I sit here today, shocked, disgusted, saddened beyond words. What has happened in the last couple of days is unbelievable. I’m not usually the emotional sort, but I’m ashamed of my Pakistani nationality today.

So this is what we’ve come down to. Another nation can just swoop down, attack inside our borders, kill, and get away scot free. I guess we should have seen this coming. After all, this is just one notch above the drone bombings we see happening. The drone bombings were akin to be being pushed to a wall and felt up. This latest Abbottabad incident was nothing but rape.

I’m not an Osama lover. Hell he should have been taken out much earlier. I despise and hate Al Qaeda and terrorism as much as any Pakistani should. After all, more innocent Pakistanis have been lost to terrorism than any other nation. It’s the manner in which the US of A went about it, that was not just wrong – we got busted in the process.

How can a country decide to kill a human if found anywhere? How can this be an official policy for a state? Where the fuck is the United Nations? how can one country carry out military strikes in another country and the entire world sit silent? Are we a lesser nation? Are we at war? Had we been at war, I would have understood. But out Ally attacking us whenever they feel like? What the hell is going on?

And what the hell are we doing? We all know that the government is incompetent and corrupt and care nothing about the people of Pakistan save for the scraps from Americas table. Where the hell was the military? The Army, Air Force, ISI? Is this what we have sacrificed 60% of our annual budgets for? Is this why we don’t have schools, medicines, clean drinking water for? To support our military defense? Which couldn’t do crap when it mattered? Hey General Kiyani. You aren’t an elected official right? You’re supposed to be competent. The army is supposed to be guarding us, not letting another country’s military come in any time they want, do whatever and get away. We have the worlds 5th largest army for crying out loud. It’s not a joke. At best, the army too is incompetent. At worst, they were sheltering OBL.

God, what have we come to! Look at all those talking about invading Pakistan as well. They want a piece of the action as well. Pakistan has become a village prostitute, everybody wants to get some …

So what do we do?

1. Time will heal our shame. We’re not going to feel better tomorrow.

2. It’s HIGH time to revisit our policies. America has gotten OBL, they taken revenge fir 9/11. Now they should leave us the fuck alone. Pack up your military assets from Pakistan and get out. No more coordination, no nothing. You don’t trust us? Fine. Bugger off. You’re fighting a war in Afghanistan – stay on that side of the border! No more drone attacks, no more military assistance. We don’t need the paltry change you dole out to us as Aid. Keep it. That money doesn’t justify the blood we spill.

3. HONESTY!! We require our leaders to stand in front of us and be honest. The government, army, everybody. What the hell is going on? Who is aiding who? Speak to your people for God’s sake!

4. Move the military to high alert. Any misadventures by the US or any other country should be replied with curtly and promptly. Pakistan is a sovereign country and that is how its going to stay! Furthermore, our dumb ass representatives to the UN should lodge a strong protest and a justification of how our soil is used to kill without our consent.

5. People of Pakistan – open your eyes and see your leaders. These are the idiots you vote into office time and again. See where they’ve brought you and your country. They’ve sold every ounce of your respect for their masters. Whatever happened to “a day as a lion is better than a thousand days as a sheep”? PLEASE do not vote these idiots into office again!! Hell Imran Khan or even Jamaat e Islami would be 100 times better than these leaders because they still have their ‘ghairat’

6. People of Pakistan. Unite. Forget about provincial differences, Shia Suuni, Mohajir Sindhi, Muslim non-Muslim issues. We can tackle all those issues peacefully at another time. This is a time where we’re being attacked by another nation. Unite. And put up a united front. So no more issues in Karachi or Lahore please. On Hold!!

7. A strong response to terrorism is also needed. Our intelligence agencies should now focus 100% of their efforts on anybody and everybody who has threatens or has threatened the life of another Pakistani. These attacks on our mosques, shrines, police, army, navy and innocent civilians are no longer ‘just another bomb blast’. No more. We have to root out this evil as soon as possible. This is also the best way to tell the world that we can deal with our problems in the best way possible. So today, when the terrorists are threatening to avenge OBL are speaking up, respond back with harsher words. NO WAY! We didn’t kill OBL and we’re not putting up with more innocent Pakistanis being killed. This should cover any and all Pakistanis being killed including the Mr. Qadris, famous for the Taseer killing, the daily dozen people that get ‘target killed’ in Karachi etc

8. Seriously consider budgets cuts for our military and instead using that money for Development purposes. Schools, clean water, medicines, law and order, electricity, gas, public transport, roads… God! There is so much to do!

These are my views. And I’m open to criticism. I love Pakistan.  I was born in this country and I will die in this country. And in between, I will strive to identify those things affecting the lives of my fellow citizens and give possible solutions. This is the country where my next generation will live. I will not leave them a Pakistan worse than the one I inherited from the generation before me.

I bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped except Allah (swt) and that Muhammad (pbuh) is His Messenger and the Seal of the Prophets.

Just like the opposite of Tawheed (Oneness of Allah) is Shirk (associating or setting up rivals to Allah), similarly, the opposite of Emaan (faith) is Kufr (disbelief). It is essential why we must know what Kufr is all about, in order to keep away from it. In Arabic, Kufr by definition means to cover or conceal something. In Islamic terminology it means that a person does not believe in Allah (swt) and His Messenger, Muhammad (pbuh). Sheikh al-Islam ibn Taymiyyah (may Allah’s mercy be upon him) said: “Kufr is the attribute of everyone who rejects something that Allah has commanded us to believe in, after news of that has reached him, whether he rejects it in his heart without uttering it, or he speaks those words of rejection without believing it in his heart, or he does both; or he does an action which is described in the texts as putting one beyond the pale of faith.” (Majmoo’ al-Fataawa, 12/335)

The following 12 points are a general list of actions and beliefs that would classify a person as a Kaafir (disbeliever) or a Murtadd (apostate):

