Dangers for a student engaging excessively in gaming

There are some potential dangers for a student engaging excessively in gaming on Xbox or similar platforms:

Addiction: Gaming can be highly stimulating and engaging, leading to addictive behavior. This can result in neglecting studies, sleep, social interaction, and other important aspects of life.

Health Issues: Spending excessive time sitting in front of a screen can lead to health problems like obesity, eye strain, and posture issues. Lack of sleep due to gaming can also impact overall health and well-being.

Social Isolation: Focusing too much on gaming can lead to social isolation and decreased real-world interaction skills. This can hinder forming friendships and developing strong social connections.

Academic Performance: Gaming can significantly impact academic performance if it takes priority over studies. Poor time management and neglecting schoolwork due to gaming can lead to failing grades.

Exposure to Inappropriate Content: Online games can expose players to inappropriate content, such as violence, hate speech, or gambling. It's important for parents or guardians to be aware of the content ratings of games and monitor younger gamers' activity.

Here are some tips to promote healthy gaming habits:

Set Time Limits: Establish clear time limits for gaming each day and stick to them. This helps ensure gaming doesn't interfere with other important activities.

Prioritize Responsibilities: Schoolwork, chores, and other responsibilities should always come before gaming.

Choose Games Wisely: Opt for educational games or those that promote creativity, problem-solving, or teamwork. Be mindful of the content rating and genre of games.

Encourage Other Activities: Promote a healthy balance between gaming and other activities like sports, hobbies, spending time with family and friends.

Open Communication: Maintain open communication with your child about gaming habits. Discuss concerns and establish healthy boundaries together.

Gaming can be a fun and engaging activity, but it's important to ensure it's done in moderation and doesn't negatively impact other aspects of life.

Ulama - Context: Faith and Practice

 BACK

BOOK1, BOOK2, BOOK3, BOOK4, BOOK5, BOOK6, BOOK7, BOOK8, BOOK9, BOOK10, CONNECTING WORLDS IN A GLOBALISINGAGE; CONSTITUTION

Ulama: Muslim religious scholars recognised as having specialised knowledge of Islamic law and theology.

The Quran doesn't explicitly mention the term "Ulama" itself. However, there are several verses that can be interpreted as highlighting the importance of scholarship, learning, and understanding the religion. Here are a couple of examples:

• Surah Al-Zumar (39:9): "Say, ‘Are those who know equal to those who do not know?’ Indeed, those who possess understanding will remember." (This verse emphasizes the value of knowledge and understanding in Islam)

• Surah At-Tauba (9:122): "Why do not a group from every faction of the believers devote themselves to studying [deeper aspects of] the religion and advise their people when they return to them so that they may beware?" (This verse encourages seeking knowledge and sharing it with others, which is a key role of the Ulama)

These are just a few examples, and scholars have drawn connections between other Quranic verses and the importance of Islamic scholarship.

Ulama in a number of Islamic schools/sects are highly respected figures in the community, as they are considered experts in interpreting religious texts and guiding fellow Muslims in matters of faith and practice. They undergo years of rigorous study and training to gain their expertise, and are often consulted on a wide range of issues, from personal ethics to social policy.

Ulama play a crucial role in upholding the traditions and teachings of Islam, and are often called upon to provide guidance to individuals, communities, and even governments. They are tasked with ensuring that Islamic principles are applied correctly and that religious practices are observed in accordance with the teachings of the Quran and the Sunnah.

In many Muslim-majority countries, ulama hold positions of influence and authority within religious institutions and legal systems. They may serve as judges, teachers, or advisors to government officials, helping to shape policies and decisions that affect the Muslim community.

Overall, ulama are seen as the guardians of Islamic knowledge and tradition, and their expertise and guidance are highly valued by Muslims seeking to live a devout and righteous life.

NEXT

Tawil - Context: Faith and Practice

BACK

DOWNLOAD TA'LIM PUBLICATIONS. 

BOOK1, BOOK2, BOOK3, BOOK4, BOOK5, BOOK6, BOOK7, BOOK8, BOOK9, BOOK10, CONNECTING WORLDS IN A GLOBALISINGAGE; CONSTITUTION

Ta’wil: The elucidation of inner or esoteric meaning (batin) from the outer meaning of text, ritual, or religious prescription.

While the apparent meanings of the Quran are accessed through the traditional discipline of tafsir or exegesis, the batin is made known only through the hermeneutical process known as tawil (interpretation).

