AWAKENING THE POTENTIAL WITHIN

The study of the Quran tells us that the actual target of the Book of God (the Quran) is to change the thinking of an individual. The Quran gives many principles to inculcate right thinking in a person. Thinking is a person’s greatest action. Right thinking is, in fact, a form of worship. After his death, someone asked the widow of Abu Darda, a Companion of the Prophet, what his greatest action had been. She replied, “Thinking and drawing lessons.” Likewise, after the death of another Companion of the Prophet, Abu Dharr, someone asked his widow what his special worship had been, and she replied, “The whole day, he would keep thinking.” 

Thinking occurs at the level of the mind. It is the mind that is the biggest aspect of human existence. Thinking makes a person capable of effectively planning his actions, which is key to his success. Thinking is the means for one’s intellectual development. Thinking lifts a person to a higher level of humanity. The Quran says: “Be mindful of God; He teaches you.” (2: 282)  

In this verse, the Arabic word ilm means understanding. The meaning of this is that God-consciousness in a person will engender in him a proper understanding of the religion. (Tafsir al-Qurtubi) From this, we learn that it is possible for a person to possess knowledge or information about religion and yet not possess a proper understanding of religion. This is because the source of true understanding of religion is God-consciousness, not mere knowledge. There is a supplication in a Hadith as follows: “O God, I seek refuge with You from the knowledge that is of no benefit.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i) 

If a person possesses knowledge (in the sense of information) but does not possess the insight of marifah (God-realization), he will not understand the difference between one thing and another. What he speaks will be based simply on the information that he possesses. But in fact, it will be based on ignorance, and nothing else. For God-realization, knowledge is necessary, but a person of marifah is able to go beyond external knowledge to see inner realities. He is able to properly analyze information. He can read between the lines. He can see events in their proper perspective. These are some of the attributes of a person of marifah. Only for a person of marifah can his knowledge become beneficial. Without marifah, knowledge will only lead to ignorance. 

Right thinking is an art. Those who have learned the art can construct a successful life in this world. It is through right thinking that one understands the difference between one thing and another; one discovers solutions to difficulties; one discerns hidden realities. Through right thinking, one learns how to convert minus points into plus points. Another name for right thinking is positive thinking. 

Positive thinking gives us the direction to use our intellectual capacity, while negative thinking acts as a check upon the development of that intellectual capacity. Those who have a tendency towards negative thinking, think and plan only under the influence of external situations, which may or may not be particularly good. By keeping a positive mind, one can rise above the psychology of reaction or retaliation, plan objectively, and arrive at rational conclusions. 

The truth of the matter is that it is our level of thinking that determines our success or failure. Success is the result of right thinking. Think right, do right, and succeed, both in this world and the Hereafter.  

Those who learn the art of right thinking can construct a successful life in this world. It is through right thinking that one understands the difference between one thing and another; one discovers solutions to difficulties; one discerns hidden realities.

Positive thinking gives us the direction to use our intellectual capacity, while negative thinking acts as a check upon the development of that intellectual capacity.

Adjustment is the key to a successful married life. But what kind of adjustment? It’s not just about making changes for the sake of it. It’s about adjusting for a higher purpose—to create a harmonious environment where both partners can fulfil the true essence of married life. 

Married life isn’t just about cohabitation; it’s about co-sharing. Each partner brings something unique to the relationship, and they both need to share that with each other. Everyone has different qualities, and each partner needs a share from their spouse to help them develop their personalities fully. In a marriage, both partners are givers and takers simultaneously, so they need favourable conditions to benefit from each other. 

Life is like a cogwheel. If one partner has one cog, the other partner has the other cog, and they both need to connect so that they can work together effectively. There are many marriages where both partners were aware of this and made adjustments to their relationship. But they were also conscious that their adjustments were not just about making things easier; they were about sharing and growing together. As a result, their marriages were successful. 

One crucial aspect of marriage is what is called the “intellectual partnership.” Every day, we face challenges, encounter new issues, and make decisions. We also want to explore new ideas and perspectives. This is important for both men and women. Everyone needs an intellectual partner with whom they can engage in meaningful conversations, exchange ideas, and discover better solutions. The best intellectual partner is your spouse. 

