers the name of his Lord and offers Prayers. But you prefer the life of this world, whereas the Hereafter is better and more lasting. This, indeed, is what is taught in the former Scriptures… (Ch.87:Vs.15-20)
‘O my people, this life of the world is but a temporary provision; and the Hereafter is certainly the home for permanent stay. [40:40]
Ch.6:V.28: And if thou couldst only see when they are made to stand before the Fire! They will say, ‘Oh, would that we might be sent back! And then we would not treat the Signs of our Lord as lies and we would be of the believers.’
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The best definition of a Muslim following Islam is in following verses composed by God, the almighty:
Worship Allah (God) and associate naught with Him, and show kindness to parents, and to kindred, orphans, the needy and to the neighbour who is a kinsman and the neighbour who is a stranger and the companion by your side and the wayfarer and those whom your right hand possesses. Surely, Allah loves not the arrogant and the boastful.(Ch.4:V.37)
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Righteous in the eyes of Allah: Surely you would want to know this. O Muslims, O Momins: Test yourself now… Good Luck!
[2:178] … truly righteous is he who believes in Allah and the Last Day and the angels and the Book and the Prophets, and spends his money for love of Him, on the kindred and the orphans and the needy and the wayfarer and those who ask for charity, and for ransoming the captives; and who observes Prayer and pays the Zakat; and those who fulfill their promise when they have made one, and the patient in poverty and afflictions and the steadfast in time of war; it is these who have proved truthful and it is these who are truly God-fearing.
I must embrace and pursue righteousness because God loves righteousness and it is a means of approach to Him. I must discard and shun evil for God loves not evil and it would pull me farther away from Him.
Now you must be thinking: Who does God love? Let’s look into the Holy Qur’an, come:
God loves those who are mindful of their obligations (Ch.9:V.5,8)
God loves the benevolent (Ch.2:V.196; Ch.3:V.135)
God loves those who do their duty to the utmost. (Ch.3:V.149)
God loves those who turn to Him often and loves those who are clean and pure. (Ch.2:V.223)
God loves the steadfast. (Ch.3:V.147)
God loves those who put their trust in Him… (Ch.3:V.160-1)
The truth is that whoso fulfils his pledge and is mindful of his duty to God is righteous, and God loves the righteous. (Ch.3:V.77)
God will prepare a way out of his difficulties for him who is mindful of his duty to God, and will provide for him whence he expects not. God is sufficient for him who puts his trust in Him. God is sure to attain His purpose. (Ch.65:V.5)
God will remove the ills of him who is mindful of his duty to God, and will enlarge his reward. (Ch.65:V.6)
On the other hand:
God loves not disorder.(Ch.2:V.206)
…and those who create disorder.(Ch.5:V.65)
…the mischief makers. (Ch.28:V.78)
…the unjust. (Ch.3:V.141)
…the wrongdoers.(Ch.3:V.57; Ch.42:V.40)
…the transgressors. (Ch.2:V.191)
…those who exceed the bounds.(Ch.7:V.56)
…confirmed disbelievers and arch sinners.(Ch.2:V.277)
…those who exult. (Ch.28:V.77)
…the arrogant. (Ch.16:V.24)
…vainglorious boasters. (Ch.31:V.19; Ch.57:V.24)
…the treacherous. (Ch.8:V.59)
These are some of the values that must be upheld, and some of those that must be eschewed. They are not enjoined or for bidden pell-mell. There is a gradation both among those that are enjoined and those that are forbidden, which would enable one who seeks the pleasure of God to check his progress along that path and to institute remedial measures wherever he discovers a default or deficiency. There is a regular hierarchy which serves as a course of practice and training.
God enjoins equity and benevolence and graciousness as between kindred, and forbids evil designs, ill behavior and transgression. (Ch.16:V.91)
Justice in Islam:
Islam inculcates a very exalted concept of justice. Justice is the due of friend and foe alike:
O ye who believe, be steadfast in the cause of God, bearing witness in equity. Let not a people’s enmity towards you incite you to act contrary to justice: be always just, that is closest to righteousness. Be mindful of your duty to God; surely, God is aware of all that you do. (Ch.5:V.9)
O ye who believe, be strict in observing justice and bear witness only for the sake of God, even if it be against your own selves or against parents or kindred. Whether the person be rich or poor, in either case God is more regardful of him than you can be. Therefore, follow not vain desires so that you may act equitably. If you conceal the truth or evade it, then remember that God is well aware of that which you do. (Ch.4:V.136)
Assist one another in piety and rectitude, and assist not one another in sin and transgression; and be mindful of your duty to God; surely, God’s punishment is severe. (Ch.5:V.3)
We can die any moment and none amongst us is aware of the approaching hour!
