Featured Events

The Manner Of Supplication

Allah^-SWT has taught mankind a comprehensive and complete prayer. It opens with His^-SWT praise, followed by acknowledgement of His^-SWT greatness and servitude of mankind to Him^-SWT . Along with His^-SWT glorification, it puts forth the request for His^-SWT help and succour, as well as for bliss both in this world and the next. Thus it has been made clear that while praying or supplicating to Allah^-SWT, the manner and sequence should be to glorify Him^-SWT first. To express one''s own humility and worthlessness; to promise complete submission to Him^-SWT , and finally submit the request.

“All Praise is for Allah^-SWT Alone, Rabb of the entire Universe.”

After seeking Allah^-SWT''s protection against Satan, and then beginning in His^-SWT Name, the first thing is to acknowledge that Allaah^-SWT is the centre of all excellence and positive attributes. Be it beauty or glory, strength or might, knowledge or skill: whenever any of the qualities is appreciated in the creation, the real credit shall always go to the Creator. By appreciating a piece of art one actually praises the artist. Allaah^-SWT is the Nourisher of the universe, the Bestower of skills and excellence to the entire creation. His^-SWT system of Providence is so comprehensive that the whole creation benefits from it simultaneously. He^-SWT has not only given His^-SWT creations an existence, but has also taught them how to grow and survive and to work for betterment. He^-SWT blessed them with the awareness of their needs, and provided them with means and resources for the fulfilment. The universe has been so designed and the workshop of life so well organised that while the sun lights the royal palaces, it also illuminates the huts of the poor at the same time. While fruits ripen in the orchards, ant''s eggs are also being hatched. Air, light, rain, seasons and the perpetual cycle of day and night affect the whole creation simultaneously, by regulating them, and providing them with necessities and all the benefits of life.

The Divine Way Of Educating The Creation

This is the excellence of His^-SWT Providence that while He^-SWT has provided all that is required, He^-SWT has also given everyone the sense by discern its needs and the means fulfilment. A calf, instantly after birth, knows that its food is milk, and also knows where to look for it. It instinctively reaches for the udder. Similarly, a new born tadpole starts swimming as soon as it is born. Even a tiny little ant knows its course of action. The breeze carries the aroma of grains to it. It splits the grain into halves before storing it in its burrow, lest it may sprout due to the dampness of soil and render its effort futile. But it splits a coriander seed into quarters, fully aware that a coriander seed is capable of sprouting even from halves. This is the perfect system of Divine Providence that He^-SWT has blessed the needy with complete realization of its needs along with appropriate knowledge for fulfilment.

The Quran presents this Divine Attribute of Providence as evidence to Allaah^-SWT ’s Greatness and Absolute Divinity, and establishes it as the basis of human obligation to worship Him^-SWT .

Prophethood-A Proof Of Allah^-SWT''s Providence

This Divine Attribute of Providence is indeed a proof of the validity of Prophethood. A human being does not represent a physical body alone, but both the body and the Spirit. Whereas the human being has the knowledge of his physical needs and the ways of fulfilment, he must also know his spiritual requirements and the means of accomplishment. The intellect and knowledge pertaining to physical body, its growth and the related sciences are granted to the mind. All minds differ in their capacity. Some people excel others in various fields, and their help is sought in matters pertaining to their particular specialization. Similarly, the Qalb was Divinely chosen as the seat of faculties required for growth and advancement of Spirit. Then Allaah^-SWT sent Prophets^–AS, masters in the art of reforming human hearts, and mankind benefited from these Prophets^–AS and stood spiritually reformed. Those who failed to reform themselves died spiritually just like the one deprived of food dies physically. It is the Rabb, Who communicates with the ant and the calf, and guides the honeybee to flowers and teaches it to transform nectar into honey. These are all manifestations of His^-SWT Attribute of Providence and it is befitting for His^-SWT Providence to confer Prophethood upon His^-SWT chosen people, and thus provided for the life and development of the Spirit. He^-SWT speaks to the Prophets^–AS and blesses them with Revelation or inspiration and intuition. The true and devoted followers of the Prophets^–AS are those who practically spend their lives according to their teachings. Form amongst these devotees, some may receive a droplet of this great blessing, commensurate with their capacity, through sincere and devout adherence to the Prophet^–AS. That actually is a reflection of the Prophetic excellence and is known as Kashf, Ilqa or intuition. A Prophet, however, clearly and correctly discerns the content and meaning of whatever is revealed upon him.

Possibility And Cause Of Error In The Kashf Of A Wali

The Kashf of a Wali is also true, being a communication from Allah^-SWT, yet the possibility of error in its interpretation cannot be ruled out, because the perceptions of a Wali are not as refined as that of a Prophet^–AS. Therefore, it is imperative that a Kashf of a Wali must conform to the teachings of the Prophet^-SW. Otherwise, it should be out rightly rejected. Besides, it is incumbent on the entire Ummah to obey all commands of their Prophet^-SW, while the Kashf of a Wali constitutes no authority for others to follow.

“The Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.”

Al-Rahman and Al-Rahim are two synonymous Divine Attributes pertaining to His^-SWT Mercy. Al-Rahman or the Gracious signifies a transient Attribute. In Arabic grammar, verbs of such phonetic balance (an) denote those conditions, which do not exhibit permanency, like ghaghban (to be angry), atshan (to be thirsty), hairan (to be surprised). This Attribute of Grace too, is a branch of Allaah^-SWT ’s Providence. Since He^-SWT is the Creator and the Rabb of the entire universe, He^-SWT is also Rahman, as it does not befit Him^-SWT to deprive any of His^-SWT creatures from the resources and means of sustaining life. Therefore, as long as this universe exists, all the creations will receive their share of necessities to maintain their existence. This is the general Mercy for all. Yet there is another special and classified Mercy, emanating from His^-SWT Attribute of al-Rahim. Grammatically, the verbs in this tense in Arabic language denote permanence of attributes or actions, e.g., ‘Alim (The Knower), Hakim (The Wise). The manifestation of Mercy in this case is extensive and eternal, which will neither diminish nor disconnect.

