Praise be to Allah, Lord of the Worlds, and peace and blessings be upon our Master Muhammad, the Faithful and the Honest. O Allah, we know nothing but what You teach us, You are the All- Knower, the Wise. O Allah our Lord, teach us what is useful for us, let us make use of what You have taught us and advance us in knowledge. O Allah, show us the righteous things as righteous and help us do them, and show us the bad things as bad and help us keep away from them. O Allah our Lord, make us amongst those who listen to the Word and follow the best meaning of It, and admit us, by Your Grace, to the ranks of Your righteous servants.
Dear noble brothers, last lesson we stopped at the following Ayah while interpreting Surat Hud. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And incline not toward those who do wrong, lest the Fire should touch you, and you have no protectors other than Allah, nor you would then be helped* And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat), at the two ends of the day and in some hours of the night [i.e. the five compulsory Salat (prayers)]. Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e. small sins). That is a reminder (an advice) for the mindful (those who accept advice). ﴿
"And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat)"
Humans are naturally inclined to be active:
This means that human beings are inherently active and aredriven by internal motivating forces. Furthermore, Allah the Almighty has instilled various desires within human beingsand they are naturally inclined to fulfill them. These desires are the means by which one reaches Paradise ( i.e. when they are satisfied in accordance with Islamic law); If Allah the Almighty had not instilled these desires and lusts within each one of us, the reward of Paradise and the punishment of Hellfire would have no meaning. So, human beings are inherently inclined towards fulfilling their desires, and they are active, not motionless. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And incline not toward those who do wrong, lest the Fire should touch you, and you have no protectors other than Allah, nor you would then be helped.* And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat). ﴿
Thus, one will inevitably take an action (due to his inherent activity). Therefore, strive to occupy yourself with good things; otherwise, your own self will make you engage in evil things.
﴾ "And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat)" ﴿
The meaning of "Iqamat-As-Salat":
Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat), at the two ends of the day and in some hours of the night [i.e. the five compulsory Salat(prayers)]. Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e. small sins). That is a reminder (an advice) for the mindful (those who accept advice).) ﴿
[ Hud, 114
]
Let us take a brief pause to reflect on the verb "Aqim (in Aqim-as-Salat, and the noun is Iqamat-as-Salat, which means performing it properly and consistently). What does Iqamat (constructing)a building require? It requires a solid foundation, knowledge(of construction techniques), raw materials, skilled builders, and construction planning, etc. Likewise, Iqamat-as-Salah does not simply mean to perform its physical movements, but rather it means to prepare yourself spiritually for Salah before performing it. To clarify, having an exam is not only about being present in the class, but also about being adequately prepared for it.
Actually, whoever performs Wudu (ablution)then stands to pray, while he keeps violating Allah's Orders, neglecting some religious duties, prioritizes this worldly life over the Hereafter, immersing himself completely in worldly pleasures, and indulging fully in it, will not be able to perform Salah properly (he will not be able to establish a connection with Allah during his Salah.)
Beware, Allah the Almighty does not order us to perform Salat (to perform the physical movements of Salah) only, but rather He wants us to establish a connection (with Him) during it. In other words, Iqamat-as-Salat means to remain steadfast in adhering to Allah's Orders, because sins veil man from Allah the Almighty. Moreover, Iqamat-as-Salat means to perform righteous deeds, to abide by the teachings of Islam in every aspect of our life, to adhere strictly to the commands and prohibitions mentioned in the Quran, and to apply Shari'ah (Islamic Law), so that we can perform Salat properly (both physically and spiritually).
Accordingly, performing Salat does not simply mean to stand in a Masjid or in one of the corners of your house, to raise your hands and say 'Allahu Akbar', to recite the Fatihah, to perform Ruku (bowing) and Sujud (prostration) while you are heavily immersed in worldly concerns. This is not how Salat should be performed!
Thus, "And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat)," means you should perform it properly, and you should prepare for it before its time comes. Preparing for Salah means to maintain your uprightness, to keep your spiritual purity, and to keep performing righteous deeds. If you do so, you perform Salat as it should be.
If you are able to visit someone and enter his house at any time, it indicates that you have done something good for him, so that there is intimacy between you. Similarly, if you perform righteous deeds, maintain your uprightness, and speak good words to people, and if people love you, then most likely, you will be able to establish a connection with Allah the Almighty during Salah. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And incline not toward those who do wrong. ﴿
It means do not be drawn to those who engage in immoral behavior, since people whose main concern is the worldly life are close to those who have the same concern, whereas those who are concerned about the Hereafter are inclined towards their Lord (i.e., their main concern is to get closer to Allah the Almighty).
As I have mentioned in the beginning of this lesson, human beings have a natural inclination or tendency towards movement. In other words, man's own self has a dynamic nature in the sense that it is driven by internal motivating forces to fulfil the desires Allah the Almighty has instilled within it. So, when it intends to fulfill these desires, it either inclines towards those whose only concern is the worldly life, by flattering them, and over-serving them, seeking their pleasure and help, or it establishes a connection with Allah the Almighty and so be granted happiness in this worldly life and everlasting bliss in the Hereafter. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And incline not toward those who do wrong, lest the Fire should touch you, and you have no protectors other than Allah, nor you would then be helped* And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat). ﴿
Your innate disposition drives you to establish a connection with Allah the Almighty. It was mentioned in a Qudsi Hadith that Allah the Almighty says:
(( O son of Adam, I have created all that is in the Heavens and the earth for you, so do not exhaust yourself seeking your sustenance. I have created you to worship Me, so do not lead a heedless life. By My Right upon you, do not occupy yourself with your sustenance that I have provided for you, over the religious duties that I have obligated upon you. ))
Animals find joy in satisfying their desires, while man finds real joy in getting closer to Allah the Almighty. Allah the Almighty has created you to worship Him, and has made your heart a sacred place for the spiritual connection with Him. It was narrated in a Qudsi Hadith that Allah the Almighty says:
(( O My servant, you have purified the place where people look at (your outer appearance), for years, so why do you not purify the place I look at (your heart), for even a single moment? ))
Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And incline not toward those who do wrong, lest the Fire should touch you, and you have no protectors other than Allah, nor you would then be helped*And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat). ﴿
"Incline not toward those who do wrong" means never flatter them to benefit from what they have (i.e. their status or authority), and never long to get closer to them or to establish a deep relationship with them. Instead, strive to establish a deep relationship with Allah the Almighty, to connect with Him, to get closer to Him, and to gain His Love. Furthermore, help His servants (i.e. other people), treat them well, spend some of your wealth or time on them, be kind to them, give them sincere advice, and be honest and generous to them for the Sake of Allah Alone, i.e. for the purpose of establishing a deep connection with Him.
So, Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat) ﴿
There is a big difference between saying, "Pray" and saying, "Pray properly (by being able to establish a connection with Allah during Salat)".
Iqamat-as-Salat is likened to Iqamat (Constructing)a building, which is an enormous task to be fulfilled, for it requires preparations, solid land, foundations, primary materials, civil works, designing, execution and supervisory engineers, construction workers, skilled builders, and other laborers. This is what Iqamat a building means. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat), at the two ends of the day and in some hours of the night [i.e. the five compulsory Salat (prayers)]. ﴿
The meaning of: "At the two ends of the day and in some hours of the night"
The first interpretation:
Scholars have different opinions regarding the interpretation of this Noble Ayah. Some say that "the two ends of the day" refer to Al-Fajr (dawn), Az-Zuhr (the midday) and Al-Asr(the afternoon) prayers, since the three times of performing these prayers are considered to be at the two ends of the day; whereas "some hours of the night" refer to Al-Maghrib(the sunset) and Al-Isha' (the night) prayers.
In Arabic, the word "zulafan" in "zulafan mina allayli (some hours of the night)" refer to times that are close to each other (i.e. the times of Al-Maghrib(the sunset) and Al-Isha' (the night) prayers are almost close to each other). Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Surely, the religion (i.e. the worship and the obedience) is for Allah only. And those who take Auliya' (protectors and helpers) besides Him (say): "We worship them only that they may bring us "Zulafa" near to Allah." Verily, Allah will judge between them concerning that wherein they differ. Truly, Allah guides not him who is a liar, and a disbeliever." ﴿
Thus, the Arabic word "Zulafa" means something that is close to another thing.
The second interpretation:
Other scholars say that "the two ends of the day" refer to Az-Zuhr (the midday) and Al-Asr (the afternoon) prayers.
The third interpretation:
Some other scholars say that "the two ends of the day" refer to Al-Fajr (the dawn) and Al-Asr (the afternoon) prayers.
This Noble Ayah encompasses the five prayers:
So, scholars have different opinions regarding the interpretation of this Noble Ayah, but they unanimously agree that all the five prayers; Al-Fajr, Az-Zuhr, Al-Asr, Al-Maghrib, and Al-Isha' are included within this Ayah. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat), at the two ends of the day and in some hours of the night [i.e. the five compulsory Salat (prayers)]. Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e. small sins). ﴿
"Verily, good deeds erase bad deeds."
1- Prayers are expiation for sins:
This Noble Ayah has a precise meaning; "Good deeds" may refer to the prayers, and "Bad deeds" may refer to the spiritual diseases of the man's own self (such as arrogance, envy, hatred etc.), so when one performs prayers properly, he will be purified from these disease since good deeds erase bad ones.
Salat is a Divine Light that purifies the human heart from all filth and impurities, and performing the five daily prayers erases one's sins.
(( Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated: "I heard the Messenger of Allah, may Allah's Peace and Blessings be upon him, saying, "Say, if there were a river at the door of one of you in which he takes a bath five times a day, would any soiling remain on him?" They replied, "No soiling would left on him." He, may Allah’s Peace and Blessings be upon him said, "That is the five obligatory prayers. Allah erases all sins as a result of performing them." ))
[ Agreed upon, on the authority of Abi Hurairah
]
2- Good morals come from keeping connected with Allah:
Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e. small sins). ﴿
I would like to emphasize the following point, so that it is clear to all of you: Good morals, such as generosity, mercy, fairness, love, forgiveness, courage, nobility, helping others and supporting them, etc…are owned by Allah the Almighty. The closer you get to Him, the better your morals become, since He will grant you some of them. One can never attain moral values except through keeping connected with Allah the Almighty.
On the other hand, there are false values that are based on self-interest, like the ethics of merchants who welcome customers, offer hospitality, invite them to meals, and respect their feelings, etc…, which are adopted from the Western culture. In other words, according to these interest-based values, as long as one benefits from others, he shows noble morals while dealing with them, but the moment his interest disappears, he will behave in a beastly manner. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat), at the two ends of the day and in some hours of the night [i.e. the five compulsory Salat (prayers)]. Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e. small sins). ﴿
[ Hud, 114
]
3- The ill-mannered own self is distant from Allah the Almighty:
When one is far away from Allah the Almighty, he may commit sins, may become self-centered, coward, and stingy, may build his wealth at the expense of others' poverty, and may build his glory at the expense of others' destruction. All of this happens when one is distant from Allah the Almighty. On the other hand, being close to Allah the Almighty makes man have good morals, which keep him performing good deeds that erase bad ones. It was narrated that the Prophet, may Allah's Peace and Blessings be upon him, said:
(( Fear Allah wherever you are, do good deeds after doing bad ones, the former will wipe out the latter, and behave decently towards people. ))
[ At-Tirmidhi
]
4- Bad deeds should be followed by good ones:
Sometimes, a believer may fall into error, commit a sin, fail to control his tongue, get angry at someone, utter a harsh word, fail to lower his gaze(by looking at forbidden thing), or commit other sins or bad deeds, so what should he do in that case? He should perform a righteous deed, because good deeds erase bad ones. He should hasten to perform a righteous deed, to give Sadaqah, to help others, and to give secret Sadaqah, since it extinguishes the Wrath of Allah and protects one from calamities.
In fact, you can earn Allah's Forgiveness, because He loves to forgive those who repent. Accordingly, whoever commits a bad deed in a state of heedlessness, such as committing sins by the eye (looking at forbidden things), the ear (listening to backbiting) or the tongue (uttering harsh words), or any other bad deed, should hasten to perform a righteous deed after it.
