Marifa - Recognition of spiritual truth attained through the light of faith

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Marifa (معرفة) is an Arabic word that means "knowledge" or "gnosis." In Islamic mysticism, or Sufism, marifa refers to the direct and intuitive knowledge of God that is attained through the light of faith. It is the highest level of spiritual attainment, and it is the ultimate goal of the Sufi path. Sufis believe that marifa is not something that can be achieved through one's own efforts. It is a gift from God, and it is bestowed upon those who are sincere on the spiritual path. Marifa is also seen as a process of self-dissolution, in which the seeker loses their own ego and identity and becomes one with God. There are many different ways to describe marifa, but it is generally characterized by the following: 

• It is a direct and intuitive knowledge of God. 
• It is a knowledge that is beyond the mind and intellect. 
• It is a knowledge that is accompanied by a deep love and devotion to God. 
• It is a knowledge that transforms the seeker's life completely. 
• Sufis believe that marifa is the only way to truly know God. It is the only way to experience the Divine Reality directly and to become one with it.

Here are some of the ways in which Sufis cultivate marifa: 

• Through spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, and dhikr (remembrance of God). 
• Through the study of the Quran and the Hadith, as well as the writings of Sufi masters. 
• Through association with righteous people and spiritual guides. 
• Through service to others and to the community. 

Marifa is a lifelong journey, and there is no end to it. The Sufi seeker is always striving to deepen their knowledge of God and to become closer to Him. Here is a quote from the Sufi master Ibn Arabi about marifa: "Marifa is nothing but the manifestation of the Divine Essence in the mirror of the human heart." This quote highlights the importance of the heart in the Sufi path. Sufis believe that the heart is the seat of marifa, and that it is through the heart that one can truly know God.

Concept of Kufr

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The concept of kufr (كفر) in Islam is significant and complex, with a range of meanings and nuances. The Arabic word kufr literally means "to cover" or "to conceal," and in the Quran, it is often used to describe the willful refusal to acknowledge or appreciate the truth, especially the truth of God's existence and oneness. Kufr can also refer to ingratitude, disbelief, rejection, and denial. It is often contrasted with the concept of iman (إيمان), which means faith, belief, and acceptance. The Quran uses the term kufr in a variety of ways, but the most fundamental sense is that of ingratitude towards God. This is because, according to Islamic theology, God is the creator and sustainer of the universe, and He has bestowed countless blessings on humanity. To deny God's existence or to refuse to follow His guidance is therefore an act of ingratitude. 

See, what Quran has to say.

وَ مَنۡ لَّمۡ یَحۡکُمۡ بِمَاۤ اَنۡزَلَ اللّٰہُ فَاُولٰٓئِکَ ہُمُ الۡکٰفِرُوۡنَo

*اور جو اللّٰه کے نازل کردہ احکامات ک مطابق فیصلے نہیں کرتے، انھی لوگوں کو کافر کہا جاتا ہے*

(سورۃ المائدہ, آیت 44)

سوچ لیں کہ ہم کتنے فیصلے *عدل* کی بنیاد پر کرتے ہیں اور کتنے ناانصافی کی بنیاد پر..

Another important aspect of Kufr is the willful rejection of truth. This can be done either explicitly or implicitly. For example, someone who explicitly denies the existence of God or the prophethood of Muhammad is clearly committing kufr. However, someone who implicitly rejects the truth by living a sinful life and refusing to obey God's commandments is also committing kufr. It is important to note that kufr is not simply a matter of ignorance. It is a willful rejection of the truth, even when the truth is clear and evident. This is why the Quran repeatedly warns people against kufr and encourages them to seek out the truth and follow it. 

 It is important to note that the Quran also teaches that kufr is not a permanent state of being. People who have committed kufr can repent and return to God, and if their repentance is sincere, they will be forgiven. 

Here are some examples of kufr from the Quran: 

 • Denying the existence of God (2:25) 

 • Denying the prophethood of Muhammad (2:89) 

 • Worshipping idols or other false gods (4:36) 

 • Rejecting the Quran or other divine scriptures (2:99) 

 • Committing shirk (associating others with God) (4:48) 

 • Following one's own desires and passions over God's guidance (28:50) 

 • Being ungrateful for God's blessings (2:152) 

 In Islamic terminology, kufr refers to the rejection of Islam or the denial of its basic tenets. There are two types of kufr: 

Kufr Akbar (major kufr): This is the rejection of the essential teachings of Islam, such as the belief in one God, the prophethood of Muhammad, and the Day of Judgment. Kufr akbar is a serious sin and it takes a person out of the fold of Islam. 

