THE KEY TO SUCCESS

GALILEO (1564-1642) could only peer at the moon’s visible face through his humble telescope. In contemporary times, aided by spacecraft cameras, humanity now glimpses the moon’s hidden side. This basic example underscores the substantial chasm in scientific understanding spanning the past and the present.

However, the price of accessing modern insights is markedly steep. On October 10, 1980, the world witnessed the installation of the most extensive telescope in New Mexico, incurring a staggering cost of $78 million. The American spacecraft Voyager, reaching Saturn in December 1980, commanded a hefty price tag of $340 million. CERN, the European particle physics facility, finalized its construction in 1981, aiming to dissect protons and transmute matter. The financial outlay for this institution amounted to $120 million. Presently, this establishment plans the inception of a grander research apparatus, estimated at $550 million. In the United States, a proton research machine came into being, amounting to $275 million, and so forth.

The mounting fascination of individuals with particle physics manifests in the exponential growth of participation. In the 1927 physics conference, a mere 32 scientists participated, whereas in the 1980 conference, the number soared to 800 participants. The American Physical Society’s membership, which was a mere 1300 in 1920, surged to an astonishing 30,000 members by 1980.

Contemporary research endeavours, predominantly in astronomy and particle physics, incubate results over protracted durations, often spanning 50 years or beyond. Comprehending the depreciation of capital allocated to these non-profit ventures, it is evident that a hundred-dollar investment’s value would dwindle to a single dollar half a century later.

These contemporary pursuits gravitate toward astronomy and particle physics. Their fruits of inquiry manifest tardily, taking about five decades to crystallize. Accounting for the diminishing monetary worth of investments in these explorations (which accrue no interest), the span of fifty years sees a hundred dollars devalue to a solitary dollar. Many express reservations regarding such projects, citing excessive expenditure on what appears to be futile undertakings. Addressing this sentiment, American scholar Roger Penrose articulates:

“Do economists not share with us the thrill that accompanies each piece of understanding? Do they not care to know where we came from, how we are constituted, or why we are here? Do they not have a drive to understand, quite independent of economic gain? Do they not appreciate the beauty in ideas? A civilization that stopped inquiring about other things as well, a lot else might then die besides particle physics.” (Sunday Weekly, Nov. 30, 1980)

This citation unveils the imperative of comprehending the verities of existence. Even those who abstain from dissecting the cosmos through the lens of divinity yearn to unearth bedrocks upon which to ground their understanding and cosmic comprehension. The undeniable fact remains that the presence of beings akin to humans, nestled within both the visible expanse and the uncharted realms of the universe, presents such awe-inspiring marvels that contemplation becomes irresistible. No other pursuits, even substantial material leaps, can supplant this persistent inquiry.

Possessing a mind capable of glimpsing both past and future, humans are driven to fathom the reason behind these occurrences. These questions loom over contemplative individuals, propelling them towards the truth.

Within the vast expanse of the universe, human beings grapple with their existence within an infinity of galaxies—approximately 200 billion in number. Each galaxy houses an incalculable multitude of colossal stars, and the interstellar distances are so vast that they equate to the expansive seas, with ships isolated from one another. The expanse of stars scattered throughout this immense cosmos is so staggering that uttering their single-word names ceaselessly would demand 300 billion years to exhaust them. (Plain Truth, January 1981) In this unimaginably vast cosmos, humankind emerges as an infinitesimal entity. Even within the cosmic atlas, human presence appears tinier than those minuscule islands omitted from conventional world maps due to their diminutiveness. Despite this insignificance, humanity is traversing the universe’s distances, spanning from subatomic realms to galactic systems. Possessing a mind capable of glimpsing both past and future, humans are driven to fathom the reason behind these occurrences. These questions loom over contemplative individuals, propelling them towards the truth. Yet, humanity’s dilemma lies in the fact that, apart from revelations received by prophets, telescopic observations and laboratory experiments remain the sole avenues for seeking answers to these queries.

In a universe teeming with worlds that the mere act of naming would consume over three billion years, how can humanity unearth the truth it seeks within the span of its fifty or a hundred years of life? The stark verity emerges that only the Creator possesses the power to unveil this enigma, an illumination conveyed through the conduit of prophets.

