Thursday, September 28, 2023

ARTICLE IN NEW YORK TIMES PAPER:

Our first true hero Prince Karim Aga Khan by   Lester Hale ( non -Muslim)


Jim Davis, a non-Muslim, has said, "Given that Ismailism is a successful synthesis [under the leadership of the Imam] of West and East, it may become the religion for our times."


Never has the Earth seen a character of such influence on the lives of so many. Prince Karim Aga Khan, the 49th Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community, has been instrumental and fundamental in the elevation of his some 15 million followers to a higher socio-economic standing.

Millions of people look to him for inspiration in all aspects of life, including myself.

He is a religious leader, but he is much more than that. He is a meritocratic visionary, he is amongst the greatest philanthropists of all time, he is an amazing businessman with operations around the world, and he is a spokesperson for a hurting Islam.


The Aga Khan has built a bridge between eastern and western religions, understanding the need for cross-cultural communication and dialogue.


He is not “famous” in the typical sense of the word – only political leaders, scholars, his followers, and those who care for the plight of the poor know his work.

The Aga Khan Foundation is considered the second largest NGO in the world after the Ford Foundation.


Its numerous branches focus on long-term sustainable development projects, education, health care, and more.


The Aga Khan University in Pakistan is a perfect example of the extraordinary achievements of this humble man.


He worked very closely with the late Pierre Elliot Trudeau to ensure that his people would have a better future in Canada, in the face of corrupt East African regimes – a future filled with opportunity, security, and identity.


He has assisted thousands of people in Asia resettle in the developed world, particularly those suffering in Afghanistan and the former USSR.


His emphasis on obtaining the best possible education, along with his informed guidance, has placed his people in many of the top positions in societies around the world. My visions, goals, and morals have been shaped around his life and guidance.


These morals include the avoidance of alcohol and drugs, and service to the community, the poor, and the elderly. He taught me to provide a 'spark' in the lives of those less fortunate.

His effect on Society far outweighs the effect any famous person has had on the world. His kindness, compassion, and achievements would make one wonder if he were of this Earth.

Scholars have called his community, the Shia Ismaili Muslims, the most progressive, organized, schooled and financially well-off sect within Islam.


To me a hero is a leader whose efforts are not always recognized, at least to the extent they should be. People are beginning to notice, and the more people who do, the better the world will become.

Hazrat Mohammad

Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Concept of Haqiqa

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The concept of Haqiqa in Islam is a complex one, but it can be broadly understood as the "truth" or "reality" of things. It is the essence of something, beyond its outward appearance or form.

Haqiqa is often contrasted with Shariat, which is the Islamic law or code of conduct. Shariat is the outward manifestation of Islam, while Haqiqa is its inner essence.

Sufis, in particular, emphasize the importance of Haqiqa. They believe that the goal of the spiritual path is to achieve Haqiqa, or to realize the true nature of reality.

There are many different ways to achieve Haqiqa. Some Sufis seek it through meditation, contemplation, and prayer. Others seek it through service to others or through the study of esoteric knowledge.

Ultimately, Haqiqa is a personal experience. It is a realization of the truth of one's own existence and one's relationship to God.

Here are some of the key aspects of Haqiqa:

  • Haqiqa is the truth or reality of things.

  • Haqiqa is the essence of something, beyond its outward appearance or form.

  • Haqiqa is often contrasted with Shariat, which is the Islamic law or code of conduct.

  • Sufis, in particular, emphasize the importance of Haqiqa.

  • Haqiqa is a personal experience. It is a realization of the truth of one's own existence and one's relationship to God.

Haqiqa is a complex and challenging concept, but it is an important one in Islam. It is the goal of the spiritual path and the key to true understanding and fulfillment.


Monday, September 25, 2023

Concept of hanif

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The concept of Hanif in Islam refers to someone who maintains the pure monotheism of the patriarch Abraham. More specifically, in Islamic thought, Hanifs were the people who, during the pre-Islamic period or Jahiliyyah, were seen to have renounced idolatry and retained some or all of the tenets of the religion of Abraham (إبراهيم, Ibrāhīm), which was submission to God in its purest form. The word is found twelve times in the Quran (ten times in its singular form and twice in the plural form) and Islamic tradition tells of a number of individuals who were Hanifs.

