[Video]: SHEIKH DR. YUSUF AL-QARDHAWI - "The reason why the Islamic world [i.e. the Muslims] is so backwards..." & "ISLAM: A Progressive Religion"

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MUSLIMS TODAY MAY BE BACKWARD

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BUT

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ISLAM: IS A PROGRESSIVE RELIGION

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Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (PERGAS) Singapore Religious Teachers’ Association.paper for “WAMY" World Assembly of Muslim Youth - Islamic Symposium1997”(10 Sept 97/ 8 R.Awwal 1418H) organized by Global Impact and Muhammadiyah Association.

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INTRODUCTION

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يُرِيدُونَ لِيُطۡفِـُٔواْ نُورَ ٱللَّهِ بِأَفۡوَٲهِهِمۡ

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وَٱللَّهُ مُتِمُّ نُورِهِۦ وَلَوۡ ڪَرِهَ ٱلۡكَـٰفِرُونَ

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“They aim to extinguish Allah’s light with their utterances: but Allah has willed to spread His light in all its fullness, however hateful this may be to all who deny the truth.”(Qur’an: as-Saff: 61: 8)

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Despite the negative portrayal of Islam, especially by the media, Islam still is steadily being accepted and today its adherents comprises of one-fifth of all humanity. Yet, those who see it as a threat will constantly try to undermine it by process of “misinformation.” The most important respond is by way of educating our young generation towards being able to coherently rebut these misconceptions and expose their silly prejudices.

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BRIEF OUTLINE

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Amongst the constant barrage of misinformation is the portrayal of Islam as a “backward religion”, “antiquated” and “not in synch with progress.” It is most unfortunate that such views are affecting our young minds, especially those with little knowledge of Islam and who are being exposed to such thoughts emanating from advocates of ‘modernism’ and ‘post-modernism’.This paper will respond to only one aspect of such misinformation i.e. the notion that Islam is a backward religion and against progress. Yet inspite of the negative portrayal by the media, Islam is indeed a progressive religion and this paper will argue with the following sub-topics:

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[1] What do we mean by “progressive” ?

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[2] Why is there, generally, a negative perception of Islam?

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[3] Our task and the intellectual challenge ahead.

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[4] “Islam is progressive...” Examples of some important aspects.What do we mean by “progressive”?When we talk about being “progressive”, we normally are concerned about man’s efforts towards change from good to better. To know what is best, criteria and standards have to be envisaged to be used as measurement - be it quantitative or qualitative or both. It must be a constant effort towards attaining perfection, and not just limited to certain aspect of development but it must also consider the overall effect to man’s total development. Therefore by progressive we do not necessarily mean whatever is attained is already perfect, for to be fully satisfied with present attainments stifles the very notion of being progressive. Suffice if the changes attained are in line with the long-term vision of success, and the spirit of striving still continues.

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In judging a particular religion, we have to evaluate from its teachings whether it conforms to that idea of “progressive”, rather than relying on what its followers have done - because we believe Islam is perfect but the Muslims are not, rather Muslims can seek perfection in Islam. (and not the other way round).

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To define what we mean by “progressive” it is crucial and dependent upon what one considers as important objectives and vision for life, which one sets. And thus, to judge any particular religious teaching as being truly progressive depends very much also on how that religion view man’s purpose and destiny.

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If the notion of “who is man? what is his role & purpose ? where will he go ? “ differs (for people have different objectives and views in life), the question of being “progressive” will differ respectively. Some within a narrow or particular perspective whilst those with a broader or holistic ideal defines it within the larger perspective. The following characteristics which I believe only Islam has, sets it apart as a truly “progressive religion” from all other:

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[1] Entrenched in its original teachings are clear concepts of success, which not only is concerned with short-term gains alone but also is far-sighted. While it does concern itself with particular aspects yet it does not neglect the overall human development. Every aspect of its teachings is linked in a harmonious matrix emanating from the essential teaching i.e. concerning the Oneness of God and from it the unity and the brotherhood of man and the universe. Although Islam teaches that the ultimate life is in the hereafter, it does not ignore the importance of this life here and now, which it emphasize as the important means to the hereafter. And it has all along resisted attempts to dichotomize between the secular and the sacred, the earthly and the hereafter.

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[2] Central to its teachings is that it exhorts its adherent towards attaining the highest standards possible according to one’s capacity.

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[3] It provide guidelines, framework for its attainment in a harmonious way, from rules for personal development to international relations, linking every aspect of man’s life to a unified paradigm. Yet, it is not a rigid system as it allows for man’s growth in terms of his own discovery and inventiveness, in whatever circumstances which he may face in living in this world.

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[4] Its message is aimed universally to all nation and constantly manages to draw people from every nation into its fold regardless of their difference in make up, because essentially all mankind are related in their humanity and share a common trust and responsibility.

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[5] Its primary vision, standards and principle teachings remain unchanged whereas other religious or philosophical thoughts tend to change their stand. An interesting observation can be seen in that others tend to “discover” what Islam has all along been advocating.Why generally is there a negative perception?There are people who think that “Islam is backward”, “Islam is not progressive” and this is somewhat supported, either explicitly or implicitly, by the world media’s slanted coverage of events and news. This is compounded with the Muslims’ lack of success responding to the same media. Although it is accepted that what Muslims do does not necessarily mean that that is what Islam teaches, yet opinions of people tends to use such false syllogism (i.e. example, since the Muslims are backward, therefore it speaks much of Islam itself as a religion.).

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Added to this are the attacks against Islam by its enemies, which dates back to the Crusades. Although nowadays the approaches used have become somewhat subtler but more sophisticatedly lethal, in the form of Orientalist research and writings by so-called ‘sympathetic scholars’. We have to be proactively trained to think critically, to be prepared for the “ideological battle” (Ghuzwatul-fikr).