﴾ Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e. small sins). ﴿
For example, if you have mistreated someone or caused harm to him, then give him a gift (to compensate for that bad deed), as the Prophet, may Allah's Peace and Blessings be upon him, said:
((Give presents to one another, since it removes rancor from your hearts ))
[ At-Tirmidhi, on the authority of Abi Hurairah ]
((Give gifts to one another since it spreads love between you. ))
[ Al-Bayhaqi and Al-Tabarani, on the authority of Abi Hurairah
]
Let me give you some examples. If you have an argument with your wife, and you speak harshly to her, you can fix the situation by doing something nice for her, such as giving her a gift to make her feel pleased and to amend your relationship with her. Also, if you speak unkindly to your friend and he becomes annoyed at you, try to do something nice for him to fix the situation since good deeds erase bad ones. Furthermore, if you commit a sin, such as involving unintentionally in backbiting someone whom other people are backbiting in a meeting, and then when you come home, your heart is overwhelmed with remorse and fear of Allah the Almighty, starting to ask yourself, how you allow myself to listen to backbiting, and how you participate in it, you should perform a righteous deed to compensate for your sin, for good deeds erase bad ones. The matter will be resolved, because Allah the Almighty loves to forgive His servants. However, it does not mean that you can commit a sin intentionally, saying to yourself, "I will commit this sin now, and then I will ask Allah for His Forgiveness since He loves to forgive us"! Of course, this is not the case; you will not gain Allah's Forgiveness in that case. In contrast, if you commit a sin unintentionally; if you commit one of the sins of the tongue or of the eye, or if you regret a sin you commit unconsciously, in such cases, you can seek Allah's Forgiveness through performing a righteous deed, such as giving Sadaqah, helping others, or any other good deed, since Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e. small sins). ﴿
This is the second meaning of this Noble Ayah. The first meaning is that good deeds are the five obligatory daily prayers; as Allah the Almighty obliterates all sins as a result of performing them.
So, if you deepen your connection with Allah the Almighty, you will have a pure sound heart that is free from every flaw, and pure from every sin. A poet praised the Prophet, may Allah's Peace and Blessings be upon him, saying, "O Prophet, the one who are pure from every sin, O Prophet, the one who guides us to Allah the Almighty, the All-Knower of the unseen." Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And perform As-Salât (Iqâmat-as-Salât ), at the two ends of the day and in some hours of the night [i.e. the five compulsory Salât (prayers)]. Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e. small sins). That is a reminder (an advice) for the mindful (those who accept advice) * And be patient; verily, Allah loses not the reward of the good-doers. ﴿
"And be patient; verily, Allah loses not the reward of the good-doers"
1- Maintaining patience while performing acts of obedience:
If you do not feel that you are connected with Allah the Almighty during Salah, as described in the above-mentioned Ayah, then do not be impatient, instead keep patient, as a poet said:
The one who shows infinite patience
will eventually meet his needs
And the one who persistently knocks at the doors
will eventually enter (get what he wants)
One of the signs of the sincere Muslim is that he keeps turning to Allah, Exalted and Sublime be He, to establish a connection with Him until he gets what he wants. Because he is sincere in his request, he tirelessly and relentlessly keeps trying to get close to Allah the Almighty, whereas the insincere person will stop trying if he fails in establishing a connection with Allah the Almighty.
So be patient! If you perform Salah and you do not feel that you are connected with Allah the Almighty, does that mean you should abandon prayer? Of course it does not, instead, you should remain patient; perhaps you will experience that feeling in the next Salah or at another time. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Whoever hopes for the Meeting with Allah, then Allah's Term is surely coming. and He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower. ﴿
Sometimes Allah the Almighty makes man's own self yearn for getting close to Him. This feeling serves as a preparation for turning to Him. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And be patient; verily, Allah loses not the reward of the good-doers. ﴿
2- Nothing is lost with Allah:
Allah, Exalted and Sublime be He, never let the reward of any physical, muscular, financial, material, intellectual, or social effort you make to draw closer to Him be lost. He says:
﴾ And be patient; verily, Allah loses not the reward of the good-doers. ﴿
Now, let us move on to another topic; enjoining Ma'ruf (Islamic Monotheism and all the good that Islam has enjoined) and forbidding Munkar (polytheism and all the evil that Islam has forbidden). Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ If only there had been among the generations before you, persons having wisdom, prohibiting (others) from Al-Fasad (disbelief, polytheism, and all kinds of crimes and sins) in the earth, except a few of those whom We saved from among them. Those who did wrong pursued the enjoyment of good things of (this worldly) life, and were Mujrimun (criminals, disbelievers in Allah, polytheists, sinners, etc.). ﴿
[ Hud, 116
]
"If only there had been among the generations before you, persons having wisdom, prohibiting (others) from Al-Fasad (disbelief, polytheism, and all kinds of crimes and sins) in the earth"
1- Never commit Fasad on earth:
The word "Lawla" (If only) in Arabic means it is really recommended that a group among you take on the task of enjoining Ma'ruf and forbidding Munkar, i.e. preventing Fasad on earth.
(( It was narrated that the Prophet, may Allah's Peace and Blessings be upon him, said: "Shall I not inform you of what is more virtuous than the rank of fasting, Salat, and charity?" They said: "But of course!" He said: "Making peace between each other. For indeed causing discord between people is the Haliqah."
))
(( It has been related that the Prophet, may Allah's Peace and Blessings be upon him, said: "It is the Haliqah, I do not speak of what cuts hair, but it severs religion (i.e. has a serious negative on religion)." ))
[ Abu Dawood, At-Tirmidhi, and Ahmad ]
Causing discord and spoiling relationships can be damaging your relationship with Allah the Almighty through committing sins, spoiling your relationship with people through ill-treatment, spoiling your relationship with your mind through letting it immerse in ignorance, and spoiling your relationship with yourself through wronging it (i.e. through keeping it heedless of Allah the Almighty).
When these relationships are corrupted, life loses its meaning and becomes nothing but eating, drinking, and finally dreadful death. On the other hand, when these relationships are fixed, you will live a blessed life; when you mend your relationship with Allah the Almighty, you will be very pleased with being close to Him. Also, when you mend your relationship with people, you will be pleased with them, and they will be pleased with you. Furthermore, when you mend your relationship with your spouse, both of you will enjoy a healthy marital relationship, and when you mend your relationship with your children, you will be able to guide them to the path of truth (i.e. when you win your kids' love, they will listen to your advice).