So isn’t it just the right moment, NOW, to decide our way of life? This life is temporary but following or not following the above commandments will design our eternal life, the life in the hereafter… the choice is entirely yours.
Islam basically is founded on:
A. The five pillars
B. The Beliefs
C. The Codes
D. The Philosophy
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A: The Five Pillars of Islam (Declaration of the Islamic Faith)
Ibn Umar narrated that the Messenger of Allah – Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) said: Islam is based on five pillars (principles).
In order to enter into the fold of Islam one has to know, believe and accept totally and sincerely the five basic principles (Pillars). Allow me to explain them to you, they are:
1. Kalma: Bearing witness that there is no God except Allah and that Muhammad (saw) is His Prophet and Messenger.
2. Salat: Observance of Prayer (Namaaz)
3. Zakat: Paying a share from the money earned by lawful means
4. Fasting: Refraining from food and every (recognizable & secreted) evil in the month of Ramadan
5. Hajj: Pilgrimage to the house of Allah.
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B. Beliefs: Six main Articles of faith / belief in Islam
1. To believe in the Oneness of Allah.
2. To believe in all His Angels.
3. To believe in all His Books.
4. To believe in all His Prophets.
5. To believe in the Day of Resurrection.
6. To believe in the Decree of Allah
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C: CODES of Conduct:
We have discussed many ‘Codes of Conduct’ right under the titles of ‘Allah / Islam / Quran on… this and that’ etc. Please remember them always.
Codes of conduct are actually a part of faith in Islam – you cannot be called a true Muslim if you don’t follow them. They chiefly refer to the Social and Moral Behavior of Man (Men & Women). Let me list down a few more of them:
*Service to humanity is the part and parcel of the Muslim faith: Chief concern is shown towards looking after the orphans, the sick, the old, the wayfarer, the neighbor and the needy.
*Discharging of trusts with God and fellow men
*Truthfulness
*Carrying out of justice
*Kindness to all
*Prohibition from social vices, gambling, especially indecency
*Taking of interest is forbidden
*Foods forbidden: Intoxicating liquors, pig meat, and a few others.
Muslims are reminded that the real purpose in life is to do good to humanity.
Every Muslim is expected to be the torchbearer and one who contributes to the betterment of their respective communities and other peoples. Muslims are supposed to be the best of peoples as Allah expects:
O people of Islam, “You are the best people ever raised for the good of mankind because you have been raised to serve others; you enjoin what is good and forbid evil and believe in Allah.” (3:111)
Verily, Allah requires you to abide by justice, and the doing of good to others, and give like the giving of kin to kin; and forbids indecency, and manifest evil, and transgression… (Ch.16: V.91)
You will remain the best as long as you are service-minded, promote good and promote the welfare of society.
The fundamental qualities that we must all acquire to serve mankind or to develop a passion to serve mankind are: love for humanity, kindness in our hearts for others, a charitable disposition, humility, honesty, a thirst for knowledge, a desire to share knowledge with others and a constant desire to strive in the cause of Allah by doing good. We must be a people from whom goodness flows towards others.
Islam extends its message of peace to every soul, especially to those who have lost hope and are wishing for an end to come swiftly to their suffering. God says:
‘O My servants who have committed excesses (sinned) against their souls! Despair not of the mercy of Allah, surely, Allah forgives all sins. Verily, He is Most forgiving, Merciful.
My prayer for all Mankind: May Allah make it so that we are able to learn all the ways of the Holy Prophet Mohammad (saw) and we follow all of the commandments of our Lovely Lord as presented in The Holy Qur’an and so become the worthy people to achieve the choicest of blessings by the Gracious God. Aameen
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D. The Philosophy
The philosophy of Muslims is to follow the model of The Holy Prophet Mohammad Mustafa (saw) in living our lives and to abide by the rules set by The Lord as recorded in The Quran.
Five Pillars in Islam – Detailed
The Pillars of Islam need to be understood in their real sense; so please allow me to explain them. Thank you.
The significance of five pillars of Islam:
1. Kalma / Kalima:
Bearing witness that there is no God but Allah and that Muhammad (saw) is the Messenger of Allah.
Allah is not a new God rather the same one God who is supreme since time immemorial. He is the only lord of the heaven & the earth and all that is between it, including humans of all religions.
(Yes, I agree if you ask that there are 124,000 prophets then why Mohammad alone is mentioned here? The answer is that: The Prophethood of Muhammad (saw) comprises All Prophethoods in himself and his Book Quran comprises all Books of the past. This is God’s decision (not mine!) and logically proven too.)