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OUR TASK AHEAD

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To prepare for this (ghuzwatul-fikr) every Muslim must know how to respond to misconceptions, not just by emotional outburst but with “wisdom and fair exhortation” as enjoined in the Qur’an (an-Nahl: 125.)

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The process required is for every Muslim:

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[1] To have a satisfactory general overview of Islam’s message - its philosophy, principles, paradigm, epistemology, history and development etc.;

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[2] To be critical of the so-called “standards” used by the others and set them right first vis-à-vis Islam’s;

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[3] To exposed their flaw viz. incomplete data, out of context etc. or their fallacious arguments viz. false syllogism, fallacy of the converse etc.(refer to my presentation: “how to deal with the general misconceptions on Islam”)

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“ISLAM IS A PROGRESSIVE RELIGION."

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Examples of some important aspects.......”To support our contention that Islam indeed is progressive, let us evaluate the contributions of Islam in the various fields and approach it using criteria listed above (The area or fields listed below as just examples to show the approach - and therefore not exhaustive):

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In Education

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هُوَ ٱلَّذِى بَعَثَ فِى ٱلۡأُمِّيِّـۧنَ رَسُولاً۬ مِّنۡہُمۡ

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يَتۡلُواْ عَلَيۡہِمۡ ءَايَـٰتِهِۦ وَيُزَكِّيہِمۡ

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وَيُعَلِّمُهُمُ ٱلۡكِتَـٰبَ وَٱلۡحِكۡمَةَ

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وَإِن كَانُواْ مِن قَبۡلُ

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لَفِى ضَلَـٰلٍ۬ مُّبِينٍ۬

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وَءَاخَرِينَ مِنۡہُمۡ لَمَّا يَلۡحَقُواْ بِہِمۡ‌ۚ

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وَهُوَ ٱلۡعَزِيزُ ٱلۡحَكِيمُ

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“He (Allah) it is who sent unto the unlettered people an apostle from among themselves, to convey unto them His messages, and to cause them to grow in purity, and to impart unto them the divine writ as well as wisdom - whereas before that they were indeed, most obviously, lost in error - ; and to [cause this message to spread] from them unto other people as soon as they come into contact with them : for He alone is almighty, truly wise!

(Qur;’an: al-Jumuu’ah: 62: 2-3)

Islam stresses from the beginning, and the Muslims are exhorted to:

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[1] Education is a very important human rights compulsory for all. (tolabul’ilm-faridwa-tan ‘alaa kul-li muslim - “to seek knowledge is compulsory for every Muslim” - Hadith reported by Ibn Majah) and is lifelong vocation (utluubull’lmi, minal mah-di ilal-lahd - “Seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave” -Hadith)

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[2] Truth and Wisdom is universal and mankind’s success requires their preoccupation with the seeking and sharing of this. (wa-tawaa-swoubil-haq - Exhort one another towards (the teaching of) truth - Q: al-Asr : 3..) (..awalam yasii-ru fil-ardi fa-yan-zuruu kai-fa kaa-na ‘aa-qibatu-lazi-na min qab-lihim..”....Have they then never journeyed about the earth and beheld what happened in the end to those who lived before their time ?....- Q : ar-Rum :9 )

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[3] Ultimate objective of education is the perfection of man’s nature & disposition entailing development of his intellect & conviction, his deeds and actions, and his inner spiritual purification and growth. (In-namaa bu-ith-tu-lii utam-mima makarimal akh-laaq - “verily I have not been raised (as a prophet) except to perfect the noble nature (disposition of mankind) - Hadith.” Beginning with the three aspects (iiman, islam wa-ihsan - “conviction, submission and best conduct”) it provides for the balanced growth and development of a truly humane personality.

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[4] Knowledge (al-’ilm) - Islam does not recognize secularist notion of knowledge but it extends knowledge even to the study of the universe as a necessary extension to religious pursuit. Research of the universe is the other (“aayah”) signs which the Qur’an enjoins believers to discover. (in-nafii kholqis-samaa-waati wal-’ardhi wakh-tilaafil-lay-li wan-nahaari la-aa-yaa-ti li-ulil al-baab - “verily in the creations of heaven and earth and in the alternations of night and day, in them are Signs for those who reflect” - Q: ali-Imran : 3 :189 )

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[5] Lest we forget, Islam had contributed tremendously in the field of education and especially our young Muslims should never forget this. The present age or civilization owes a lot to the Islamic civilization, which carried the torch of knowledge and enlightenment when the world then, was in the “dark ages”. Attempts to eradicate or deny this had been made especially when the Muslims were dominated and ruled by colonial rulers. The time has come for us Muslims to resume that tradition of education, which had made us the leaders of man with a civilization, which benefit the universe.

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In legislation

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- “Maqaasid-ash-shar’iyyah”

(Aims & purpose of Shari’ah)

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[1] Ever since its inception, Muslims have a constitution perfectly written in a perfect language i.e. Al-Qur’an (Dustuuruna) and exemplified through the Prophet Muhammad’s life i.e. As-Sunnah (Qudwaatuna). From then on the development of the Shari’ah evolved in accordance with the needs of people and has remained continuously relevant even till today. Much criticisms were made to it by those who were advocates of other legislative systems but a simple respond would be to discuss the aims and purpose of Islamic Shari’ah vis-à-vis theirs. Briefly, they should realized that Islamic shari’ah concerns itself with mankind’s preservation and development of their:

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Dhururiyyah (Rights to religious belief, to life, to intellect, to wealth, to honour / lineage,)

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Haajiyyah (Needs which ensure comfortable life as a manifestation of glorifying God)

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Tahsiniyyah (Perfection- towards “Makarimal akhlaq” (development of noble character) and “Mashaalih” (betterment of the community)

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[2] It can be shown the extensiveness of Islamic jurisprudence by listing the areas covered under “Fiqhul-Islam”, viz. ‘Ibadah (Personal Devotions); Mu’amalah (Social Transaction); Munakahah (Marriage & Family); Jinaayah (Criminal); Faraa-idh (Inheritance / Distribution of wealth); Aqodhiyyah (Judiciary); Jihad (Striving in war & peace) and al-Imaarah (Leadership & government).