So, the Prophet, may Allah's Peace and Blessings be upon him, said:
(( Causing discord between people is the Haliqah, I do not speak of what cuts hair, but it severs religion (i.e. has a serious negative on religion)." ))
Actually, there are some acts that spoil one's relationship with people, such as backbiting, gossiping, showing off in front of people, and displaying one's possessions in an exaggerated boastful manner in front of them to instill the love of this worldly life in their hearts and to create a sense of inferiority in them. Moreover, these acts spread Fasad on earth. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ If only there had been among the generations before you, persons having wisdom, prohibiting (others) from Al-Fasad (disbelief, polytheism, and all kinds of crimes and sins) in the earth. ﴿
2- Forbidding Fasad saves one from Allah's Punishment:
If there had been a group of people who forbid Fasad on earth among the previous nations, Allah the Almighty would not have destroyed them. The proof of this point is indicated in the Ayah; as long as there are reformers, those who call people to Allah, and those who forbid Fasad on earth in a nation, Allah the Almighty will not destroy them:
﴾ If only there had been among the generations before you, persons having wisdom, prohibiting (others) from Al-Fasad (disbelief, polytheism, and all kinds of crimes and sins) in the earth, except a few of those whom We saved from among them. ﴿
3- Those who forbid Fasad on earth are few in number:
The term "generations" refers to nations. In fact, this does not mean that there are no people on earth who call to what is good and forbid what is wrong, but they are few in number, and their number is inadequate.
﴾ Except a few of those whom We saved from among them. ﴿
This is not enough, because it indicates that there is lack in calling to Allah and in enjoining Ma'ruf and forbidding Munkar. This is manifested when a person sees others commit sins and abstains from advising them, saying to himself, "Let people do whatever they want, I am only responsible for myself, not for them!" Actually, whoever says such a thing is not a true Muslim, because "The one who does not care about the Muslims is not one of them."
You, as a Muslim, should care about Muslims issues; you should care about what pleases or displease them. Verily, this is the sign of being a true believer. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ If only there had been among the generations before you, persons having wisdom, prohibiting (others) from Al-Fasad (disbelief, polytheism, and all kinds of crimes and sins) in the earth, except a few of those whom We saved from among them. Those who did wrong pursued the enjoyment of good things of (this worldly) life. ﴿
4- Those who did wrong are completely immersed in the enjoyments of this life:
The phrase "Those who did wrong pursued the enjoyment of good things of (this worldly) life "means they had a deep connection with worldly pleasures, their hearts were overwhelmed by them, they pursued them, and they made following these pleasures their sole purpose in life. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Those who did wrong pursued the enjoyment of good things of (this worldly) life. ﴿
Their main priority and focus in life are having a luxurious house, an attractive wife, a fancy car, a very high income, a house situated in a beautiful area, and a vacation home, etc. Also, their main concern is to be highly admired by people when they display their possessions in a boastful manner. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Those who did wrong pursued the enjoyment of good things of (this worldly) life. ﴿
As if they took the indulgence in luxurious life as a god they worshipped besides Allah the Almighty. This reminds me of a story of an arrogant person who bought an elegant house that was ready to move into it. It was lavishly decorated; nevertheless, he destroyed all its decoration, claiming that he was dissatisfied with the tiles, the marbles, and the overall design! Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Those who did wrong pursued the enjoyment of good things of (this worldly) life. ﴿
When worldly pleasures become one's greatest concern and the ultimate aim he seeks through the pursuit of knowledge, he becomes worthless in the Sight of Allah the Almighty.
(( Allah the Almighty deprives His servant of Islamic knowledge and good manners as long as he is indulged in lusts. ))
This happens because he takes his own lusts and desires as his god. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Have you seen him who takes his own lust (vain desires) as his ilah (god), and Allah knowing (him as such), left him astray, and sealed his hearing and his heart, and put a cover on his sight. Who then will guide him after Allah? Will you not then remember? ﴿
So, he prioritizes his own desires and lusts above everything else as if he takes them as his god.
Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Those who did wrong pursued the enjoyment of good things of (this worldly) life, and were Mujrimun (criminals, disbelievers in Allah, polytheists, sinners, etc.).* And your Lord would never destroy the towns wrongfully, while their people were right-doers. ﴿
"And your Lord would never destroy the towns wrongfully, while their people were right-doers."
The relation between this Ayah and the general context:
The relation between this Noble Ayah and the general context is that as long as there are some reformers, those who call people to Allah with sincerity, those who enjoin Ma'ruf and forbid Munkar, and those who prevent Fasad on earth, within a community, they will never be destroyed by Allah. On the other hand, when people indulge in committing sins, immerse themselves in illicit desires, consider the Haram (forbidden) things Halal (permissible), and oppress the weak, and when no individual among them enjoins Ma'ruf and forbids Munkr, then Allah the Almighty will afflict the entire society with trials and tribulations. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Except a few of those whom We saved from among them. ﴿
﴾ And your Lord would never destroy the towns wrongfully, while their people were right-doers. ﴿
﴾ And if your Lord had so willed, He could surely have made mankind one Ummah [nation or community (following one religion only i.e. Islam)], but they will not cease to disagree. ﴿
Last lesson, I presented a set of questions regarding this Noble Ayah:
﴾ And if your Lord had so willed, He could surely have made mankind one Ummah [nation or community (following one religion only i.e. Islam)], but they will not cease to disagree, Except him on whom your Lord has bestowed His Mercy (the follower of truth - Islamic Monotheism) and for that did He create them. And the Word of your Lord has been fulfilled (i.e. His Saying): "Surely, I shall fill Hell with jinns and men altogether. ﴿
"And your Lord would never destroy the towns wrongfully, while their people were right-doers."
1- The interpretation of the Ayah:
A scholar of the interpretation of the Noble Quran said, "If Allah had willed, He could have united all people under true guidance, making them a single guided nation, but He did not will it so!" The scholar only said that without making any additional commentary, explanation, or addition.
Other scholars said, "This Noble Ayah clearly refers to the most crucial thing humans possess; the freedom of choice."
Humans are endowed with free will:
Let me give you an example to emphasize the importance of having free will. If a university wishes to make all its students achieve a perfect score, by providing them with the questions accompanied by answer sheets, and the only thing students have to do is to write their names, after correcting the papers, all of them will get a full mark in the exam, but in this case, does the university truly achieve its educational goals? Of course not!