The of deeper meanings within the Quran (batin) isn't explicitly mentioned in any single verse. , there are verses that scholars use to support of deeper understanding. Here are a few relevant verses:

He is the First and the Last, the Ascendant and the Intimate, and He is, of all things, Knowing. (Quran 57:3)

• This verse introduces the names Al-Zahir (the Manifest) and Al-Batin (the Hidden) in reference to Allah. It establishes the idea that there are aspects of Allah's knowledge and beyond our immediate understanding these deeper meanings (batin) is linked to the concept of Tawil, an interpretive used by some scholars. It is important to note that concept of Tawil is debated within Islamic scholarship.

[He is] Knower of the unseen, and He does not disclose His [knowledge of the] unseen to anyone Except whom He has approved of messengers, and indeed, He sends before each messenger and behind him observers (Quran 72:26-27)

• 
  

Here are some resourcrs for further reading:

• Batin - Oxford Reference: Concept of Batin in Quran

• Al-Batin - Muslim and Quran: Al-Batin in Quran

Tawhid - Cotext: Faith and Practice

BACK 

DOWNLOAD TA'LIM PUBLICATIONS. 

BOOK1, BOOK2, BOOK3, BOOK4, BOOK5, BOOK6, BOOK7, BOOK8, BOOK9, BOOK10, CONNECTING WORLDS IN A GLOBALISINGAGE; CONSTITUTION

Tawhid: The principle of the Oneness and Uniqueness of God in Islam.

Tawhid is a fundamental concept in Islam, signifying the absolute oneness and uniqueness of God. It's the core belief that there is only one God, Allah, and He has no partners or equals.

Here's a powerful verse from the Quran that exemplifies Tawhid:

• Surah Al-Ikhlas (Chapter 112):

قُلْ هُوَ اللَّهُ أَحَدٌ

Qul hu Allahu ahad

Say, "He is Allah, [who is] One," (Quran 112:1)

This short yet profound Surah emphasizes the oneness of Allah. It's often recited by Muslims and is considered a core expression of Tawhid.

There are many other verses in the Quran that speak to Tawhid. Here are a couple more examples:

• Surah Al-Baqarah (Chapter 2):

وَإِلَهُكُمْ إِلَهٌ وَاحِدٌ ۖ لَّا إِلَهَ إِلَّا هُوَ الرَّحْمَٰنُ الرَّحِيمُ

Wa ilahuakum ilahuw wa hidun, la ilaha illa Huwa ar-Rahmanu ar-Rahim

"And your god is one God. There is no deity [worthy of worship] except Him, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate." (Quran 2:163)

• Surah An-Naml (Chapter 27):

قُلْ مَنْ يَرْزُقُكُمْ مِّنَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ أَمْ مَنْ يَمْلِكُ السَّمْعَ وَالأَبْصَارَ وَمَنْ يُخْرِجُ الْحَيَّ مِنَ الْمَيِّتِ وَيُخْرِجُ الْمَيِّتَ مِنَ الْحَيِّ وَمَنْ يُدَبِّرُ الْأَمْرَ ۖ قُلِ اللَّهُ ۚ قُلْ فَلِمَ تُشْرِكُونَ

Wa man yarzuqukum min as-samawati wal-ardi am man yamlikus-sam`a wal-absara wa man yukhrijul-hayyi min al-mayyeti wa yukhrijul-mayyeti min al-hayyi wa man yudabbiru al-amr, qul Allahu, qul falim ishrikun

"Who provides for you from the heaven and earth? And who controls hearing and sight? And who brings out the living from the dead and brings out the dead from the living? And who arranges the matter? Say, 'Allah.' Say, 'Then why do you associate [others with Him]?'" (Quran 27:60)

These verses highlight Allah's power as the sole creator, provider, and sustainer of everything. They emphasize that attributing divinity to anything else is a form of idolatry (shirk) and goes against the core principle of Tawhid.

NEXT

Tawakkul - Context: Faith and Practice

 

BACK

DOWNLOAD TA'LIM PUBLICATIONS. 

BOOK1, BOOK2, BOOK3, BOOK4, BOOK5, BOOK6, BOOK7, BOOK8, BOOK9, BOOK10, CONNECTING WORLDS IN A GLOBALISINGAG; CONSTITUTION

Tawakkul: ‘Trust’; in the Qur’an, one of the virtues of a mumi’n who places his or her total faith and confidence in God as guardian and protector.

Indeed, Tawakkul is a significant concept in Islam, representing the virtue of trust in God. It involves relying on Allah as the ultimate guardian and protector, and it’s a manifestation of one’s faith (Iman) and submission to God’s will. It’s about having full confidence that Allah will provide for one’s needs and handle affairs that are beyond one’s power and control, while also taking the necessary steps within one’s capacity. This balance between divine trust and personal effort is a key aspect of a Muslim’s spiritual life.