If we analyze His^-SWT attribute of Mercy we will see that His^-SWT Providence (Rabubiyat) inspite of its diversity is in itself. This aspect of His^-SWT Mercy (al-Rahim), in spite of its element of Providence is in itself only a speck of the vast field of Mercy. It is an aspect of Mercy as it deals with educating the entire universe on each and every aspect of their existence. The knowledge given to the creation for the fulfilment of their needs is also a manifestation of this Attribute. The conferring of honour and awards upon leading a successful noble life, and the gifts of excellence, beauty, and unlimited and unimaginable favours in the Aakhirah, all originate from the fountainhead of the Attribute of Mercy as no one could have compelled Allaah^-SWT to do so. While the knowledge granted by Allaah^-SWT for the fulfilment of needs is also a display of His^-SWT Mercy.

Attainment Of Rahimyat (Allah^-SWT ’s Mercy) Is A Human Need

The highest form of knowledge is the one that is acquired through the Prophets^–AS, which served as the means of attaining the Rahimyat aspect of people. It should also be noted that Allaah^-SWT ’s Grace (flowing from His^-SWT Attribute of Al-Rahman) is being manifested only as long as this world exists, and the believers and the non believers are equally availing it. But once this world, which is the stage for its display, comes to an end, this Attribute too would cease to manifest. Since the human beings have to pass on the eternal world, they must seek, through the Prophets^–AS, the eternal component of Allaah^-SWT ’s Mercy (flowing from Al-Rahim). If people remain indifferent towards the attainment of Allaah^-SWT ’s Rahimyat, and feel contented with His^-SWT Grace / Rahimyat alone, they must realize that it will discontinue as soon as this life is over. Then, if they had not attained the former, they will be seized by His^-SWT punishment. For that reason He^-SWT is called Rahman ad-Dunya (Gracious in the world) and Rahim al-Akhira (Merciful in the Hereafter). It is by His^-SWT Mercy that He^-SWT not only creates the entire universe but also gives it a perfect balance, beauty and grandeur. In short, every change contains positive and constructive aspect, no matter how destructive it may appear. Withering of each flower actually heralds the blossoming of a new bud. Again, in the disappearance of the bud is the emergence of a new flower. Thus a harp made by a craftsman does not compose melodies on its own, but it is the contribution of a tree that had been felled for it.

This process of addition and elimination goes on endlessly, as He^-SWT has indicated that He^-SWT retains the beneficial and eradicates the useless. Any aspect of subversion is attributable to man himself, who foolishly distorts the beauty of the universe. The human life adds splendour and beauty to the canvas of this world. Every human activity defines a particular colour in this masterpiece. Thus, when man treads the righteous path he makes flowers bloom at each step. But when he commits sins and transgresses, he blemishes the beauty of the whole picture. He not only abuses his own soul by committing a sin, but the viciousness of his sin pollutes the whole environment. Sin generates and spreads mischief and trouble all around. That is why the Creator of this beautiful universe has warned the human beings: Do not create mischief in the land. Disobedience of this command deprives man of eternal salvation and His^-SWT Mercy.

“Owner of the day of Judgement.”

The basic motive behind all human actions is the attainment of benefit, so the one who can reward a persons actions will naturally be the centre of all his hopes; whom he could never want to annoy. While it is Allaah^-SWT Who has control over the end result of every action at all times and there shall be a Day of judgement when no soul will be absent, and no one will dare to claim any power or authority. That will be the Day of ultimate Requital. On that Day, the entire universe, including the most stubborn deniers will instantly acknowledge Allaah^-SWT ’s Absolute Sovereignty and Majesty, because He^-SWT is the Fountainhead of all excellence and the Sustainer of the universe. All blessings benefiting His^-SWT creation, whether temporary or permanent, are manifestation of His^-SWT Grace and Mercy. Indeed He^-SWT Alone is the Owner, Whose Ownership will be acknowledged by everyone in the Aakhirah. He^-SWT has always been other only One worthy of worship; and on the Day the denial of every arrogant shall be wiped away like sweepings.

“You^-SWT Alone do we worship and from You^-SWT Alone we seek help. Guide us onto the straight Path.”

By reciting the previous Ayah, the worshipper achieves a certain level of nearness with Allaah^-SWT and feels himself in His^-SWT exalted presence, As soon as he realizes this, he reverts from the indirect and submits directly: You^-SWT Alone do we worship and from You^-SWT Alone we seek help. For I have observed the entire universe as resourceless and You^-SWT alone the Provider. I worship You^-SWT , because I am nothing within myself, and I need Your^-SWT help and support through every moment of my life. When You^-SWT are so Gracious and Merciful, and we so helpless and humble pleading for your help with our foreheads touching down in Sajdah before You^-SWT , then O Allaah^-SWT ! Guide us unto the Straight Path. It is worth noticing that the singular pronoun ‘I’ has been replaced by the collective ‘us’. This is because the devotee observes himself and the entire universe in a state of Sajdah including Allaah^-SWT ’s chosen friends. Now he cannot isolate himself from then and entreats: “O Allaah^-SWT ! “You^-SWT Alone do we worship and from You^-SWT Alone we seek help, so Guide us unto the Straight Path”. The word us includes all the righteous, the Shuhada, the Siddiqin and the Prophets, All of whom are requesting Allaah^-SWT for guidance and adherence to the right path. Because of collective prayer of these noble souls, many wrongdoers also receive Mercy and Guidance! Praise be to Allaah^-SWT ! What an amazing prayer He^-SWT has taught us; which can never be rejected; neither can Allaah^-SWT ’s Magnificence diminish, nor can the ‘us’ of the implorer go in vain. As this ‘us’ comprises mainly of those who are held dearly by Allaah^-SWT and are the bearers of His^-SWT All-Embracing Grace, it is indeed beyond His^-SWT Graciousness to accept the invocation of such a large group and reject the prayer of an individual. In truth, even the humblest and most devoted supplications and prayers can never be worthy of acceptance in His^-SWT Court, because His^-SWT Majesty and Glory are far too sublime. On the other hand our present situation is such that the element of humility and awe are totally missing from our prayers.