Kufr Asghar (minor kufr): This is the commission of sins that are considered to be kufr, such as shirk (associating partners with God), riba (usury), and ghibah (backbiting). Kufr Asghar is not as serious as Kufr Akbar, but it is still a sin and it should be avoided. 

Kufr can be manifested in a variety of ways, including Disbelief in God: This is the most basic form of kufr. It involves denying the existence of God or His attributes. 

Disbelief in the prophets and messengers: This involves denying the prophethood of Muhammad or any other prophet sent by God. 

Disbelief in the revealed books: This involves denying the authenticity of the Quran or any other revealed book. 

Disbelief in the Day of Judgment: This involves denying the existence of the Day of Judgment, on which everyone will be resurrected and judged for their deeds. 

Disbelief in predestination: This involves denying that God has predestined everything that will happen. Kufr is a serious matter, and it should be avoided at all costs. 

Muslims should strive to learn about their religion and practice it to the best of their ability. They should also avoid the sins that lead to kufr, such as shirk, riba, and ghibah. Here are some ways to avoid kufr: Increase one's knowledge of Islam: The more one knows about Islam, the less likely one is to fall into kufr. Muslims should study the Quran and the Hadith, and they should attend lectures and seminars on Islamic topics. Practice Islam to the best of one's ability: Seek guidance from righteous people: If one is unsure about something, they should seek guidance from righteous people who have a good understanding of Islam. 

Kufr is a dangerous path, and it leads to destruction in the afterlife. Muslims should strive to avoid kufr in all its forms, and they should strive to live their lives by the teachings of Islam. 

  Modern Interpretations of Kufr In recent years, some Muslim scholars have begun to offer new interpretations of the concept of kufr. They argue that the traditional understanding of kufr is too narrow and that it has been used to justify violence and oppression against non-Muslims. These scholars argue that kufr should be understood more broadly as rejecting justice and compassion. They argue that kufr can be found in all societies, including Muslim societies. They also argue that the Quran does not teach that non-Muslims are automatically kuffar. They argue that the Quran teaches that all people are created equal and that they are all worthy of respect. 

  Conclusion The concept of kufr is a complex one, and there is no single definition that is universally accepted. However, it is important to understand the basic meaning of the term and its implications for Islamic theology and practice. The concept of kufr is complex and nuanced, but its essential meaning is the willful rejection of truth, especially the truth of God's existence and oneness. Kufr is a serious sin, but it is also a sin that can be forgiven through repentance

ISLAM

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In the Qur’an, a term meaning total submission or surrender to God. Islam is an Abrahamic monotheistic religion teaching that there is only one God (Allah), and that Muhammad is a messenger of God. It is the world's second-largest religion with 1.9 billion followers or 24.9% of the world's population, known as Muslims. Muslims make up a majority of the population in 50 countries.

In the Quran, the word Islam occurs only eight times as a noun. However, Islam occurs many more times as a verb, aslama. Islam is presented in the Quran more in terms of action, rather than as a religion. The Quran speaks of doing or performing Islam, rather than Islam as a system of beliefs.

The Quran also refers to the Islam of the individual, as a personal and lived faith. It calls upon Muslims as individuals to perform their Islam. This means to follow the message of God, to be ethical in one's life, and to practice the faith regularly.

A Muslim is therefore one who submits or surrenders to God, and actively practises his or her Islam. A Muslim enters into a personal relationship with the divine through his or her Islam. This is the inner aspect of faith or Iman, which is not visible or open to other people.

Islam teaches that God is merciful, all-powerful, and unique, and has guided mankind through prophets, revealed scriptures and natural signs. The primary scriptures of Islam are the Quran, believed to be the verbatim word of God, and the teachings and normative examples (called the sunnah, composed of accounts called hadith) of Muhammad (c. 570 – 8 June 632 CE).

Muslims believe that Islam is the complete and universal version of a primordial faith that was revealed many times before through prophets including Adam, Abraham, Moses and Jesus. Muslims consider Muhammad as the final prophet of God. Islamic scholars have traditionally classified the Quran into two main categories: verses of legislation (ahkam) and verses of wisdom and spiritual guidance (ayat al-hikmah). The Quran is considered to be the most important source of Islamic law and ethics, and it is used to guide Muslims in all aspects of their lives.

The fundamental Islamic beliefs are expressed in the six articles of faith:

• Belief in one God (Allah)

• Belief in the angels

• Belief in the revealed books

• Belief in the prophets and messengers

• Belief in the Day of Judgment

• Belief in predestination

Islam has played an important role in the development of civilisation, and it has made significant contributions to art, architecture, science, literature, and philosophy. Islam is also a diverse religion, with a wide range of beliefs and practices. Muslims come from all walks of life, and they represent a wide range of cultures and ethnicities.