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In international relations

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- “globalization of human civilization”

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يَـٰٓأَيُّہَا ٱلنَّاسُ إِنَّا خَلَقۡنَـٰكُم مِّن ذَكَرٍ۬ وَأُنثَىٰ

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وَجَعَلۡنَـٰكُمۡ شُعُوبً۬ا وَقَبَآٮِٕلَ لِتَعَارَفُوٓاْ‌ۚ

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إِنَّ أَڪۡرَمَكُمۡ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ أَتۡقَٮٰكُمۡ‌ۚ

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إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ عَلِيمٌ خَبِيرٌ۬

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“O men! Behold, We created you all out of a male and a female, and have made you into nations and tribes, so that you might come to know one another. Verily, the noblest of you in the sight of Allah is the one who is most deeply conscious of Him. Behold, Allah is all knowing, all-aware.”

(Qur’an: al-Hujurat: 49: 13)

[1] It advocate peaceful co-existence of mankind inspite of our physical differences which should positively be used towards better understanding of each other (li-ta’aarafu - “that they may come to know one another” -Q: al-Hujurat: 49: 13);

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[2] It directs mankind towards mutual assistance for the sake of goodness and the general welfare of all-mankind (ta’aawanu alal-birri wa taq-wa - “but rather help one another in furthering virtue and God-consciousness” - Q: al-Ma’idah: 5: 2);

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[3] It emphasizes Justice and Good Deeds (ya’ muru bil-’adli wal ihsaan wa itaa-i zil-qurba, wayanhaa anil fah-shaa-i wal mungkari wal baghi - “...He (Allah) enjoins justice, and the doing of good, and generosity towards (one’s) fellow-men; and He forbids all that is shameful and all that runs counter to reason, as well as envy..” - Q : an-Nahl : 16 : 90) to be a common virtue for all mankind to consider implementing;

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[4] It advocate communication and dialogue for the pursuit of Truth without coercion (laa ikraaha fid-diin - “ there shall be no coercion in matters of faith” - Q: al-Baqarah: 2: 256) ; (afa-anta tukrihun-naas hat-taa ya-kuunu mu’miniin - “.. do you then think that you can compel people to believe..? - Q: Yunus: 10: 99.)

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[5] Collective concern to eradicate oppression by reconciling the feuding parties through negotiations. And when this fails, then to resort to use of collective force against the one who oppresses because when all else fails, peace can only be achieved through a just war. ( fa-asw-lihu bai-nahumaa, fa-in ba-ghat ih-daa-huma ‘alal-ukhraa fa-qaatilul-lati tab-ghii ha-taa tafii-a ila am-rillaah fa-in faa-at fa-asw-lihuu bai-na-huma bil-’adli wa-aq-swituu... “..make peace between them; but then, if one of the two (groups) goes on acting wrongfully towards the other, fight against the one that acts wrongfully until it reverts to Allah’s commandment; and if they revert, make peace between them with justice, and deal equitably (with them)..”al-Hujurat : 49 : 9)

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Conclusion:

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Vicegerency-

Mankinds common role, purpose & responsibilities.

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ظَهَرَ ٱلۡفَسَادُ فِى ٱلۡبَرِّ وَٱلۡبَحۡرِ

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بِمَا كَسَبَتۡ أَيۡدِى ٱلنَّاسِ

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“Corruption has appeared on land and in the sea as an outcome of what men’s hands have wrought :”

(Qur’an : ar-Rum : 30 : 41)

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فَأَقِمۡ وَجۡهَكَ لِلدِّينِ حَنِيفً۬ا‌ۚ

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فِطۡرَتَ ٱللَّهِ ٱلَّتِى فَطَرَ ٱلنَّاسَ عَلَيۡہَا‌ۚ

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لَا تَبۡدِيلَ لِخَلۡقِ ٱللَّهِ‌ۚ

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ذَٲلِكَ ٱلدِّينُ ٱلۡقَيِّمُ

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وَلَـٰكِنَّ أَڪۡثَرَ ٱلنَّاسِ

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لَا يَعۡلَمُونَ

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“And so set thy face steadfastly towards the [one ever-true] faith, turning away from all that is false, in accordance with the natural disposition which Allah has instilled into man: [for] not to allow any change to corrupt what Allah has thus created - this is the [purpose of the one] ever-true faith: but most people know it not.”

(Qur’an: ar-Rum: 30: 30)

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There are many other aspects of Islam, which are so beautiful and relevant for mankind. Thus, it is for us Muslims to reform ourselves and return to the pristine and noble teachings of Islam - because whether we like it or not, people tends to judge Islam based on the state and behavior of the Muslims. And why are the lives of Muslims not reflective of the noble teachings of Islam? Perhaps, many are themselves ignorant of it, or simply complacent by not being committed to the Islamic cause. Before we can effectively convinced others, we ourselves must be convinced. Before we can educate others about Islam, we ourselves must be educated in it. Therefore, the beginning of change must start with each individual Muslim themselves. For Allah s.w.t. says :

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إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ لَا يُغَيِّرُ مَا بِقَوۡمٍ

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حَتَّىٰ يُغَيِّرُواْ مَا بِأَنفُسِہِمۡ‌ۗ

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“Verily, Allah does not change the state of a people unless they change what is in themselves.”