And when the supplications of the righteous, the Sujud of the Shuhada, the worship of the Mujahidin of Islam offered in the heat of the battle, the adoration of Angels and Allaah^-SWT ’s Messengers, and above all those offered by the Holy Prophet^-SW are taken in view, then our worship appears worthless. But observe Allaah^-SWT ’s Mercy in the manner of prayer taught to us: “You^-SWT Alone do we worship and from You^-SWT Alone we seek help”, this collectively interlaces our prayers with those of the Prophets, the Aulia and the Shuhada and carries them to the Door of Divine acceptance.

Praise be to Allaah^-SWT ! The Magnificence of Allaah^-SWT was already known to the worshipper, but as he observes the submission and humility of His^-SWT elite, it is further endorsed on his Qalb that Allaah^-SWT Alone is the Bestower, and all the rest are dependant upon Him^-SWT .

“The path of those whom You^-SWT rewarded.Not of those condemned by You^-SWT nor of those who went astray.”

Now, when it comes to the acceptance of supplications, the devotee further states and defines his proposition. Allaah^-SWT forbid, it is not that he is trying to elaborate things to Allah^-SWT, but he is actually counselling himself while addressing the Almighty. “The path of those whom You^-SWT rewarded, not of those condemned by You^-SWT nor of those who went astray”. This can be illustrated by the example of a person praying for a long life, who is asked to choose between a cup of milk and a cup of poisonous drink. He will never opt for the latter if he wants to live long, because actions speak louder than words. On the contrary, if he takes poison, his prayer for long life would be meaningless. If he wants to live on, he will certainly lift the cup of milk and pray: “O Allaah^-SWT ! I reject poison and seek your protection from it; please bless me with a sound health through this milk.” This is the desired harmony between words and actions. Similarly, when a person says “O Allaah^-SWT ! let me follow the path of the Prophets^–AS, Shuhada, true believers and the righteous,” he is actually telling his own self to adopt the ways of these exalted souls, according to his own capacity.

The righteous, the true friends of Allaah^-SWT and the Shuhada receive beneficence from the Prophets^–AS; who receive it directly from the Almighty. This is the channel to establish relationship with Allah^-SWT; a cordial relationship, because Qalb is the ruler and the physical body is the subject, bound be the ruler’s commands. The love for the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet^-SW is inspired in the Qalb by Zikr, which is also the instrument to strengthen it. For that reason, nearly eight hundred Aayaat of the Quran, directly or indirectly, enjoin Zikr. This was the path adopted by the Prophet^–AS and the righteous and this is what tasawwuf is all about: that the Qalb be enlightened and all human actions may reflect the splendour of Divine Light. If sincerity of the Qalb is absent, the verbal declaration will be no more than a futile, untrustworthy exercise. If sincerity of the Qalb is absent on this path then it becomes a mere verbal claim, which cannot be relied upon.

Maghdhub (those who earn Allaah^-SWT ’s annoyance) and Dhalin (Those who go astray) are two classes of disbelief. The first category includes those who oppose the Prophets^–AS, both by word and action. The second category comprises those who verbally claim adherence to the Prophets^–AS, but ideologically and practically oppose them. The seeker must keep this definition in mind during his practical life; else he may be taking poison while praying for a long life. He may indulge in a sinful activity like listening to music and believe that it is beautifying his eternal life, whereas his actual place is the masjid and his code of life is the Sunnah, The Holy Prophet^-SW has said that Maghdhub denotes the Jews, and Dhalin denotes the Christians. Let us examine their characteristics, which earned them these titles. It was the blatant opposition of the Prophets^–AS of Allaah^-SWT ! They openly denied the Prophethood of the Prophets^–AS, and strove hard to enforce their own concocted concepts and customs and tried ceaselessly to efface Prophetic teachings. Now, when a pseudo intellectual of today declares the Prophetic Knowledge as useless, terms the pilgrimage as a futile journey, pronounces the sacrifice to be a waste of money, and instead strives for the revival of obscene un-Islamic culture; he is indeed worse than both the Jews and the Christians in conduct. On the other extreme stand the ignorant, who claim to be devoted believers, but adopt their own innovations and anti-Sunnah rituals, to display this devotion. They do not comprehend that no expression of love, however profound, can cross the limits defined by Allah^-SWT; and the only proper way of demonstrating one’s love is through total adherence to the Prophets^-SW Sunnah.

Thus Allaah^-SWT has prescribed this prayer as a sure treatment of all such ailments. It is so vital to human life that it has been enjoined as an integral part of each cycle of the Salaat. May Allaah^-SWT guide us all. Ameen!

“Alif, Laam, Meem”. This Is The Book, In Which There Is Not The Slightest Doubt.