Islam is a religion of peace and tolerance, and it teaches Muslims to respect all people, regardless of their race, religion, or ethnicity. Islam also teaches Muslims to be kind and compassionate and to help those in need.

Concept of Ishq

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Ishq (عشق) is an Arabic word that means "love" or "passion." In Islamic mysticism or Sufism, Ishq refers to the intense and passionate love of God. It is the ultimate goal of the Sufi path, and it is seen as the highest form of worship. This love is also extended to the Ahl-alBait and the Imams in the SHIA tradition.

Sufis believe that Ishq is not just an emotion, but also a state of being. It is a complete surrender to God, in which the lover sees nothing but the beloved. Sufis often use the metaphor of a moth being drawn to a flame to describe ishq. Just as the moth is drawn to the flame, even though it knows it will be destroyed, the Sufi is drawn to God, even though it knows it will lose its own ego and identity.

Ishq is not something that can be achieved through one's own efforts. It is a gift from God, and it is bestowed upon those who are sincere on the spiritual path. Sufis believe that Ishq is the only way to truly know God.

Here are some of the characteristics of ishq:

• It is intense and passionate.

• It is selfless and unconditional.

• It is all-consuming.

• It leads to a complete surrender to God.

• It is a gift from God.

Ishq is a complex and multifaceted concept, but it is essential to understanding Sufism. It is the driving force behind the Sufi path, and it is the ultimate goal of the Sufi seeker.

Here are some of the ways in which Sufis cultivate Ishq:

• Through spiritual practices such as prayer, meditation, and dhikr (remembrance of God).

• Through the study of the Quran and the Hadith, as well as the writings of Sufi masters.

• Through association with righteous people and spiritual guides.

• Through service to others and to the community.

Ishq is a lifelong journey, and there is no end to it. The Sufi seeker is always striving to deepen their love for God and to become closer to Him.

Concept of Iman

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Iman (إيمان) is an Arabic word that means "faith" or "belief." In Islam, iman refers to the belief in the six articles of faith, known as the Arkan al-Iman:

1. Belief in one God (Allah)

2. Belief in the angels

3. Belief in the revealed books

4. Belief in the prophets and messengers

5. Belief in the Day of Judgment

6. Belief in predestination

7. In the Shia tradition,it also includes continuity of divine guidance through the Imams.

Iman is not just a belief in these articles of faith, but also a commitment to live one's life in accordance with the teachings of Islam. This includes following the Quran and the Hadith.

Iman is important because it is the foundation of the Islamic faith. Without iman, there is no Islam. Iman is also important because it gives Muslims a sense of purpose and meaning in life. It helps them to understand their place in the world and their relationship with God.

Here are some of the benefits of iman:

• Iman brings one closer to God and develops one's relationship with Him.

• Iman purifies the soul and cleanses it of sins.

• Iman develops good moral character and helps one to become a better person.

• Iman trains one in self-discipline and perseverance.

• Iman gives one a sense of purpose and meaning in life.

• Iman brings peace and tranquility to the heart.

Iman is a gift from God, and it is a blessing for those who are able to have it.

Here are some ways to strengthen one's iman:

• Increase one's knowledge of Islam by studying the Quran and the Hadith.

• Surround oneself with righteous people and avoid bad company.

• Make du'a to God to increase one's iman.

Iman is not a static thing, but rather it is something that grows and develops over time. It is important to strive to strengthen one's iman throughout one's life.

RELATED:

ORIENTATION:  

●  A  range of terms are applied to what people consider of absolute significance to them.     They may refer, for example, to their way of life, worldview, or overarching vision.  

●  A  'way of life points to a mode of living, based on certain norms and beliefs, which a group of people follows.  

●  A  'worldview'  implies an all-encompassing explanation of the world.  A  'vision' refers to ideals or perspectives guiding people's engagement with the world.  Such terms have their specific meanings in the context in which they are used. These kinds of terms find an ultimate orientation by which people may order their lives.  

The word 'orientation' means turning towards where one wishes to go. It also has a broader sense of referring to the basic beliefs and values which guide an individual or a group of people.  

●  An ultimate orientation has to do with one's sense of place in the cosmos or in the overall scheme of things. When we ‘orient’ ourselves in this way we turn our thoughts, words and deeds towards what is of absolute worth to us.

Impact of over-tourism in Hunza

 Hunza is a beautiful valley in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan. It is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning scenery, rich culture, and friendly people. However, overtourism, which is the influx of too many tourists to a particular destination, is starting to have a negative impact on Hunza.