Albert Einstein (1879-1955) unveiled the theory of space and time, attaining a remarkable fame. Some argue that Einstein’s scientific worth transcended the acclaim he garnered. An elucidation is put forth: Einstein’s inquiries were tethered to the universe’s eternal truths, and one who ventures to peer into these cosmic verities assumes distinct significance in society’s eyes. A visionary described:

“Whoever finds that which enables us to obtain a deeper glimpse into the eternal secrets of nature has been given great grace. That was the grace of Albert Einstein’s unique greatness–to try to find such thoughts.” (The Hindustan Times, March 15, 1981)

The yearning to fathom the universe’s timeless truths is so deeply ingrained in human nature that it defies detachment. Since antiquity, humanity has yearned for these age-old enigmas, which consistently remains out of reach. If one cannot access these truths through personal endeavour, limitations prove insurmountable barriers. An inquiry arises: Why, despite prophets unveiling these timeless secrets throughout history, do humans remain resistant to embracing the prophets’ revelations?

The crux lies in the prophet’s response, replete with the concepts of reward and retribution, Heaven and Hell. The prophet calls for relinquishing self-directed lives and embracing a more constrained existence on earth. This conditionality renders humanity averse to adopting the prophet’s proclamation. They relentlessly seek solutions to uncover nature’s mysteries—responses without constriction. Future contemplation seems undesirable. Nameless spiritual entities’ answers find acceptance by countless individuals, yet the prophets’ revelations are met with dissatisfaction. This arises from the spiritual entities’ responses merely gratifying the spiritual facet, devoid of room for spiritual discipline. Conversely, prophets’ revelations engender relinquishing personal freedom, enveloping individuals in perpetual contemplation of the afterlife.

Success lies in alignment with truth, not evasion from it. If the truth indeed resonates with the prophets’ guidance, seeking an alternative verity proves a futile endeavour. Who can conjure existence from nonexistence?

I N the early days of Islam, the leadership of the Muslim community was marked by the exemplary governance of the first four Caliphs, known as the Khulafa-e-Rashideen (rightly-guided Caliphs). Their reigns provide a perfect example of how each person, when focused on their unique strengths, can contribute to a successful and harmonious society. This principle of expertise and specialization is crucial, especially when engaging in introducing the peaceful message of the Quran or fulfilling religious duties.

The reigns of the first four Caliphs provide us with timeless lessons on leadership, expertise, and teamwork. In today’s context, whether in introducing the peaceful message of the Quran, religious duties, or any other field, it’s crucial to recognize and respect the unique strengths of each individual. An intellectual thinker or skilled writer should contribute through their thoughts and writings, while an orator should focus on delivering impactful speeches. Similarly, those proficient in finance should manage financial affairs, and organizers should handle logistics.

When each person excels in their area of expertise and refrains from overstepping into others’ roles, the community as a whole benefits. This approach not only ensures efficiency but also fosters a sense of unity and mutual respect. It’s important to remember that in the eyes of God, what matters most is our sincerity and dedication to our duties, rather than the recognition we receive from others.

As the Rashidun Caliphs have shown, the true reward lies in serving the community with sincerity and striving for excellence in whatever role we are entrusted with. Let us take inspiration from their example and strive to excel in our respective fields, always keeping in mind our ultimate accountability in the Hereafter.

The Role of Expertise in Leadership and the Importance of Sincerity

In any organization, especially those dedicated to religious or communal work, it’s essential that individuals contribute in areas where they have the most expertise. When people are placed in roles that align with their skills and knowledge, the organization functions more effectively, and the goals of the group are more likely to be achieved. However, a potential pitfall arises when individuals, based on seniority or tenure, are elevated to positions outside their areas of expertise. This can lead to inefficiencies, mismanagement, and ultimately, a failure to achieve the organization’s mission.

The Dangers of Misplaced Leadership

When a financier or organizer, whose skills lie in managing resources or coordinating logistics, is placed in a leadership position that requires oratory skills, strategic vision, or deep intellectual thought, the results can be detrimental. Their lack of expertise in these areas may hinder the organization’s progress, as they might not be equipped to make informed decisions, communicate effectively, or inspire the community.