Some of the relevant verses from the Quran are quoted hereunder:

21st to 23rd verse of Surah Al-Ma’idah explains the concept of Tawakkul while narrating the conversation of Prophet Musa عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ with his followers.

Translation

O my people! Enter the Holy Land which Allah has destined for you ˹to enter˺. And do not turn back or else you will become losers

They replied, “O Moses! There is an enormously powerful people there, so we will never ˹be able to˺ enter it until they leave. If they do, then we will enter!

Two God-fearing men—who had been blessed by Allah—said, “Surprise them through the gate. If you do, you will certainly prevail. Put your trust in Allah if you are ˹truly˺ believers.

So, that’s the level of trust expected from the believers.

 

In the 9th verse of Surah Al-Muzzammil another level of Tawakkul is mentioned. Here Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى has ensured His believers that He is their Wakil (An Arabic term that can be translated as “the Trustee”).

Translation

He is the˺ Lord of the east and the west. There is no god ˹worthy of worship˺ except Him, so take Him ˹alone˺ as a Trustee of Affairs.

58th verse of Surah Al-Furqan reflects yet another emphasis on Tawakkul.

Translation

Put your trust in the Ever-Living, Who never dies, and glorify His praises. Sufficient is He as All-Aware of the sins of His servants.

12th verse of Surah Ibrahim narrates the importance of Tawakkul under:

Translation

Why should we not put our trust in Allah, when He has truly guided us to ˹the very best of˺ ways? Indeed, we will patiently endure whatever harm you may cause us. And in Allah let the faithful put their trust.

In 216th verse of Surah Al-Baqara, Allah tells the believer that He knows better what is good or bad for you:

Translation

Fighting has been made obligatory upon you ˹believers˺, though you dislike it. Perhaps you dislike something which is good for you and like something which is bad for you. Allah knows and you do not know.

286th verse of the same Surah tells us that Allah سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَى do not put to task a man that is beyond his capacity:

Translation

Allah does not require of any soul more than what it can afford. All good will be for its own benefit, and all evil will be to its own loss. ˹The believers pray,˺ “Our Lord! Do not punish us if we forget or make a mistake. Our Lord! Do not place a burden on us like the one you placed on those before us. Our Lord! Do not burden us with what we cannot bear. Pardon us, forgive us, and have mercy on us. You are our ˹only˺ Guardian. So, grant us victory over the disbelieving people.

In these two verses, another level of Tawakkul is taught to us. Allah knows better what is good for us, and He does not expect anything beyond our capacity. Hence, we should keep the highest of our trust in Allah, rely upon His Will and Command, and accept the outcome happily.

NEXT

Tariqa and Tariqat - Context: Faith and Practice

BACK

DOWNLOAD TA'LIM PUBLICATIONS. 

BOOK1, BOOK2, BOOK3, BOOK4, BOOK5, BOOK6, BOOK7, BOOK8, BOOK9, BOOK10, CONNECTING WORLDS IN A GLOBALISINGAG; CONSTITUTION

Tariqa: ‘Way’ or ‘path’; the path followed by esoteric schools of interpretation in Islam.

Tariqat: A term in esoteric traditions referring to a spiritual stage, path or discipline leading to the haqiqat.

Tariqat refers to the spiritual path or way followed by Sufis (mystics) in their pursuit of direct knowledge (maʿrifah) of God or Reality (ḥaqq). It is a journey that leads to deeper understanding and closeness to the Divine. Let’s explore this concept further:

Tariqat and Shariat:

Shariat refers to the external, legal aspects of Islamic practice, including the rules and regulations outlined in the Quran and Sunnah (the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him).

Tariqat, on the other hand, is the inner, spiritual dimension that complements Shariat. It involves personal transformation, purification of the heart, and seeking closeness to God.

Tariqat is guided by the Sunnah, and it reveals the true meaning and interpretation of Shariat. It leads to the haqiqat (reality) of everything1.

Taqwa in the Quran:

The Quran emphasizes the concept of taqwa, which is often translated as “piety,” “fear of God,” or “consciousness of God.”

There are over a hundred and fifty verses in the Quran related to taqwa, and more than forty verses explicitly command believers to practice it.

Taqwa involves being mindful of God’s presence, avoiding sinful actions, and striving to do what is right. It leads to eternal success and provides a way out of difficulties.