(Qur’an: ar-Ra’ad: 13: 11)

WALLAAHU A’LAM -

WABIL-LAAHI-TAU-FIQ-WAL-HI-DAA-YAAH-WAS-SALAA-MU-

‘ALAYKUM WARAH-MATULLAAHI- WA-BARA-KAATUH.

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[POWERPOINT] : Series of talk at Masjid al-Istiqomah "Towards becoming Muslims & its challenges" # 3 - ISLAM & SECULARISM

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[POWEPOINT] :A course on the "Orientation for Muslim Educators"

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Islamic Education & the Madrasah issue in Singapore 1999

Get your own at Scribd or explore others: Islam Religion singapore ustaz zhulkeflee

AN INTRODUCTION TO 'ILM AL-AKHLAQ

STORY OF ANIMAL IN THE FARM

This write-up by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (PERGAS) was adapted from his lecture notes as an introduction to lesson on 'Ilm-alAkhlaq (Islamic Science on human disposition), and from his article included/published in one issue of the "Muslim Reader" an MCAS (Muslim Converts Association of Singapore) quarterly magazine in the 1990’s.

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http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/2008/04/story-of-animals-in-farm.html

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بِسۡمِ ٱللهِ ٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنِ ٱلرَّحِيمِ

الحمدلله الملك الحكيم الجواد الكريم العزيز الرحيم
الذي خلق الانسان في احسن تقويم
و فطر السموات بقدرته و دبر الأمور بحكمته
و ما خلق الجن والانس الا لعبادته
والصلاة والسلام على سيد المرسلين
وعلى أله الأبرار الطيبين الطاهرين
وسلم وعظم الى يوم الدين

-------------------- (THE STORY IS A SATIRE/FICTIONAL) --------------------

ANY RESEMBLANCE TO ANY PERSON OR PERSONS, DEAD OR ALIVE,

IS PURELY COINCIDENTAL

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The night in the farm, the serenity was disturbed by the barking and howling of the dogs. Many other animals were aroused from their sleep. Irritated by the noise, they began to complain amongst themselves and criticise the dogs.

Cow: "O, what a racket. These dogs simply are very inconsiderate. Don't they know that we have to be up at dawn to give our milk? A good rest is crucial to our (milk) production. We always try to give more. Moo..ore...! Moo..ore...!"

Sheep: ''They are not only inconsiderate; they also display certain arrogance. They will always display a fierce and threatening nature to everyone. If the milkman comes, they will bark. In fact, whosoever comes; whether our master's neighbour, the postman, the handyman, the salesman, they will bark. When they are told to hush-up, they will still continue to bark and roll their tongues, baring their fangs threateningly. You noticed how they always intimidate us sheep. They scare the wits out of us with the tone of their language. We always try to remind them to tone down their language when we say plee..ee..ase..! plee..ee..ase..!''

Cockerel: ''Not only are they arrogant, they are also ostentatious and like to show off. When they bark at the master, you see how they wag their tails, as though telling the master, '' Look at me! Look at me!'' What?! They think they are the only ones working for our master. They imagine themselves as favourites of the master. Even in answering the nature's call, they must do it at specific places. They would sniff the place and meticulously choose the spot. The lamp post, lah! The tyre, lah! The fire hydrant, lah! And just look at how they do it. Must do it with style, with one leg up! Acrobatic or what?! Show off!"

All these were heard by a young puppy who then ran to the leader of the pack. Panting, the puppy informed the leader of what was said. The leader of the dog summoned all under him and delivered a short lecture.

Leader of the dogs: '' Do not be alarmed, do not get angry, and do not react unnecessarily! What has been said by a non-dog concerning us dogs is only from their misunderstanding of our nature. You see, non-dogs can never understand dogs. But you dogs must understand your own nature and try to live according to your nature. Let me respond to their accusation and explain for you all to understand! We have been created for a job, an important job on this farm i.e. to guard and protect the property of our master. To be a guard, you need to display ferocity so that it can be deterrent. How can a guard be known to be a sissy? So, it is not being arrogant, but is part of our discipline as members of the security force. As for barking at night, well... we, as experts in our field, know jolly well that burglars usually come out at night. Disadvantaged by poor lighting, we need to make sure that our presence is felt. Thus the barking! Not that we are inconsiderate to others, but rather, it is part of our job. As to the accusation that we are ostentatious, even choosing specific places to nature's call! Well, it is a strategy. Our number is small, but the area to guard is so wide. We have to make our presence felt, even in our absence. Unfortunately they misunderstand this as being ostentatious!

So you see! We ought to understand our nature and try to live according to our nature. If you can do that... Al-hamdulillah! Be thankful and grateful to Allah for having created you dogs. Don't you know that there are worse creatures than us?''

There was a stunned silence.

An old owl that was perched upon the barn was attentively listening to their conversation. She was always an avid listener to gossip, especially to pass her time at night. She could not stem her ''kay-poh-istic'' (from Hokkien – a Chinese dialect - word “kay-poh” meaning ‘busybody’) tendencies and blurted out: ''wHoo..! wHoo..!''


Owl: ''wHoo..! wHoo..!''

Whereupon, one of the dogs echoed her and asked: ''Whoo...f? Whoo...f?''

Leader of the dogs: '' Look at our neighbours, the swine! At least we dogs have a dignified job. But they, I don't know why they were created. All they seem to be doing is eating, sleeping, and wallowing in the mud and filth! As regards eating, they don't seem to have any discrimination! They are such dirty creatures; they enjoy covering themselves with mud and filth! Eeee!... Even in the Qur'an it is stated that man is forbidden from eating the flesh of swine. And when you look at the numbers of piglets born each time, it is as though mating seems to be their favourite preoccupation! Perhaps we can say, they do nothing except eat, play in the filth, sleep and sex!''