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2. Salaat: Observance of Prayer (Namaaz)
Allah says in the Holy Qur’an:
[51:57] And I have not created the jinn and the men but that they may worship Me.
Salat (Namaaz) is the Muslim formal from of worship. It is to be offered five times a day:
- Fajr: Prayer before sunrise
- Zuhr: Prayer after noon
- Asr: Prayer in the evening
- Maghrib: Prayer after sunset
- Isha: Prayer at night
So worshiping the lord by offering of the (5 obligatory) prayers is the second pillar of Islam.
Prayer is the most potent means of establishing and strengthening one’s communion with one’s Maker and of drawing near to Him. It is a dynamic phenomenon; God hears and responds to prayer. The Islamic concept of prayer is a direct and uninhibited pouring forth of the soul by the supplicant before the Divine Majesty in certainty of Allah’s grace, mercy, and power. In worship there is no need of an intermediary between man and his Maker.
Importance of the 5 daily prayers:
“Verily, Prayer is enjoined on the believers to be performed at fixed hours.” (4:104)
[98:6] And they were not commanded but to serve Allah, being sincere to Him in obedience, and being upright, and to observe Prayer and pay the Zakat. And that is the right religion.
[17:79] Observe Prayer from the declining and paling of the sun till the darkness of the night, and recite the Qur’an at dawn. Verily, the recitation of the Qur’an at dawn is especially acceptable to Allah.
[17:80] And during a part of the night wake up for its recitation—a supererogatory service for thee. It may be that thy Lord will raise thee to an exalted station.
[2:239] Watch over prayers, and particularly the middle Prayer, and stand before Allah submissively.
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The performing of the Salaat is a must and it enjoined upon all the followers of Islam and it is better to offer all of the Daily Prayers in congregation, as far possible. There are also other prayers to be done at specified times but they are not made obligatory.
Salat is for the firm establishment of relationship with God and is the best form of worship. So, should be offered in the best possible manner.
A point worthy of note is that these prayers are done facing towards the Kaa’ba; the direction of Kaa’ba from any given place is called Qiblah.
To pray in a specific direction doesn’t mean that Allah is in a specific direction. The glorious Quran says about Qibla and explains its reality:
So, turn thy face towards the Sacred Mosque; and wherever you be, turn your faces towards it.” (Al-Baqarah Chapter 2: Verse 145)
During the prayer (salaat) Muslims make Qiyaam (standing), Ruku (bowing) and Sadja (prostrations) facing the Qiblah.
Now I see a doubt rising in the heads of all idol-worshippers… aren’t the Muslims worshipping the Kaaba? Isn’t this again the age old Idol-worshipping in practice?
And any Muslim might think it too and also that: If Allah is everywhere, why should we face in direction of the Qiblah?
To explain in one line: Muslims do not worship the Qiblah – it is used only for the sake of direction.
Let me explain… Imagine how funny it would look if everybody in a room faces a different direction while offering Salaat.
Pure commonsense, isn’t it?
Qibla is very important because it gives us a sense of unity, uniformity, discipline & direction. The turning of all world Muslims towards this holy center five times a day creates the inspiration of oneness and unity amongst all Muslims all over the world: All servants of the Holy Lord. None is superior to the another.
A prayer is accept worthy only in two conditions:
- Either the person praying should be conscious about standing before his Lord
- Should be conscious that the Lord is watching him.
At the aforesaid salaat times the muezzin calls the believers to Prayer in Arabic language, it is called Azaan. You must have heard it, surely.
Allah started the plan of democratic singularity by instructing that all Muslims of a locality should say the five prayers in congregation in the local mosque. By such interaction the Muslims are introduced to each other and develop affection for each other. Such introduction is very important as that leads to affection which is the basis of the unification… (Malfoozat 4/5 p100-101)
Translation of the Arabic Azaan:
Allah is the Greatest (Recited four times)
I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah (twice)
I bear witness that Muhammad (saw) is the Messenger of Allah. (twice)
Come to Prayer (Recited twice)
Come to success. (Recited twice)
Allah is the Greatest. (Recited twice)
There is none worthy of worship except Allah. (Once)
Importance of Azaan:
The Holy Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, has said:
Itha sami’tumun nida’a faqulu mithal ma yaqulul- mu’ath-thin.
meaning
Whenever you hear the Adhan, say what the Mu’athin is saying.
Hence, anyone who hears the Athan/Adhaan/Azaan should repeat the same phrase-by-phrase, after the Mu’athin/Muezzin has recited them but when the Mu’athin says the words Hayya alas-Salat and Hayya alal falah, the person hearing the Athan should say La hawla wa la quwwata illa billa-hil aliy-yil Azeem which means: There is neither might nor any power except with Allah… O Muslim! Make this a practice from today.