Alif Laam Mim and similar Isolated Letters often precede Surahs of the Quran. Believing in them is necessary and efforts to decode them unnecessary. These Letters are a secret between Allaah^-SWT and His^-SWT Prophet^-SW only. A believer benefits from their recitation even without knowing their actual meanings. The Holy Quran is a Book having no room for the slightest doubt. Thus, to benefit from this Book, revealed in response to the prayer, it is imperative that the reader must not doubt its content, whether dealing with past or future, as there is no chance, whatsoever, of any error in it. Generally, books or literature discussing supernatural phenomenon beyond the scope of human senses are not presented with absolute conviction even by their authors, because all their conclusions are based on assumptions But, the Revealer of this Book is Allah^-SWT, Whose Knowledge is all encompassing, thorough and perfect. He^-SWT knows everything from the very beginning till the very end. Thus, the facts unfolded by Him^-SWT are beyond any doubt. And to further eliminate any scepticism, Allaah^-SWT certifies the veracity and trustworthiness of all the connections and sources, which convey His^-SWT Message to mankind.

The Sources Of Conveying The Divine Message

The first source is the Angel who conveyed Allaah^-SWT ’s Message to the Holy Prophet^-SW. Mark his introduction: This is in truth the word of an honoured Messenger^-AS Mighty, established in the Presence of Rabb^-SWT of the Throne. One to be obeyed, and trustworthy. (81:19-21). And note that he is trustworthy, mighty and honourable, attendant of the Divine Court: He is so strong that no one can snatch Allaah^-SWT ’s Message from him, or compel him to add or subtract anything from it. Although all angels are created from light but amongst them too are the commoners and the elite. The Angel mentioned here is Jibril^--AS; he is the leader of them all and is obeyed by all. Allaah^-SWT testifies his honesty and integrity and he indeed is the direct source of delivering Allaah^-SWT ’s Book to the Holy Prophet^-SW

The second source is the Holy Prophet^-SW; who is an embodiment of truth. Not only has the Quràn testified his truthfulness, but also his worst enemies acknowledged his honesty and integrity by calling him Sadiq and Amin (truthful and trustworthy). The impeccable life of the Holy Prophet^-SW is an endorsement to his Prophet-hood. Whereas miracles and rationales establish his Prophet-hood beyond doubt, his^-SW pure, spotless and immaculate pre-Prophetic life provides the most assertive evidence. The Holy Prophet^-SW (addressing the Makkans) had said: “I have lived my life amidst you before this, can you accuse me of any falsehood?” By your life (0 Prophet)! And, your morals touch the heights of excellence attainable by a human being (68:4), are the Divine declarations of the sublimity of this source. Hence, the Message of Allaah^-SWT is true. The Angel assigned to deliver it is too exalted to be doubted and His Prophet^-SW is indeed the most truthful. The entire foundation of Islam is on truth, nothing but the truth. However, the entire mankind does not have a direct access to the Prophetic source and between him and the Ummah is a whole class of intermediaries, who heard the Divine Word directly from the Holy Prophet^-SW, understood it, practised and conveyed it to the rest of mankind.

Integrity Of The Companions^-RAU

If, Allaah^-SWT forbid, this link is questioned, then the Divine Declaration: ‘This is the Book in which there is not the slightest doubt’, may not be proved. No one shall dare question the integrity of the Holy Prophet^-SW and the Angel; but the Companions^-RAU not being innocent like the Prophets, may not be spared by the critics. And what if they actually misquote some facts? It would simply render the entire structure of Islam doubtful. Therefore Allaah^-SWT discusses them at length in the Quran and declares their faith as the standard, their truthfulness exemplary and ordains adherence to their model. Quote:

And if they believe as you^--SW believe, they are rightly guided. (2:137)

1. As for those who led the way and of those who gave them aid and those who follow them in good deeds, Allaah^-SWT is well pleased with them and they with Him. (9:100)
2. Those who lower their voice in the presence of Allah^-SWT ’s Messenger^-SW, their hearts Allaah^-SWT has tested for piety. (49:3)
3. Only those are believers who have believed in Allaah^-SWT and His Messenger^--SW, and have never since doubted, but have striven with their belongings and their persons in the Cause of Allaah^-SWT they are the truthful. (49:15)

He^-SWT does not praise them after observing their conduct, but declares that it was in My^--SWT infinite, knowledge and I^--SWT had revealed their attributes in Torah and Bible even before their birth, that they would be My^-SWT creation par excellence after the Prophets^-AS Indeed it was imperative that those carrying the everlasting Din from the Holy Prophet^-SW to the entire mankind be of exemplary character, who would spare no pains in the service of Allaah^-SWT ! The fact is that these great men were not only the gallant guardians of Din during their lives in Makkah and Madinah and in their encounters with the Roman and the Persian Empires, but also continue to act as its sentinels. Even today Islam cannot reach mankind if this link is removed, they being the spokesmen and interpreters of Prophethood. They are the ones who heard and understood the Quran directly from the Holy Prophet^-SW acted upon its injunctions in his presence and he^-SW himself endorsed their actions. Centuries have gone by, every wave rising from the darkness of schism always targets them, but is invariably forced to recede to its origin duly shattered. Influenced by the false and insidious propaganda of Tabri and Kalbi, some indiscreet Muslims also attempted to sit on judgement on them. Allaah^-SWT be Glorified! Despite all odds, their exalted status stands impeccable. The strength of the evidence provided by the Quran in their favour leaves the critics hapless. Therefore, the Divine declaration: This Book is without the slightest of doubts, stands substantiated.