Unfortunately, one piglet was not asleep but heard what was said. It ran to the leader of the swine, to complain about the GHIBBAH (back biting) of the dogs. It created a stir amongst the pigs who began to shout ''Ooii..nk! Ooii...nk!'' as though trying to remind them that it is bad to back bite others. The chief swine pacified them and delivered a lecture to them.

Leader of the swine: '' Be calm! Don't overreact! Non-pigs can never understand pigs. But you pigs must realise that there is nothing wrong in trying to live according to your nature. We ought to be thankful to Allah for having created us pigs. Let me respond and put into perspective our behaviour. It is not true when they assume that we have no job. We do have a job on this farm. A rather difficult job which only we pigs can perform. We are the walking environment supervisors and our job is to clean up the place of all rotting things. We are perhaps the last in the food chain. To do this job, we must not have any discrimination in eating. So, when we are doing our job efficiently, they accuse us of being gluttons. They say we are dirty and quote the Qur'an. It is true that in the Qur'an, Allah tells Man that our flesh is forbidden for them. But we have never told Man to eat us! We are supposed to be the last in the food chain and were created to function as such. Germs and bacteria or whatever which usually cause illness in Man, cannot harm us, but sustain us. So if Man wants to consider us as their food, they are taking a big risk. They are the one who place themselves as the lowest in the food chain. Therefore whatever harm may befall him for consuming us is his fault. As to covering ourselves with mud and filth, well, it is because we are not as fortunate as the dogs. Dogs were created with nice fur. Some amongst them are so vain as to enter into beauty contests because of this. But we, we are just trying to be modest. Though we are created relatively naked, at least we have the decency to cover ourselves, even with mud because that is the only material available for us. We are not vain but rather we are being modest. If they think that mud is dirty, well, in the Qur'an it is stated that Allah does not lay a burden greater than what we can bear! And between using mud and being naked, we'd rather not be naked. In fact we are grateful to Allah that we have mud.

When they criticise us regarding our reproductive efficiency, calling us ''sexists!''....."Sexual!"... They never consider the nature of our job. No other animals can do what we are doing. We can't import people from Hong Kong to do our job! But we must ensure that there is no labour shortage. The best solution is to produce our own labourers.

So you swine understand this! We were created with a specific nature and are expected by our Creator to function according to our nature. If we are doing it, Alhamdulillah! Be grateful that Allah has created you as pigs, because there are worse creatures than us.''

The old owl was there again, as curious as ever. Gossip being her mainstay, she would not be satisfied without knowing who the leader of the pigs was referring to. Seeing that the pigs are a bunch of dullards, she began to draw their attention by flapping her wings and suggested to them the question, ''wHoo..! wHoo..! wHoo..!''

Thus encouraged, one of the pigs asked,'' Oi..nk! Ooii..nk! Chief! Tell us who is it?''

The leader of the swine then said, '' Humans!''

On being asked why she came to that conclusion, she remarked:

'' You see, amongst us animals, there is none that behave like humans. But amongst human beings, there are many that behave like beasts!''

---------------------------------------- END OF TALE --------------------------------------

REFLECT:

Is this last statement true? Does man know the nature and live according to his nature as human beings should? Isn't it common for people to describe other people derogatorily as, "you despicable animal!" or "you beast!" etc. although he is referring to another human. So, human can become something else other than what he is supposed to be i.e. inhuman rather than being humane. He needs nurturing and cannot merely rely on his nature, because man has been granted limited freewill and choice to develop. Since obviously man cannot hope to know his own nature unless this is taught to him. Thus who can best teach man about his nature and the best way of behaviour except his creator? Thus Islam as ad-Deen (a total system of guidance or all encompassing way of life) must also be viewed from this perspective i.e. its laws are all it conformity with man's nature, to develop him to become a truly Muslim personality – the pure and honourable Adamic[1] disposition. Therefore, consider what Allah says in the Qur'an:

لَقَدۡ خَلَقۡنَا ٱلۡإِنسَـٰنَ فِىٓ أَحۡسَنِ تَقۡوِيمٍ۬

ثُمَّ رَدَدۡنَـٰهُ أَسۡفَلَ سَـٰفِلِينَ إِلَّا ٱلَّذِينَ

ءَامَنُواْ وَعَمِلُواْ ٱلصَّـٰلِحَـٰتِ

فَلَهُمۡ أَجۡرٌ غَيۡرُ مَمۡنُونٍ۬

''Verily, We create man in the best conformation: thereafter we reduce him to the lowest of the low: except those who attain to faith and do righteous deeds; theirs will be a reward unending.”

(Qur'an: At-Tin: 95: 4-6)

In the education of a Muslim, the three aspects of development viz: Imaan (Conviction/ Faith), 'Amal (Practise) and Ihsan (righteous conduct) - ultimately are to transform that person into a being with certain traits. This is because Islam views Man as potentially good, but not yet perfect in his goodness. He is susceptible to change (although given his good, pure, and innocent beginning). With Imaan, he becomes equipped with certainty and conviction thereby motivating him in life. The detail subject to pursue being ''Al- Aqaa'iid.'' With 'Amal, he becomes concerned with manifesting what he believes by doing what is correct. The detail subject to pursue being ''Fiqh''. And with Ihsan, he learns that in his inner being lies a potential which must be kept pure and made to grow according to the pattern accorded by his Creator, to unlock and channel the various innate powers in him thereby to become as perfect a human as he can be. The detail subject for this is ''Ilmu-Akhlaq'' which I have chosen the translation ''the science of human disposition''. Its methodology or approach of inculcation of the knowledge, organizational and technique for attainment of spiritual states etc., may vary accordingly and is also sometimes referred to as, '' ’ilmul-Tasawwuf [2]’’ (what some refer to it as “Sufism”) and ''Irfan''.