Actually, the point is not that all the students' results should be the same, but the point is that the students' results should reflect the effort they have made. Some students may get an acceptable, good, very good, excellent, or honors grade, and others may fail.
The students' results should reflect the effort they have made, because they have free will, i.e. some of them may study hard whereas others may not; the latter may prefer to spend their academic year in outings, parties, and bad company, while the former prefer to stay in their rooms, studying very hard until they understand their books. As a result, when they take their exam, they succeed with full marks.
Since students have the freedom of choice; to study or not, they achieve different results. In other words, those who choose to study hard attain high marks, those who study less get lower marks, and those who do not study at all fail. Thus, the students' different results reflect their freedom of choice. Likewise, if people had not had the freedom of choice, they would not have differed; if Allah the Almighty had willed to deprive people of the freedom of choice, everyone would have had the same level of faith.
Consider the following example for clarity: If a skilled carpenter is tasked with making a thousand tables, he will purchase the wood and cut it to create these tables. Will any piece of wood refuse to become a table? Of course not, because it is a material, and materials do not have free will. Therefore, all the tables will look the same. Likewise, if a factory manufactures a specific kind of product, all products will be the same.
So, if Allah had deprived us of the freedom of choice, we would not have differed, but since people have the choice to believe or not, there are believers, disbelievers, hypocrites, those who commit sins publicly, atheists, disobedient, wrongdoers, or doers of good, etc. Also, some people would like to be Islamic scholars, others would like to be merchants, officers, craftsmen, or benefactors, while some may prefer to cause harm to others.
Accordingly, Allah the Almighty says, "But they will not cease to disagree", because they have the freedom of choice.
2- This Ayah refers a fundamental principle in Islam; the freedom of choice:
This Ayah refers to a basic principle in Islam; the freedom of choice. If people had not had free will, they would not have differed, which could be likened to raw materials that are processed in factories to become certain products that have the same form and shape. There is no difference between one piece and another, because materials such as iron and wood have no freedom of choice (to become a certain product or not), whereas human beings have free will. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Verily! You (O Muhammad PBUH) guide not whom you like, but Allah guides whom He wills. And He knows best those who are the guided. ﴿
Despite the Prophet's profound knowledge, remarkable forbearance, and high morals, the aforementioned Ayah indicates that the Prophet cannot guide whom he likes, but Allah the Almighty guides whom he wills; He guides whoever searches for guidance, because whoever seeks guidance will be guided, while whoever chooses misguidance will go astray. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Then He showed him what is wrong for him and what is right for him; ﴿
It means Allah the Almighty granted man the ability to distinguish between the path of truth and the path of evil. Also, Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Verily, We showed him the way, whether he be grateful or ungrateful. ﴿
If Allah the Almighty had not granted people free will, the entire concept of reward and punishment would have lost its meaning; the reward of Paradise and the punishment of Hellfire, the glad tidings and the threat, and the reward and penalty would have been pointless. Furthermore, it would have been the same whether someone performs an act of obedience to Allah the Almighty or disobeys Him, because if one had been deprived of the freedom of choice, there would have been no responsibility for the consequences of his choices. In contrast, Allah the Almighty has bestowed upon us something invaluable; the freedom of choice, but in return of this great gift, we are responsible for the consequences of our choices.
So, Allah the Almighty has granted us the freedom of choice and has made us responsible for the outcomes of our choices. This is the main issue! Obligations and duties are in return of this priceless Divine Gift. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And if your Lord had so willed, He could surely have made mankind one Ummah [nation or community (following one religion only i.e. Islam)]. ﴿
3- "And if your Lord had so willed, He could surely have made mankind one Ummah…"
If Allah had made mankind one guided nation with the same inclinations and similar tendencies, and He had deprived them of their freedom of choice, people would no longer have felt a sense of happiness when performing good deeds. Namely, one will never feel a sense of happiness when performing a righteous deed unless he chooses to do so willingly, whereas if he performs it under compulsion or coercion, he will feel resentment and distress. Thus, Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And if your Lord had so willed, He could surely have made mankind one Ummah [nation or community (following one religion only i.e. Islam)], ﴿
However, since they have freedom of choice, "They will not cease to disagree". In fact, the wisdom behind being free to make choices is to obey Allah the Almighty willingly, then to feel pleased with the sense of closeness to Him. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Except him on whom your Lord has bestowed His Mercy (the follower of truth - Islamic Monotheism). ﴿
﴾ "Except him on whom your Lord has bestowed His Mercy" ﴿
Allah has created His creation to bestow mercy on them:
"Except him on whom your Lord has bestowed His Mercy" means except for those whose choices align with the purpose of their creation, so Allah bestows mercy on them, which will bring them happiness. Furthermore, Allah makes them experience a deep spiritual connection with Him in their hearts, which will bring them great delight. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And for that did He create them. ﴿
[ Hud,119
]
This means Allah the Almighty has created them for this eternal bliss and this indescribable closeness to Him. Some scholars of the interpretation of the Noble Qur'an comment on the following Noble Ayah:
﴾ Except him on whom your Lord has bestowed His Mercy (the follower of truth - Islamic Monotheism) and for that did He create them. ﴿
They say that it is closely related to the Noble Ayah that comes before it:
﴾ But they will not cease to disagree, ﴿
It means Allah the Almighty has created them to disagree, but the most convincing interpretation is that Allah the Almighty has created them to bestow His Mercy on them; to make them pleased. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And if your Lord had so willed, He could surely have made mankind one Ummah [nation or community (following one religion only i.e. Islam)], but they will not cease to disagree, Except him on whom your Lord has bestowed His Mercy (the follower of truth - Islamic Monotheism) and for that did He create them. ﴿
So, Allah the Almighty has created people to make them feel a great sense of happiness, therefore, He has granted them the freedom of choice, so if they choose what align with the purpose of their creation, He will bestow His Mercy on them, while if they choose what displeases Him, then:
﴾ And the Word of your Lord has been fulfilled (i.e. His Saying): "Surely, I shall fill Hell with jinns and men all together. ﴿
"And the Word of your Lord has been fulfilled: "Surely, I shall fill Hell with jinns and men all together."