Indeed the status of Companionship signifies a special attribute not attainable outside the company of the Holy Prophet^-SW. It is incorrect to argue that the saying: ‘all the Companions^-RAU are righteous and fair’, refers only to their religious endeavour and not to their personal lives. It is against all logic that a sinner can at the same time be as truthful and trustworthy as to be entrusted with the responsibility of conveying the everlasting Divine Message to mankind. The enemies of Islam base their objections on the incident of Hadhrat Ma‘iz^-RAU, which in all fairness, is an exemplary repentance and should be quoted in the praise of the Companions^-RAU And there have been only two such incidents over a period of sixty-three years. In a nutshell, these noble, pious and exalted souls are the living proof of the authenticity of Islam.

Guidance for the Muttaqin

In the general sense of guidance and calling towards the truth, the Quran is meant for the entire mankind, but it shows the right path to only those who develop in them the will to go along. The faculty is called ‘Taqwa’. ‘Taqwa’ is generally translated as ‘fear’, which does not convey its true meaning. It actually denotes a particular form of fear, an apprehension of the possible annoyance of the most beloved. It is a strong feeling, a ready disposition to sacrifice everything for the beloved. It is the will, the resolve that restrains all desires, intentions, thoughts and actions only for the fear of displeasing Allaah^-SWT . And if unwittingly, a human error occurs; the feeling of guilt hurts and compels one to repent. Now then, how is ‘Taqwa’ acquired and what are the characteristics and virtues of those who possess it?

Those who believe in the unseen

The first and the foremost prerequisite is the belief in the unseen. Those who trust and believe the word of the Holy Prophet^-SW in all matters that are otherwise beyond the scope of human senses. The greatest of all the unseen is Allaah^-SWT Himself. Although His^-SWT Attributes reflect abundantly in His^-SWT creation, yet He^-SWT Himself can neither be seen nor conceived, because no similitude exists to facilitate the imagination. Then there are other mysteries pertaining to the Akhirah, the Paradise and the Hell, the Reward and the Retribution; the Questioning in the Grave and the Resurrection; the Angels and the Guarded Tablet; indeed they believe in every transcendental reality divulged by Allaah^-SWT ’s Prophet^-SW. This belief is based entirely upon the trust in the Holy Prophet^-SW for no Intellectual endeavour can provide an access to such knowledge. This bond of trust has been weakened considerably with the span of time, which, coupled with the darkness of modern age, has deprived the Muslims of the twinge that pierces the heart when it feels the nearness of the Holy Prophet^-SW. Given that trust, one believes in the unseen without any logical explanation, whereby the teachings of the Holy Prophet^-SW become the most authentic evidence on any issue. This faith drives a believer to mould his practical life according to the pattern required for attaining Allaah^-SWT ’s nearness. The very first step towards this nearness is Salät.

Those who establish Salaat

This establishment does not refer only to offering Salat, but also to the prerequisites attending this important obligation. It is an unwavering thoughtfulness to attend congregational Salat in the masjid. It is a resolve extending from ablution to the whole range of the components of Salat. Establishment does not end here, but reaches its zenith when a person inspires all those he may comes across, to indulge in Salat. This last level is difficult to be achieved by commoners; however, every one should at least offer his Salat properly and in time.

And spend out of that which We^-SWT have given them.

See the effect of belief in Allaah^-SWT and the realisation of His^-SWT nearness, that for Him^-SWT , a believer can sacrifice all that a non-believer would die for; Although the Arabic word Infaq is translated as paying of Zakat and other charities, but in fact it refers to the economic aspect of the practical life. Economics is the most pressing issue of human life in every society. It is the root cause of social evils like robbery, bribery and usury, and the experts of all Schools of Thought seek to rectify the situation. However, the method prescribed by the Qurãn for its reform is unique, which is to spend according to Allaah^-SWT ’s Command. Obviously, if a person has to spend according to the Orders of Allah^-SWT, why should he earn unlawfully. And the injunction Out of that which We^-SWT have given them is so clear. When the Bestower is Allaah^-SWT why should one adopt illegitimate means to attain wealth? The difference is only of human outlook and view point. When the subsistence is from Allah^-SWT, then a person will only get what has already been proportioned for him, whether he steals or works hard to earn it. In fact everything bestowed by Allaah^-SWT on a human being falls under subsistence; his body and soul, his intellect, the physical strength, knowledge and the cognition or any skill. The right way of spending them is for His^-SWT pleasure, and for His^-SWT cause. This is no fable, but history bears witness to the noble society built on this foundation; its vestiges are present even today and shall InshaAllah remain forever.

Tasawwuf Is Not To Be Concealed

The Ayah also alludes to Tasawwuf the most precious of Allaah^-SWT ’s bounties. It is not to be concealed, but conveyed to others. A Muslim is not only accountable for scrutinizing the permissible and the forbidden while earning his livelihood, but is also responsible for the manner in which he spends his wealth. He is not to spend a single penny against the wishes of Allah^-SWT, a golden rule laid down only by Islam. Practically, it is most effective because where the expenditure is limited; the desire to amass unlimited wealth will not arise. This will only be possible by a total adherence to the Holy Prophet^-SW’s teachings.

And those who believe in … and that revealed before you.

A believer must accept from the core of his heart what has been revealed unto the Holy Prophet^-SW and also take as true the revelations that had been revealed unto other Messengers^-AS of Allaah^-SWT before him^-SW. Though now actions must conform only to the Final Book. In fact the Divine Scriptures are so honourable and exalted that the denial of any one of them makes a person non-believer though it may not have even reached him. For example, if someone proclaims that he does not believe in the Scriptures revealed unto Prophet Ibrahim^-AS, he instantly becomes a non-believer, even if he has no knowledge of what had been revealed therein.

