Arbitrary Thoughts

Tawakkul

Anas (radi Allahu anhu) reported that a person asked Rasul Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam), “Should I tie my camel and have Tawakkul (trust in Allah for her protection) or should I leave her untied and have Tawakkul.” Rasul Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) replied, “Tie her and have Tawakkul.” (Hasan) [Jami At-Tirmidhi]

I think sometimes Muslims either have no tawakkul in Allah that they rely solely on creation while other times Muslims rely solely on Allah without seeking their own livelihood. The way of the Prophet (peace be upon him) is to put effort in what we want from Allah (as long as it is halal).

This also reminds me about moderation in terms of pleasing Allah and the people close to us. The best is one who pleases both, without trespassing from the boundaries provided for us. Because, after all, keeping relationships for the sake of Allah will enable harmony within all relationships, including one with God. 

Surah Imran [3:7-9]

7. It is He who has sent down to you, [O Muhammad], the Book; in it are verses [that are] precise - they are the foundation of the Book - and others unspecific. As for those in whose hearts is deviation [from truth], they will follow that of it which is unspecific, seeking discord and seeking an interpretation [suitable to them]. And no one knows its [true] interpretation except Allah . But those firm in knowledge say, “We believe in it. All [of it] is from our Lord.” And no one will be reminded except those of understanding.

8. [Who say], “Our Lord, let not our hearts deviate after You have guided us and grant us from Yourself mercy. Indeed, You are the Bestower.

9. Our Lord, surely You will gather the people for a Day about which there is no doubt. Indeed, Allah does not fail in His promise.”

I am posting these ayahs because I feel that many people these days try to take the wrong meaning from Quran. Islam is meant to be easy for us which God tells us (correct me if I’m wrong). Using that excuse, some people belittle necessary acts of worship…which is in a way, taking the wrong meaning. God knows best. Good reminder though. 

Our Ego

We live in a generation in which all of our conversations offline (in person) or online (“social” networking) are centered around satisfying our ego. For example, we have a tendency to talk negatively about someone else in every social setting. “I hate cops” … “The cashier at McDonalds is a beez” … “Why is she wearing that?” … “he’s a douchebag” … We have an inherent need to feed our ego by insulting others because we feel it defines our worth. 

“Let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them” [49:11]. 

The people we talk about might be better than us but we don’t know it. We do not know. 

At the same time, when someone texts us, we wait a while to respond and elude a “not caring” attitude to , perhaps subconsciously, feel superior. Or if no backbiting, we satisfy ourselves by making fun of the person we are directly talking to, sometimes excessively. Some relationships are only built on making fun of each other, and a lot of times, we do not realize when we cross the limits. 

I’d also like to add that a lot of us have the want to get likes, shares, reblogs, retweets, in person appraisals, etc but we should always be careful not to let this get to our head. Once again learn to control or ego.

“If you are praised, then be careful not to let praise and self-admiration overcome you. Praise makes people content with their deeds so they do not worship or do good as much because they are happy with their situation.”

Once, the Prophet (sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam) heard a man praising another, and he responded to him, “”May Allāh ’s Mercy be upon you! You have cut the neck of your friend.” [Bukhāri].

Don’t make it your main goal.

Social interaction has changed so much since the last decade, I believe for the worse. We should at least acknowledge within ourselves when we do this and then make it a point to change. Baby steps at a time.

Some advice for my friends and family!

If you disclose your charitable expenditures, they are good; but if you conceal them and give them to the poor, it is better for you, and He will remove from you some of your misdeeds [thereby]. And Allah , with what you do, is [fully] Acquainted. [2:271]

I should give more charity, especially since I am blessed with a proper job. I do not give as much as I should. It’s not that I am cheap or greedy per say, but rather forgetful and self centered. Other people’s pain and suffering deeply saddens me, but apparently it is not enough. I blog; I tweet; I write statuses on Facebook; a lot of times about the harsh suffering of Muslims around the world. Many times, I get “likes” and “reblogs” and “retweets” but why does it stop there? Why is providing awareness my only outlet of “reaching out”? 

I can tell you why.

Because it is within my comfort zone. My lack of action just goes to prove that I am, indeed, very self centered.

Whether in private or public, I should make it a point to give more alms. I suggest you do the same.