1- Mankind and jinns are accountable:
Why did Allah say, "I shall fill Hell with jinns and men all together"? Because Allah the Almighty has offered the trust to jinn and humans. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Truly, We did offer Al Amanah (the trust or moral responsibility or honesty and all the duties which Allah has ordained) to the heavens and the earth, and the mountains, but they declined to bear it and were afraid of it (i.e. afraid of Allah's Torment). But man bore it. Verily, he was unjust (to himself) and ignorant (of its results). ﴿
﴾ O assembly of jinns and men! If you have power to pass beyond the zones of the heavens and the earth, then pass (them)! But you will never be able to pass them, except with authority (from Allah)! ﴿
Thus, human beings and jinns are offered the trust; Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Except him on whom your Lord has bestowed His Mercy (the follower of truth - Islamic Monotheism) and for that did He create them. And the Word of your Lord has been fulfilled (i.e. His Saying): "Surely, I shall fill Hell with jinns and men altogether. ﴿
If your choice conforms to what Allah the Almighty has ordered you to do, then He will have mercy on you, and you will be pleased with the sense of closeness to Him, but if it does not, then:
﴾ And the Word of your Lord has been fulfilled (i.e. His Saying): "Surely, I shall fill Hell with jinns and men altogether. ﴿
2- The Word of Allah is a binding law:
This means that the Word of Allah the Almighty is a binding law, the ultimate truth and a fundamental principle. In other words, the Word of Allah the Almighty dictates that everyone has to bear the consequences of his choices, i.e. in return for being granted the privilege of freedom to choose, man is charged with responsibility. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And the Word of your Lord has been fulfilled (i.e. His Saying): "Surely, I shall fill Hell with jinns and men altogether. ﴿
Which means those whose choices go against Allah's Orders will reside in Hellfire in the Hereafter.
﴾ (i.e. His Saying): "Surely, I shall fill Hell with jinns and men all together." ﴿
﴾ And all that We relate to you (O Muhammad PBUH) of the news of the Messengers is in order that We may make strong and firm your heart thereby. And in this (chapter of the Quran) has come to you the truth, as well as an admonition and a reminder for the believers. ﴿
"And all that We relate to you of the news of the Messengers is in order that We may make strong and firm your heart thereby"
The Stories of the Quran deepen faith in one's heart:
Actually, the stories of the Noble Quran fill one's heart with unwavering faith; a person may be guided through a cosmic Divine Sign (that indicates the Greatness of Allah, the Creator), a Noble Ayah, or an impressive story (that offers valuable lessons). Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Say (O Muhammad PBUH): "Travel in the land and see what the end of those was who rejected truth. ﴿
﴾ Is then he who is a believer like him who is Fasiq (disbeliever and disobedient to Allah)? Not equal are they. ﴿
﴾ Or do those who earn evil deeds think that We shall hold them equal with those who believe (in the Oneness of Allah Islamic Monotheism) and do righteous good deeds, in their present life and after their death? Worst is the judgement that they make. ﴿
Reflect on the good situation of a steadfast person; his good life, happiness, tranquility, peace of mind, and deep trust in Allah the Almighty and compare it to the bad situation of the one who is heedless of Allah; his anxiety, corrupt behavior, fear, and misery. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And all that We relate to you (O Muhammad PBUH) of the news of the Messengers is in order that We may make strong and firm your heart thereby. And in this (chapter of the Quran) has come to you the truth, as well as an admonition and a reminder for the believers. ﴿
"And in this (chapter of the Quran) has come to you the truth, as well as an admonition and a reminder for the believers."
1- Never share tales that demoralize and dispirit others:
One should avoid sharing stories that negatively affect people's moral spirit like those that seem with unfair endings. Such stories are inaccurate, because you think that someone has been wronged in that story, but you do not know the truth. There must be deep wisdom for what seems to be unfair results. So, never share a story unless you are sure it is true, you understand it completely, and fully grasp its content, otherwise, you will give people a false lesson through a story.
Actually, some stories have misleading lessons that lead to confusion. For example, a story which conveys the message that if you never earn ill-gotten gains like others, you will die out of hunger, may lead to serious negative consequences. On the other hand, a story that conveys the message that whoever obeys Allah the Almighty will have all his matters facilitated by Allah the Almighty, and that whoever gives preference to the Hereafter over this worldly life will be honored by Allah in both of them, uplifts human morale.
Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Prophet, may Allah's Peace and Blessings be upon him, said:
(( It is enough falsehood for a man to relate everything he hears without first verifying its truth. ))
Let me give you another example of misleading stories. You may share a story about a person who is known for his high morals, deep faith, piety, righteousness, and religious commitment, nevertheless, he has been subjected to great injustice. Telling such a story is pointless, because the wisdom behind the injustice such a person has is not mentioned. In other words, there must be profound Divine Wisdom that allows this calamity to befall him. Perhaps the calamity is meant to stop him from committing evil, or it can be as severe punishment (for keep committing evil things without thinking of repenting and turning to Allah the Almighty). In addition, the calamity can be meant to be a means of pushing forward (to get closer to Allah the Almighty), it can be a means of elevating one's status (in Allah's Sight), and it can be a means of unveiling hidden qualities. These are the different types of calamities. One of which isthe calamity that acts as a means of eradicating the one it befalls with severe punishment due to his many wicked acts.
2- Quranic Stories console the heart of the tried believer:
The more the wicked person lives, the many terrible deeds he commits. Therefore, Allah the Almighty sends him severe punishment that may end his life (he will no longer be given any more chances to rectify his deeds and to repent since he misses them all, insisting on leading a sinful life).
There is another type of calamities, which serves as a deterrent against committing evil. For instance, a person may deviate from the Straight Path by committing a sin, therefore, Allah afflicts him with an unbearable calamity in order to make him abandon that sin.
The third type of calamities is a means of pushing man forward. Namely, when a steadfast person falls short in performing some acts of worship, Allah afflicts him with a calamity that pushes him forward (encourages him to improve the performance of his acts of worship).
The fourth type of calamities is a means of elevating one's status in Allah's Sight. In other words, someone may be steadfast and may not fall short in performing acts of worship, but he deserves a higher rank than his current one (due to his deeply rooted faith). Therefore, Allah the Almighty afflicts him with some trials (calamities) to elevate his status in His Sight when he endures these trials patiently.
The last type of calamities is the one that serves as a means of unveiling hidden qualities and sublime perfection. This type of calamities befalls the Noble Prophets in particular, since their excellence and their high perfection do not become apparent except under some critical circumstances.