The Hanifs are believed to have played an important role in the development of Islam. They helped to prepare the ground for the Prophet Muhammad's message by rejecting idolatry and calling for a return to the pure monotheism of Abraham.

Some of the key beliefs of the Hanifs include:

  • Belief in one God, the creator of the universe

  • Rejection of idolatry and polytheism

  • Belief in the prophets and messengers of God

  • Belief in the Day of Judgment and the afterlife

  • Belief in the importance of good deeds and moral conduct

The concept of Hanif is still relevant to Muslims today. It is a reminder that the essence of Islam is the worship of one God and the submission to His will. It is also a reminder that Muslims should strive to be good people and to follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad.

Some of the Hanifs mentioned in the Quran and Islamic tradition include:

  • Ibrahim (Abraham)

  • Ismail (Ishmael)

  • Ishaq (Isaac)

  • Yaqub (Jacob)

  • Yusuf (Joseph)

  • Shu'ayb

  • Hud

  • Salih

  • Luqman

These individuals are revered by Muslims as role models and examples of true faith.


Concept of Imama

 

https://youtu.be/CuurpUeACc0?si=kUlRyn4c_N2tbPGl

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The concept of Imamate is a central tenet of Shia Islam. It refers to the divinely ordained leadership of the Muslim community after the death of the Prophet Muhammad. Shias believe that the Imams are infallible and divinely guided and that they have the authority to interpret Islamic law and lead the community.

The Imamate is based on the belief that God would not leave humanity without access to divine guidance after the death of the Prophet Muhammad. Shias believe that the Imams are the successors to Muhammad and that they are the only ones who can correctly interpret and apply Islamic law.

Allah says in the Quran:

يٰٓاَيُّھَا الَّذِيْنَ اٰمَنُوْٓا اَطِيْعُوا اللہَ وَاَطِيْعُوا الرَّسُوْلَ وَاُولِي الْاَمْرِ مِنْكُمْ


“O you who have faith! Obey Allah and Obey the Apostle and those vested with authority among you”.


This verse obliges the Muslims to obey three entities: First, to obey Allah; second, to obey the Messenger and those vested with authority (Ulil-Amr). Ulil-Amr (those who are given authority by Allah). This is one of the places where the concept of Imamate and the necessity of obedience to them come from. (Quran 4:59)

The Imams are also believed to be the spiritual and moral leaders of the Muslim community. They are responsible for guiding the community toward righteousness and salvation.

There are twelve Imams in Shia (Isna-ashri) Islam. The first Imam was Ali ibn Abi Talib, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad. The twelfth and final Imam is Muhammad al-Mahdi, who is believed to be in occultation (hiding) and will return at the end of time to establish justice on earth. In Ismaili continuous presence of the Imam in every age - Imam of the time - is the basis of belief.

The concept of Imamate is very important to Shias. It provides them with a sense of identity and unity, and it gives them guidance on how to live their lives in accordance with Islamic law and values. Other terms linked to the concept are:

Imamat: the principal or institution of imamat; in the Shia tradition the institution of Imamat is centred on the authority and leadership of the Imams directly descended from Prophet Muhammad through Hazrat Imam Ali and Hazrat Bibi Fatima.

Imam al-Hadiya: The rightly guided Imam; one of the designations of the Shia Imams.

Imam al-Haq: True Imam or leader;

Imam al-Mubeen: 'Manifest Imam' is a term in the Qur'an interpreted by the Shia as referring to the Imam of the Time.


Imam al-zaman: 'Imam of the Age'; 'Imam of the Time'; in the Shia Ismaili tradition, the present, living Imam.

Here are some of the key functions of the Imams in Shia Islam:

  • To interpret and apply Islamic law

  • To lead the Muslim community in prayer and other religious rituals

  • To provide spiritual and moral guidance

  • To uphold justice and promote social equality

  • To defend Islam from its enemies

  • "an imam's responsibilities include caring for the quality of life of the people who he leads, including their economic progress"

The Imams are also believed to have a special connection to God and to the Prophet Muhammad. Shias believe that the Imams are infallible, meaning that they are free from error and sin. Shias also believe that the Imams have access to esoteric knowledge that is not available to ordinary people.