Before offering the Salat a Muslim is enjoined to perform Wudhu (ablution) which is an act of cleansing the body (and the soul) of impurities.
~***~
3. Fasting during the month of Ramadhan
The third pillar of Islam to fast during the Islamic month Ramadhan – it is a MUST upon all able adult Muslims.
Fasting begins before daybreak and continues till sunset. During this period a Muslim does not eat or drink anything and abstains from any vulgar speech / act / thought. By fasting a Muslim obeys the command of God which is a justification for fasting in itself and also it is that one thing which is done for the Lord only.
Hadees-e-Nabwi (saw) for fasting in Ramzaan:
One Hadith states: Every deed of man is for himself apart from fasting. God states:
Fasting is for Me and it’s Me that you get in return’.
Allah in the Holy Quran on Fasting:
[2:184] O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you, as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may become righteous (guard against evil).
[2:185] The prescribed fasting is for a fixed number of days, but whoso among you is sick or is on a journey shall fast the same number of other days; and for those who are able to fast only with great difficulty is an expiation — the feeding of a poor man. And whoso performs a good work with willing obedience, it is better for him. And fasting is good for you, if you only knew.
[2:186] The month of Ramadan is that in which the Qur’an was revealed as a guidance for mankind with clear proofs of guidance and discrimination. Therefore, whosoever of you is present at home in this month let him fast therein. But whoso is sick or is on a journey, shall fast the same number of other days. Allah desires ease for you and He desires not hardship for you, and He desires that you may complete the number, and that you may exalt Allah for His having guided you and that you may be grateful.
It is during a fast that we find out how the hungry and poor feel and henceforth increases our spirit of understanding and serving the poor.
~***~
4. Zakat: Paying a share from the money earned by lawful means
And observe Prayer and pay the Zakat, and bow down will those who bow. (2:44)
Zakat is an obligatory charity upon every Muslim and is based on a person’s wealth and income.
Zakat causes one’s wealth and possessions to be purified – Zakat is the source of purifying the soul as well;
‘It must be clearly understood that Zakat has been made incumbent on account of two reasons:
First: for the training of the soul and Second: for fulfilling the social and national requirements.
‘… Whatever you give in Zakat seeking the favour of Allah – it is these who will increase their wealth manifold. (Ch.30: V.40)
Charity towards fellow humans, in the widest sense of the word, is the cornerstone of the Islamic society and a constant theme in the Quranic teachings. The proceeds of Zakat are supposed to be devoted towards: Relieving poverty and distress, helping those in debt, providing comfort spaces and convenience for travelers, providing stipends for scholarships, propagation of Islam and other things beneficial for the society.
The act of giving in the name of God purifies the heart of the contributor from selfishness and greed.
Through the institution of Zakat, the concept of alms giving acquires a new outlook:
‘No longer does it compliment the donor or embarrass the recipient.’
The recipient is only receiving his rightful share. As the Quran says:
And in their wealth is a share belonging to the beggar and the destitute. (Ch.51: V.20)
So give the kinsman his due, and to the needy, and to the wayfarer. That is best for those who seek the favor of Allah, and it is they who will prosper. (30:39)
Human dignity is emphasised in the strongest terms in this verse.
Those who spend their wealth by night and by day, secretly and openly, have their reward with their Lord; on them shall come no fear, nor shall they grieve. (Ch.2: V.275)
Chapter 2, Verse 272 says: If you give alms openly, it is well and good; but if you conceal them and give them to the poor, it is better for you; And He will remove from you many of your evil deeds. And Allah is (all) aware of what you do.
The Promised Messiah (The re-advent of Jesus) says,
“Be kind and merciful to humanity, for all are His (God’s) creatures: do not oppress them with your tongue, or hands, or in any other way. Always work for the good of mankind. Never use abusive language for anyone even though he abuse you. Be humble in spirit, kind and gentle, forgiving, and sympathetic towards all and wishing them well, so that you should be accepted by your lord…. you should serve the poor.’(Kashti Nuh – Quoted from Our Teachings, pp.2-3)”
The Promised Messiah (as) says:
‘A religion which does not inculcate universal compassion is no religion at all. Similarly, a human being without the faculty of compassion is no human at all. (A Message of Peace, pp. 7-8)
The basic aim and object of Zakat is sympathy for mankind; Zakat system, if implemented in a correct Islamic way can eradicate poverty completely from this planet.
ALMS GIVING in the Holy Qur’an
[9:58] And among them are those who find fault with thee in the matter of alms. If they are given thereof, they are content; but if they are not given thereof, behold! they are discontented.