NOT MERELY ETIQUETTE

Although in ''Ilmu-Akhlaq'', there are elements of behaviour being taught, it would be wrong to assume that it is like lessons on etiquette, manners etc. as generally understood. You may be able to teach a person how to behave and yet his behaviour can at best be temporary and therefore ''artificial", motivated by a factor which is impermanent. For example, students may appear well behaved in the presence of a teacher, but once the teacher is not there, they go back to misbehaving. Whereas, ''Ilmu- Akhlaq'' seeks to instil and mould a behaviour which is at the same time his nature, sustained and developed throughout his entire life. Perhaps the expression to make it ''second nature to him'' may give you the idea.


HOW IS ''KHULUQ'' OR NATURAL (DISPOSITION) DEVELOPED?

''Khuluq'' i.e. disposition is that faculty (''Malakah'') of the ''Self'' (''Nafs'') which is the source of all activities that Man performs spontaneously without thinking about them. ''Malakah'' or certain faculty comes into existence through exercise and repetitive practice and is not easily destroyed. A particular disposition (''malakah'') may appear in human beings because of one of the following reasons:

[1] NATURAL AND PHYSICAL MAKE UP

It is observed that some people arte patient while others are touchy and nervous. Some are easily disturbed and saddened while others show greater resilience and resistance.

[2]HABIT

Habit is formed because of continual repetition of certain acts and leads to the formation of a disposition.

[3] PRACTICE AND CONSCIOUS EFFORT

Practice and conscious effort if continued long enough will eventually lead to the formation of a disposition.


MAN’S ABILITY TO CHANGE & DEVELOP FOR THE BETTER

وَنَفۡسٍ۬ وَمَا سَوَّٮٰهَا فَأَلۡهَمَهَا فُجُورَهَا وَتَقۡوَٮٰهَا

قَدۡ أَفۡلَحَ مَن زَكَّٮٰهَا وَقَدۡ خَابَ مَن دَسَّٮٰهَا

“By the Nafs (Self or Soul of man), and the proportion and order given to it; and its enlightenment as to its wrong and its right; ― truly he succeeds that purifies it, and he fails that corrupts it!”

(Qur’an: as-Shams: 91: 7-10)

وَلَقَدۡ كَرَّمۡنَا بَنِىٓ ءَادَمَ وَحَمَلۡنَـٰهُمۡ فِى ٱلۡبَرِّ وَٱلۡبَحۡرِ وَرَزَقۡنَـٰهُم

مِّنَ ٱلطَّيِّبَـٰتِ وَفَضَّلۡنَـٰهُمۡ عَلَىٰ ڪَثِيرٍ۬ مِّمَّنۡ خَلَقۡنَا تَفۡضِيلا

“Verily we have honoured the children of Adam. We carry them on the land and the sea, and have made provision of good things for them, and have preferred them above many of those whom We created with a marked preferment.”

(Qur’an: al-Isra’: 17: 70)

لَقَدۡ خَلَقۡنَا ٱلۡإِنسَـٰنَ فِى كَبَدٍ أَيَحۡسَبُ أَن لَّن يَقۡدِرَ عَلَيۡهِ أَحَدٌ۬ يَقُولُ أَهۡلَكۡتُ مَالاً۬ لُّبَدًا أَيَحۡسَبُ أَن لَّمۡ يَرَهُ ۥۤ أَحَدٌ أَلَمۡ

نَجۡعَل لَّهُ ۥ عَيۡنَيۡنِ وَلِسَانً۬ا وَشَفَتَيۡنِ وَهَدَيۡنَـٰهُ ٱلنَّجۡدَيۡنِ فَلَا ٱقۡتَحَمَ ٱلۡعَقَبَةَ وَمَآ أَدۡرَٮٰكَ مَا ٱلۡعَقَبَةُ فَكُّ رَقَبَةٍ أَوۡ إِطۡعَـٰمٌ۬

فِى يَوۡمٍ۬ ذِى مَسۡغَبَةٍ۬ يَتِيمً۬ا ذَا مَقۡرَبَةٍ أَوۡ مِسۡكِينً۬ا ذَا مَتۡرَبَةٍ۬ ثُمَّ كَانَ مِنَ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ وَتَوَاصَوۡاْ بِٱلصَّبۡرِ وَتَوَاصَوۡاْ

بِٱلۡمَرۡحَمَةِ أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ أَصۡحَـٰبُ ٱلۡمَيۡمَنَةِ وَٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ بِـَٔايَـٰتِنَا هُمۡ أَصۡحَـٰبُ ٱلۡمَشۡـَٔمَةِ عَلَيۡہِمۡ نَارٌ۬ مُّؤۡصَدَةُۢ

“Verily We have created Man into toil and struggle. Thinketh he, that none hath power over him? He may say (boastfully): "Wealth have I squandered in abundance!" Thinketh he that none beholdeth him? Have we not made for him a pair of eyes? ― And a tongue and a pair of lips? ― And shown him the two highways? But he hath made no haste on the path that is steep. And what will explain to thee, the path that is steep? (It is:) freeing the bondman; Or the giving of food in a day of privation. To the orphan with claims of relationship, or to the indigent (down) in the dust. Then will he be of those who believe, and enjoin patience, (constancy, and self-restraint), and enjoin deeds of kindness and compassion. Such are the Companions of the Right Hand. But those who reject Our Signs, they are the (unhappy) companions of the Left Hand. On them will be Fire Vaulted over (all round).”

(Qur’an: al-Balad: 90: 4-20)

إِنَّا خَلَقۡنَا ٱلۡإِنسَـٰنَ مِن نُّطۡفَةٍ أَمۡشَاجٍ۬ نَّبۡتَلِيهِ

فَجَعَلۡنَـٰهُ سَمِيعَۢا بَصِيرًا

إِنَّا هَدَيۡنَـٰهُ ٱلسَّبِيلَ إِمَّا شَاكِرً۬ا وَإِمَّا كَفُورًا

“Verily We created Man from a drop of mingled sperm, in order to try him: so We gave him (the gifts), of Hearing and Sight. We showed him the Way: whether he be grateful or ungrateful (rests on his will).”