When a man is born, he’s like raw iron ore. Nature has shaped him like an ore, but he must develop himself independently. Just as nature produces ore, man must transform it into steel through intellectual and spiritual growth to create a well-rounded personality. 

Intellectual and spiritual development are crucial in this process. To develop one’s personality, the most important thing is to broaden one’s mind by awakening their consciousness. Three key elements are needed to achieve this: study, observation, and intellectual exchange with others. Books are an excellent source of knowledge and studying them is always beneficial. The world of nature is also a great source of observation. In intellectual learning, it’s important to develop the habit of learning from others and continuing this process. 

Married couples are each other’s immediate intellectual partners. They’re always available for each other, making marriage an ideal opportunity for intellectual development. Both partners can interact and progress intellectually together. Intellectual development is essential for everyone, and marriage offers an ideal setting for it. However, to succeed in this endeavour, one must prioritize intellectual development and make it a part of their daily life. In this way, the best way to describe the relationship between husband and wife is ‘intellectual partnership.’ 

Everyone has adopted a culture of adjustment—the businessman with his customers, the working man or woman with their boss. While this adjustment culture is beneficial, its primary goal is often to earn money. However, it’s also essential for married couples. Adopting this adjustment culture in marriage means prioritizing something far more important than money—the relationship between husband and wife. 

Conversing with your partner is bound to spark new ideas. This process of intellectual partnership leads to intellectual development, which is the most significant goal for every man and woman. 

Adjustment should be for a higher purpose. By following the principle of adjustment, each partner can reap the rewards of intellectual development. 

Man is an explanation-seeking animal. When discussing adjustments in married life, both partners should ask, “Why adjustment?” A good explanation is crucial to ensure the impact of any adjustment talk. While they may agree with your sermon on adjustment, they may not follow it in their practical lives. Adjustment should be for a higher purpose. By following the principle of adjustment, each partner can reap the rewards of intellectual development. 

Remember, your spouse is an ever-ready intellectual partner. They are always available, day and night. Discover this aspect of married life, and any sacrifice for adjustment will seem insignificant. 

To develop one’s personality, the most important thing is to broaden one’s mind by awakening their consciousness. Three key elements are needed to achieve this: study, observation, and intellectual exchange with others. 

Peace and security hold immense significance in Islam. They are not merely social necessities but the very foundation of faith and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. This truth is evident in the life, teachings, and prayers of the Prophet. 

In the analogy of faith and Islam as a vehicle and peace and security as a road, peace serves as the essential companion that makes the journey of faith and Islam both comfortable and fulfilling. Even on the most challenging and bumpy roads, the presence of peace ensures a sense of security and contentment. However, without peace in external conditions, even the strongest faith can be tested and weakened. 

The profound connection between peace, security, faith, and Islam emphasizes the urgency of establishing peace in our society. It is not merely a matter of worldly affairs but also a prerequisite for fulfilling our religious duties. 

The Prophet Muhammad’s prayer, recited upon sighting the new moon at the beginning of each month, exemplifies the profound importance of peace. He prayed, “O God! Raise for us this (moon) in peace, faith, peace, and Islam.” This prayer is not just a fleeting moment of devotion but a conscious plan for months, years, and even the entirety of life. 

In this prayer, peace is mentioned before faith and before Islam, conveying a clear message that an environment of peace and security is indispensable for the growth, development, and practice of Islamic teachings. 

The life of Prophet Abraham serves as a practical and living example of the profound need for peace. Abraham’s life was marked by extreme hostility and the deprivation of his religious freedom. He was subjected to the horrific act of being thrown into a fire and forced to embark on a perilous journey to the uninhabited desert of the Arabian Peninsula. Despite these hardships, Abraham established a global centre for worship in Makkah, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to peace. 

The experiences he endured led him to realize the profound significance of peace, prompting him to pray specifically for the peace of Makkah: “My Lord, make this a city of peace. (14: 35) 

Through this prayer, we can comprehend the depth of Abraham’s yearning for peaceful conditions. Who could better understand the bliss of peace and security than he, who grappled with the challenges of maintaining faith in such circumstances? Abraham envisioned a permanent peace for the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula, particularly in the sacred area surrounding the Sacred Mosque, which would become the global centre of worship. He aspired to be an exemplar of peace for the entire world. 