Moreover, this misalignment can lead to a scenario where the organization’s efforts are diluted. Instead of leveraging the unique strengths of each member, the focus shifts to accommodating those in positions they are not suited for, which can create discontent and inefficiency within the team. The Prophet Muhammad warned against assigning responsibilities to those who are not fit for them: “When the trust is betrayed, then wait for the Hour.” It was asked, “How will it be betrayed, O Messenger of God?” He said, “When authority is given to those who do not deserve it, then wait for the Hour.” (Sahih alBukhari)

This Hadith emphasizes the importance of assigning responsibilities based on merit and expertise rather than on other factors such as tenure or personal relationships.

When each person excels in their area of expertise and refrains from overstepping into others’ roles, the community as a whole benefits. This approach not only ensures efficiency but also fosters a sense of unity and mutual respect.

The Unseen Contributions of Financiers and Organizers

In many organizations, the most visible roles are those of the orators and writers—those who speak to the public, craft the message, and shape the vision. These individuals often receive the applause and reverence because their contributions are seen and heard by all. However, the people working behind the scenes, such as financiers and organizers, play a crucial role in the success of any project or initiative. Their work may go unnoticed by the general public, but it is indispensable.

The contributions of those managing finances, coordinating events, and ensuring that resources are available when needed are foundational to the success of the organization. Without their diligent work, the orators would have no platform to speak from, and the writers would have no means of disseminating their ideas.

However, history shows that those involved in financing and organizing rarely achieve the same level of recognition as the more visible figures. There is no precedent that a financier has gained the status of “akabireen”—the revered elders and scholars within the community. The reason for this is simple: their work, though critical, is not as publicly visible or celebrated.

The Quran reminds us of the importance of sincerity and humility in our work, regardless of whether we receive recognition: Whatever good you may do, God is aware of it. (2: 197)

This verse encourages us to focus on our actions and their alignment with divine guidance, rather than on the recognition or status we might receive.

While it is natural to seek recognition and appreciation for one’s work, it is essential to remember that the ultimate reward lies not in this world but in the Hereafter.

Keeping the Hereafter in Mind

While it is natural to seek recognition and appreciation for one’s work, it is essential to remember that the ultimate reward lies not in this world but in the Hereafter. The true measure of success is not the applause we receive from others but the satisfaction of knowing that we have fulfilled our duties with sincerity and dedication.

The Prophet Muhammad emphasized the importance of intention in our actions: “Actions are (judged) by intentions, so each man will have what he intended.” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

This Hadith highlights that the value of our deeds is determined by our intentions rather than the external recognition we receive. Those working in finance or organizational roles should take solace in the fact that their sincere efforts, though unseen by the public, are known to God and will be rewarded accordingly.

WITHIN the depths of every individual lies a hidden devil, a reservoir of hatred that lurks within us all. This hate bomb remains dormant under ordinary circumstances, but when triggered, it can explode with overwhelming intensity. This aspect of human nature knows no gender boundaries, as all of humanity is susceptible to this powerful force.

In a society comprising 10,000 individuals, each person becomes akin to a moving combustible, susceptible to ignition at the slightest provocation. Nevertheless, personal interests compel people to restrain their violent tendencies and adopt pacifistic approaches, making leadership a formidable challenge.

Understanding the interplay between the hate bomb within and the power of positive thinking equips individuals to navigate life’s challenges and contribute to a more harmonious and progressive society.

A true leader must refrain from merely relying on slogans of complaint and protest, as such negative rhetoric can inflame people, fostering a volatile society akin to a gathering of combustible materials awaiting ignition. Instead, a leader must embrace a message of love and compassion, spearheading movements for positive change. Conversely, those who propagate hatred and grievances should refrain from initiating mass movements and reflect on their actions in private.

Collective movements can be categorized as either positive or negative. A positive movement stems from personal responsibility and duty, resulting in righteous endeavours that yield positive outcomes. In contrast, negative movements focus on demanding rights and protesting, often leading to invalid and potentially harmful actions. The choices made by leaders significantly impact the outcome of movements, with righteous endeavours contributing to goodness and unrighteous ones inevitably leading to evil consequences. Understanding the potential explosion of hatred within us and choosing the right approach is paramount in shaping a harmonious and progressive society.