The concept of Imamate is a complex and nuanced one. There are many different interpretations of the Imamate among Shias, and there is a rich body of scholarship on the topic. However, the core belief is that the Imams are divinely ordained leaders who are responsible for guiding the Muslim community on the path to righteousness and salvation - SIRATAL MUSTAQIM.




Tuesday, September 19, 2023

Hadith and its status

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Hadith is a record of the sayings, actions, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad. It is the second most important source of Islamic law and guidance in Sunni Islam, after the Quran. Hadith are considered to be a primary source of knowledge about the Sunnah, which is the way of life of the Prophet Muhammad.

The status of hadith in Sunni Islam is very high. Muslims believe that hadith are a revelation from Allah, just like the Quran. This is because Muslims believe that the Prophet Muhammad spoke under divine inspiration, even when he was not delivering the Quran.

The Quran itself mentions the importance of hadith in several verses. For example, Allah says in the Quran:

يٰٓاَيُّھَا الَّذِيْنَ اٰمَنُوْٓا اَطِيْعُوا اللہَ وَاَطِيْعُوا الرَّسُوْلَ وَاُولِي الْاَمْرِ مِنْكُمْ

“O you who have faith! Obey Allah and Obey the Apostle and those vested with authority among you”.

This verse obliges the Muslims to obey three entities: First, to obey Allah; second, to obey Messenger and those vested with authority (Ulil-Amr). Ulil-Amr (those who are given authority by Allah). This is one of the places where the concept of Imamate and the necessity of obedience to them come from. (Quran 4:59)

This verse shows that Muslims are commanded to obey Allah, the Messenger, and those in authority. The Messenger here is referring to the Prophet Muhammad. The verse also shows that if Muslims differ in anything, they should refer it to Allah, the Messenger and the Ulil Amr.

Hadith are also important because they provide guidance on a wide range of topics, including:

  • Worship

  • Morals

  • Ethics

  • Law

  • Society

  • Family

  • Economics

  • Politics


In Shia Islam all contemporary issues are referred to the Ulil Amr - Imam of the time.


Hadith scholars in Sunni Islam have developed a rigorous system for evaluating the authenticity of hadith. This system is known as the science of hadith criticism. Hadith scholars have classified hadith into different categories based on their authenticity. The most authentic hadith are those that are narrated by multiple reliable narrators and have a clear chain of transmission back to the Prophet Muhammad.

The status of hadith in Sunni Islam is very important. Hadith are considered to be a primary source of knowledge about the Sunnah, and they provide guidance on a wide range of topics. Hadith scholars have developed a rigorous system for evaluating the authenticity of hadith, and the most authentic hadith are those that are narrated by multiple reliable narrators and have a clear chain of transmission back to the Prophet Muhammad.

The most important collections of hadith are known as the "Six Books" (Sahihain):

Sahih al-Bukhari
Sahih Muslim
Sunan Abu Dawud
Sunan al-Tirmidhi
Sunan al-Nasa'i
Sunan Ibn Majah

Monday, September 18, 2023

Electricity for Hunza - Solar Back-up - Public Private Partnership.

 To: The Secretary Water & Power Govt of GB - Gilgit

Subject:  Electricity for Hunza - Solar Back-up - Public Private Partnership.

Dear Sir,

Mega projects normally take decades to complete we must have an interim solution to overcome energy starvation through SELF HELP - which is attainable in a short period, hope to complete a model project in Baltit within the year, if the govt cooperates in this endeavour.

Brief outline of the proposal is as follows:

1. Establish a 25 KW solar system at each location of Distribution Transformer

2. TMS negotiates with GB Government for:

     a. Installation of a bulk meter at the output of the transformer 

     b. Bill will be paid by the TMS on the basis of the meter   reading

    c. Bills from consumers will be collected by TMS

    d. Amount exceeding the bulk supply bill will be deposited in the account of the investor after deducting the service charges

    e. Default in regular payment of the consumer bill will result in disconnection

3. Councils Cooperation will be on the following lines:

   a. Educate the populations on adoption of civil society learning material and and concept of "Better Tomorrow" as DJ goals. 

   b. Will encourage the VO/WO or individuals to invest in the scheme through SAVINGS SCHEME

   c. Will preside on a briefing session for executives from the stake-holders organisations, TMS, BHT, Municipal Committee, BRSO, KWA etc. First briefing will be done by Brig. Hisamullah Beg, the proponent for this venture

   d. For the first installation located in Polo ground (Didar Gah), a room will be provided by the LC to house the batteries, inverters and control gear. 

   e. LC will also allow use of the roof of office complex or Model High School roof for erecting the Solar Panels

4. Proponent will hire an engineering firm - preferably in GB - to establish the first facility, warranties for the system components after sale service etc. Subsequent systems will either be established by TMS through proposed "Hunza Power supply Company" and also award contracts to the best suppliers according to well defined specifications. 