Here are some of the negative impacts of over-tourism in Hunza:

• Environmental degradation: Overtourism can lead to environmental degradation, such as pollution, deforestation, and soil erosion. This is because tourists often generate a lot of waste, and they can also damage fragile ecosystems.

• Social and cultural problems: Overtourism can also lead to social and cultural problems. For example, it can lead to overcrowding, noise pollution, and increased crime. It can also lead to the erosion of local culture and traditions.

• Economic inequality: Overtourism can also lead to economic inequality. This is because the benefits of tourism often go to a small number of people, such as hotel owners and tour operators. Local residents may not see much benefit from tourism, and they may even be displaced from their homes and communities.

Here are some ways to mitigate the negative impacts of over-tourism in Hunza:

• Educate tourists: One way to mitigate the negative impacts of overtourism is to educate tourists about the importance of responsible tourism. Tourists should be encouraged to minimize their impact on the environment and to respect local culture and traditions.

• Spread out tourism: Another way to mitigate the negative impacts of overtourism is to spread out tourism. This could be done by promoting less popular tourist destinations and by encouraging tourists to visit during the off-season.

• Invest in sustainable tourism: The government and the private sector can also invest in sustainable tourism initiatives. This could include developing eco-friendly tourism infrastructure, supporting local businesses, and promoting community-based tourism.

It is important to note that tourism is an important source of income for Hunza. However, it is important to manage tourism in a sustainable way so that it does not have a negative impact on the environment, society, and culture of Hunza.

Analysis of the governance system in Pakistan

 Pakistan's governance system is a federal parliamentary republic, with elected officials at the national (federal), provincial, tribal, and local levels. The Constitution of Pakistan establishes the basic principles of governance, including the separation of powers, the rule of law, and the fundamental rights of citizens.

However, in practice, Pakistan's governance system is plagued by a number of challenges, including:

• Weak institutions: Pakistan's institutions, such as the judiciary, the bureaucracy, and the police, are often weak and ineffective. This is due to a number of factors, including corruption, political interference, and a lack of capacity.

• Corruption: Corruption is a widespread problem in Pakistan, and it affects all levels of government. Corruption undermines public trust in government and diverts resources away from essential public services.

• Political instability: Pakistan has had a history of political instability, with frequent coups and changes in government. This has made it difficult to implement long-term reforms and to build strong institutions.

• Military interference: The military has played a significant role in Pakistani politics, and it has often intervened in civilian affairs. This has undermined democracy and weakened civilian institutions.

• Inequality: Pakistan is a highly unequal society, with a small elite controlling a large share of the country's wealth. This inequality has led to social unrest and political instability.

Despite these challenges, Pakistan has made some progress in recent years in improving its governance system. For example, the country has held regular elections, and there has been a growing awareness of the need for reform. However, more needs to be done to address the challenges listed above.

Here are some specific recommendations for improving Pakistan's governance system:

• Strengthen institutions: Pakistan needs to strengthen its institutions, such as the judiciary, the bureaucracy, and the police, to make them more effective and accountable. This can be done by reducing political interference, increasing capacity, and combating corruption.

• Reduce corruption: Pakistan needs to reduce corruption at all levels of government. This can be done by strengthening anti-corruption laws and institutions, increasing transparency and accountability, and educating the public about the dangers of corruption.

• Promote political stability: Pakistan needs to promote political stability by strengthening democratic institutions and reducing military interference. This can be done by holding regular elections, upholding the rule of law, and respecting the fundamental rights of citizens.

• Reduce inequality: Pakistan needs to reduce inequality by expanding access to education and healthcare, and by creating more opportunities for economic advancement. This can be done by investing in social programs, promoting economic growth, and reducing discrimination.

Improving Pakistan's governance system is a complex and challenging task, but it is essential for the country's long-term development and prosperity.

Ibadat

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The Arabic word ibadah (عبادة) means "worship" or "devotion." In Islamic terminology, it refers to all acts of obedience and submission to God. Ibadah is not just limited to formal religious rituals but encompasses all aspects of a Muslim's life.

The Quran states that the purpose of creation is to worship God:

And I did not create the jinn and the mankind except to worship Me. (Quran 51:56)

Ibadah is a way of showing gratitude to God for His blessings and expressing one's love and devotion to Him. It is also a way of purifying the soul and developing good moral character.

Some of the most common forms of ibadah include:

• Prayer (salat): Muslims pray, facing the direction of Mecca. Prayer is a direct way to communicate with God and to ask for His guidance and blessings.

• Charity (zakat): Muslims are required to give a portion of their wealth each year to charity. Zakat is a way to purify one's wealth and to help those in need.