The life of the Prophet Muhammad serves as a practical illustration of the significance of peace. When he proclaimed his prophethood, the people of Makkah attempted to hinder his pursuit of Islam. In chapter The Clot, a similar scenario is highlighted, “Have you seen one who prevents a worshipper from praying?” After the migration, when the people of Makkah refused to grant him peace even in Madinah, he was compelled to defend himself. However, he seamlessly intertwined the purpose of his prophethood with peace and security. The Prophet declared, “I have been sent with monotheism and a simple religion.” 

In this Hadith, he emphasized two crucial aspects: 

– Al-Hanafiyyah (Monotheism): This belief in the oneness of God forms the foundation of Islam. 

– Al-Samaha (Social Tolerance): It encompasses the teachings of tolerance and respect for the rights of others in social interactions. 

This Hadith underscores the equal importance of monotheism in beliefs and social tolerance in Islam. These two aspects are fundamental to the establishment of peace and security. 

The Treaty of Hudaybiyah stands as a remarkable sacrifice made in the pursuit of peace. The Treaty of Hudaybiyah stands as a testament to the Prophet Muhammad’s unparalleled sacrifice and strategic brilliance in establishing peace. It continues to serve as a valuable lesson for us today. 

The Prophet demonstrated remarkable humility and wisdom by unconditionally accepting the conditions proposed by the opposing party to facilitate peace and pave the way for the spread of religion. 

Honest wisdom and insight guided the Prophet’s actions. He didn’t perceive them as acts of cowardice or disrespect to the beliefs of the believers. Instead, he believed that these actions were necessary to remove any potential obstacles to a peaceful agreement. He was confident that God’s vast mercy would ultimately prevail, and that the words of the Prophet would resonate deeply in the hearts of the people. 

As for the aftermath of the treaty, it paved the way for a period of peace and prosperity in the region. The Prophet’s actions laid the foundation for future negotiations.  

The miraculous effects of the Treaty of Hudaybiyah ushered in a new era in history. Within just four years, the number of hearts illuminated by the light of Islam surged dramatically. Over the course of 19 years, the Muslim population, which had been around 1,700, expanded to 150,000.  

The conquest of Makkah, unlike the Treaty of Hudaybiyah, was not a war measure but an unprecedented display of peace. The life of the Prophet exemplified peace and mercy, and this characteristic was evident during the conquest of Makkah. 

According to the Treaty of Hudaybiyah, neither party was permitted to attack the other’s ally. However, the tribes of Bani Bakr and the Quraish, in support of the Hudaybiyah Agreement, opposed it and killed the people of Bani Khuza’a. When the Bani Khuza’a approached the Prophet with cries of distress, he dispatched his messenger to the Quraish and presented three conditions: they must pay the blood money, renounce their support for Bani Bakr, or declare that the Treaty of Hudaybiyah had been violated. 

By listening to these terms on behalf of the Quraish, Qurtah ibn ‘Umar said, “We accept the third condition.” 

Immediately after this, the Quraish felt remorseful and promptly sent Abu Sufyan to Madinah to negotiate a renewal agreement. He arrived in Madinah and requested the Prophet to renew the peace treaty, but the Prophet refused. The Prophet then marched towards Makkah, ultimately conquering the city. The conquest of Makkah marked a complete victory for the Prophet over his opponents. They had caused immense suffering to him and his Companions, driven him out of Makkah, and engaged in wars against him. In accordance with the customs of the time, war criminals faced severe punishments, but the Prophet took a different approach. This can be seen from the fact that a Companion exclaimed, “Today is the day of war and bloodshed”, to which the Prophet responded, “Today is the day to forgive.” 

The Prophet declared that anyone who entered the Sacred Mosque or sought refuge in Abu Sufyan’s house would be safe. This announcement not only exemplified forgiveness but also demonstrated the power of peace. He also forgave those who had tortured him and declared, “Go, you are all free.” This was the epitome of using the power of peace instead of resorting to violence. 

In the case of Abu Sufyan, he championed his renewed peace initiative and pacifism, declaring his house a sanctuary for those seeking refuge. This move not only encouraged him but also resolved the long-standing rivalry between the clans of Bani Umayyah and Bani Hashim. 