[9:60] The alms are only for the poor and the needy, and for those employed in connection therewith, and for those whose hearts are to be reconciled, and for the freeing of slaves, and for those in debt, and for the cause of Allah, and for the wayfarer — an ordinance from Allah. And Allah is All-Knowing, Wise.
[9:93] The cause of reproach is only against those who ask leave of thee, while they are rich. They are content to be with the womenfolk. And Allah has set a seal upon their hearts so that they know not.
[8:37] Surely, those who disbelieve spend their wealth to turn men away from the way of Allah. They will surely continue to spend it; but then shall it become a source of regret for them, and then shall they be overcome. And the disbelievers shall be gathered unto Hell;
[8:38] That Allah may separate the bad from the good, and put the bad, one upon another, and heap them up all together, and then cast them into Hell. These indeed are the losers.
[65:8] Let him who has abundance of means spend out of his abundance. And let him whose means of subsistence are straitened spend out of what Allah has given him. Allah burdens not any soul beyond that which He has given it. Allah will soon bring about ease after hardship.
[57:19] As to the men that give alms, and the women that give alms, and those who lend to Allah a goodly loan — it will be increased manifold for them, and theirs will also be an honorable reward —
[57:20] And those who believe in Allah and His Messengers and they are the Truthful and the Witnesses in the sight of their Lord, they will have their reward and their light. But as for those who disbelieve and reject Our Signs, these are the inmates of Hell.
[63:11] And spend out of that with which We have provided you before death comes upon one of you and he says, ‘My Lord! if only Thou wouldst grant me respite for a little while, then I would give alms and be among the righteous.’
[47:39] Behold, you are those who are called upon to spend in the way of Allah; but of you there are some who are niggardly. And whoso is niggardly, is niggardly only against his own soul. And Allah is Self- Sufficient, and it is you that are needy. And if you turn your backs, He will bring in your stead a people other than you, then they will not be like you.
[34:39] And as to those who strive to frustrate the purpose of Our Signs, it is they who will be brought face to face with punishment.
[33:49] And follow not the disbelievers and the hypocrites, and leave alone their annoyance, and put thy trust in Allah; for Allah is sufficient as a Guardian.
~***~
5. Hajj: Pilgrimage to the house of Allah.
The fifth act of Islamic worship is the performing of the Hajj (the pilgrimage to Mecca).
QURAN ON PILGRIMAGE (HAJJ) AND THE KA’ABA (THE HOUSE OF GOD)
The Quran enjoins all Muslims to perform the Pilgrimage to Mecca once in their lifetime if they can afford it and if the journey is safe.
The centre of pilgrimage is Kaaba which according to the Quran, is the first house built for the worship of God. As Allah said in the Holy Qur’an:
Surely, the first House founded for mankind is that at Becca [the valley of Mecca] abounding in blessings and a guidance for all people. (Ch.3:V.97)
The object of the Pilgrimage is to create in the minds of the Muslims a feeling of an international brotherhood, and through the performance of certain rites to impress on the minds of the pilgrims that God is to be the focal point of their lives.
[22:27] And call to mind when WE assigned to Abraham the site of the House and said, `Associate not anything with ME and keep MY House clean for those who perform the circuits, and those who stand up and those who bow and prostrate themselves in Prayer;
God instituted pilgrimage (Hajj) for mankind through Abraham saying:
[22:28] And proclaim unto men the Pilgrimage. They will come to thee on foot, and on every lean camel, coming by every distant, deep, track.
[22:29] `That they may witness the benefits provided for them and may mention the name of ALLAH, during the appointed days, over the quadrupeds of the class of cattle that HE has provided for them. So eat thereof and feed the distressed and the needy.
[22:30] `Then let them accomplish their needful acts of cleansing, and fulfill their vows, and go around the Ancient House.’
[3: 98] In it are manifest Signs; it is the place of Abraham; and whoso enters it, is safe. And pilgrimage to the House is a duty which men – those who can find a way thither – owe to ALLAH. And whoso disbelieves let him remember that ALLAH is surely Independent of all creatures.
[2:198] The months of the Pilgrimage are well known; so whoever determines to perform the Pilgrimage in these months should remember that there is to be no foul talk, nor any transgression, nor any quarrelling during the Pilgrimage. And whatever good you do, ALLAH knows it. And furnish yourselves with necessary provisions for your journey and surely, the best provision is righteousness. And fear ME alone, O men of understanding.
[9:3] And this is a proclamation from Allah and His Messenger to the people on the day of the Greater Pilgrimage, that Allah is clear of the idolaters, and so is His Messenger. So if you repent, it will be better for you; but if you turn away, then know that you cannot frustrate the plan of Allah. And give tidings of a painful punishment to those who disbelieve.
