{"id":3508,"date":"2026-10-31T17:43:29","date_gmt":"2026-10-31T17:43:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/?page_id=3508"},"modified":"2026-10-31T18:51:06","modified_gmt":"2026-10-31T18:51:06","slug":"issue-november-december-2026","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/?page_id=3508","title":{"rendered":"ISSUE NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2026"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; custom_padding_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_color=&#8221;gcid-503657b6-b393-4dfb-ba7b-12a555cb805d&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;0px||0px||false|false&#8221; custom_padding_tablet=&#8221;1.2rem||||false|false&#8221; custom_padding_phone=&#8221;0rem||||false|false&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{%22gcid-503657b6-b393-4dfb-ba7b-12a555cb805d%22:%91%22background_color%22%93}&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; width_tablet=&#8221;&#8221; width_phone=&#8221;95%&#8221; width_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;||6px|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_text _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; text_font=&#8221;Plus Jakarta Extra Bold|900|||||||&#8221; text_text_color=&#8221;gcid-c73b7123-9f92-4d10-9391-3fa47a4e5fd5&#8243; text_font_size=&#8221;2rem&#8221; header_font=&#8221;Plus Jakarta Bold||||||||&#8221; background_color=&#8221;gcid-503657b6-b393-4dfb-ba7b-12a555cb805d&#8221; text_orientation=&#8221;center&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||10px|||&#8221; custom_margin_tablet=&#8221;||10px|||&#8221; custom_margin_phone=&#8221;||5px||false|false&#8221; custom_margin_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;0rem||0rem||true|false&#8221; text_font_size_tablet=&#8221;2rem&#8221; text_font_size_phone=&#8221;1.4rem&#8221; text_font_size_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{%22gcid-c73b7123-9f92-4d10-9391-3fa47a4e5fd5%22:%91%22text_text_color%22%93,%22gcid-503657b6-b393-4dfb-ba7b-12a555cb805d%22:%91%22background_color%22%93}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p>ISSUE NOVEMBER &#8211; DECEMBER 2026<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/Heading-Divider.svg&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Heading Divider&#8221; align=&#8221;center&#8221; force_fullwidth=&#8221;on&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; min_height=&#8221;15px&#8221; min_height_tablet=&#8221;20px&#8221; min_height_phone=&#8221;10px&#8221; min_height_last_edited=&#8221;on|phone&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;2rem||||false|false&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_code _builder_version=&#8221;4.18.0&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<!-- ===== SPIRIT OF ISLAM \u00b7 ISSUE 133 \u00b7 NOVEMBER\u2013DECEMBER 2026 \u00b7 COMPLETE SECTION =====<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->     E-version (18 articles, 16 with read-along audio) + Readers&#8217; Reflection Quiz.<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->     Paste the whole file into ONE Divi &#8220;Code&#8221; module inside a Regular section.<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->     Every style is scoped to .soi-ev \/ #soi-quiz, every script is self-contained,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->     and all names carry a &#8220;soi&#8221; prefix, so nothing here affects the rest of the site.<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->     Audio files: https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->&#8211;><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><link rel=\"preconnect\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><link rel=\"preconnect\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.gstatic.com\" crossorigin><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><link href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css2?family=Plus+Jakarta+Sans:ital,wght@0,400;0,500;0,600;0,700;0,800;1,400&#038;display=swap\" rel=\"stylesheet\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/p>\n<style><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-primary: #204E60;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-primary-dark: #173A48;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-gold: #D4CC73;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-gold-soft: rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.22);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-crimson: #EA3551;   \/* hover accent, used only on the end quote *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-page: #EEEEE5;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-paper: #F8F8F2;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-line: #D7D8CA;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-ink: #2A3A40;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-muted: #5E6E74;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-sans: 'Plus Jakarta Sans', -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, sans-serif;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* Cita Pro as uploaded to Divi. If Divi named it differently, change these two lines. *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-display: 'Cita Pro', 'CitaPro', Georgia, serif;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-display-italic: 'Cita Pro Ita', 'Cita Pro', 'CitaPro', Georgia, serif;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --ev-ease: cubic-bezier(0.76, 0, 0.24, 1);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  max-width: 880px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin: 0 auto 2rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 0 1rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: flex;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  flex-direction: column;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  gap: 0.85rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev, .soi-ev * { box-sizing: border-box; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---------- Tab (closed) ---------- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--ev-paper);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border: 1px solid var(--ev-line);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border-radius: 18px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  overflow: hidden;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  scroll-margin-top: 110px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: box-shadow 0.4s var(--ev-ease), border-color 0.4s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item.is-open {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border-color: rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.35);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow: 0 22px 44px -22px rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.28);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev button.ev-tab {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  all: unset;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-sizing: border-box;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  width: 100%;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: flex;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  align-items: center;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  gap: 1rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 1.1rem 1.25rem 1.1rem 1.1rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  cursor: pointer;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--ev-primary);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-page);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: background 