This strategy not only led to the successful conquest of Makkah but also paved the way for the ideological expansion of Islam. While the Treaty of Hudaybiyah was a non-combat agreement, the conquest of Makkah demonstrated a strategic move that extinguished the flames of vengeance. This aspect of the Prophet’s life continues to serve as a beacon for us, teaching us that true power lies not in violence but in peace and forgiveness. 

Today’s followers of Islam have found peace without any sacrifices, which has led them to overlook its true value. This peace is the result of the selfless sacrifices made by the Prophet and his Companions. In contrast, contemporary Muslims are quick to anger and ready to resort to violence over minor matters. However, the Prophet established social peace by refraining from using holy words, while we today create unrest in society by misusing them. He averted bloodshed by refraining from using holy words, yet we continue to engage in endless cycles of violence in the name of holy words. Notably, the Prophet refrained from resorting to violence even after gaining power, while we continue to fight against the people of the world without any authority. 

The conquest of Makkah, unlike the Treaty of Hudaybiyah, was not a war measure but an unprecedented display of peace. The life of the Prophet exemplified peace and mercy, and this characteristic was evident during the conquest of Makkah. 

Peace teaches us that peace is a transformative force that can turn ordinary stones into gold. This is the key to unlocking every opportunity, leading us to the path of progress and prosperity. As God said in the Quran, “Truly, We have granted you a clear victory.” (48: 1) These words remind us that sacrifice in the pursuit of peace is the key to a great victory. It is the key that unlocks doors to opportunity and brings us to the destination of success and fulfillment. 

The Prophet’s strategy and insight reveal that creating an atmosphere of peace presents opportunities for expressing love of God and the truth of the Messenger’s prophethood. Adopting the Prophet’s teachings and cultivating a spirit of sacrifice for social peace are essential. 

This profound connection between peace, security, faith, and Islam emphasizes the urgency of establishing peace in our society. It is not merely a matter of worldly affairs but also a prerequisite for fulfilling our religious duties. 

Abraham’s prayer and the Prophet Muhammad’s teachings and practical examples underscore the inherent essence of peace within the religion of Islam. We should pray for peace for our nation and the entire world and take practical steps to achieve it, even if it means sacrificing our personal interests. 

Abraham envisioned a permanent peace for the inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula, particularly in the sacred area surrounding the Sacred Mosque, which would become the global centre of worship. He aspired to be an exemplar of peace for the entire world. 

The following article is written by Hafiz Syed Iqbal Umri. 

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In his book Secret of Success, under the chapter titled “Sacrificing Oneself for Humanity”, Maulana Wahiduddin Khan narrates the early days of anesthesia with chloroform. 

During his studies Dr. Simpson had learnt that chloroform possessed certain properties which temporarily benumbed the senses, so he began to conduct research into it, finally coming to the conclusion that if patients were rendered unconscious by means of chloroform, they could be relieved of severe pain in the course of operations. He continued his research and, by experimenting upon himself, he proved that chloroform could successfully induce harmless anesthesia. This son of a poor baker was thus able to give to humanity, in the words of Dr. Brown, “one of God’s best gifts to his suffering children”. (The Secret of Success, p. 324-325) 

On a personal note, I experienced the profound impact of this discovery firsthand on July 22, 2024, when I underwent surgery for kidney stones on my right kidney. During the two-hour procedure, I was completely anesthetized, experiencing nothing but a state of oblivion. I was completely unaware of the medical interventions taking place, devoid of any sensation of pain or discomfort. This personal experience deeply resonated with Dr. Brown’s words, prompting me to reflect on the divine purpose behind Dr. Simpson’s gift. 

O God, only the eternal bliss of Paradise can offer a truly pain-free existence. This is the profound message conveyed to humanity through all the prophets. Dr. Simpson’s contribution provided temporary relief from pain in this world, while the prophets offered the path to salvation from eternal suffering. It is our responsibility to share this uplifting news with the world. 