5. Specifications:

   a. 25 KW solar system with a battery storage capacity of 8000-AH, capable of providing 24-hour energy for the consumers connected to one-phase of the transformer - includes Central (or Principal) JK, and Model High School - of course they pay the bills according to government levies. 

   b. TMS will be responsible for operation and maintenance of the facility in accordance with the written briefing prepared by the proponent - Brig Hisamullah Beg- in consultation with the govt experts 

Karimabad Hunza

25 July 2021

Brig Hisamullah Beg- SI(M)

Copy:

TMS Karimabad

LC Karimabad/ Altit

https://nipponenergy.co/thankyou.htm

Pakistan Lahore Office:

The Enterprise 3rd Floor, Office 3A Multan Road, Lahore, Punjab, 54500, Pakistan

Phone number: +92 (42)3 230 3885

Email address: info@nipponenergy.co

contacted the company on 19th December 2021.

"I am an advocate for solar energy and am using solar systems at my homes in Hunza and Rawalpindi for my energy needs.

I am also advocating that energy starvation in Hunza can be met through a hybrid system, accordingly developed prototypes for a floating hydroelectric generator of 1-KW capacity with a low cost of generation - 95000 Rs per KW. Will look forward to the possibility of using your investment in a public-private venture with the government in GB."

Sunday, September 17, 2023

Concept of Hazir wal Maujud

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Hazir wal Maujud (حاضر و موجود) is a term used in Sufism to describe the presence and awareness of Allah (SWT) everywhere at all times. It is also used to describe the presence and awareness of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in the hearts of his followers. “Present and Living” - a term in the Shia Ismaili tradition referring to the Imam of the time.

The concept of Hazir wal Maujud is based on the Quranic verse:

He is with you wherever you are. (Quran 2:186)

This verse teaches us that Allah (SWT) is always with us, even if we cannot see Him or hear Him. He is aware of our every thought, word, and deed.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also taught us about the concept of Hazir wal Maujud. He said:

"I am closer to you than your jugular vein." (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This saying teaches us that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is always with us, even if we cannot see him. He is aware of our needs and our struggles, and he is always there to help us.

The concept of Hazir wal Maujud is a very important one in Sufism. It helps us to develop a deep sense of connection with Allah (SWT) and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It also helps us to be more mindful of our actions and to strive to be better people.

Here are some ways to cultivate the awareness of Hazir wal Maujud:

  • Remember Allah (SWT) often. Throughout the day, take a few moments to remember Allah (SWT) and His presence in your life. You can do this by reciting the kalimat tawhid, "La ilaha illa Allah," or by simply saying, "Allah is with me."

  • Reflect on the attributes of Allah (SWT). Allah (SWT) is all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-merciful. When you reflect on these attributes, it will help you to develop a deeper appreciation for His presence in your life.

  • Read the Quran and Hadith. The Quran and Hadith are full of verses and sayings that teach us about the concept of Hazir wal Maujud. Reading the Quran and Hadith can help us to internalize this concept and to make it a part of our daily lives.

  • Seek the company of righteous people. Righteous people are always mindful of Allah (SWT) and His presence. Spending time with them can help us to develop a stronger awareness of Hazir wal Maujud.

By following these tips, we can cultivate the awareness of Hazir wal Maujud in our lives. This awareness will help us to be more mindful of our actions and to strive to be better people.


Saturday, September 16, 2023

Concept of Ghayb in Islam

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Ghayb (Arabic: غيب‎) is an Arabic word that means "unseen" or "hidden" from human knowledge and known only to God and those whom He favours with His divine wisdom. In Islam, it refers to the things that are beyond human perception and knowledge, such as the future, and the unseen world. It refers to the realm of things beyond human perception and knowledge. This includes the future, the past, the unseen world, and the inner workings of the human soul.