Finality Of Prophethood Proved

Had there been any possibility of the continuation of such Prophet-hood after the Holy Prophet^-SW or of any Revelation after the Quran, then more emphasis and details would have revealed as compared to the mention of the previous Scriptures, because a denial of any forthcoming revelations too would have rendered a person a non-believer. But here the words revealed before you provide an impressive proof ‘that Prophet-hood and Divine Revelation have concluded with the era of the Holy Prophet^-SW The return of Prophet ‘Isa^-AS will not change the situation, because he^-AS is already acknowledged as a Prophet^-AS by the believers. There is no possibility of a new Prophet and revelation coming. Those who have claimed Prophet-hood have only built castles in the air, have deluded themselves and have caused others to go astray.

Although belief in the Akhirah is an essential part of belief in the unseen, yet its importance is such that the entire structure of human life is based upon it. It calls for an exceptionally strong and firm belief, which compels a believer to consider the eternal consequences of actions before hand, and at every step be mindful of the do’s and don’ts laid down by the Holy Prophet^-SW. As a result, his life begins to mould on the pattern of the Sunnah. The reason for the prevalent waywardness in today’s world is the weakness of belief in the Akhirah. The perfect faith is one’s total acceptance from the core of the heart and such sure-footed believers are the ones who are guided towards the right path by their Rabb^-SWT , and are successful. It was expected of His^-SWT Providence to provide His^-SWT creation with guidance. Just as He^-SWT gave the sense of fulfilling physical requirements to every being, He^-SWT has also shown the ways of achieving spiritual comfort and peace. Those who follow His^-SWT guidance become truly successful.

Every human being strives for success in each aspect of his life and every one has his own criteria of right and wrong, which cannot be termed as absolute. The real standards are those set by the Creator^-SWT of the universe. The guidance about these criteria began with Prophet Aadam^-AS and continued through the ages, concluding on the Holy Prophet^-SW. If even after the advent of the Holy Prophet^-SW one fails to embrace faith, it would simply mean that he has, because of his wrongdoings, lost the inherent capacity to accept the truth.

As for those who disbelieve … they will not embrace faith.

Those who do not believe in Allah^-SWT, even after listening to the Holy Prophet^-SW directly, are indeed incapable of believing; as there can be none more exalted than the Holy Prophet^-SW and no Divine Scripture superior to the one revealed unto him^-SW. In order to grasp this point, consider that the physical body and the Spirit together constitute a human being. The former has its own needs and is dependent upon many things, of which foremost is food and clothing for its survival; but even more important is its health and medical care. If health is bad, neither food benefits nor clothes give any comfort. While food can be obtained from anywhere and from anyone, medicine can only be prescribed by a medical practitioner, and we always consult him. The physical body consists of matter, and so does food and medicine. Therefore, anyone who gains knowledge of medicine from the physical sciences, whether a believer or a non-believer, man or woman, pious or sinner, can become a doctor.

But the Spirit is from the Realm of Command and is even subtler than an angel. Like the physical body, it has its needs too, which obviously are subtle, not material. And not everyone can become a spiritual healer. It is such a precious skill that people were chosen for it right from eternity, rather specially created. However hard one may strive, this faculty cannot be acquired. In the terms of Shari’ah they are known as Prophets^-AS who do not prescribe anything on their own but rely on the nourishment and medication provided by Almighty Himself^-SWT .

A Prophet^-AS has the capacity to directly benefit from the Divine Revelation and the rest of the humanity benefits through him. This is such an important task that not everyone can claim Prophet-hood, but only those raised by Him^-SWT . They conveyed His^-SWT Message to mankind that Allaah^-SWT ’s zikr was the basic food of the Spirit, just as wheat was for the body. And just as there are schedules and manners of feeding the physical body, and medication to maintain its health, zikr and worship too have prescribed timings and methods. The medication for the ailing Spirit is repentance. Like abstaining from certain food stuff is imperative for physical health, so is the abstinence from certain actions imperative for spiritual health. The needs of the Spirit are as vital as those of the body. Amongst all the Prophets^-AS appointed for mankind, the last and the leader of all, is a blessing and a Mercy of Allaah^-SWT for the entire universe. If a person cannot see anything in the dark, a candle may be lit for him. If he still cannot see, an electric light may help, or he has to wait for the daylight. But when he fails to see even in broad daylight he has certainly lost his vision. Similarly, anyone sticking to disbelief after the raising of Prophet Muhammad^-SW the Final Prophet is indeed incurable. He^-SW is the Prophet second to none in elegance and charm, eloquence and oration, chastity, honour and dignity. On top of that, he^-SW conveys the Word of none other than Allaah^-SWT Himself. No one, except a heartless can remain unmoved. Therefore, anyone not benefiting from this fountainhead of Divine Guidance and Lights can never gain anything from anywhere.

Allah^-SWT has set a seal … a great punishment.

The heart that is considered to be a mere pumping machine is in fact something incredible. For a comparative study let us take the brain first. It is a collection of membranes and nerves but is a treasure of physical knowledge, having inherent powers to learn and conquer vast fields and to retain a ready memory. But despite all its excellence it did not qualify to receive Divine Revelations. This great blessing was conferred upon the ‘Qalb’- the subtle heart (a vital organ of the Spirit, located within the physical heart): Which the True Spirit has brought down, upon your Qalb (26: 193-194). Thus the capacity of the Qalb turns out to be millions of times more than perceived, its immensity like an ocean without shore, and its greatness beyond measure. This Qalb is not merely a piece of flesh, or a machine, but it is within itself a vast kingdom and a complete universe. The Qulub of the Prophets receive and distribute Divine Beneficence while the Qulub of the believers absorb it, But disbelief is a menace, which strips the Qulub of this capacity. Although the one who commits suicide also dies by Divine Decree, but he himself become cause of his death. Similarly continuous sinning leads to the death of the Qalb, termed as ‘sealing’ According to the Holy Prophet^-SW, when a person commits a sin, a black spot appears on his Qalb. If he repents, it is cleared. Otherwise, repeated indulgence in sin results in ultimate darkness of the entire heart. This has been termed as blindness of the Qaib, as well as its death. So now if physically on continues to live on it is nothing remarkable as so many other creatures live too the real superiority a human being enjoys over an animal is his spiritual life. Another thing that comes to light here is that there exists between the Creator^-SWT and His^-SWT creation an extremely delicate, subtle and personal relationship, of which no one else is aware. Even the Holy Prophet^-SW knew only when Allaah^-SWT disclosed to him, how His^-SWT relationship with some persons had deteriorated to an extent that He^-SWT had denied them the opportunity to repent. Since this personal relationship differs from person to person, His^-SWT blessings also vary correspondingly.