Sufi scholars have indeed interpreted Quranic verses to support the concept of a spiritual path (tariqah) and guidance. Let’s explore some relevant verses:

The Verse of Light (Ayat an-Nur):

In Surah an-Nur (Chapter 24), verse 35, Allah describes Himself as the Light of the heavens and the earth. Sufi scholars interpret this verse metaphorically, emphasizing that God’s light guides believers on their spiritual journey. Just as physical light illuminates the darkness, divine guidance illuminates the hearts of seekers.

The Verse of the Heart (Ayat al-Qalb):

In Surah ash-Shura (Chapter 42), verse 24, Allah states that He guides whom He wills. Sufis understand this guidance as an inner illumination of the heart (qalb). The spiritual path involves purifying the heart, seeking closeness to God, and allowing divine guidance to transform one’s inner being.

The Verse of the Straight Path (Ayat al-Mustaqeem):

In Surah al-Fatiha (Chapter 1), verse 6, believers ask Allah to guide them to the straight path (sirat al-mustaqeem). Sufis interpret this as seeking the path of spiritual awakening and closeness to God. The straight path is not merely external adherence to rules but an inner journey of transformation.

The Verse of Remembrance (Ayat adh-Dhikr):

In Surah ar-Ra’d (Chapter 13), verse 28, Allah says that hearts find tranquility through the remembrance of God (dhikr Allah). Sufis engage in constant remembrance, seeking to purify their hearts and connect with the Divine Presence.

The Verse of the Lovers (Ayat al-Ashiqeen):

In Surah al-Baqarah (Chapter 2), verse 165, Allah describes those who love Him as intense in their love. Sufi scholars interpret this verse as emphasizing the passionate love for God that drives seekers on the spiritual path. Love becomes the motivating force behind their journey.

The Verse of the Inner Witness (Ayat ash-Shahid):

In Surah al-Qiyamah (Chapter 75), verses 14-15, Allah mentions the inner self (nafs) as a witness. Sufis recognize the inner witness as the higher self that seeks God. The spiritual path involves overcoming the lower self’s distractions and listening to the inner witness.

Here are a couple of Quranic verses that extoll the use of intellect for deep thinking:
Surah Al-Nahl (16:68):
“ وقال تعالوا أندعو من دون الله ما لا ينفعنا شيئا ولا يضرنا وأنحن نرد على أعقابنا ونضل سواء السبيل ”
Translation: "And [Allah] said, "Call upon besides Allah upon that which can neither benefit you nor harm you. And would you then turn back after you have been rightly guided and become like those who are astray and confused?" (English interpretation by Sahih International)
This verse emphasizes the importance of using reason to discern truth from falsehood. It criticizes blindly following tradition without critical thought.
Surah Az-Zumar (39:9):
“ أفلا يتدبرون القرآن أم على قلوب أقفالها ”
Translation: "Do they not then contemplate the Quran or are there locks upon their hearts?" (English interpretation by Sahih International)
This verse encourages deep reflection and contemplation of the Quran's message. It questions those who don't use their intellect to understand the deeper meanings of the scripture.
These are just two examples, and the Quran contains many other verses that encourage the use of reason and pondering the wonders of creation.
Remember that Sufi interpretations often delve into the deeper meanings of Quranic verses, emphasizing the inner dimensions of faith and the transformative journey toward God. 🌟

Innovated Tariqahs:

While there are various Sufi tariqahs, some of them have been considered innovated paths.

The Tijani tariqah, for example, is regarded as an innovated path. It is not permissible for Muslims to follow such tariqahs.

Muslims are encouraged to adhere to the teachings brought by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and follow the straight path outlined in the Quran and authentic Sunnah.

Innovated paths are those introduced based on personal whims, desires, and specious arguments, rather than the established teachings of Islam4.

In summary, Tariqat complements Shariat by focusing on the inner spiritual journey, and taqwa plays a central role in both. 🌟

Important to Consider:

Sufi tariqahs (religious orders) have played a significant role in Islamic mysticism. 

Debates and Interpretations: The concept of Haqiqat has been debated throughout Islamic history. Some interpretations have been deemed controversial by orthodox scholars.

Different Sufi Schools: There's a range of interpretations within Sufism itself. Understanding the specific school of thought is crucial for grasping the nuances of Haqiqat.

Here are some well-known tariqahs:

Naqshbandi Order:

Named after Baha-ud-Din Naqshband Bukhari, this tariqah emphasizes silent dhikr (remembrance of God) and self-discipline. It has followers across South Asia and Central Asia1.

Qadiri Order:

Founded by Abdul Qadir Jilani (also known as Ghous-ul-Azam), this tariqah focuses on spiritual guidance, love for God, and helping others. It has a significant presence in South Asia and the Middle East1.