1. Anyone who rejects Allah’s Lordship (Ruboobiyyah) or Allah’s sole right to be worshipped (Uloohiyyah) or Allah’s Prophets and Messengers and the Message that they brought or to believe that a Prophet or a Messenger can come after Muhammad (pbuh).
2. Anyone who rejects Allah’s Names or Attributes (Asma’ wa as-Sifaat) that includes His Living, Knowing, Hearing, Seeing, having a Face and Hands (in a manner that suits His Majesty and definitely not like His Creation), or adding to them that which is not cited in the Qur’an or Sunnah. Some Muslims believe that Allah (swt) is everywhere or in everything, this is completely incorrect, Allah (swt) is Above and Beyond His Creation, everything is in need of Him yet He is need of nothing. It is also incorrect to attribute to the Creation any of His Qualities or that which is due to Allah (swt) Alone or being pleased with anything that is worshipped besides Allah (swt).
3. Anyone who sets up mediators between themselves and Allah, putting their trust in them, supplicating to them, and requesting their intercession. This includes grave-worship and invoking the dead, asking for their help, or offering gifts or sacrifices to them will all come under Shirk.
4. Anyone who abuses or curses the Name of Allah, in order to reject or revile Him, including abusing, cursing or rejecting any of His Angels, Prophets or Messengers.
5. Anyone who rejects or stops the obligatory duties of the Shar’iaa (Divine Law) i.e. Prayers, Zakaah, Fasting, Pilgrimage to Makkah (Hajj), Jihad, kindness to parents, or turning away from the religion by not gaining knowledge or practicing it’s fundamentals and guidelines.
6. Anyone who believes that it is permissible to make Halal what is Haram such as adultery, fornication, consumption of alcohol, taking drugs, theft, murder, sorcery, magic, etc. or to make Haram what is Halal such as eating meat or seafood, marrying plural wives, the veil for women, etc.
7. Anyone who rejects an Ayah (verse, sign, etc.) from the Qur’an or to deliberately give it deviant interpretations that are not derived from the Qur’an itself, or the Sunnah of Muhammad (pbuh) or according to the well-known methods of Tafseer. Abu Hurairah (may Allah’s mercy be upon him) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said: “Don’t pursue that which you have no knowledge of.” (Imam Ahmed’s Musnad)
8. Anyone who displays dislike, hate, scorn, for Islam, its creed, its obligatory duties or its customs.
9. Anyone who disbelieves in the Last Day (Day of Resurrection), its punishment or reward or to believe that the punishment and reward of the Hereafter are only imaginary, theoretical, metaphorical, figurative or spiritual.
10. Anyone who claims that the Righteous (Awliya) are above the Prophets and Messengers of Allah (peace be upon them) or claiming that some of the Righteous people are excused from religious duties or acts of worship prescribed by Allah (swt).
11. Anyone who rules or judges by other than that which Allah (swt) has revealed. Anyone who believes that man-made laws or anything is superior or better than Allah’s (swt) Shari’ah is considered a disbeliever. Anyone who substitutes Allah’s (swt) Shari’ah with man-made laws or with the opinions of individuals and deems it to be kosher, even though he might say that the Shari’ah is better, is still a disbeliever. Whereas, anyone who holds fast to the religion of Islam, but is a sinner and a wrongdoer because of  following his whims and desires, or chasing after some worldly benefit, but admits that he is sinning and is a wrongdoer, would not be guilty of Kufr that could put him beyond the pale of Islam.
12. Anyone who aids or supports the Mushrikoon (Polytheists) against the Muslims.

Scholars have divided Kufr into a number of categories. They are as follows:

Kufr by denial/rejection (Takdhib/Inkaar/Juhood): This can be disbelief in the heart or can be of an outward/obvious rejection. If one conceals the truth and does not submit to it outwardly, despite the fact that the person recognizes it and knows it inwardly, like the Jews’ rejection of Muhammad (pbuh). Allah (swt) says: “then when there came to them that which they had recognised, they disbelieved in it.” (Al-Baqarah 2:89 & 146) This is so, because rejection only takes place when a person knows the truth and refuses it. That’s why Allah (swt) tells us that the Kuffaar’s disbelief in Muhammad (pbuh) was only outward and oral, but inwardly they knew the truth. Allah (swt) says: “It is not you that they deny, but it is the Ayahs (verses, signs, etc.) of Allah that the polytheists and wrongdoers deny.” (Al-An’am 6:33) In another place, Allah (swt) says: “And they belied them (those Ayahs) wrongfully and arrogantly, though their own selves were convinced thereof.” (Al-Naml 27:14) It is important to note that this Kufr is like the Kufr of permitting that which is forbidden. If someone regards something as permissible which he knows that Islam has forbidden, or forbids something that is permissible, then he has disbelieved in the Message brought by Muhammad (pbuh).

Kufr by arrogance/pride [Istakbaar (like the Kufr of Iblees)]: Allah (swt) says: “… except Iblees (Satan), he refused and was proud and was one of the disbelievers (disobedient to Allah).” (Al-Baqarah 2:34) In another place, Allah (swt) says: “They (the hypocrites) say: ‘We have believed in Allah and in the Messenger (Muhammad), and we obey,’ then a party of them turns away thereafter, such are the disbelievers.” (Al-Noor 24:47) Therefore, Allah (swt) makes it clear that even if people utter words of faith but do not act in accordance with faith, then they are disbelievers.

Kufr out of stubbornness (‘Inaad): This is when a person recognizes the truth but rejects to accept it and desists from making a declaration. Allah (swt) says: “Throw into the Fire (Hell) every stubborn disbeliever”. (Qaaf 50:24)

Kufr by hypocrisy (Nifaaq): This happens by disbelief in one’s heart, while on the outside, one only submits in order to show off to people. This was a new kind of enemy that emerged in the Madinah period. They are known as the Munafiqoon. Allah (swt) says: “Verily the hypocrites will be in the lowest depths of Hell. You will find no one to help them”. (An-Nisa 4:145) Also, Allah (swt) says regarding them: “And of mankind, there are some (hypocrites) who say: ‘We believe in Allah and the Last Day,’ while in fact they believe not. They (think to) deceive Allah and those who believe, while they only deceive themselves, and perceive (it) not! In their hearts is a disease (of doubt and hypocrisy) and Allah has increased their disease. A painful torment is theirs because they used to tell lies. And when it is said to them: ‘Make not mischief on the earth,’ they say: ‘We are only peacemakers.’ Verily, they are the ones who make mischief, but they perceive not. And when it is said to them (hypocrites): ‘Believe as the people (followers of Muhammad, Al-Ansaar and Al-Muhajiroon) have believed,’ they say: ‘Shall we believe as the fools have believed?’ Verily, they are the fools, but they know not. And when they meet those who believe, they say: ‘We believe,’ but when they are alone with their Shayaateen (devils — polytheists, hypocrites), they say: ‘Truly, we are with you; verily, we were but mocking.’ Allah mocks at them and gives them increase in their wrong-doing to wander blindly. These are they who have purchased error for guidance, so their commerce was profitless. And they were not guided. Their likeness is as the likeness of one who kindled a fire; then, when it lighted all around him, Allah took away their light and left them in darkness. (So) they could not see. They are deaf, dumb, and blind, so they return not (to the Right Path). Or like a rainstorm from the sky, wherein is darkness, thunder, and lightning. They thrust their fingers in their ears to keep out the stunning thunderclap for fear of death. But Allah ever encompasses the disbelievers (i.e. Allah will gather them all together). The lightning almost snatches away their sight, whenever it flashes for them, they walk therein, and when darkness covers them, they stand still. And if Allah willed, He could have taken away their hearing and their sight. Certainly, Allah has power over all things.” (Al-Baqarah 2:8-20)  

Kufr by ignorance (Jahl): Denial or rejection of Islam or the teachings of Islam due to ignorance. This type of Kufr is attributed to Abu Jahl and his adherents.

Kufr by doubt (Shakk): It is necessary for every Muslim to have certainty in faith (Yaqeen) with what the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) brought, and not have any room for doubt or hesitation. Allah (swt) says: “And he went into his garden while in a state (of pride and disbelief), unjust to himself. He said: ‘I think not that this will ever perish. And I think not the Hour will ever come, and if indeed I am brought back to my Lord, (on the Day of Resurrection), I surely, shall find better than this when I return to Him.’ His companion said to him during the talk with him: ‘Do you disbelieve in Him Who created you out of dust (i.e. your father Adam), then out of Nutfah (mixed semen drops of male and female discharge), then fashioned you into a man? But as for my part, (I believe) that He is Allah, my Lord, and none shall I associate as partner with my Lord.’” (Al-Kahf 18:35-38)

Kufr by mockery or ridicule (Istihzaha): This is for those (believers or non-believers) who ridicule or make a mockery of Allah (swt), His Ayats, His Prophets and Messengers, etc. Allah (swt) says: “Say! Was it at Allah, His signs and His apostles that you were mocking? Make no excuses. You have disbelieved after you have believed. (At-Tawbah 9:65-66)