The Quran and Hadith make many references to the ghayb. For example, the Quran states that "Allah knows the unseen, while none knows the unseen but He." (Surah 2:255) The Hadith also contains many examples of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) speaking about the ghayb, such as when he said "Allah knows the Day of Judgment and the Hour thereof, and He sends down the rain, and knows what is in the wombs; and no soul knows what it will earn tomorrow, and no soul knows in what land it will die." (Sahih al-Bukhari)

Muslims believe that the ghayb is a realm of mystery and wonder and that it is beyond human comprehension. However, they also believe that Allah has revealed some knowledge of the ghayb to us through the Quran and Hadith. For example, we know that Allah is the creator and sustainer of the universe, that He is all-powerful and all-knowing, and that He will judge us on our deeds in the afterlife.

The concept of ghayb has a number of important implications for Muslims. First and foremost, it teaches us that we should be humble in our knowledge and understanding. We should recognize that there is much more to the world than we can see or know, and that we should trust in Allah's wisdom and guidance.

Second, the concept of ghayb motivates us to seek knowledge and understanding. We should strive to learn as much as we can about the world around us, including the unseen world. This knowledge can help us to better understand our place in the world and to live our lives in accordance with Allah's will.

Third, the concept of ghayb gives us hope and optimism. We know that Allah has a plan for each of us, and that He will guide us to our ultimate destination. This knowledge can help us to overcome the challenges and difficulties of life, and to remain steadfast in our faith.

Here are some examples of the ghayb that are mentioned in the Quran and Hadith:

  • The knowledge of the future, such as the Day of Judgment and the Hour thereof.

  • The knowledge of the past, such as the stories of the prophets and messengers.

  • The knowledge of the unseen world, such as the angels, the jinn, and the heavens and the earth.

  • The knowledge of the inner workings of the human soul, such as the heart, the mind, and the soul.

Muslims believe that Allah knows the ghayb better than anyone else, and that He has revealed some knowledge of the ghayb to us through the Quran and Hadith. This knowledge can help us to better understand our place in the world and to live our lives in accordance with Allah's will.


Friday, September 15, 2023

Concept of Fiqh in Islam

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Fiqh is the Islamic science of jurisprudence that deals with the understanding and application of Islamic law (Sharia) to everyday life. It is based on the Quran, Sunnah, and the consensus of Muslim scholars (ijma). Fiqh scholars use a variety of methods to derive rulings on specific issues, including analogy (qiyas), juristic preference (istihsan), and public interest (maslahah).

Fiqh is an important part of Islam because it provides guidance on how to live a life that is pleasing to Allah. It covers a wide range of topics, including prayer, fasting, charity, marriage, divorce, inheritance, and criminal law. Fiqh scholars also issue fatwas, which are legal opinions on specific issues.

There are four main schools of fiqh in Sunni Islam: Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali. Each school has its own unique approach to deriving rulings, but they all agree on the basic principles of Islamic law. Shia Islam also has its own school of fiqh, known as Ja'fari fiqh.

Fiqh is a dynamic discipline that continues to evolve as new challenges and situations arise. Fiqh scholars are constantly reinterpreting the Quran and Sunnah to find new ways to apply Islamic law to the modern world.

Here are some examples of fiqh rulings:

Prayer: Muslims are required to pray five times a day. Fiqh scholars have determined the specific times for prayer and the specific procedures that must be followed.


Fasting: Muslims are required to fast during the month of Ramadan. Fiqh scholars have determined the rules for fasting, such as what foods and drinks are allowed and what are not.


Charity: Muslims are required to give charity to the poor and needy. Fiqh scholars have determined the amount of charity that must be given and how it should be distributed.


Marriage: Muslims are required to get married before they have sexual relations. Fiqh scholars have determined the requirements for a valid marriage, such as the consent of the bride and groom and the payment of a dowry.


Divorce: Muslims are allowed to get divorced, but it is a serious matter and should only be done as a last resort. Fiqh scholars have determined the conditions under which a divorce is permissible and the procedures that must be followed.


Inheritance: When a Muslim dies, their assets are divided among their heirs according to Islamic law. Fiqh scholars have determined the rules of inheritance, such as who is entitled to inherit and how the assets should be divided.