Chishti Order:

Named after Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti, this tariqah emphasizes love, devotion, and service to humanity. It has a rich tradition in India and Pakistan, with many famous Sufi saints associated with it1.

Suhrawardi Order:

Founded by Shahab al-Din Suhrawardi, this tariqah emphasizes spiritual illumination and direct experience of God. It has followers in various parts of the Muslim world1.

Mevlevi Order (Whirling Dervishes):

Named after Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi (also known as Mevlana), this tariqah is famous for its mesmerizing Sufi dance called the “Sama” or “whirling.” It originated in Turkey and has followers worldwide1.

Bektashi Order:

Named after Haji Bektash Veli, this tariqah combines elements of Shia Islam and Sufism. It has followers primarily in Turkey and the Balkans1.

Tijaniyya Order:

Founded by Sheikh Ahmad al-Tijani, this tariqah emphasizes love for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the pursuit of spiritual closeness to God. It is widespread in West Africa1.

Muridiyya Order:

Founded by Sheikh Amadou Bamba, this tariqah is prominent in Senegal and emphasizes hard work, humility, and devotion to God1.

Burhaniyya Order:

Established in the 19th century by Gausul Azam Shah Sufi Syed Ahmadullah Maizbhandari, this tariqah follows a liberated form of Sufism in Bangladesh1.

Remember that each tariqah has its unique practices, rituals, and spiritual teachings. Sufi orders provide diverse paths for seekers to connect with the Divine and deepen their understanding of spirituality. 🌟

The concept of Haqiqat (ultimate reality) is central to Sufi thought. It delves deeper than the surface appearance of things (Zahir) and explores the underlying truth or essence. Here's a breakdown:

Haqiqat: Literally translates to "reality" or "truth." In Sufism, it refers to the ultimate reality of existence, which is ultimately God (Allah).

Sufis view the phenomenal world (the world we perceive) as a shadow or manifestation of the Divine. Everything in existence is seen as a reflection or expression of Haqiqat.

Understanding Haqiqat through different perspectives:

Wahdat al-Wujud (Unity of Being): This influential school of thought, championed by Ibn Arabi, suggests that only Haqiqat (God) truly exists. Individual beings are seen as temporary manifestations of the Divine essence.

Wahdat ash-Shuhud (Unity of Witnessing): This perspective, emphasized by Sufis like Ahmad Sirhindi, acknowledges the separate existence of creation while recognizing God as the ultimate source and sustainer. Haqiqat is experienced through witnessing the Divine in everything.

Significance of Haqiqat:

Spiritual Journey: Sufism emphasizes the journey towards knowing Haqiqat. This involves practices like meditation, dhikr (remembrance of God), and self-purification to transcend the limitations of the ego and experience the Divine presence.

Love and Unity: Knowing Haqiqat fosters love for God and all creation, recognizing the interconnectedness of everything. It breaks down barriers and promotes unity.

While Sufi orders have historically been male-dominated, there are indeed female Sufi practitioners and some notable female Sufi orders. Let’s explore a few of them: 

Qadiriyya Order for Women:

The Qadiriyya tariqah, founded by Abdul Qadir Jilani, has a branch specifically for women. Female followers engage in spiritual practices, dhikr (remembrance of God), and seek closeness to God within the framework of this order.

Rifa’iyya Order for Women:

The Rifa’iyya tariqah, named after Ahmed ar-Rifa’i, also has a female branch. It emphasizes love, compassion, and devotion to God. Female followers participate in rituals and seek spiritual growth.

Chishtiyya Order for Women:

The Chishtiyya tariqah, associated with Khawaja Moinuddin Chishti, has a rich tradition of female Sufi saints. Women in this order focus on love, service, and devotion to God. The Chishtiyya order has been influential in India and Pakistan.

Naqshbandiyya Order for Women:

The Naqshbandiyya tariqah, founded by Baha-ud-Din Naqshband, has female followers who engage in silent dhikr and seek inner purification. It is practiced in various parts of the Muslim world.

Tijaniyya Order for Women:

The Tijaniyya tariqah, established by Sheikh Ahmad al-Tijani, also includes female adherents. They follow the teachings of the order, emphasizing love for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and spiritual closeness to God.

Other Informal Women’s Sufi Circles:

Beyond formal tariqahs, there are informal gatherings of women who engage in Sufi practices, study sacred texts, and seek spiritual growth. These circles often operate independently and may not be officially recognized as tariqahs.

Remember that while these female Sufi orders exist, they may not always receive the same level of visibility as their male counterparts. Nevertheless, women have played crucial roles in Sufi history, contributing to the spiritual legacy of Islam. 🌟
NEXT