In our modern era, we rely on chloroform to ensure that we remain pain-free during medical procedures. On the Day of Judgement, the divine consciousness granted by the prophets will eradicate all pain, allowing believers to experience an eternal state of bliss. A believer will exclaim, ‘Praise be to God who has taken away all sorrow from us. Our Lord is forgiving and appreciative. Through His grace He has admitted us to the everlasting Abode, where neither toil nor weariness affects us.’ (35: 34-35) 

On August 6, 2024, I visited the same Sri Ramachandra Hospital in Porur for surgery to remove a stone from my left kidney. The surgery was scheduled for August 8, and when I was taken to the operating theatre, two doctors, Dr. Balaji and Dr. Arafat, arrived to administer anesthesia. I inquired about the anesthetic they would use, and Dr. Arafat informed me that chloroform had been the standard for the past 15 years, but that sevoflurane was now the preferred choice due to its superior results. This news was incredibly reassuring to me. It reminded me of the constant advancements in medical science, mechanical science, and various other fields. This realization extended beyond medicine and touched upon the realm of spiritual science as well. 

Just as chloroform was once the primary anesthetic but was eventually replaced by sevoflurane for better outcomes and reduced harm, there is also a pressing need for continuous improvement in spiritual teachings. Spiritual guidance should adapt to the changing times, benefiting humanity while preserving its fundamental principles. Similarly, sevoflurane’s replacement of chloroform achieved the same purpose with fewer adverse effects. Spiritual teachings must evolve to guide humanity with the most effective and compassionate methods for the well-being of all. 

Reflecting on this, several things became evident to me. The journey of medical progress didn’t end with Dr. Simpson’s groundbreaking discovery; continuous advancements have persisted until the present day, with sevoflurane now the commonly used anesthetic. The drive to rectify past mistakes, improve, and find better solutions shapes our future. Just as humanity seeks superior options in every field, God has always provided divine wisdom to guide humanity. This improvement serves as a reminder that such guidance must be embraced with an open heart. 

Through the Quran, God offers the most comprehensive and secure guidance. As it states: Surely, this Quran guides to the most upright way and gives good news to the believers who do good deeds, so that they will have a great reward (17: 9) 

My servants (…) listen to what is said and follow what is best in it. These are the ones God has guided; these are the people endowed with understanding (39: 18) 

This continuous process of improvement, whether in scientific advancements or spiritual guidance, underscores the enduring relevance of God’s wisdom. Humanity must remain open to learning, evolving, and applying the best practices for the collective well-being of society. 

Spiritual guidance should adapt to the changing times, benefiting humanity while preserving its fundamental principles. Spiritual teachings must evolve to guide humanity with the most effective and compassionate methods for the well-being of all. 

The following article is written by Hafiz Syed Iqbal Umri. 

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Life is akin to a journey, full of twists and turns. Like a skilled driver navigating a busy road with focus and care, we must approach life’s challenges with patience, adaptability, and thoughtful responses. The diversity of people and perspectives inevitably leads to conflicts, but through positive thinking, even the most unfavourable situations can become opportunities for growth and spiritual elevation. 

In Islam, positive thinking stems from tawakkul (trust in God). God reminds us in the Quran: You may dislike something although it is good for you, or like something although it is bad for you: God knows but you do not. (2: 216) 

This verse encourages believers to view challenges as potential blessings in disguise. When we adopt a positive mindset, we align ourselves with God’s divine wisdom, recognizing that every difficulty carries hidden opportunities. 

The life of the Prophet Muhammad exemplifies this principle. When the people of Ta’if rejected him and treated him cruelly, he prayed for their guidance instead of cursing them. This unwavering positivity turned a moment of rejection into an eventual triumph for Islam. 

Positive thinking transforms setbacks into stepping stones. The Prophet said:  “Amazing is the affair of the believer. If something pleasing happens, he is grateful, and if something harmful happens, he is patient, and both are good for him.” (Sahih Muslim) 

This balance of sabr (patience) and shukr (gratitude) empowers believers to turn obstacles into spiritual progress. 

The Hadith, “The number of opportunities is always greater than the number of problems” (Al-Mustadrak al-Hakim), further reinforces that no challenge is devoid of opportunities.  

By embracing positivity, patience, and gratitude, believers unlock their potential for resilience and success. Let us strive to cultivate this transformative mindset, trusting Allah and using every trial as a means to grow closer to Him. 

Positive thinking transforms setbacks into stepping stones. The Prophet said:  “Amazing is the affair of the believer. If something pleasing happens, he is grateful, and if something harmful happens, he is patient, and both are good for him.”