Kufr of evasion (I’raadh): This is when a person turns away or avoids the truth. Allah (swt) says: “And who is more unjust than he who is reminded of his Lord’s signs but then turns away from them. Then he forgets what he has sent forward (for the Day of Judgement) (Al-Kahf 18:57)

Kufr by interpretation (Ta’weel): This does not happen by complete rejection, but is rendered by means of interpretation (see point no. 7 in the general list above). This takes place when a person distorts a belief or teaching of Islam by giving an interpretation or meaning to it other than what was the meaning ascribed to it by the Messenger of Allah (pbuh). Nowadays, this has become very common among those who were born Muslim. Corrupt interpretation is widely employed by Muslims to distort the true beliefs and teachings of Islam. It is such baseless and corrupt interpretation of Qur’anic Ayats and authentic Ahaadith are given meanings which clash with their true and original meanings explained by the Messenger of Allah (pbuh). Allah (swt) says: “And among mankind is he who disputes concerning Allah, without knowledge, and follows every rebellious shaytaan”. (Al-Hajj 22:3)

Kufr of making Halal into Haram and vice-versa (Istihaal): This takes place when a person accepts something as lawful that Allah (swt) has made unlawful and vice-versa (see point no. 6 in the general list above). Allah (swt) Alone has the right to make things Halal and Haram and anybody who meddles with His right are like rivals to Him and therefore this takes a person beyond the pale of faith.

Kufr of abhorrence for Allah’s Commands (Kurh): This is for people who detest and hate the Commands given by Allah (swt). Allah (swt) says: “Perdition (destruction) has been consigned to those who disbelieve and He will render their actions void. This is because they are averse to that which Allah has revealed so He has made their actions fruitless. (Muhammed 47:8-9)

Kufr by substituting the Shari’ah (Istibdaal): This is when a person substitutes Allah’s (swt) Laws. There are three types:  

1. Rejection of the Shari’ah by denial of it.
2. Rejection of the Shari’ah without denial of it.
3. To Substitute the Shari’ah with man-made laws (see point no. 11 in the general list above). Allah (swt) says: “Or have they partners with Allah who have instituted for them a religion which Allah has not allowed. (Ash-Shoora 42:8) Also, Allah (swt) says: “Say not concerning that which your tongues put forth falsely (that) is lawful and this is forbidden so as to invent a lie against Allah. Verily, those who invent a lie against Allah will never prosper. (An-Nahl 16:116)

I would like to add that we should not rush in labeling Muslims as disbelievers or apostates until and unless we have obvious and undeniable proof. This is known as Takfeer. This is something that should be left to the scholars of Islam. There could be evidence that clearly shows a Muslim to be a disbeliever, but still we should not be quick to pass judgments as we can only see what is outwardly evident, but it is Allah (swt) Alone who can see into the hearts of mankind. ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Umar (may Allah’s mercy be upon him) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said: “Any person who called his brother ‘O Unbeliever’ (has in fact done an act by which this kufr) would return to one of them. If it were so as he (the accuser) asserted, (the kufr of the accused would be confirmed, but if the kufr was not true) then it returned to him (the man who called his brother Muslim a kaafir).” (Saheeh Muslim). Also, it is narrated by Dahhaak (may Allah’s mercy be upon him) that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said: “Whoever curses a believer, it is as if he killed him and whoever throws the charge of kufr at a believer, it is as if he killed him”. (Saheeh Al-Bukhaari) This is a whole topic on its own, but Insh’Allah, in the near future I will do an article explaining this in more detail.

I would like to make a plea to my Muslim brothers and sisters that we should take our Deen seriously; we must gain knowledge and learn our Deen. There are too many of us that are ignorant while our lives are just passing us by and one day it will be too late as death will coming knocking on your door. There will be no excuse (unless Allah Wills it) on that Day when we shall all be brought before Allah (swt). Be mindful O Muslims! May Allah protect us and keep us safe from falling into Kufr and Takfeer. May He Bless us with knowledge of Islam so that we may understand and implement our Deen correctly and deliver the Message of Truth to the rest of mankind. Ameen.

In the End, Allah Knows Best!

In the last message, I spoke of Tawheed (Affirming the Oneness of Allah) – Shirk is the exact opposite of Tawheed. Linguistically, Shirk means a partnership/to share/to associate but in Islamic terminology it is the setting up of rival(s) or equal(s) to Allah (swt), and also to give to others that which belongs only to Allah (swt). So, if anything or anyone is given the powers and attributes of Allah (swt) which belong to Him (swt), then this will cause people to worship other than Allah (swt) and in Islam, worship belongs exclusively to Allah (swt) Alone. Therefore, these false deities that are worshipped besides Allah (swt) become partners with Him (swt) and this constitutes Shirk. Allah (swt) makes it clear in the Qur’an: “I did not create the Jinn and Mankind except to worship Me.” (Adh-Dhariyaat: 56) This shows that he very existence of the Jinn and Mankind is to worship Allah (swt) Alone and if a person commits Shirk, then that would constitute denying the very purpose of existence. That is why Shirk is known as the unforgivable sin.

Allah (swt) says: “Surely Allah will not forgive the association of partners (shirk) with Him, but He forgives (sins) less than that to whomever He wishes.” (Surah An-Nisa 4:48) This verse shows that everything can be forgiven except Shirk but this must not be misunderstood into thinking that those who commit shirk are fully condemned. So, if a person commits Shirk and then sincerely wants to repent, Allah (swt) accepts that repentance because He is The Most-Forgiving. But on the other hand, if the person does not repent in this lifetime while he is still alive and death overcomes him, then Allah (swt) will not forgive this person on the Day of Judgment. The fire of Hell shall be their dwelling place forever, what an evil destination! (This punishment also includes Muslims who commit Shirk during their lifetime, and do not repent) Remember that Allah (swt) is The Most Just and just like there will be people in the Hell-Fire for eternity, there will also be people in Paradise for eternity, for those who uphold Tawheed. So stick to Tawheed and do not budge from it!

Just like there are categories in Tawheed, there are also categories in Shirk:

1) Shirk in Allah’s Rububiyyah (Lordship)

There are two aspects to this:

(i) Shirk by Association – We believe that Allah (swt) Alone controls and sustains all of creation. But there are those who believe that other parts of the creation also play a role in controlling and sustaining life, this constitutes association in Allah’s (swt) Lorsdship.

(ii) Shirk by Negation – This is for people who deny the existence of Allah (swt) and say that Allah (swt) is nothing but a figment of our imagination. May Allah have mercy! What an evil thing to say!! These people think that they are masters of their own destiny and that the universe and the world we live in has no beginning and no end. Those who are well-grounded in knowledge know the truth and they know that Allah (swt) Alone is The Ever-Living and Self-Subsisting Eternal Being who needs nothing!

2) Shirk in Allah’s ‘Ibaadah (Worship)

There are two aspects to this:

(i) Major Shirk (Shirk al-Akbar) – All forms of Worship belong to Allah (swt) Alone and anyone who directs their worship to anything or anyone besides Allah (swt) has committed Shirk al-Akbar.

(ii) Minor Shirk (Shirk al-Asghar) – Mahmood bin Lubayd reported that Allah’s Messenger (pbuh) said: “The thing that I fear for you the most is Minor Shirk.” The companions asked: “O Messenger of Allah (pbuh), what is Minor Shirk?” He (pbuh) replied: “Showing off (Ar-Riya), for verily Allah (swt) will say on the Day of Resurrection when people are receiving their rewards, “Go to those whom you were showing off to in the world and see if you can find any reward from them.” (Narrated by Ahmed, al-Baihaqee, and at-Tabarani) It is important that when we are doing righteous deeds that our intentions must be pure and solely for the pleasure of Allah (swt). Ar-Riya (Showing off) has become a syndrome amongst us, and this destroys any sincerity which may be present inside of us.