The Wisdom Behind Collective Zikr

The reason why Sufi masters prescribe collective Zikr is that the Divine Lights diversify from individual to individual. Thus, the greater the number of participants, the greater will be the variety of Divine Lights descending upon them, forming a bouquet of blessings. This also is the secret behind congregational Salãt. These rewards lie within the domain of the Qalb. But those who do not care will realise when this material world and its comforts end, and only those blessings shall last which are related to the spiritual life. The oral and mental acceptance carries no weight before Allah^-SWT, unless supported by the endorsement of the Qalb. Just as the physical body is born into this material world, the QaIb is also given life once it endorses the Divine Message. But practically people concentrate all their attention upon the development of their physical selves, leaving their Qulub to gasp in desperation, and to ultimately die. Don’t we see how people born as Muslims are plunging into infidelity; with their physical senses intact they have lost the hearing and vision of their Qulub. May Allaah^-SWT protect us!

Identification Of A Hypocrite

Another kind of disbelief far more damaging, is hypocrisy. The first five Ayat of this Section praise the believers, the next two explain disbelief while the following thirteen discuss hypocrisy to highlight this menace. Just as the hypocrite is more harmful, so is the punishment for hypocrisy far more severe than plain disbelief. The hypocrites will be confined to the lowest levels in Hell even below the infidels. This is because they only pretend to believe in Allaah^-SWT and the Day of Judgement. They try to deceive Allah^-SWT, but how can they do it? They pretend to be Muslims but inwardly are enemies of the believers. Thus deceiving the sincere believers is in reality an attempt to deceive Allaah^-SWT .

The term those who believe refers to the Companions^-RAU and the worst non-believers were those, who in spite of taking Shahadah, failed to develop any relationship with them, and were jealous of the progress and prosperity of the Muslims. It is said here that this conduct of the hypocrites is not harming the believers, but is disastrous for their own selves. They just deceive them selves unwittingly. This means that the love for the Companions^-RAU or sincerity towards them is a criterion of a person’s faith; otherwise despite taking Shahadah, he will remain a hypocrite. And if he openly disparages them he becomes a non-believer. It is an open secret that all the pretenders of the Islamic faith have invariably targeted the Companions^-RAU for criticism. These may either be deniers of Hadith or the pretenders of Prophethood, who wanted, without exception, to interpret the Quran in a way that would serve their purpose. This could not be achieved without repudiating the Compan-ions^-RAU who were the living interpretation of the Quran. The Companions^-RAU learnt the Quran directly from the Holy Prophet^-SW acted upon it in his presence and obtained his endorsement. So now any preacher of infidelity in the guise of Islam has to begin with raising objections against them, which indeed is the greatest proof of hypocrisy. Some fallacious sects have not only resorted to abuse the Companions^-RAU but have also given it the status of worship. They are indeed a mixture of disbelief and hypocrisy, because of holding common traits with the disbelievers and the hypocrites. This is because their hearts are maligned and a diseased heart cannot absorb love, it rather develops the stink of jealousy and malice. As a result, their opposition to the believers grows stronger by the day and Allaah^-SWT increases their disease. The hostility towards the Aulia (Allaah^-SWT friend) is indeed hostility towards Allah^-SWT, and failure to repent results in Divine Condemnation. Alas! If man, so caring about his body, would only have paid some attention to his spiritual health too, and looked for a healer, who could reform and enlighten his heart! But when the hearts remain afflicted, a painful doom is the natural consequence. In short, the standard or yardstick of belief and conduct are the Companions^-RAU and their contradiction is down right hypocrisy destined to a grievous retribution.

And when they are told: ‘Do not make mischief... improving things”.

And when the hypocrites are told not to create trouble in the land, they say, that they desire correction. This Ayah sets a standard for mischief and reformation. If no limits are laid down, even a dacoit does not consider himself mischievous, rather, seeks justification for his actions. Personal opinions do not matter, unless the verdict is given by the Creator^-SWT of this universe. Allaah^-SWT has termed those who inwardly opposed Islam, as mischief-mongers.

The Reality Of Mischief

Reformation is thus synonymous to the precepts and practice of the Holy Prophet^-SW in all matters, whether worship or mutual dealings, as followed by the Companions^-RAU And anything contrary to this will fall under the category of mischief. For example, Salat al-Fajr has two obligatory cycles. If someone offers only one it is not correct. And if he offers three, the third would nullify his other two as well. Thus, the standard of all goodness and reformation is the Holy Prophet^-SW himself. Whosoever disagrees with him^-SW in any matter is in deed a mischief monger. Many celebrities have lived in history and every nation has its heroes as a source of pride, but how many of them have left a final word on any issue? Not even one! They enacted laws, laid down rules and regulations, which subsequently they themselves amended, proving that man made laws always suffer from flaws. The Holy Prophet^-SW is the only one, who fourteen centuries ago, gave a Divine Code of Life, a law, a social structure to mankind, which is so comprehensive and complete that neither time could render it obsolete, nor could any thinker present anything better. The ways taught by the Holy Prophet^-SW to do things, are in reality the best. There c never be any better ways of doing things; rather a deviant will be a mischief monger, no matter how good he might think of his actions.