(Qur’an: al-Insan: 76:2-3)

فَأَقِمۡ وَجۡهَكَ لِلدِّينِ حَنِيفً۬ا فِطۡرَتَ ٱللَّهِ ٱلَّتِى فَطَرَ ٱلنَّاسَ عَلَيۡہَا

لَا تَبۡدِيلَ لِخَلۡقِ ٱللَّهِ ذَٲلِكَ ٱلدِّينُ ٱلۡقَيِّمُ وَلَـٰكِنَّ أَڪۡثَرَ ٱلنَّاسِ لَا يَعۡلَمُونَ

“So set thou thy face steadily and truly to the faith: (establish) Allah's handiwork according to the pattern on which He has made mankind: no change (let there be) in the work (wrought) by Allah: that is the standard Religion: but most among mankind understand not.”

(Qur’an: Rum: 30: 30)

وَلَقَدۡ ذَرَأۡنَا لِجَهَنَّمَ ڪَثِيرً۬ا مِّنَ ٱلۡجِنِّ وَٱلۡإِنسِ لَهُمۡ قُلُوبٌ۬ لَّا يَفۡقَهُونَ بِہَا

وَلَهُمۡ أَعۡيُنٌ۬ لَّا يُبۡصِرُونَ بِہَا وَلَهُمۡ ءَاذَانٌ۬ لَّا يَسۡمَعُونَ بِہَآ

أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ كَٱلۡأَنۡعَـٰمِ بَلۡ هُمۡ أَضَلُّ أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ هُمُ ٱلۡغَـٰفِلُونَ

“Many are the Jinns and men We have made for Hell: they have hearts wherewith they understand not, eyes wherewith they see not, and ears wherewith they hear not. They are like cattle nay more misguided: for they are heedless (of warning).”

(Qur’an: al-A’raf: 7:179)

إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ لَا يُغَيِّرُ مَا بِقَوۡمٍ حَتَّىٰ يُغَيِّرُواْ مَا بِأَنفُسِہِمۡ

“Verily never will Allah change the condition of a people until they change it themselves (with their own souls).”

(Qur’an: ar-Ra’d: 13: 11)

صِبۡغَةَ ٱللَّهِ وَمَنۡ أَحۡسَنُ مِنَ ٱللَّهِ صِبۡغَةً۬ وَنَحۡنُ لَهُ ۥ عَـٰبِدُونَ

“Say: Our life takes its colour from Allah! And who could give a better colour (to life) than Allah? And it is He (alone) Whom we worship.”

(Qur’an: al-Baqarah: 2: 138)

WHAT IS THE BEST MODEL?

Muslims, who bear witness that Muhammad s.a.w is the Messenger of Allah. We regard him as our teacher, guide and leader. Muhammad s.a.w. was sent as a mercy for mankind and Allah referred to him as the best exemplar:

لَّقَدۡ كَانَ لَكُمۡ فِى رَسُولِ ٱللَّهِ أُسۡوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ۬
لِّمَن كَانَ يَرۡجُواْ ٱللَّهَ وَٱلۡيَوۡمَ ٱلۡأَخِرَ وَذَكَرَ ٱللَّهَ كَثِيرً۬ا

''Verily, in the Messenger of Allah (Muhammad) you have a good example for everyone who looks forward (with hopes and awes) to Allah and the Last Day, and remembers Allah unceasingly''.

(Qur'an: Al Ahzab: 33:21)

Allah SWT, our Creator, has provided for us the way. Islam being the code for living, the guidance. As to how we should follow this, it is not merely the superficial adherence to its laws alone. Rather, being Muslims requires us to emulate Muhammad s.a.w. for he epitomises the perfect man, who submitted and obeyed Allah. Thereby Allah educated him and moulded his life and adorned it with exalted character. This is what Man should become, when he devotes himself as a servant of Allah. Although physically Man shares certain similarities with animals, he is destined to become the noblest of all of Allah's creatures. It is not something farfetched nor an idealist dream, but a reality which has been demonstrated in the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w, a man perfected by God.

وَإِنَّكَ لَعَلَىٰ خُلُقٍ عَظِيمٍ۬

"And thou (Muhammad) standest on an exalted standard of character."

(Qur’an: al-Qalam 68:4)

Thus the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w himself said:

إِنَّمَا بُعِثْتُ لِأُتَمِّمَ مَكَارِمَ اْلأَخْلاَقِ

"Verily I have not been raised (as a Prophet) except to perfect the noble
nature (akhlaq) of mankind''. (Hadith)

أَدَّبَنِيْ رَبِّي فَأَحْسَنَ تَأْدِبِيْ

“My Lord educated me, and made my education most excellent.)”

(Hadith)

----------------------------------------------

‘ILM AKHLAQ / TSAWWUF / IRFAN

----------------------------------------------

(Science of human Disposition/ Sufism)

------------------------
Purpose / Objective
-------------------------

· Development of Righteous Personality
· Purification/perfection of the Self

--------------------------
What is involved?
------------------------

· Reforming the Self (Nafs)
· Best behaviour in relationship with Allah,
within oneself, and with others.
· (Gnostic) Knowledge of Self and of Allah

----------------------------
What is the Effect?