Beyond comprehending the darker facets of human nature, embracing the power of positive thinking plays a pivotal role in shaping a fulfilling and purposeful life. Positive thinking is a mindset free from negative emotions, where opinions are formed based on facts rather than complaints or protests. It embodies a realistic outlook on life, transcending pride and prejudice.

The influence of positive thinking extends to every aspect of a person’s life, shaping their personality and defining their future. Embracing positivity fosters a pure and constructive character, resonating with the essence of nature. By adopting a positive mindset, individuals are more likely to tread a path leading to a fulfilling life, while negativity hampers progress and potential.

Cultivating a positive mindset demands conscious effort and mindfulness, holding oneself accountable, and continuously striving for improvement. The essence of positive thinking transcends selfcentred goals, empowering individuals to focus on meaningful pursuits and avoid wasting time on fruitless endeavours.

Understanding the interplay between the hate bomb within and the power of positive thinking equips individuals to navigate life’s challenges and contribute to a more harmonious and progressive society. By embracing positivity and cultivating self-awareness, we can forge a brighter future, transcending the darker aspects of human nature.

Paradise is for those fortunate souls who can surrender to God, obey God in every situation, and offer themselves completely to Him.

The following is an English translation of Maulana Wahiduddin Khan’s Urdu talk delivered on April 21, 2019.

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In the Name Of God, The Most Beneficent, The Most Merciful, And Peace And Blessings Be Upon The Prophet.

We will discuss the following verse of the Quran in today’s address: In their stories there is a lesson for men of understanding. This [Quran] is no invented tale, but a confirmation of the previous [scripture] and a detailed explanation of all things as well as guidance and mercy to true believers. (12: 111)

I have been reflecting on the idea that the Quran is both guidance and mercy. But what does that mean? This isn’t about forming a mere belief or creating a dogma. The essential point is that we must ponder over the Quran deeply.

This is a blessed Book which We sent down to you [Muhammad], for people to ponder over its messages, and for those with understanding to take heed. (38: 29)

Reflect upon the Quran.What is reflection?

Reflection means rediscovering the Quran daily. Each day, we must draw new sustenance from the Quran to nourish the soul. Only then can we say we have truly embraced the Quran. Otherwise, it becomes just a ritual belief.

When will this happen?

When you continuously engage deeply with the Quran. I first realized this point in Jaunpur when a young man used to visit me frequently. He admired Ghalib and would read Ghalib’s verses thoughtfully. Through this constant reflection, new ideas would emerge for him. This, I understood, is exactly how we should approach the Quran—through continuous contemplation. This reflection fosters creative thinking, a development the Quran will inspire within us.

Merely memorizing translations or superficial knowledge is not creative thinking. The Quran is the book of God, the Lord of the universe. It carries the grandeur of this Quranic verse: Every day He manifests Himself in a new state. (55: 29)

This quality should be nurtured within you. This is what I mean when I say that the Quran encourages creative thinking. The test to know if you have embraced the Quran is whether it has sparked creative thinking in you. If it has, be grateful, for you have truly received sustenance from the Quran. The Quran was revealed to foster creative thinking in people.

It is my habit, whenever I meet someone, to ask, “Tell me something of value.” Most respond with talks of elections or similar topics, which only indicates that the Quran has not yet become their guidebook. Why not marvel at the sunrise, the vast sky, the ocean filling up with water? There are countless wonders in nature to contemplate, yet discussions always revolve around elections. Politics is a temporary phase; it will come and go without fostering new thinking.

One of the verses I was reflecting on is: On the Day when the earth shall be changed into another earth (…). (14: 48)

In a Hadith (Sunan Al-Tirmidhi), it is said: “The grave can be either a garden from the gardens of Paradise or a pit from the pits of Hell.” Here, the term “grave” is symbolic, representing a transition from one stage of life to another. We often hear leaders speak about change, like the American President once said, “Change has come to America.” But change must also come within us. The Quran should inspire this internal transformation, so that as we read it and move into the life Hereafter, we are filled with new thoughts. This is creative thinking.

Once, while I was in Azamgarh, I slept in a room without electricity. A thought struck me: someone had entrusted me with a 100-rupee note, and if I died, no one would know where I had kept it. I got up, wrote a note detailing the location of the money so it could reach its rightful owner if I were no longer there. This is what creative thinking looks like.