In addition to these formal acts of worship, ibadah can also include any act that is done with the intention of pleasing God. This could include things like being kind to others, helping those in need, and working hard at one's job.

Ibadah is an important part of the Islamic faith, and it plays a central role in the lives of Muslims. It is a way to connect with God, to develop good moral character, and to live a meaningful life.

Here are some of the benefits of ibadah:

• Ibadah brings one closer to God and develops one's relationship with Him.

• Ibadah purifies the soul and cleanses it of sins.

• Ibadah develops good moral character and helps one to become a better person.

• Ibadah trains one in self-discipline and perseverance.

• Ibadah gives one a sense of purpose and meaning in life.

• Ibadah brings peace and tranquillity to the heart.

• Above all it results in HOPE in the life of an individual. 

Ibadah is a gift from God, and it is a blessing for those who are able to perform it.

Concept of Din

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The Arabic word din (دِين) has a variety of meanings, including judgment, custom, and religion. In Islamic terminology, the word refers to the way of life that Muslims must adopt to comply with divine law, encompassing beliefs, character, and deeds.

The concept of din in Islam is based on the belief that God (Allah) has revealed guidance to humanity through prophets and messengers. This guidance is contained in the Quran, the holy book of Islam, and in the Hadith, the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad.

Muslims believe that din is not just a set of beliefs and rituals, but a complete way of life. It governs all aspects of a Muslim's life, from their personal relationships to their business dealings to their political involvement.

The Quran states that the only true religion is Islam and that all other religions are false. However, the Quran also teaches that there is no compulsion in religion and that everyone is free to choose their own faith.

The concept of din is very important in Islam, and it plays a central role in the lives of Muslims. It provides them with a sense of identity, purpose, and community. It also helps them to live their lives in a way that is pleasing to God.

Here are some of the key features of din in Islam:

• Din is a way of life that is based on the teachings of God.

• Din is comprehensive and covers all aspects of a Muslim's life.

• Din is dynamic and adaptable to changing circumstances.

• Din is egalitarian and open to all people, regardless of race, ethnicity, or social status.

• Din is inclusive and respects the diversity of human beliefs and cultures.

Din is a complex and multifaceted concept, but it is essential to understanding Islam and the Muslim worldview.

Related:

ORIENTATION:  

●  A  range of terms are applied to what people consider of absolute significance to them.  They may refer, for example, to their way of life, worldview, or overarching vision.  

●  A  'way of life points to a mode of living, based on certain norms and beliefs, which a group of people follows.  

●  A  'worldview'  implies an all-encompassing explanation of the world.  A  'vision' refers to ideals or prospective which guide a people's engagement with the world.  Such terms have their specific meanings in the context in which they are used. These kinds of terms find an ultimate orientation by which people may order their lives.  

The word 'orientation' means the act of turning towards where one wishes to go. It also has a broader sense of referring to the basic beliefs and values which guide an individual or a group of people.  

●  An ultimate orientation has to do with one's sense of place in the cosmos or in the overall scheme of things. When we     'orient'     ourselves in this way we turn our thoughts, words and deeds towards what is of absolute worth to us.

Concept of Hub in religious thought

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Hub is an Arabic word that means "love," but in religious thought it often refers to a specific type of love, namely the love of God. Hub is seen as the highest form of love, and it is the goal of many religious seekers.

Hub is often contrasted with other types of love, such as the love of worldly things or the love of other people. These other types of love are seen as being lower than hub because they are not focused on God.

Hub is also seen as being different from ordinary love because it is not based on self-interest. Hub is a selfless love, and it is motivated by a desire to please God.

Hub is an important concept in many religions, including Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. In Islam, hub is seen as the essence of faith. The Quran says that "Allah loves those who love Him" (Quran 2:165).

In Christianity, hub is seen as the greatest commandment. Jesus said: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment" (Matthew 22:37-38).

In Judaism, hub is seen as the foundation of the Torah. The first commandment in the Torah is to "love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might" (Deuteronomy 6:5).

Hub is a powerful force that can transform our lives. It can help us to become more loving, compassionate, and forgiving. It can also help us to find peace and happiness in our lives.

Here are some of the key aspects of hub:

• Hub is the love of God.

• Hub is the highest form of love.

• Hub is selfless and motivated by a desire to please God.

• Hub is an important concept in many religions, including Islam, Christianity, and Judaism.

• Hub is a powerful force that can transform our lives.

If you are looking for a way to deepen your faith and grow in your spiritual life, I encourage you to focus on developing hub. It is the key to a truly fulfilling and meaningful life.