Criminal law: Muslims who commit crimes are subject to punishment under Islamic law. Fiqh scholars have determined the types of crimes that are punishable and the appropriate punishments.

Fiqh is a complex and nuanced discipline, but it is an essential part of Islam. It provides guidance on how to live a life that is pleasing to Allah and to be a good Muslim.

Thursday, September 14, 2023

Concept of DUNYA in Islam

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The concept of dunya in Islam refers to the material world, or the present life. It is often contrasted with the akhirah, which refers to the afterlife.

The Quran describes the dunya as a place of trial and temptation. It is a place where
people are tested on their faith and their obedience to Allah. The Quran also warns that the dunya is fleeting and that its pleasures are ultimately unsatisfying.

However, the dunya is not without its importance. It is a place where people can learn and grow, and where they can prepare for the akhirah. Muslims are encouraged to use their time in the dunya to worship Allah, to do good deeds, and to build relationships with others.

The Quran says:

"The life of this world is nothing but play and amusement. But the hereafter is the home of real life, if only they knew." (Quran 29:64)

"And know that the life of this world is nothing but play, amusement, adornment, mutual boasting among you, and competition in wealth and children. Like the plants of spring whose growth allures the farmers, then it dries up and you see it turn yellow, then it becomes straw. And in the hereafter is a severe punishment and forgiveness from Allah and His pleasure. And what is the life of this world except the enjoyment of deception?" (Quran 57:20)

Muslims believe that the dunya is a test of their faith and that their actions in this life will determine their fate in the afterlife. They are therefore encouraged to live their lives in accordance with the teachings of Islam and to focus on the akhirah rather than the dunya.

Here are some of the key characteristics of dunya:

● It is a place of trial and temptation.

● It is a place of fleeting pleasures.

● It is a place where people can learn and grow.

● It is a place where people can prepare for the akhirah.

Wednesday, September 13, 2023

Concept of Fana Fillah in Islam

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Fana Fillah is an Islamic concept that refers to the annihilation of the self in the love of God. It is the highest stage of spiritual realization in Sufism, the mystical tradition of Islam.

Fana Fillah is achieved through a process of self-purification and devotion to God. The Sufi seeks to detach themselves from all worldly attachments and desires, and to focus solely on God. This can be a long and difficult process, but it is ultimately rewarded with the experience of Fana Fillah.

When a Sufi reaches the state of Fana Fillah, they experience a complete loss of their sense of self. They no longer feel separate from God, but are completely absorbed in the Divine. This is a state of perfect peace and union with God.

Fana Fillah is not annihilation in the sense of non-existence. Rather, it is the annihilation of the ego, or the false sense of self. When the ego is annihilated, the true self is revealed, which is the self that is one with God.

The concept of Fana Fillah is found in the Quran and in the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad. It is also mentioned in the works of many Sufi saints and scholars.

Fana Fillah is a highly advanced spiritual state, and it is not something that can be achieved overnight. However, it is a goal that many Sufis strive for, and it is considered to be the highest possible state of spiritual realization.

Here is a quote from the Quran that speaks to the concept of Fana Fillah:

"And those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Indeed, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured." (Quran 13:28)

This verse suggests that when we remember God, we become more at peace and our sense of self is diminished. This is the beginning of the journey towards Fana Fillah.

Here is a quote from the Prophet Muhammad that also speaks to the concept of Fana Fillah:

"He who knows himself knows his Lord."

This quote suggests that the way to know God is to first know oneself. When we understand our true selves, which are one with God, then we will also know God.

The concept of Fana Fillah is a complex and profound one. It is a state of being that is beyond words and understanding. However, it is a state that many Sufis strive for, and it is considered to be the highest possible state of spiritual realization.

Monday, September 11, 2023

Difference between a NABI and RASUL?