3) Shirk in Allah’s Asma’ wa as-Sifaat (Names and Attributes)

There are two aspects to this:

(i) Shirk by Humanization – It is important to know that the Names and Attributes of Allah (swt) are exclusively His and are free from any human likeness. Those who give Attributes to Allah (swt) which are more suitable for human beings are committing Shirk by humanization. Allah (swt) says: “…. There is nothing like Him and He sees and hears all things.” (Ash-Shoora: 11)

(ii) Shirk by Deification – This is when created beings are given the Names or Attributes of Allah (swt) and thus become deities. In the past and in the present, you will find many ignorant people who give a God-like status to human-beings.

It is a must for all Muslims and Non-Muslims to know the dangers and forms of Shirk. Taking man away from the worship of The One True God (Allah) has caused man to worship false deities who have no authority or power over the dominions of the heavens and the earth. Indeed, Shirk is the worst of all transgressions, so stay away from it!! May Allah (swt) guard us and our families from this wicked and evil wrongdoing! Ameen.

Pain!

Wounded life with lessons to learn,

Head bowed ashamed of deeds,

Going astray but possesses no fear,

Your heart cries, your soul bleeds

I am a sinner from the dark side,

I am a saint in the day,

I am hiding from those eyes,

Who see me all day

Afraid of losing, afraid of dying,

Fearing creation rather creator and yet denying,

Sinning behind veils,

Fearing that no one should see me

Cursing my pain, healing my wounds

I ask

Am I?

Scared of people? Scared of GOD?

Value!

Materials, the possession of senses,

Counting wealth from infinite to none,

My body is full with fuel of metal,

Yet my soul is empty with no deeds to earn

Walking with those who are no different,

Talking with those who are none,

Hiding from them my sins my deeds,

But ashamed and scared in front of THE ONE

The ONE who is the master of the game,

From whom no one can hide, not even an inch of hay,

Though I know I could not comply,

The fear of others is on what I rely,

Echoing from the emptiness of my soul

I ask

Am I?

Scared of people? Scared of GOD?

Fear!

Life becoming the outcome of commands

Fulfilling desires, fulfilling evil demands

Hiding from perception of others

Submitting myself to the materialistic charms

I learn new lessons of life everyday

I am forgetting what and whom to follow

I decide for others, they decide for me

And yet our lives rot in hollow

My fear is my pain, I agonize and cry

When found no answer, I curse my creator … WHY!

I can sin in the shadows of seven veils

I wonder whether I am fearless … or just shy

Battling out from people’s perception

I ask

Am I?

Scared of people? Scared of GOD?

—————————————— 

Apprehension

Don’t know if I am in a state of denial

Or am I afraid of the ultimate trial

But I want to see my self in the mirror

To face my devil, willing to walk an extra mile

I want to know

How evil I am

How sinful I am

Am I

Different from others?

More sinful than others?

More evil than others?

There is no answer

There is no one to answer

There is no one who can answer

There is no one who should answer

I ask

You & I

Scared of people? Scared of GOD?

I bear witness that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah (swt), and I bear witness that Muhammad (pbuh) is the Messenger of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets.

There are two fundamental beliefs in Islam, the first being Tawheed, and the second is to believe that Muhammad (pbuh) is the Prophet and Messenger of Allah (swt). Tawheed is the essence and core belief of Islam and it is an obligation upon all Muslims to know and believe in it. This is a huge topic, but I will only give a brief understanding of what Tawheed means and what are its categories. Tawheed comes from the Arabic word “wahhada” which means “to unite, unify or consolidate”, therefore, Tawheed means “unification” or “affirming oneness”. So in Islamic terminology, it is the proclamation that Allah (swt) is The One and Only True God Who deserves to be worshipped in truth and also to confirm all of His Names and Attributes.

There are three categories:

1. Tawheed ar-Rububiyyah – This means that Allah (swt) is One, without partner in His dominion and actions. The word “Rububiyyah” is derived from the word “Rabb” which means “Lord, Cherisher, Sustainer, etc.” It is imperative to believe in the Oneness of the Lordship of Allah (swt), to believe in Maintaining the Unity of Lordship and to believe that Allah (swt) is the Creator, Cherisher, Sustainer, Provider, Organizer, Planner and the Giver of security, etc. Allah (swt) says in the Qur’an: “Allah is the Creator of all things, and He is the Wakeel (Trustee, Disposer of affairs, Guardian) over all things.”(Az-Zumar: 62)

2. Tawheed al-Uluhiyyah – This means that Allah (swt) is One, without rival in His divinity and worship (Allah Alone is worthy of all worship and anything that is worshipped besides Him is a false deity). Allah (swt) says: “Do you then worship besides Allah, things that can neither profit you, nor harm you?” (Al-Anbiya: 66) It is imperative to believe in the Oneness of the Worship of Allah (swt), to believe in Maintaining the Unity of Worship, to have total obedience to Him and His Laws. All acts of ‘Ibaadah (worship and all actions that please Allah) are performed for Allah (swt) Alone. In the Qur’an, Allah (swt) says: “Say (O Muhammad) ‘Who provides for you from the sky and the earth? Or who owns hearing and sight? And who brings out the living from the dead and brings out the dead from the living? And who disposes the affairs?’ They will say: ‘Allah’.” (Yunus: 31) The Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (pbuh) said: “If you ask in prayer ask only Allah, and if you seek help, seek it only from Allah.” (Reported by Ibn ‘Abbaas and collected by at-Tirmidhi)

Allah (swt) says: “And when My slaves ask you (O Muhammad) concerning Me, then (answer them), ‘I am indeed near (to them by my Knowledge). I respond to the invocations of the supplicant when he calls on Me (without any mediator or intercessor). So let them obey Me and believe in Me, so that they may be guided aright.” (Al-Baqarah: 186)

3. Tawheed al-Asma’ wa as-Sifaat – This means that Allah (swt) is One, without similitude in His Essence and Attributes. It is imperative to believe in the Oneness of the Names and the Attributes of Allah (swt), and to believe in all the Divine Names and Attributes of Allah (swt) in a manner that suits His Majesty, as mentioned in the Qur’an and the Sunnah. Therefore, we must affirm the Names and Attributes of Allah (swt) and not liken them to the creation. Allah (swt) says: “There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer.” (Ash-Shura: 11)

Allah (swt) says: “Say (O Muhammad): ‘He is Allah, The One (and Only). Allah, The Eternal Absolute (The Self-Sufficient Master, Whom all creatures need). He begets not, nor was He begotten. And there is none co-equal or comparable unto Him.” (Al-Ikhlaas: 1-4)

All Praise and Glory be to Allah (swt) – and Woe to those who ascribe partners unto Him.

Robert Gallagher said that change is inevitable – except from a vending machine. It is inevitable that structures and processes and relationships will change in our day-to-day lives. It is inevitable that we will face new challenges and it is inevitable that things may seem a little different in the years ahead. Yes, life is definitely going to become a little “shaken up and stirred”. 

But as we look back on a journey – a journey that started out with hesitant, tentative steps, in retrospect, we see just how far we have progressed. I would like to share a memory – memory that serve to illustrate that while some things will change and rightly so – the core fundamentals in our lives will remain the same.