(( Abu Ubaidah Ibn Huzaifah narrated from his aunt Fatimah that she said: "We came to the Messenger of Allah, may Allah's Peace and Blessings be upon him, to visit him during his illness. We found a water container hanging near him, dripping water onto him because of the intense fever he was experiencing. We said to him: 'O Messenger of Allah, if only you would ask Allah to heal you. The Messenger of Allah, may Allah's Peace and Blessings be upon him, said: "The people who face the most difficult tests are the Prophets, then those following them in degree, then those following them in degree". ))
[ Narrated by Ahmad, on the authority of Abi Ubaidah Ibn Huzaifah ]
Stories play a vital role, therefore, before sharing a story you are not sure about its truth, keep in your mind the following Noble Hadith in which the Prophet, may Allah's Peace and Blessings be upon him, said:
(( It is enough falsehood for a man to relate everything he hears without first verifying its truth. ))
Actually, you may hear some strange stories, such as the story of someone who went to his friend's house and found him murdered, so he came out terrified, and the neighbor who lived next to his friend's house was a policeman. As a result, when he saw him coming out terrified, he arrested him, entered the house, and found a person murdered! He took him to jail, and he was convicted. Then the court sentenced him to twenty or thirty years in prison!! You may say, "Subhan Allah! This person is innocent. "Yet, if you were to ask him, "Did you do anything wrong in the past that made you deserve such a harsh sentence?" He might say, "Yes, I did" (he might have committed a crime in the past but no one detected him, so he was able to escape punishment).
So, never share a story without fully understanding its background, circumstances, context and details, lest you mislead others, since a story either guides people or misleads them. In other words, if you could not realize Allah's Wisdom behind a certain story or if it seems to contradict a Noble Ayah, then refrain from sharing it. On the other hand, if you have heard a story that confirms what is mentioned in the Noble Quran, you can share it. For example, Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Whoever works righteousness, whether male or female, while he (or she) is a true believer (of Islamic Monotheism) verily, to him We will give a good life (in this world with respect, contentment and lawful provision), and We shall pay them certainly a reward in proportion to the best of what they used to do (i.e. Paradise in the Hereafter). ﴿
Also, He says:
﴾ But whosoever turns away from My Reminder (i.e. neither believes in this Quran nor acts on its orders, etc.) verily, for him is a life of hardship, and We shall raise him up blind on the Day of Resurrection. ﴿
Beware of violating Shari'ah:
One of my brothers in faith told me today about a person who used to pay no attention to Shari'ah (Islamic Law). He used to visit his friends and ask them to have mixed gatherings. When his friends visited him at his house, he used to ask his wife to sit with them and to present herself attractively in front of them. Unfortunately, what happened is that one of his friends became very attracted to his wife, and that feelings went beyond acceptable boundaries, transforming into illicit romantic relationship. When that person discovered that, He divorced his wife, resulting in a devastating psychological impact on his four children!
This is the bad consequence of violating Shari'ah. We can share such a story, because it confirms the perfection of Shari'ah that has been revealed by Allah, the All-Wise, and it confirms that whoever violates it will definitely pay a heavy price in his life.
That person's heart (the one mentioned in the above story) was broken, and he was profoundly shocked by his unfaithful wife. However, that happened due to his ignorance of Shari'ah rulings; if he had not attended mixed gatherings and had not encouraged his wife to present herself attractively in front of his friends when they came to visit him, that disaster would not have happened!
3- Stories have a crucial role:
The story plays a vital role; it can either distort reality or support it. So, if you are not sure about a certain story, and you do not fully understand its background, circumstances, and details, never share it. In other words, if you could not realize Allah's Wisdom behind a certain story, never share it, rather you should say, "Allah knows best".
Some people are fond of sharing stories about some individuals, wondering how they were afflicted with unbearable calamities although they are religiously committed and righteous people! They intend to convey the message that Allah the Almighty did not answer those righteous people when they turned to Him for support and help!
One of the Beautiful Names of Allah the Almighty is Al-Haqq (The One Whose Essence is Wisdom, Justice, Right, Rightness, and Truth), and such stories contradict the truth; He says:
﴾ And all that We relate to you (O Muhammad PBUH) of the news of the Messengers is in order that We may make strong and firm your heart thereby. And in this (chapter of the Quran) has come to you the truth, as well as an admonition and a reminder for the believers* And say to those who do not believe: "Act according to your ability and way, We are acting (in our way)." ﴿
"And say to those who do not believe: "Act according to your ability and way, We are acting (in our way)"
1- Man's actions embody his status in the Sight of Allah:
Actually, every individual has a status in the Sight of Allah the Almighty, and his actions reflect and confirm it. In other words, the believer's actions confirm his faith, uprightness, sincerity, trustfulness, love for doing good deeds, generosity, and sacrifice, and they reflect his status in the Sight of Allah the Almighty and his spiritual state; the spiritual state of a humble and needy servant of Allah the Almighty who loves Him. Thus, his actions confirm and reflect his spiritual state; they are two sides of the same coin. On the other hand, the disbeliever's actions confirm his meanness, selfishness, ignorance, self-centeredness, and psychological deviation. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And say to those who do not believe: "Act according to your ability and way" ﴿
2- Whoever deviates from the Straight Path does not have high status in the Sight of Allah:
One's actions will definitely mirror his inner state. Accordingly, the disbeliever can never be sincere, pure, or just, because his status in the Sight of Allah the Almighty is that of a morally corrupt person due to being far away from Him. Thus, his actions reflect his psychological deviation. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And say to those who do not believe: "Act according to your ability and way". ﴿
So, whoever expects fairness, mercy, support, or kindness from a disbeliever has not reflected on the following Ayah in which Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And say to those who do not believe: "Act according to your ability and way, We are acting (in our way)." ﴿
Actually, "We are acting (in our way)" means we, as believers, are acting in our good way; we do nothing but good things, we treat people justly, and we never violate other's rights, despise them, or build our glory at their expense. Furthermore, we refrain from anything that causes Allah's Wrath. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ Act according to your ability and way, We are acting (in our way). ﴿
The next Ayah is really amazing; Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And you wait ! We (too) are waiting. ﴿
"And you wait! We (too) are waiting."
1- What are you waiting for?