The terms Nabi and Rasul are both used in Islam to refer to a prophet. However, there is a subtle difference between the two terms. Nabi means "prophet" in Arabic. It refers to a person who has been chosen by Allah to receive revelation and guidance for the people. Nabis are not required to have a scripture or law, but they are expected to live a righteous life and teach others about Allah's message. Rasul means "messenger" in Arabic. It refers to a prophet who has been given a scripture or law to deliver to the people. Rasuls are higher in rank than Nabis because they have been given a special responsibility to guide the people. In Islam, there are 124,000 Nabis, but only 25 Rasuls. The most important Rasul is Muhammad, who is considered the last and final prophet. Here is a table summarizing the differences between Nabi and Rasul: Characteristic Nabi Rasul Meaning Prophet Messenger Requirements Revelation and guidance for the people Scripture or law to deliver to the people Rank Lower Higher Number 124,000 25 Most important Muhammad Muhammad I hope this helps!

Thursday, September 7, 2023

Concept of Dua in Islam

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Dua is an Arabic word that means "supplication" or "prayer." In Islam, dua is an act of worship that involves communicating with Allah (God). Muslims believe that dua is one of the most powerful ways to connect with Allah and ask for His help and guidance.

There are many different ways to make dua. It can be done silently or aloud, individually or collectively. There are no specific rules or requirements for making dua, but it is generally considered good etiquette to face the Qiblah (the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca) and to be in a state of purity.

When making dua, it is important to be sincere and to have faith that Allah will answer your prayers. It is also important to be patient, as Allah may answer your prayers in His own time.

There are many benefits to making dua. It can help to:

  • Gives HOPE in life

  • Connect you with Allah

  • Bring you peace and tranquility

  • Help you to overcome difficulties

  • Guide you on the right path

  • Forgive your sins

  • Bring you closer to Allah

Dua is a powerful tool that can be used to improve your life in many ways. If you are looking for guidance, support, or simply a way to connect with Allah, then make dua.

Here are some examples of dua:

  • "O Allah, guide me and make me one of the guided." (Surah Al-Kahf, verse 108)

  • "O Allah, I seek refuge in You from anxiety and sorrow, from weakness and laziness, from miserliness and cowardice, from the burden of debt and from the oppression of men." (Surah Al-Baqara, verse 286)

  • "O Allah, make me content with what You have given me and help me to be grateful for it." (Surah At-Tawbah, verse 128)

  • "O Allah, forgive me my sins, both small and great, those I have committed knowingly and unknowingly." (Surah Al-Muzzamil, verse 20)

  • "O Allah, guide me to the straight path." (Surah Al-Fatihah, verse 6)

These are just a few examples of dua. There are many other ways to make dua, and the best way is the one that comes from the heart.


Tuesday, September 5, 2023

Din as understood by Muslims

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Din, an Arabic word, is often translated as "religion" in English. However, it has a broader meaning that encompasses all aspects of a person's life, including their beliefs, values, and actions. Din is seen by Muslims as a way of life that is guided by the teachings of Islam.

For the majority of Muslims, the "Five Pillars" of Islam are the foundation of din:

  • Shahadah: The declaration of faith that there is no God but Allah and Muhammad is His messenger.

  • Salat: The five daily prayers.

  • Zakat: The obligatory almsgiving.

  • Sawm: The fasting during the month of Ramadan.

  • Hajj: The pilgrimage to Mecca.

In addition to the Five Pillars, there are many other aspects of din that Muslims are expected to follow. These include:

  • Learning about Islam and its teachings.

  • Practising good character and moral behaviour.

  • Caring for others, especially the poor and needy.

  • Striving to make the world a better place.

  • Tawhid: The belief in one God.

  • Aqeedah: The Islamic creed.

  • Ihsan: The practice of good deeds.

  • Taqwa: God-consciousness.

  • Hisba: The duty to enjoin good and forbid evil.

  • Jihad: The struggle in the way of God.

Din is a lifelong journey that Muslims strive to follow. It is a way of life that brings them closer to Allah and helps them to live a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Here are some additional points about din as understood by Muslims:

  • Din is not just about following a set of rules. It is also about developing a deep understanding of the Islamic faith and its teachings.

  • Din is not about being perfect. It is about striving to do better and to improve oneself.

  • Din is a source of strength and guidance in times of difficulty. It helps Muslims to cope with challenges and to find peace and happiness in life.

  • Din is a way of life that is meant to be shared with others. Muslims are encouraged to teach others about Islam and to help them to follow the path of din.

The Qur'an, the holy book of Islam, states that "the true religion in the sight of Allah is Islam" (3:19). This means that Islam is the only way to achieve salvation and eternal happiness.