This brief illustration is about a sports event in a school with parents invited as well. A youngster is sitting next to the sports field trying to put on his sock. The sports teacher walked past. The boy stands up, hopping around on one leg, his sock in his hand and he greets, “Sir” He sits down again intent on putting on his sock. The teacher walks on a little way and watch. The youngster it seems has chosen a bad spot. At least six other parents happen to walk past him, separately, but in relatively quick succession. And, every time, without fail, he clambers on to his one foot and greets, “Sir or Ma’am!” I’m not sure if he eventually did get his elusive sock on – but I can testify to the exceptional manners that were witnessed – manners that are so firmly ingrained that they are almost intuitive.

This phenomenon of ‘change’ is visibly coming up in the form of extreme ‘competitiveness’. The world is becoming very competitive in every sense. Let’s take golfing and tennis, aspiring players graduating from academies with stringent intake criterion and undergo untiring trainings.

There is astounding research going on in the fields of Engineering and Medicine. The advancements in the area of Telecommunications are beyond ones comprehension. The desktop machines are become outdated with laptops becoming common at affordable prices. In academia, now we get to hear of close to perfect scores in exams such as GMAT and GRE and intake of top schools are becoming stringent.  In the field of defense there is sophisticated weaponry with unmanned air craft’s offering high precision and accuracy and GPS technologies literally offering street views at few clicks of any part of the world. And the list goes on. These are all few examples of how world are evolving and are becoming very scientific.

Now given this backdrop that change is inevitable and it is the most constant thing in this world, let’s see what we have to offer as a Pakistani as we have to be on our toes to meet the demands of the ever changing paradigms of this world. 

We are living in difficult times and unfortunately our beloved Pakistan has few threats. We all have to face the current turmoil with brave hearts. I am a firm believer that we the Pakistani’s are one of the most talented nations in the world.

Although the list of great Pakistani’s is never ending but I would like to take this opportunity and share few names who made all of us proud.

Jahangir Khan the greatest player of all times made history in the game of squash. He won world open record six times and won the coveted British Open ten times. He also had an honor of being unbeaten for record 5 years, a record breaking winning streak in the history of squash. I am not sure how many of you know that Jahangir underwent multiple surgeries as a child and was advised strictly by doctors to avoid any physical exertion as he was extremely week.

Wasim Akram the great cricketer made it to hall of fame as he holds the record for the most number of wickets in one day cricket (502) which is no mean feat.

Cadet Ghulam M. Malik (retired as Lt. Gen G.M Malik) is the first Asian to win the prestigious Queens Medal at Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst in UK.

The gifted Junior Under Officer Uqbah Hadeed Malik (Now Capt) merely at the age of 22, wins the coveted sword of honor at the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst in UK as he was declared as the best overall international cadet.

18 year old Ali Moeen Nawazish, a wiz kid from Rawalpindi made a world record by securing 22 A’s in A level examinations of University of Cambridge. He is also acknowledged by the Guinness Book of Records at this tender age for outstanding achievement.

Dr. Atique Samdani awarded ‘physician of the year’ award in USA.

 The world’s youngest Microsoft Certified Professional is a Pakistani

There was one common denominator amongst all of them, they all had an extra-ordinary ‘will’ do to do well in their respective areas and they were extremely focused in their pursuits. And surely they were able to adapt to the best of their abilities to the ‘change’ in pursuit of

their goals. The above are few examples of Pakistani’s who have outshined other nations which suggest the talent which we all can leverage provided we have the ‘will’ and right ‘intentions.’

And then there are other phenomenal achievements of recent times in the field of Telecommunications and biometrics databases:

- There were 300,000 mobile users in Pakistan in year 2000 and within a span of few years the number stands at around 98 million mobile users.

- Pakistan is the most connected country in South Asia, with the highest teledensity in terms of mobile access per hundred people which stands at 62%

- Pakistan has the world’s largest biometric database (NADRA); this system (not the data) is now being provided to allied countries

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. ~Eleanor Roosevelt

The following extract from a speech by Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling who spoke to Harvard graduates on June 5, 2008 offers a very unique perspective when she says…

“If you choose to use your status and influence to raise your voice on behalf of those who have no voice; if you choose to identify not only with the powerful, but with the powerless; if you retain the ability to imagine yourself into the lives of those who do not have your advantages, then it will not only be your proud families who celebrate your existence, but thousands and millions of people whose reality you have helped change. We do not need magic to change the world; we carry all the power we need inside ourselves already: we have the power to imagine better”

And our great founder of the nation Muhammad Ali Jinnah rightly points out…

‘With faith, discipline and selfless devotion to duty, there is nothing worthwhile that you cannot achieve’.

The greatest example of a man who really brought an extra ordinary change for the generations to come can be attributed to our beloved Quaid Muhammad Ali Jinnah, when somebody very rightly points out….

“The change in the world is always brought by one man, whom we call “the leader”. Who has the vision and the force not only to make people dream, but to reach and live that dream. He is intelligent enough to foresee tomorrow. He is selfless and courageous to the extent of being ready to scarifies everything and express truth even if it defames him. People fellow him where he takes them. He is the one who accelerates history and for whom nature proclaims itself. “What a man”"

God bless Pakistan

Who are the Jinn? This is a question which many people are interested in knowing as they (the Jinn) are also a creation like Mankind but different in many ways. The Qur’an, Sunnah [sayings, actions and tacit approvals of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)] and the ijma’ (consensus of the scholars) show us that the jinn do in fact exist, and just like Mankind, they too have a purpose of existence in this life, which is to worship Allah Alone, and not associating any partner to Him. Allah (swt) says in the Qur’an: “And I (Allah) created not the jinn and mankind except that they should worship Me (Alone).” [Adh-Dhaariyaat: 56].

The word ‘Jinn’ by definition means something that is hidden from sight or which cannot be seen, therefore they are called ‘Jinn’ because they are concealed from human sight. Allah (swt) says: “…Verily he (Satan) and Qabiluhu (his solders from the jinn or his tribe) see you from where you cannot see them….” (Al-Ar’af: 27). The Jinn have an independent and separate world which is hidden from the world of humans. Mankind and the Jinn have some familiarities, such as they (Jinn) have understanding and the ability to choose between right and wrong. The Jinn differ from humans in their creation as Allah (swt) states in the Qur’an: “And the jinn, We created aforetime from the smokeless flame of fire.” [al-Hijr: 27] In another verse: “And the jinn did He create from a smokeless flame of fire.” [Ar-Rahman: 15]. There is a hadith which is related by ‘Aa’ishah [may Allah bless her (the wife of the Prophet)], where the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said: “The angels were created from light, the jinn were created from fire, and Adam was created from that which has been described to you.” (Reported by Muslim, 5314).

The Jinn are of different kinds, some of them can assume different forms, for example they can take the form of dogs and snakes (this does not mean that all dogs and snakes are Jinn); there are some who can fly and some who can journey and rest. Abu Tha’labah al-Khushani said: “The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said: ‘The jinn are of three types: a type that has wings, and they fly through the air; a type that looks like snakes and dogs; and a type that stops for a rest then resumes its journey.” There are different names describing them, such as ‘Amir’ which refers to a resident Jinn who lives with humans; then there those called ‘Shaytaan (plural – Shayateen)’ which refers to the wicked and evil among them and some are called ‘Ifreet’ which is used for one who is very strong and powerful (and can move with great speed). There is an example of this in the Qur’an when the Prophet Sulaiman (Solomon) wanted the Throne of Sheba to be brought before him in Jerusalem: “An ‘Ifreet (strong one) from the jinn said: ‘I will bring it to you before you rise from your place (council). And verily, I am indeed strong, and trust-worthy for such work.’ One with whom was knowledge of the Scripture said: ‘I will bring it to you within the twinkling of an eye!’ Then when he [Sulaiman (Solomon)] saw it placed before him, he said: ‘this is by the Grace of my Lord….’” (An-Naml: 39-40).