Immersing yourself in politics does not lead to personal development or spark creative thinking. People who read the Quran yet remain absorbed in politics have accepted the Quran as part of their belief, not as a book of guidance.

True believers in the Quran continuously introspect and question their growth. Every day, they reevaluate and replan. For instance, I was unwell recently and wondered if illness is bad. Then I pondered over a verse: Soon you will be gratified with what your Lord will give you. (93: 5) This means something beyond material things; it means new experiences and insights.

The Quran encourages creative thinking. The test to know if you have embraced the Quran is whether it has sparked creative thinking in you. If it has, be grateful, for you have truly received sustenance from the Quran.

Each encounter in life should give you a takeaway, a lesson. Whenever I attend a gathering or seminar, I ask people what their takeaway was. Unfortunately, few understand this concept. This “takeaway” concept is essential, just like a store labelled “Takeaway” allows you to choose and take what you want. The Quran intends to instil a takeaway mentality in us, so we draw inspiration and creativity from every experience.

I pray that God grants us the wisdom to live in such a way that when we reach the Hereafter, He will be pleased with us and admit us into Paradise. This is my prayer for myself and for all of you. 

Living in a state of negetivity is a kind of self-killing.

Many Islamic scholars from India and abroad have supported the CPS mission. Some of them have in fact become part of the CPS mission. Most notably, few graduates from Jamia Dar-us-Salam, Oomerabad spent a considerable time under the guidance, mentorship and training of Maulana Wahiduddin Khan. SOI editorial team has decided to carry articles written by these Islamic scholars within the pages of SOI. The articles written by these scholars display positivity, deep contemplation, a firm grasp on the knowledge of the modern world and the Islamic Scriptures. We hope that this new addition shall prove full of lessons and learnings for our readers.

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ARGUMENTS FOR RELIGIOUS TRUTHS

(The following article is written by Hafiz Syed Iqbal Umri.)

FOR several days, I have been contemplating the modern era, often referred to as the age of scientific discoveries, the age of progress, and the modern age. Is this era inherently opposed to God and religion, or have the discoveries of this age provided additional arguments and insights in favour of religion? Reflecting on a verse from the Quran reveals that this is indeed the promised era. The verse foretells that soon, signs in the external world and within ourselves will be made clear, to the point that the truth becomes undeniable:

We shall show them Our signs in the universe and within themselves, until it becomes clear to them that this is the Truth. (41: 53)

In other words, the explanations of Quranic signs will be through the signs in the external world and within the human self. This suggests that a process will unfold throughout history, enabling believers in God to know and utilize these signs for the elaboration of the truth.

Today, as I was translating a sentence with the help of ChatGPT, a thought struck me. For many days, I had been using Google Translate for translations, and similarly, I had been using Google Lens to select text from PDFs. But lately, I have been using AI-based applications like ChatGPT. It occurred to me that if an application can instantly translate text into languages understandable to different people, then surely, it is possible for God to hear prayers made in various languages and respond immediately. To manifest this possibility, God has revealed such universal signs in the modern era. Today we can translate text using gadgets, whereas God, without any intermediary, can communicate directly with each individual. There is a Hadith that says:

“There is none among you but his Lord will speak to him on the Day of Resurrection, and there will be no interpreter between him and his Lord.” (Sahih Bukhari)

Similarly, the information search engines and social media networks created in this modern age are well-known to be highly user-friendly and useful. Furthermore, they read the user’s mind remarkably well. Once you search for something, the system saves it and constantly presents related content. It reads and stores your thoughts, emotions, and gestures, and wherever your ID operates, it provides you with content that interests you.

Reflecting on this reveals how deeply God knows the inner secrets of humans. Numerous Quranic verses affirm God’s boundless knowledge, such as:

Whether you speak in secret or aloud, He knows what is in every heart. How could He who created not know His own creation, when He alone is the Most Subtle in His wisdom and the All Aware? (67: 13-14)

We created man—We know the promptings of his soul, and are closer to him than his jugular vein. (50: 16)

He is aware of the [most] stealthy glance, and of all that the hearts conceal. (40: 19)

These technologies clearly illustrate that if these things are possible at a potential level, why can’t they be accepted at the level of faith?