-----------------------------

· Development of Most noble personality traits
Founded on Love of Allah, of all His prophets [Nabiyyin]
especially the Seal of Prophethood Muhammad s.a.w.,
his Household [Ahl al-bayt] and loyal Companions [Sahabi],
In fellowship with the Truthful [siddiqqin],
the Witnesses & martyrs [shuhada] and the
Righteous servants of Allah [Solihin];
Striving to purify the Self (Nafs) and
adorning it with the Exalted Moral traits
of Our Beloved Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.
(The Perfected Man – “Insan Kaamil”)

وَمَن يُطِعِ ٱللَّهَ وَٱلرَّسُولَ فَأُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ مَعَ ٱلَّذِينَ أَنۡعَمَ ٱللَّهُ عَلَيۡہِم

مِّنَ ٱلنَّبِيِّـۧنَ وَٱلصِّدِّيقِينَ وَٱلشُّہَدَآءِ وَٱلصَّـٰلِحِينَ‌ۚ

وَحَسُنَ أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ رَفِيقً۬ا ذَٲلِكَ ٱلۡفَضۡلُ مِنَ ٱللَّهِ‌ۚ وَكَفَىٰ بِٱللَّهِ عَلِيمً۬ا

“All who obey Allah and the Messenger are in the company of those on whom is the Grace of Allah― of the Prophets (who teach) the sincere (lovers of Truth), the witnesses (who testify), and the Righteous (who do good): ah! How a beautiful fellowship! Such is the Bounty from Allah: and sufficient is it that Allah knoweth all.”

(Qur’an: an-Nisa’: 4: 69-70)

========================================

DU’A MAKARIM AL-AKHLAQ

- extracted (a portion) from the supplication of
the great-grandson of the Prophet s.a.w.,
Imam ‘Ali ibn Husayn ibn ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib,
Zein-al ‘Abidin (a.s.):

========================================


اللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَى مُحَمَّدٍ وَّآلِهِ
وَبَلِّغْ بِإِيمَانِي أَكْمَلَ الإِيمَانِ
وَاجْعَلْ يَقِينِي أَفْضَلَ الْيَقِينِ
وَانتَهِ بِنِيَّتِي إِلَى أَحْسَنِ النِّيَّاتِ
وَبِعَمَلِي إِلَى أَحْسَنِ الأَعْمَاِل

O Allah, bless Muhammad and his Household,

cause my faith to reach the most perfect faith,

make my certainty the most excellent certainty,

and take my intention to the best of intentions

and my works to the best of works!

وَاكْفِنِي مَا يَشْغَلُنِي الإِهْتِمَامُ بِهِ
وَاسْتَعْمِلْنِي بِمَا تَسْألُنِي غَداً عَنْهُ
وَاسْتَفْرِغْ أَيَّامِي فِيمَا خَلَقْتَنِي لَهُ
وَاغْنِنِي وَأَوْسِعْ عَلَيَّ فِي رِزْقِكَ
وَلا تَفْتِنِّي بِالنَّظَرِ
وَأَعِزَّنِي وَلا تَبْتَلِيَنِّي بِالْكِبْرِ
وَعَبِّدْنِي لَكَ وَلا تُفْسِدْ عِبِادَتِي بِالعُجْبِ
وَأَجْرِ لِلنَّاسِ عَلَى يَدَيَّ الْخَيْرَ وَلا تَمْحَقْهُ بِالْمَنِّ
وَهَبْ لِي مَعَاِلي الأَخْلاَقِ
وَاعْصِمْنِي مِنَ الْفَخْرِ

spare me the concerns which distract me,

employ me in that about which Thou wilt ask me tomorrow,

and let me pass my days in that for which Thou hast created me!

Free me from need, expand Thy provision toward me,

and tempt me not with ingratitude (النَّظَر )!

Exalt me and afflict me not with pride (الْكِبْرِ )!

Make me worship Thee and

corrupt not my worship with self-admiration (العُجْبِ )!

Let good flow out from my hands upon the people and

efface it not by my making them feel obliged (الْمَنِّ )!

Give me the (مَعَاِلي الأَخْلاَقِ ) highest moral traits

and preserve me from vainglory (الْفَخْرِ )!

اللَّهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلَى مُحَمَّدٍ وَّآلِهِ
كَأَفْضَلِ مَا صَلَّيْتَ عَلَى أَحَدٍ مِّنْ خَلْقِكَ قَبْلَهُ
وَأَنتَ مُصَلٍّ عَلى أَحَدٍ بَعْدَهُ
وَآتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَّفِي الآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً
وَقِنِي بِرَحْمَتِكَ عَذَابَ النَّارِ
إِنَّكَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْء قَدِيرٌ، وَهُوَ عَلَيْكَ يَسِيرٌ

O Allah, and bless Muhammad and his Household

the best Thou hast blessed any of Thy creatures

before him and wilt bless any of them after him,

and give to us in this World good,

and in the next world good,

and protect me through Thy mercy

from the chastisement of the Fire!

Verily You (Allah)! Have power

over all things,

and for You (to grant upon us)

is easy.

آمين Aa-meen!

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Compiled by: Ustaz Zhulkeflee Bin Haji Ismail (Singapore).

PERGAS

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Footnotes:

[1] As opposed to: materialistic, animalistic, demonic and even to be distinguished as higher than the angelic disposition – because even angels were commanded to bow down to Adam a.s.: وَإِذۡ قُلۡنَا لِلۡمَلَـٰٓٮِٕكَةِ ٱسۡجُدُواْ لِأَدَمَ فَسَجَدُوٓاْ “”And behold We said to the angels: "Bow down to Adam"; and they bowed down:”(Q:Baqarah:2:34)

[2] One scholar succinctly describes “Tasawwuf” as “the practice of Islam at the level of IHSAN” – where IHSAN is understood to mean (as explained by our Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. as) ...”... that you worship [serve or devote yourself to] Allah as though you see Him, if not, then He sees you.” –Hadith reported by Muslim. Adepts of “tasawwuf” are called “mutasawwifin” whereas for “Irfan” the appellation “ ’aarifin” is used.

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