Every human has been assigned with a Jinn companion (qareen). In a hadith, Ibn Mas’ood said: “The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said, ‘There is not one of you who does not have a jinn appointed to be his constant companion.’ They said, ‘And you too, O Messenger of Allah?’ He said, ‘Me too, but Allah has helped me and he has submitted (according to Al-Nawawi, this means that he became Muslim), so that he only helps me to do good.’” (Reported by Muslim, 2814). It is important to know that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) was physically and mentally protected from Shaytaan. All Muslims must be cautious against this Jinn companion who is constantly whispering and tempting us to do evil.

In the Qur’an, Allah (swt) informs us that some of the Jinn said: “‘And of us some are Muslims, and of us some are Al-Qaasitoon (disbelievers – those who have deviated from the Right Path). And whosoever has embraced Islam, then such have sought the Right Path. And as for the Qaasitoon, they shall be firewood for Hell.’” [Al-Jinn: 14-15] These Muslims amongst the Jinn differ in levels with regards to their righteousness and taqwa (being conscious of Allah or fear of Allah). Allah (swt) says that some Jinn said: “‘There are among us some that are righteous, and some the contrary; we are groups having different ways (religious sects, etc.)’” [Al-Jinn: 11] Mankind will brought to account on the Day of Judgment for all that we have done here on Earth and so will the Jinn too be brought to account. Allah (swt) says: “… but the Jinn know well that they have indeed to appear (before Him) (i.e., they will be brought to account).” [Al-Saaffaat: 158]:

We humans eat and drink and the Jinn do the same. Ibn Mas’ood (ra) said: “The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said: ‘Someone from among the jinn called me, and I went with him and recited the Qur’an for them.’ He took us and showed us the traces of where they had been and the traces of their fires. They asked him for food and he said, ‘you can have every bone on which the name of Allah has been mentioned that comes into your possession, as meat, and all the droppings as food for your animals.’ The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) said, ‘so do not use [these things] for cleaning yourselves [after relieving oneself], for they are the food and provision of your brothers.’” (Reported by Muslim, 450). Another report states: “A delegation of Jinn from Naseebeen came to me, and what good Jinn they are! They asked me for food and I prayed to Allah for them, so that they would not pass by bones or droppings, but they would find food on them.” (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 3571). The believers among the Jinn may eat any bone on which the name of Allah has been mentioned, because the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) did not allow them to have anything on which Allah’s (swt) name has not been mentioned (they are for those Jinn who are disbelievers).

The Jinn exist on this very Earth where we humans reside. The Jinn are mainly found in ruins and unclean places like toilet rooms, dunghills, garbage dumps and graveyards. Therefore the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) has taught us to take protection when entering such places, by reciting the necessary supplications. There is a report by Anas ibn Maalik (ra), who said: “When the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) entered the toilet, he would say, ‘Allaahumma innee a’oodhu bika min al-khubuthi wa’l-khabaa’ith (O Allah, I seek refuge with You from the evil ones, male and female).’” (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 142; and Muslim, 375). The Scholar Al-Khattaabi clarified that the word ‘khubuth’ is the plural of khabeeth (evil or dirty – masculine form), and the word ‘khabaa’ith’ is the plural of khabeethah (evil or dirty – feminine form), therefore meaning the male and female shayaateen. The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) has taught us many ways to protect ourselves from these evil ones among the Jinn, by saying ‘a’oodhu billaahi mina-shaytaan nir-rajeem’ (I seek refuge with Allah from the accursed Shaytaan), we can recite Surah al-Falaq and an-Nas (the last two Surahs of the Qur’an). In the Qur’an there are many passages for seeking refuge with Allah (swt), for example Allah (swt) says: “Say: ‘My Lord! I seek refuge with You from the whisperings (suggestions) of the shayaateen (devils). And I seek refuge with You, my Lord, lest they may attend (or come near) me.’” [al-Mu’minoon: 97-98]

The Jinn have the ability to possess people. They do that because sometimes the Jinn or its family gets hurt by accident. It also occurs because the Jinn have fallen in love with the person. But most of the time, it is because the Jinn is simply wicked and evil. The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) warned us about lurking in places where the Jinn reside, e.g. graveyards, ruins, garbage dumps, deserts, toilet rooms etc. Also, the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) commanded us to recite the Qur’an regularly in our homes: “Indeed, the shaytaan flees from the house in which Surah Al-Baqarah (the 2nd chapter of the Qur’an) is recited.” (Reported by at-Tirmidhi) The name of Allah (swt) is used for expelling the Jinn from the body and there are numerous verses and supplications that the Messenger of Allah (pbuh) has taught us to say when performing an exorcism.

Remember that the shayateen (evil ones among the Jinn) are chief components in occult activities such as magic, witchcraft, voodoo, etc. Also fortune-tellers use the Jinn (the qareen assigned to every human) to find out about the future. None knows the Unseen except Allah (swt), but what these Jinn do is that they would go to the lowest heaven and eavesdrop on the conversation of the Angels who talk amongst themselves about events of the future which they heard from Allah (swt). These Jinn would then inform the fortune-tellers. Before the time of the Messenger of Allah (pbuh), many fortune-tellers were very accurate in their predictions. Nonetheless, upon the Prophet’s arrival the heavens were guarded intensely by the Angels, and any Jinn who tried to listen was attacked by shooting stars: “And indeed, We have put the big stars in the heaven and We beautified it for the beholders. And We have guarded it (near heaven) from every outcast shaytan (devil). Except him (devil) who steals a hearing then he is pursued by a clear flaming fire (shooting star).” (Al-Hijr: 18) But if they succeeded in eavesdropping and did not get hit by the shooting star, then they would bring the future prediction to the fortune-teller and add a 100 lies to it. So whenever you see a shooting star(s), don’t make a wish, but know that a devil(s) is being chased away by it!! The Messenger of Allah (pbuh) forbade us from going to these fortune-tellers (that includes believing in astrological signs): “The prayer of one who approaches a fortune-teller and asks him about anything, will not be accepted for forty days or nights.” (Reported by Muslim – Vol.4, p.1211, No.5540) and: “Whosoever approaches a fortune-teller and believes in what he says, has disbelieved in what was revealed to Muhammed.” (Reported by Ahmed). So please stay away from them!!!

This is just a brief synopsis regarding the Jinn, if you are interested in learning more about them, then please refer to the book by Dr. ‘Umar S. Al-Ashqar: “World of the Jinn and Devils.”

The Sixth and last article of faith in Islam is to believe in Fate, whether good or bad, which Allah has measured and ordained for all creatures according to His previous knowledge and as deemed suitable by His wisdom. This subject is misunderstood by many Muslims and has also taken many Muslims away from the Straight Path. It is important to know that to believe in Al-Qadar (Predestination) is an obligation but not to delve too deep into it as the secret of this knowledge rests with Allah (SWT) Alone just like the knowledge of The Ruh (The Spirit).

There are four levels of Belief in Fate:

1) The Knowledge of Allah (SWT) encompasses everything (He knows everything) and His Knowledge is Eternal. He knows what has happened and what will happen and how it will happen. Allah (SWT) is never forgetful of what He knows nor does He gain new knowledge.