B. Beliefs: Six main Articles of belief / faith in Islam
1. To believe in the Oneness of Allah.
Believe: The Supreme Being is Allah. The one most highly emphasized aspect of God in Islam is the Unity of God. God is One. He has no associates.
2. To believe in all His Angels.
Angels are spiritual beings who are assigned various duties by God like: Bringing of divine revelations to the prophets, Bringing punishment upon their enemies, giving glad tidings to the believers, glorifying God with His praise, keeping records of people’s deeds, etc.
The concept of angels exists in Judaism and Christianity as well, and the names of some of the angels the Muslims believe in are mentioned in the Bible.
In the Arabic language the word for angel is malak meaning “power”
In the Hebrew language an angel is called mal’akh meaning messenger
The English word angel is derived from the Greek angelos, also meaning messenger.
The literal meaning of the word angel thus points more to the function of such beings rather than to their nature. In the Quran, therefore, the angels are frequently referred to as rasul or messengers.
Although angels are spoken of as beings, they have not been granted the choice of doing right or wrong, as the human beings have been; the angels automatically carry out the command of God. In this respect, the angels may be said to be the powers of nature. The function of the angels is to obey; they cannot disobey. The various tasks assigned to the angels include:
- bringing of divine revelations to the prophets
- bringing punishment upon their enemies
- giving glad tidings to the believers
- glorifying God with His praise
- keeping records of people’s deeds
The concept of angels exists in Judaism and Christianity as well, and the names of some of the angels the Muslims believe in are mentioned in the Bible:
- Jibraeel (Gabriel in the Bible)
- Mikaeel (Michael in the Bible)
- lsrafeel (Raphael in the Bible)
- lzraeel (Israel in the Bible)
FYI: It was the Angel Jibraeel (Gabriel) who used to bring the Qur’anic revelations to the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. And we also know that it was an Angel who bought the good news to Mary about her conceiving Jesus.
A Warning to heed:
Those, who believe not in the Hereafter, give the angels female names; [53:28] desist, it is better for you.
At [43:20] Allah says in the Qur’an:
And they regard females as angels, who are the servants of the Gracious God. Did they witness their creation? Then their testimony will be recorded, and they shall be questioned.
Read more: QUR’AN ON ANGELS
[35:2] All praise belongs to ALLAH, the originator of the heavens and the earth, Who employs the angels as Messengers, having wings, two, three, and four. HE adds to HIS creation whatever HE pleases; for ALLAH has power over all things.
[2:286] This Messenger of OURS believes in that which has been revealed to him from his Lord, and so do the believers; all of them believe in ALLAH, and in HIS angels, and in HIS Books, and in HIS Messengers, saying, `We make no distinction between any of HIS Messengers;’ and they say `We have heard and we are obedient. Our Lord, we implore THY forgiveness, and to Thee is the returning.’
[22:76] ALLAH chooses HIS Messengers from among angels and from among men. Surely, ALLAH is All-Hearing, All-Seeing.
[19:65] ‘And we (angels) do not come down save by the command of thy Lord. To Him belongs all that is before us and all that is behind us and all that is between; and thy Lord is not forgetful.’
[4:137] O ye who believe ! Believe in ALLAH and HIS Messenger and in the Book which HE had revealed to HIS Messenger, and the Book which HE revealed before it. And whoso disbelieves in ALLAH and HIS angels, and HIS Books and HIS Messengers and the Last Day, has surely strayed far away.
[2:98] Say `Whoever is an enemy to Gabriel’ – for he it is who has caused it to descend on thy heart by the command of ALLAH, fulfilling that revelation which precedes it, and is a guidance and glad tidings to the believers.
[2:99] `Whoever is an enemy to ALLAH, and HIS angels, and HIS Messengers, and Gabriel, and Michael, then surely, ALLAH is an enemy to such disbelievers.’
~~~***~~~
3. To believe in all His Prophets.
After the doctrine of the absolute Unity of God, perhaps the most important assertion made in the Holy Quran is that God has always been revealing His will to mankind through His prophets and messengers. Belief in all prophets, therefore, is a fundamental article of faith in Islam.
As said in the Qur’an at Ch3.V85, if a Muslim claims to obey Allah, he is duty bound to believe in all the prophets (1, 24,000 in total), to the extent that at another place, Allah the Almighty states that He has sent prophets to all the nations as a means to reform people, some of whom Allah has named in the Qur’an.