0.35s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev button.ev-tab:hover { background: var(--ev-primary-dark); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev button.ev-tab:focus-visible { outline: 3px solid var(--ev-gold); outline-offset: -3px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item.is-open button.ev-tab { background: var(--ev-primary-dark); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-num {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  flex-shrink: 0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: grid; place-items: center;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  width: 2.4rem; height: 2.4rem; border-radius: 50%;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border: 1.5px solid rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.55);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-size: 0.78rem; font-weight: 700;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: all 0.35s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item.is-open .ev-num { background: var(--ev-gold); border-color: var(--ev-gold); color: var(--ev-primary-dark); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-tab-text { flex: 1; min-width: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-kicker {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: block;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-size: 0.66rem; font-weight: 700;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  letter-spacing: 0.16em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin-bottom: 0.25rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-tab-title {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: block;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-display); font-size: clamp(1.2rem, 2.6vw, 1.5rem);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-weight: 700; line-height: 1.2; letter-spacing: 0.01em;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-chev {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  flex-shrink: 0; width: 2.2rem; height: 2.2rem; border-radius: 50%;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: grid; place-items: center;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: rgba(238, 238, 229, 0.12);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: transform 0.45s var(--ev-ease), background 0.35s var(--ev-ease), color 0.35s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-chev svg { width: 1.05rem; height: 1.05rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev { transform: rotate(180deg); background: var(--ev-gold); color: var(--ev-primary-dark); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---------- Panel (open) ---------- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-panel {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: grid;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  grid-template-rows: 0fr;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: grid-template-rows 0.55s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item.is-open .ev-panel { grid-template-rows: 1fr; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-panel-inner { overflow: hidden; min-height: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-content { padding: clamp(1.5rem, 4vw, 2.5rem) clamp(1.25rem, 5vw, 3.25rem) clamp(1.75rem, 4vw, 2.5rem); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-meta {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-size: 0.8rem; font-weight: 500; color: var(--ev-muted);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; align-items: center; gap: 0.35rem 0.9rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin-bottom: 1.4rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Listen bar: appears only when data-audio has an MP3 link *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-listen {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: none; align-items: center; gap: 0.9rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin-bottom: 1.6rem; padding: 0.6rem 1rem 0.6rem 0.6rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.07); border: 1px solid rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.12); border-radius: 999px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item.has-audio .ev-listen { display: flex; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-listen-btn {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  flex-shrink: 0; width: 2.5rem; height: 2.5rem; border-radius: 50%; border: 0; cursor: pointer;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--ev-primary); color: #fff; display: grid; place-items: center;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: background 0.3s var(--ev-ease), color 0.3s var(--ev-ease), transform 0.3s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-listen-btn:hover { background: var(--ev-gold); color: var(--ev-primary-dark); transform: scale(1.05); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-listen-btn svg { width: 1rem; height: 1rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-listen-label { font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-size: 0.82rem; font-weight: 700; color: var(--ev-primary); white-space: nowrap; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-listen-track { flex: 1; height: 4px; border-radius: 4px; background: rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.15); overflow: hidden; cursor: pointer; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-listen-fill { width: 0; height: 100%; background: var(--ev-primary); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-listen-time { font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-size: 0.75rem; color: var(--ev-muted); font-variant-numeric: tabular-nums; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---------- Reading text: Plus Jakarta Sans ---------- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-body p {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-sans) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: clamp(1rem, 1.8vw, 1.06rem) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-weight: 400 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  line-height: 1.85 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  letter-spacing: -0.005em;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin: 0 0 1.2em !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 0 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-ink) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-body > p.ev-first::first-letter {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  float: left; font-family: var(--ev-display); font-weight: 700;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: 3.9em; line-height: 0.8; margin: 0.06em 0.12em 0 0; color: var(--ev-primary);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-ref { font-size: 0.82em; font-weight: 700; color: var(--ev-primary); white-space: nowrap; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Pull quote inside an article *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-quote {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin: 2rem 0 !important; padding: 0.2rem 0 0.2rem 1.4rem !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border-left: 3px solid var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-display-italic); font-style: italic; font-weight: 400;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: clamp(1.35rem, 2.8vw, 1.65rem); line-height: 1.4; color: var(--ev-primary);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ======================================================================<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   END-OF-ARTICLE QUOTE \u2014 four styles. Choose with data-quote=\"1|2|3|4\"<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   on the outer <\/p>\n<div class=\"soi-ev\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   ====================================================================== *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-thought { position: relative; margin: 2.5rem 0 0.5rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-thought p { margin: 0 !