2) Allah (SWT) has recorded in Al-Lawh al-Mahfoodh (The Preserved Tablet) whatever is going to happen until the Day of Judgment as Allah states: “Know you not that Allah knows all that is in the heavens and on the earth? Verily, it is (all) in the Book (The Preserved Tablet). Verily, that is easy for Allah.” (Al-Hajj: 70).

3) Everything that is in the heaven and the earth has been willed by Allah (SWT) and nothing can happen except by His Will. This means that whatever Allah (SWT) Wills will come to pass and if He does not Will it, then it will not happen.

4) Everything we do whether publicly or secretly is known to Allah (SWT) as He says in the Qur’an: “Allah is the Creator of all things, and He is the Wakeel (Trustee, Disposer of affairs, Guardian) over all things. To Him belong the keys of the heavens and the earth. And those who disbelieve in the Ayat (signs, verses, proofs, revelations, evidences, etc.) of Allah, such are they who will be the losers.” (Az-Zumar: 62-63) Allah (SWT) has also mentioned this in many other verses such as: “To whomsoever among you who wills to walk straight. And you cannot will unless (it be) that Allah wills, the Lord of the Worlds.” (At-Takweer: 28-29); “…….If Allah had willed, they would not have fought one against one another, but Allah does what He likes.” (Al-Baqarah: 253); “…..And if Allah had willed, they would not have done so. So leave them alone with their fabrications.” (Al-An’am: 137); “While Allah has created you and what you make (Man’s Free Will).” (As-Saffaat: 96).

Allah (SWT) has given man the power of free will by which he performs his deeds. Therefore, the sinner has no excuse in Allah’s (SWT) Divine Decree, because the sin is committed by his free will, and the sinner does not know what Allah (SWT) has decreed for him, for no one knows Allah’s Decree before it takes place. Allah (SWT) says: “….No person knows what he will earn tomorrow, and no person knows in what land he will die. Verily, Allah is the All-Knower, All-Aware (of things).” (Luqman: 34). So, it would not be possible for the person who committed the sin to present an excuse that is not known to him. Allah (SWT) says: “Those who took partners (in worship) with Allah will say: ‘If Allah had willed, we would not have taken partners (in worship) with Him, nor would our fathers and we would not have forbidden anything (against His Will).’ Likewise belied those who were before them, (they argued falsely with Allah’s Messengers), till they tasted Our Wrath. Say: ‘Have you any knowledge (proof) that you can produce before us? Verily, you follow nothing but assumption and you do nothing but lie.’” (Al-An’am: 148).

It is recorded in the Saheehayn (al-Bukhaari & Muslim) regarding the people who use The Divine Decree of Allah (SWT) as an excuse: “Why did you not perform deeds of obedience, assuming that Allah has decreed them upon you, since you did not know the difference between good deeds and sins? That is why, when Prophet Muhammad told his Companions that everyone’s position in paradise or hell has been assigned, they said: ‘Should not we rely on this and stop working?’ He said: ‘No, work and everyone will be directed to what he is created for.”‘

For example if you were travelling to Makkah and there are two roads that may take you there. You are told by a truthful person that one of these roads is dangerous and difficult; the other is easy and safe. Any sane person would take the easy and safe path. It would be dim-witted of you to take the first road and say that it was decreed upon me. If you did that, then people would call you insane. Another example would be if you are presented with two jobs, and one of them has a high salary than the other, you would definitely take the one with the higher salary. So think about it, why would you choose something that is lower in the Hereafter and use Allah’s (SWT) Divine Decree as an excuse? If you get a sickness, you would be going to every doctor looking for a cure; you would bear the pain resulting from the medicine or even if it meant a surgical procedure. So, if your heart is spiritually sick with sins, then why not do the same?

Evil should never be attributed to Allah (SWT) as Allah’s (SWT) Mercy and Wisdom are faultless. In Muslim it is recorded that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: “And evil is not attributable to You (Allah).” However, the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said to Al-Hasan, to whom he was teaching the supplication of Qunoot: “And protect us from the evil of what You decreed.” (Recorded in at-Tirmidhi and others). Now it is important to know that the evil in Allah’s (SWT) decree is not pure evil. It is rather evil in one respect and good in another, or it is evil in one case and good in another. So, corruption caused in a land due to drought, or disease, or poverty is evil, but it is good in another respect. Allah (SWT) says: “Evil (sins and disobedience to Allah) has appeared on land and sea because of what the hands of men have earned (by oppression and evil deeds), that He (Allah) may make them taste a part of that which they have done, in order that they may return (by repenting to Allah, and begging His Pardon). (Ar-Room: 41).

Al-Qadar (Predestination) gives us a peace of mind and comfort, no matter what calamities befall us, we remain steadfast and we are satisfied with Allah’s (SWT) Decree. Any good that comes to us, we should thank Allah (SWT) and if any bad comes to us, we should persevere and be patient and ask Allah (SWT) to remove it from us. Allah (SWT) says: “No calamity befalls on the earth or in yourselves but it is inscribed in the Book of Decrees (The Preserved Tablet) before We bring it into existence. Verily, that is easy for Allah. In order that you may not grieve at the things that you fail to get, nor rejoice over that which has been given to you. And Allah likes not prideful boasters.” (Al-Hadeed: 22-23).

For more information on this subject, please refer to the book by Dr. ‘Umar S. Al-Ashqar – “Divine Will and Predestination – In the Light of the Qur’an and Sunnah.”

Remember my brothers, that Allah (SWT) does not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves. Obey Allah (SWT) by following the Qur’an and obey His Messenger, Muhammad (PBUH) by following his Sunnah (what he said, what he did, and what he approved of). That indeed is the Straight Path.

I wrote this to express my helplessness in wake of the atrocities committed against the muslims around the world.

As morbid as living dead we walk

Oblivious of pain within our creed

The reek of blood has seamed within

As youth ashamed of self we breed

As we look away from the endless rape

And then persist with the shameless gait;

We Curse the heavens and stars of luck

Disgraced, accept the hand of fate

Illustrious past we don’t forget

Those men we name our children by

Should they be called to fight again?

Or divine help   descends the sky?

They mock and laugh at our helpless state

As we lay unmoved at their cruel boots

If our stagnant blood has a hint of warmth

Let’s shun languor from our very roots

We may yet have in our hollowed bones

The strength to stand with pride, upright

The fire they lit has burnt our homes

But may just melt our hearts to light

Our burdened souls are weak and frail

But may just carry our futures weight

Destiny a mere illusion in time

Its men who make a nations fate

Fear imprisoned our selfs for long

Let hope now set our children free

I know that life is a precious gift

But would we live, if we are not free

The fifth article of faith in Islam is to believe in the Final Day, the Day of Judgment, when people will be resurrected and gathered for Judgment, and then will be given the glad tidings of Paradise or the doom of Hell-Fire. This is a very big topic, so I will only mention some of the events of the Last Day and I will be very brief.