Now see the situation from another perspective that whatever the Prophet^-SW said was practically acted upon by the Companions^-RAU. In other words, the practice of the Companions^-RAU is the most agreeable and pleasing presentation of any action. Thus any one opposing them will be mischievous. This indeed is the criterion of reformation and mischief; otherwise the hypocrites too claim to promote reformation. But Allaah^-SWT declares them as mischief mongers, though they fail to understand that every action produces a twofold effect: firstly, the outward and the short-lived, secondly the inward and the eternal. Outwardly, the illegitimate food eliminates hunger and may not cause any indigestion either, but inwardly, it creates a darkness, which not only darkens the QaIb, but also affects the surroundings to an extent. Similarly, every action in accordance with the Sunnah generates a light, and becomes a source of illumination and virtue in the environment. But every action in contravention of the Sunnah creates darkness and becomes a source of destruction in the society. This is what ‘mischief on land’ means, and the ignorant often term it as reformation, but the reality cannot be altered by merely switching names.

And when they are told: “Believe as the others … as the fools believe?”

But little do they realise that their cynicism may be the greatest folly with Allaah^-SWT . Indeed, it is the darkness of their souls, which drives them to speak such words. When told to believe and act like the Companions^-RAU, their response is always negative. To them the Companions^-RAU are fanatics, who do not act wisely; while they wish to accept the Holy Prophet^-SW but also to act in their own ways. Are they not indeed foolish? Certainly it is very foolish to take one’s own intellect as one’s guide, against the Divine Guidance coming through the Holy Prophet^-SW. Wise are the ones who consider their own wisdom of no significance before the sayings of the Holy Prophet^-SW and adhere to his teachings. For they realise that disobedience to him is the greatest of all follies. Those who disagree with the Holy Prophet^-SW whether in belief or conduct are not only foolish but also ignorant; for knowledge means perception of the reality, otherwise it is downright ignorance.

And when they meet … only making fun.”

When the hypocrites meet the believers, they declare their fidelity to Islam. But when they revert back to their chieftains, they confess their loyalty to them, adding that they were just joking with the Muslims. With this description of the duplicity of the hypocrites, their chieftains have been called ‘devils’. In other words, all those who invent paths contradictory to the true faith and try to misguide people, play the role of the devil.

Allah^-SWT himself mocks them.

It means that Allaah^-SWT disgraces such hypocrites by giving them respite, which drives them further into the abyss of ignorance. They apparently rejoice over their sly duplicity through which they enjoy the benefits of Islam, and at the same time manage to evade situations demanding sacrifice. They fail to under stand that the real gain lies in sacrificing. Blessed indeed is the person whose faculties, schedules and wealth are dedicated to the Cause of Allaah^-SWT . On the contrary, the hypocrites are the people who have bartered waywardness for guidance.

These are they who have traded guidance for error.

Error and guidance are two opposite attitudes, which cannot co-exist. Divine Guidance is the basic human need. Whosoever opts for waywardness indeed rejects guidance. Here is a point to ponder for today’s erroneous society, which practically contradicts Islam and yet considers itself to be on the right track. Rather, it tries to combine guidance and error, which is absolutely impossible. The hypocrites are at utter loss in their bargain.

They are like the one who kindled a fire.

They can be compared to a people who lost their way in the wilderness on an eerie dark night. Bewildered, they lit a fire, which illuminated the surroundings. But Allaah^-SWT snapped its luminosity, leaving them in total lurch. Man by nature, is a seeker of guidance. Before the advent of Islam, the darkness of ignorance prevailed all over and people wished desperately for a light to shine on their way. Then dawned upon them the light of the Revelation that illuminated the entire environment! But the ingrates could not value it, were deprived of the light and they no longer could benefit from it. Thus they were left to wander aimlessly in the wilderness of ignorance.

Deaf, dumb and blind they will not turn back.

They can neither see nor hear, nor speak. When their inborn capacity to receive guidance was lost, it seized their senses. They can neither speak nor hear, and when the senses are lost there is no turning point for them. They continue to pursue their evil ways. They are like the people stranded in a rain storm attended by wind and thunder. Scared of death, they plug their ears against thunderclaps. But how can this futile planning save them from Divine Wrath, as they stand surrounded by Him^-SWT . They take a few steps, but stand still in the intervals between the blinding flashes of lightning, totally helpless like a wayfarer caught in the thunderstorm in a dark night.

Similar was the condition of mankind when the Holy Prophet^-SW appeared, flashed upon it as the light, and led it in the right direction. Whenever these hypocrites pay heed to the Holy Prophet^-SW they feel inclined towards virtue. But when their inborn darkness overtakes them, they remain standing dumb founded in the pit of their waywardness. Had Allaah^-SWT willed, He^-SWT would have deprived them of their eyes, ears and all the faculties. Since they failed to see and hear the Holy Prophet^-SW why should they be allowed to have eyes and ears at all? And Allaah^-SWT is All-Powerful to do so. This world is a trial and a respite for a period ordained. If a person opts for the right path, it is for his own good; otherwise he is free to spend his life as he pleases. Such free lancers will certainly be deprived of their faculties in the Akhirah and will stand on the Day of Judgement as deaf, dumb and blind. In the Hell they will bray like donkeys, an outcome of their misdeeds. This is invisible to the physical vision now. May Allaah^-SWT protect us!