God has established His existence through the creation of the universe in every conceivable way. To this day, no one is in a position to claim that they have created the universe or that they are running its system. Only in religious scriptures do we find the claim of the Creator. Today, additional arguments have emerged to substantiate this claim. Despite this, people consider the modern age to be an era of denying God. However, the same standards by which they accept a possibility as reality also validate belief in God and the Hereafter. The Quran refers to this attitude:

And they persisted in rejecting them wrongfully and arrogantly, while in their hearts they were convinced of their truth. (27: 14)

In truth, the modern age is a test for everyone. Those who use it correctly can gain profound knowledge and insights, while those who misuse it may choose the path of rebellion.

The following is the presentation by Shabina Ali (Kolkata Chapter CPS) in an Interfaith programme. This article was later published in The Herald Weekly, Kolkata.

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IN a world fraught with challenges, the concept of being “pilgrims of hope” resonates deeply, offering a pathway to restore faith, trust, and a sense of universal fraternity. As we journey through life, pressing forward towards a better future, our commitment at every step is to foster hope not only for ourselves but for all of humanity. This journey is profoundly rooted in Islamic teachings, where hope, trust, and the care for creation are essential elements of a believer’s life. The Quran, Hadith, and the insights of Islamic scholars like Maulana Wahiduddin Khan provide valuable guidance on how to live as true pilgrims of hope. The Quran emphasizes the importance of hope in God’s mercy and the promise of a better future. God says, Do not despair of God’s mercy, for God surely forgives all sins. He is truly the Most Forgiving, the Most Merciful. (39: 53)

This verse underscores the idea that hope is a vital component of faith. It encourages believers to trust in God’s infinite mercy and to maintain hope even in the darkest of times. This trust is essential for restoring a sense of universal fraternity, as it fosters a spirit of forgiveness, understanding, and compassion among people.

The Hadith further illustrates the role of hope in the life of a believer. Prophet Muhammad said, “If the Hour (the Day of Judgement) is about to be established, and one of you is holding a palm shoot, let him take advantage of even one second before the Hour is established to plant it”. (Musnad Ahmad) This Hadith highlights the importance of proactive hope continuing to do good and contribute positively to the world, regardless of the circumstances. It teaches that hope is not merely a passive expectation but an active engagement with life’s opportunities, which in turn fosters a sense of responsibility towards others and the environment. The Prophet also said that hoping for a better tomorrow is a form of worship, as mentioned in Jami’ at- Tirmidhi.

Maulana Wahiduddin Khan, a prominent Islamic spiritual scholar and founder of CPS International, dedicated his life to demonstrating the relevance of Islam in the modern age. In his writings, he emphasized that the modern era is one of peace and opportunities, where Islam can be understood as a complete ideology of peace. He argued that Islam, through its creation plan of God, offers a blueprint for living a life of hope and purpose. According to him, being a pilgrim of hope means recognizing the potential for peace and harmony in the world and working tirelessly to achieve it. His vision aligns with the Quranic perspective of hope as a force that drives positive action. He believed that the modern age provides unparalleled opportunities for everyone to engage with the world, spread the message of peace, and care for the common home: our planet. By embracing hope, we can play a crucial role in addressing global challenges, promoting universal fraternity, and protecting the environment as part of our spiritual duty. The concept of being pilgrims of hope is not just a spiritual journey but a practical one, rooted in Islamic teachings. It calls upon believers to restore hope and trust, to recover a sense of universal fraternity, and to care for the common home by contemplating the beauty of creation.

By embracing hope, we can play a crucial role in addressing global challenges, promoting universal fraternity, and protecting the environment as part of our spiritual duty.

As we move forward in our journey, committed to bringing about a better future, we fulfil the ultimate goal of every vocation: to become ambassadors of hope, contributing to a world where peace, compassion, and justice prevail. As long as the sun continues to rise in this world, God is showing that He has hope in all of us. Let us strive to live up to that hope. 

If you are willing to sacrifice your ego completely and surmount all hurdles and face all sorts of difficulties and losses but still remain firmly established on the truth – this is the actual jihad.