Muslims believe that when a person dies, the Trial of the Grave begins, which involves questioning the deceased person in his grave about his Lord, his religion, and his Prophet. Allah says: “Allah will keep firm those who believe, with the word that stands firm in this world (i.e. they will keep worshipping Allah Alone and none else), and in the Hereafter. And Allah will cause to go astray those who are Zaalimoon (Polytheists and wrong-doers), and Allah does what He wills.” (Ibrahim: 27) The believer will say: “Allah is my Lord, Islam is my religion, and Muhammad is my Prophet.” The unbeliever or the hypocrite will say: “I do not know. I heard the people saying something and I said it.” The believers will abide in their graves with comfort and upon death, they will be greeted by the Angels and will be given the good news of Paradise as Allah says: “Those whose lives the angels take while they are in a pious state (i.e. that is pure from all evil and worshipping none but Allah) saying (to them): ‘Salaamun ‘Alaikum (peace be upon you) enter Paradise, because of that (the good) which you used to do (in the world).’” (An-Nahl: 32).

Muslims believe that there is a punishment of the grave and a torment of degradation for the transgressing unbelievers. Allah says: “….And if you could but see when the Zaalimoon (polytheists, wrong-doers, and evil-doers) are in the agonies of death, while the angels are stretching forth their hands (saying): ‘Deliver your souls! This day you shall be recompensed with the punishment of humiliation because of what you used to utter against Allah other than the truth. And you used to reject His signs.”‘ (Al-An’am: 93).

Muslims believe in the resurrection, when Allah will bring life back to all those who have died, and when the Angel Israfeel shall blow the horn for the second time as Allah states: “And the trumpet will be blown, and all who are in the heavens and who are in the Earth shall fall down fainting (swoon away), except him whom Allah wills. Then it will be blown a second time, and behold they will rise (standing), gazing around them.” (Az-Zumar: 68). People will arise from their graves, answering the call of Allah (The Lord of all Creation). Allah says: “And (remember) the Day when We shall roll up the heaven like a scroll rolled up for the books. As We began the first creation, We shall repeat it. (It is) a promise binding upon Us. Truly, We shall do it.” (Al-Anbiya: 104).

Muslims believe that whatever we do in this world, good or bad, is precisely recorded and these records shall be shown to us on that Day. Some will get their records in their right hands and some will get them in their left hands or behind their backs. Allah says: “Then as for him who will be given his Record in his right hand, he shall surely receive an easy reckoning and he will return to his family in joy (rejoicing). But whosoever is given his Record behind his back, He will invoke (for his) destruction, and he shall enter a Blazing Fire, and be made to taste its burning.” (Al-Inshiqaaq: 7-12); Allah also says: “And we have fastened every man’s deeds to his neck, and on the Day of Resurrection, We shall bring out for him a book which he will find wide open. (It will be said to him): ‘Read your book. You yourself are sufficient as a reckoner against you this Day.”‘ (Al-Isra’: 13-14).

Muslims believe that the scales of deeds will be set up on the Day of Judgment, and that no soul shall be wronged, Allah says: “So whosoever does good equal to the weight of an atom shall see it. And whosoever does evil equal to the weight of an atom shall see it.” (Az-Zalzalah: 7-8); “Then, those whose scales (of good deeds) are heavy, they are the successful. And those whose scales (of good deeds) are light, they are those who lose their ownselves, in Hell will they abide. (Al-Mu’minoon: 102-104); and “Whoever brings a good deed shall be rewarded ten times the like of it, and he that does evil shall only be rewarded the like of it, and they shall not be wronged.” (Al-An’am: 160).

Muslims believe in Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) intercession (Shafa’ah) for the people of Paradise to enter therein. This intercession is exclusively limited to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The Prophet (PBUH) will implore Allah to begin the Judgement of Mankind, to judge among His servants when they suffer from the worries and troubles that they cannot bear on that Great Day. The Intercession also includes some believers who are to be taken out from the Fire. This mediation is granted to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and to others among the Prophets, the believers, and the angels. Some of the believers will be taken out of the Fire without the intercession of any one, but only by Allah’s Grace and Mercy.

Muslims believe in the Hawd (Cistern, Basin or Pool) and river of al-Kawthar of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) which was granted to him by Allah (Surah al-Kawthar – chapter 108), the water of which is whiter than milk and sweeter than honey and better in fragrance than musk. Each of its length and width is the distance of a month’s travel. Its glasses are as stars in beauty and number. Those who strictly adhered to the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Sunnah and stayed away from innovations brought into the religion will come to drink from this Great Cistern after which they shall never be thirsty again.

Muslims believe in the Sirat (The Bridge over Hell-Fire). People pass over it according to their deeds; the first of them as fast as lighting, then as fast as wind, then as fast as birds, and then as fast as a running man. The Prophet will be standing on the path, saying: “Lord, Save! Save!” as some people’s deeds will fall short. Some of them will come crawling. At both sides of the path there are hooks designed to take whom Allah wills; some are saved but bruised; others are thrown into the Hell-Fire. (al-Bukhaari and Muslim).

Muslims believe in Paradise and Hell-Fire. Paradise is prepared for the righteous and those whom Allah has favoured and blessed. No eye has ever seen, no ear has ever heard of, and no human being has ever thought of the blessings that they will enjoy there, Allah says: “No person knows what is kept hidden for them of joy as a reward for what they used to do.” (As-Sajdah: 17). Hell-Fire is prepared for the unbelievers and the wrong-doers. The punishment, the humiliation, the torture and the horror in it cannot be visualized, Allah says: “….Verily, We have prepared for the Zaalimoon (polytheists and wrong-doers), a Fire whose walls will be surrounding them. And if they ask for help (relief, water) they will be granted water like boiling oil that will scald their faces. Terrible is the drink, and an evil dwelling place!” (Al-Kahf: 29).

“….And whosoever believes in Allah and performs righteous good deeds, He will admit him into Gardens under which rivers flow (Paradise) to dwell therein forever. Allah has indeed granted for him an excellent provision.” (At-Talaq: 11); “Verily, Allah has cursed the disbelievers, and has prepared for them a Blazing Fire (Hell). Wherein they will abide forever, and they will find neither a Wali (a protector) nor a helper. On the Day when their faces will be turned over in the Fire, they will say: ‘Oh, would that we had obeyed Allah and obeyed the Messenger (Muhammad)!’” (Al-Ahzab: 64-66).

Some people have been confirmed Paradise in the Qur’an and the Sunnah either by name or description. It is narrated by ‘Abd –ar-Rahmaan ibn ‘Awf who said that The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: “Abu Bakr will be in Paradise, ‘Umar will be in Paradise, ‘Uthmaan will be in Paradise, ‘Ali will be in Paradise, Talhah will be in Paradise, al-Zubayr will be in Paradise, ‘Abd al-Rahmaan ibn ‘Awf will be in Paradise, Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas will be in Paradise, Sa’eed ibn Zayd will be in Paradise, and Abu ‘Ubaydah ibn al-Jarraah will be in Paradise.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 3680). Other Companions have also been given the glad tidings of Paradise, such as Khadeejah bint Khuwaylid, ‘Abd-Allah ibn Salaam, ‘Ukaashah ibn Muhsan and others, but the ten mentioned above are called the ten who were given the glad tidings of Paradise because their glad tidings came in one hadeeth. Likewise, some people have been confirmed Hell-Fire in the Qur’an and the Sunnah. Among those who are mentioned by name are Abu Lahab, ‘Amr Ibn Luhai al-Khuza’i, and others (al-Bukhaari and Muslim). Among those mentioned by description is every unbeliever, polytheist, or hypocrite.

Muslims believe in all that is mentioned in the Qur’an and the Sunnah concerning the Day of Judgement and its Terrors – may Allah save us from them. For more information, please refer to the books by Dr. ‘Umar S. al-Ashqar – “The Minor Resurrection (what happens after death),” “The Day of Resurrection” and “Paradise and Hell”.