Wisdom & Exhortation, Leisure or Lost Time? Relating to Creation, Distribute Ramadan Brochure, Donate to YM
Issue 344 » September 16, 2005 - Shaban 12, 1426
General
| Living the Quran |
An-Nahl
(The Bee)
Wisdom implies that one should be mindful of the sensitivities of the people being addressed, have an understanding of their backgrounds, beliefs and ideas, and employ the most appropriate and effective methods and channels of communication. It is evident that all noble Prophets of Allah employed a variety of methods for sharing Allah's message, but with wisdom. In fact, the Prophets of Allah made use of all the means available to them for amplifying their message in society and, hence, attempted to reach out to a wider audience. As an illustration, in order to share his message, the Prophet Muhammad met people on a one-to-one basis, visited them in their homes and made contact with them at public places, for example, at trade fairs and social functions. He also organised special meetings and dinners to share his message. He employed a variety of tools and methods for delivering and sharing his message. In the present day context, the new information and communications technologies and the mass media can be employed as tools for advancing the Islamic message in society. Novel styles, manners and techniques must be developed so that views based on Islam can be presented effectively and have an impact. There is, therefore, ample room for innovation and creativity in this area. Source: |
| Understanding the Prophet's Life |
| Leisure Time or Lost Time? Do we consider how much time we spend on activities that are not truly beneficial? On the issue of how one benefits from one’s free time, the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, “There are two blessings whose profit [or reward] many people lose: good health and free time” (Al-Bukhari) One may ask, “What, from the Shareeah point of view, is the problem with, for example, watching a football game for three hours?” It is not just a question of “what is the problem with it?” The issue for a Muslim is: do I really have that time to spend wherein I am not benefiting myself at all? Can I afford to lose that time which I will never get back again? When I stand in front of Allah, can I really feel that I have used that free time, which is a bounty from Allah, in an acceptable fashion? When the goal and purpose of a Muslim’s life is clear in his mind [to please Allah and achieve Paradise], he will not waste a lot of time in doing things that do not benefit him in achieving that goal and purpose. All his activities will be focused on the idea of moving him toward his goal—neither away from it nor in a static position with respect to it. Of course, there is nothing wrong with rest and relaxation when needed. Indeed, it is a necessity. However, it could be argued that there are some ways that are simply non-beneficial or perhaps even harmful. Source: |
| Blindspot! |
Relating to The Creation All creatures are Allah's family; and Allah loves most those who treat His family well and kindly. Our responsibility to others is especially important for us to consider for there is no Divine pardon in cases where personal rights have been violated. Your primary obligation after satisfying your personal needs is towards your family. Indeed, after Allah, your parents have the greatest right over you. Fulfill your obligations towards your spouse and treat your children with love and kindness. When it comes to the obligations to your fellow Muslims, know that the strongest link of faith is to love someone in order to gain the pleasure of Allah. As an employer, know that you have an important responsibility towards your employees. Similarly, as an employee, you must perform your work with proficiency. Your fate in the Akhira will also be determined by how well you fulfill your obligations to your neighbours be they Muslims or non-Muslims. The Prophet used to pay particular attention to the needs of non-Muslims even when there were difficulties in the Muslim community. Animals have rights for all of Allah's creatures comprise His `family': `Fear Allah regarding the animals who cannot speak. Ride on them while they are healthy, and eat of them when they are healthy.' Source: |