We have discussed this point a lot above, so just to add:
Not only have the prophets of the East are mentioned, but a great Messenger of God who appeared in India was also mentioned with love by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) to his companions. He said:
‘There was a Prophet in India; his color was dark and his name was Kahin’ (Tarikh Hadan, Dilmi, Bab-ul-kaf).
The reference here is to prophet Krishna (peace be upon him) who is also called Kanhaiyya or Krishna the dark-skinned one, pronounced Kahin in Arabic.
So, all religions truly revealed by God to His Messengers are fully respected in Islam. Thus, Islam has laid the foundation for peace, harmony and reconciliation by making all the founders of religions worthy of respect.
~***~
4. To believe in all His Books.
This comes as an obvious one after the aforementioned; however, much of text contents of all past holy books appeared to be corrupted now, so nothing remains but to obey the commands of the Holy Qur’an which is the last divine scripture for mankind. It is the final revealed Book for the guidance of humanity, and is intended for all peoples of all times. Its laws are of universal and permanent character and they admit of no change or amendment.
How do we know if Qur’an is not changed? Not Corrupted? We will discuss this in detail in the next chapter.
The Qur’an is the ‘Word of Our Lord’ – A reader experiences as if God is speaking to the Him.
~***~
5. To believe in the Day of Resurrection.
After belief in One God, belief in the Day of Judgment is the most emphasized doctrine in the Quran.
No other revealed book draws such a vivid picture of the life after death – of the Hereafter – of Day of Judgment as does the Holy Quran. As Allah says in the Holy Qur’an:
‘O my people, this life of the world is but a temporary provision; and the Hereafter is certainly the home for permanent stay. [40:40]
The Day of Judgment is referred to by many names in the Holy Quran, some of which are mentioned below:
- Yaum ad din – the Day of Judgment
- Yaum al akhir – the Last Day
- Yaum al qiyama – the Day of Resurrection
- Yaum al fast – the Day of Distinction
- Yaum al jami – the Day of Gathering
- Yaum al talaqi – the Day of the Meeting
- As sa’at – the Hour (of Doom)
- At Qariah – the Calamity
Research into the Hereafter is practically impossible bcoz nobody returned from there to tell us about it… ha ha ha
Well, Allah does say in [33:64]:
People ask thee concerning the Hour. Say, ‘The knowledge of it is with Allah alone.’ And what will make thee know that the Hour may be nigh (near)?
Read the next Chapter, ‘The Holy Qur’an’ and there you’ll find much information on the Hereafter, the Hell and the Heaven.
If we club the information found in the many Holy books (especially the Holy Qur’an), the Ahadees, and through various other trusted sources… we find that life in the Hereafter begins after a very long process. Each individual’s soul passes through different stages of development (like during their first birth) but now they’re all based upon… [Simplify, summarize & write with exact references here: file updated on Friday, 2008]
So, as natural as it would seem, people with good records are rewarded and welcomed into heaven to reside until eternity and those with bad records are punished severely for longer but limited periods and then brought back.
As understood: Hell is the worst resort, undeniably as we’ve seen how the sinners were made to repent their sins by passing through different stages of torture till their souls get completely cleansed of the taint of sin and then they receive a new birth.
—
Now allow me to put down few verses from the Holy Qur’an:
Introduction:
17:14] And every man’s works have We fastened to his neck, and on the Day of Resurrection We shall bring out for him a book which he will find wide open.
[17:15] ‘Read thy book. Sufficient is thy own soul this day as reckoner against thee.’
[18:50] And the Book will be placed before them, and thou wilt see the guilty fearful of that which is therein; and they will say, ‘O woe to us! What kind of a Book is this! It leaves out nothing small or great but has recorded it.’ And they will find all that they did confronting them, and thy Lord does not wrong anyone.
—
Let’s see the scene of Hell as presented in the Holy Qur’an:
[Please note: The Qur’anic verses contain in them deep & fine philosophies but are explained in such a way that common people could relate it in a form of symbolism and examples such that would help their understanding.]
[2:82] Aye, whoso does evil and is encompassed by his sins — those are the inmates of the Fire; therein shall they abide.
Ch.6:V.28: And if thou couldst only see when they are made to stand before the Fire! They will say, ‘Oh, would that we might be sent back! And then we would not treat the Signs of our Lord as lies and we would be of the believers.’
[14:17] Before him is Hell; and he shall be made to drink boiling water.
[14:18] He shall sip it and shall not be able to swallow it easily. And death shall come to him from every quarter, yet he shall not die. And besides that there shall be for him a severe chastisement.
And again in Chapter 44:
[44:44] Verily, the tree of Zaqqum
[44:45] Will be the food of the sinful,
[44:46] Like molten copper, it will boil in their bellies,
[44:47] Like the boiling of scalding water.