What are you all waiting for? What does anyone of you await or expect from this world? What do those who turn away from Allah await in this world?
Do they wait for prosperity which will make them corrupt, or poverty which will make them unmindful, or disease which will disable them, or senility which will make them mentally unstable, or sudden death, or Ad-Dajjal who is the worst expected absent, or the Hour, which is the most grievous and most bitter moment?! On the other hand, what do the believers await or expect from this worldly life? They anticipate being granted guidance, approval, mercy, tranquility, contentment, happiness, love, and honor from Allah the Almighty. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And you wait ! We (too) are waiting. ﴿
[ Hud, 122 ]
2- Everyone awaits the outcome of his actions:
Consider the following example: If two students have the final exam and one of them is a hardworking student who aims to attain the top score in his country, while the other one is a lazy student, both of them will wait for almost a month to receive the results of their exam. However, the hardworking student will eagerly wait for being rewarded by the government for achieving the top score in his country. In contrast, what awaits the lazy student is only failure and being disdained by people. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And you wait ! We (too) are waiting. ﴿
﴾ Say: "Nothing shall ever happen to us except what Allah has ordained for us. He is our Maula (Lord, Helper and Protector)." And in Allah let the believers put their trust. ﴿
So, the true believers await goodness in this world and in the Hereafter, whereas those who disobey Allah and insist on disobedience will be expecting nothing but bad news, or they will be expecting prosperity, which will make them corrupt, or poverty, which will make them unmindful, or disease, which will disable them, or senility, which will make them mentally unstable, or sudden death, or Ad-Dajjal who is the worst expected absent, or the Hour, which is the most grievous and most bitter moment. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And you wait! We (too) are waiting. ﴿
So, good news for the true believer, for he awaits goodness in every stage of life, both in this worldly life and in the Hereafter. In contrast, woe to the disbeliever, for he awaits nothing but calamity after calamity. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And if there had been a Quran with which mountains could be moved (from their places), or the earth could be cloven asunder, or the dead could be made to speak (it would not have been other than this Quran). But the decision of all things is certainly with Allah. Have not then those who believe yet known that had Allah willed, He could have guided all mankind? And a disaster will not cease to strike those who disbelieve because of their (evil) deeds or it (i.e. the disaster) settle close to their homes, until the Promise of Allah comes to pass. Certainly, Allah does not fail in His Promise. ﴿
They will be afflicted with a series of calamities, one after another, without pause; moving from a calamity to a more severe one, from a disaster to another one, from distress to fear, and from illness to poverty, etc. They will be afflicted with successive disasters. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And to Allah belongs the Ghaib (unseen) of the heavens and the earth, and to Him return all affairs (for decision). So worship Him (O Muhammad PBUH) and put your trust in Him. And your Lord is not unaware of what you (people) do. ﴿
"And to Allah belongs the Ghaib (unseen) of the heavens and the earth"
Your focus should be only on the present moment, because what will happen in the future lies in the unseen. What passed is gone, and what you hope for lies in the unseen future, and all you have is your present moment. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And to Him return all affairs (for decision). ﴿
[ Hud, 123
]
"And to Him return all affairs (for decision)."
1- All matters are in Allah's Hands:
(( No man is scratched by a thorn, or stumbles, or has a twitching in a vein, except for a sin, and what Allah forgives is greater. ))
All matters such as your spouse, your vehicle, those who are superior to you, those you are inferior to you, your sustenance, your fears, and what makes you happy, and so on are under Allah' Control. In other words, when something bad happens to you; if a piece in your machine breaks, causing disruption in your work for two weeks, or if you have an accident, remind yourself that everything is under Allah's Control, He says:
﴾ And to Him return all affairs (for decision). ﴿
It was narrated in a Qudsi Hadith that Allah the Almighty says:
(( O Son of Adam, be to Me as I want, and I will be to you as you want. Be to Me as I wish, and do not inform Me what pleases you. There is the thing that you want, and there is the thing that I want. So if you submit to what I want, I will suffice you in what you want. But if you do not submit to what I want, I will make you struggle in what you want. But in the end, nothing will happen, except what I want. ))
Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And to Him return all affairs (for decision). So worship Him (O Muhammad PBUH) ﴿
It means to Him Alone (return all affairs). He says:
﴾ And put your trust in Him ﴿
[ Hud, 123 ]
Also, Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ It is He (Allah) Who is the only Ilah (God to be worshipped) in the heaven and the only Ilah (God to be worshipped) on the earth. And He is the All-Wise, the All-Knower. ﴿
﴾ And Allah said (O mankind!): "Take not ilahain (two gods in worship, etc.). Verily, He (Allah) is (the) only One Ilah (God). Then, fear Me (Allah) much [and Me (Alone), i.e. be away from all kinds of sins and evil deeds that Allah has forbidden and do all that Allah has ordained and worship none but Allah]. ﴿
There is no deity worthy of worship except Allah Alone. He says:
﴾ And to Allah belongs the Ghaib (unseen) of the heavens and the earth, and to Him return all affairs (for decision). So worship Him (O Muhammad PBUH) and put your trust in Him. ﴿
2- Relying on Allah Alone:
﴾ So put your trust in Allah; surely, you (O Muhammad PBUH) are on manifest truth. ﴿
If you want to be among the strongest people, rely on Allah the Almighty alone. Indeed, no one can realize the tranquility that fills the heart of the one who relies on Allah except those who are like him; as long as he feels that Allah is with him (with His Protection and Help), he does not fear anyone. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And to Him return all affairs (for decision). So worship Him (O Muhammad PBUH) and put your trust in Him. And your Lord is not unaware of what you (people) do. ﴿
3- Allah is not unaware of what all people do:
Actually, Allah the Almighty is not unaware of what you do; maybe you do something wrong to fulfill your desire, or cause harm to someone carelessly, or do something that harms someone without being held accountable for it, but Allah the Almighty is fully aware of it and will hold you to severe account for it. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And your Lord is not unaware of what you (people) do. ﴿
If we deeply reflect on this Noble Ayah (i.e. if we always keep in mind that Allah is fully aware of our actions and that nothing is hidden from Him), it would be sufficient for us. Allah the Almighty says:
﴾ And to Him return all affairs (for decision). So worship Him (O Muhammad PBUH) and put your trust in Him. And your Lord is not unaware of what you (people) do. ﴿