[44:48] ‘Seize him and drag him into the midst of the blazing Fire;
[44:49] ‘Then pour upon his head the torment of boiling water.’
[44:50] ‘Taste it! Thou didst consider thyself the mighty, the honourable.
[44:51] ‘This indeed is what you did doubt.’
And again in…
[56:43] They will be in the midst of scorching winds and scalding water,
[56:44] And under the shadow of black smoke,
[56:45] Neither cool nor of any good.
———–
Let’s see what Heaven looks like, shall we?
[2:83] But they who believe and do good works — those are the dwellers of Heaven; therein shall they abide.
[13:23] And those who persevere in seeking the favour of their Lord, and observe Prayer, and spend out of that with which We have provided them, secretly and openly, and repel evil with good. It is these who shall have the best reward of the final Abode —
[13:24] Gardens of Eternity. They shall enter them and also those who are righteous from among their fathers, and their wives and their children. And angels shall enter unto them from every gate, saying:
[13:25] ‘Peace be unto you, because you were steadfast; behold how excellent is the reward of the final Abode!’
[54:55] Verily, the righteous will be in the midst of Gardens and streams,
[21:103] They will not hear the slightest sound thereof; and they shall abide in the state which their souls desire.
[76:21] And when thou seest thou wilt see there a bliss and a great kingdom.
[76:22] On them will be garments of fine green silk and thick brocade. And they will be made to wear bracelets of silver. And their Lord will give them to drink a pure beverage.
[36:58] They will have fruits therein, and they will have whatever they call for.
[37:46] They will be served round with a cup from a flowing fountain,
[37:47] Sparkling white, delicious to the drinkers,
[37:48] Wherein there will be no intoxication, nor will they be exhausted thereby.
[76:13] And He will reward them, for their steadfastness, with a Garden and a raiment of silk,
[76:14] Reclining therein upon couches, they will find there neither excessive heat nor excessive cold.
[76:15] And its shades will be close over them, and its clustered fruits will be brought within easy reach.
[76:16] And vessels of silver will be passed round among them, and also goblets of glass,
[76:17] Bright as glass but made of silver, which they will measure according to their own measure.
[76:18] And therein will they be given to drink a cup tempered with ginger,
[76:19] From a spring therein named Salsabil.
[76:20] And there will wait upon them youths who will not age. When thou seest them, thou thinkest them to be pearls scattered about.
[39:35] They will have with their Lord whatever they desire; that is the reward of those who do good.
[76:23] ‘This is your reward, and your labour has been appreciated.’
—-
Conclusion:
[14:53] This is a sufficient admonition for mankind that they may benefit by it, and that they may be warned thereby…
Search in the books and you’ll find more information in detail. But remember, you’ll never be able to visualize the entire or the perfect form of the hereafter – it is much more than what a human mind could ever conceive. The knowledge lies only with the Lord.
In the Quran there are given many signs of the coming of the Hour and the Day of Judgment (taken from Surah al Qariah, the 101st Chapter of the Holy Quran):
The Great Calamity; What is the Great Calamity!
And what should make thee know what the Great Calamity is?
The day when men will be like scattered moths;
And mountains will be like carded wool;
Then as for him whose scales are heavy, He will have a pleasant life.
But as for him whose scales are light, Hell will be a nursing mother to him. (101:2-10)
~***~
6. To believe in the Decree of Allah: To believe fully, entirely, completely over God’s control upon the outcome of all actions in this (His) universe.
My Prayers for all world Muslims in the words of Khalifatul Maseeh II (ra):
:Badhti Rahe Khuda Ki Mohabbat Khuda Kare:
:Haasil Ho Tum Ko Deedh Ki Lazzat Khuda Kare:
:Tauheed Ki Ho Lab Pe Shahaadat Khuda Kare:
:Imaan Ki Ho Dil Mein Halaawat Khuda Kare:
:Haakim Rahe Dilo’n Pe Shariyat Khuda Kare:
:Haasil Ho Mustafa (Saw) Ki Rafaaqat Khuda Kare:
:Mil Jayee Tumko Deen Ki Daulat Khuda Kare:
:Chamke Falak Pe Taara-E-Qismat Khuda Kare:
:Qur’an Pak Haath Me Ho Aur Dil Me Noor Ho:
:Mil Jaaye Momino’n Ki Firasat Khuda Kare:
:Mit Jaaye Dil Se Zang-E-Razaalat Khuda Kare:
:Aajaaye Phir Se Daur-E-Sharafat Khuda Kare… Aameen
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
And our last observation is that:
All praise is due to God, the Sustainer of the Universe’.
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