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* --- 1 \u00b7 Teal card with gold quote mark --- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"1\"] .ev-thought {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 3.2rem clamp(1.5rem, 5vw, 3rem) 2.2rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--ev-primary);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border-radius: 18px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  text-align: center;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  overflow: hidden;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"1\"] .ev-thought::before {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: '\\201C';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  position: absolute; top: -0.12em; left: 50%; transform: translateX(-50%);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-display); font-weight: 700; font-size: 7rem; line-height: 1;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"1\"] .ev-thought::after {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: ''; display: block; width: 46px; height: 2px; margin: 1.4rem auto 0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"1\"] .ev-thought p {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-display-italic) !important; font-style: italic;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: clamp(1.4rem, 3vw, 1.85rem) !important; line-height: 1.4 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-page) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* --- 2 \u00b7 Editorial: gold rules and ornament, no box --- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"2\"] .ev-thought {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 2.4rem clamp(0.5rem, 4vw, 2.5rem) 2rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  text-align: center;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border-top: 1px solid var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border-bottom: 1px solid var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"2\"] .ev-thought::before,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"2\"] .ev-thought::after {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: ''; position: absolute; left: 50%; width: 11px; height: 11px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--ev-gold); transform: translate(-50%, -50%) rotate(45deg);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow: 0 0 0 6px var(--ev-paper);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: background 0.4s var(--ev-ease), transform 0.5s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"2\"] .ev-thought { transition: border-color 0.4s var(--ev-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"2\"] .ev-thought:hover { border-color: rgba(234, 53, 81, 0.55); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"2\"] .ev-thought:hover::before,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"2\"] .ev-thought:hover::after { background: var(--ev-crimson); transform: translate(-50%, -50%) rotate(225deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"2\"] .ev-thought::before { top: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"2\"] .ev-thought::after { top: 100%; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"2\"] .ev-thought p {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-display) !important; font-weight: 400 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: clamp(1.55rem, 3.4vw, 2.1rem) !important; line-height: 1.32 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-primary) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* --- 3 \u00b7 Soft gold panel with side bar --- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"3\"] .ev-thought {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: flex; gap: 1.1rem; align-items: flex-start;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 1.8rem clamp(1.25rem, 4vw, 2.25rem);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--ev-gold-soft);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border-left: 5px solid var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border-radius: 0 16px 16px 0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"3\"] .ev-thought::before {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: '\\201C'; flex-shrink: 0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-display); font-weight: 700; font-size: 4.2rem; line-height: 0.75;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-primary); opacity: 0.85;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"3\"] .ev-thought p {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-display-italic) !important; font-style: italic;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: clamp(1.3rem, 2.8vw, 1.65rem) !important; line-height: 1.42 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-primary) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* --- 4 \u00b7 Framed page: double border, corner marks --- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"4\"] .ev-thought {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 2.4rem clamp(1.25rem, 5vw, 3rem);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  text-align: center;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--ev-page);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border: 1px solid var(--ev-primary);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  outline: 1px solid var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  outline-offset: -8px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border-radius: 4px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"4\"] .ev-thought::before,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"4\"] .ev-thought::after {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: ''; position: absolute; width: 18px; height: 18px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border: 2px solid var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"4\"] .ev-thought::before { top: 14px; left: 14px; border-right: 0; border-bottom: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"4\"] .ev-thought::after { bottom: 14px; right: 14px; border-left: 0; border-top: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-quote=\"4\"] .ev-thought p {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-display) !important; font-weight: 700 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: clamp(1.3rem, 2.8vw, 1.6rem) !important; line-height: 1.4 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-primary) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-end { display: flex; justify-content: center; gap: 0.5rem; margin-top: 1.8rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-end i { width: 6px; height: 6px; background: var(--ev-gold); transform: rotate(45deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ======================================================================<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   TAB ICON \u2014 six styles. Choose with data-icon=\"1..6\" on <\/p>\n<div class=\"soi-ev\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   ====================================================================== *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-chev { position: relative; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-chev::before, .soi-ev .ev-chev::after { content: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* 1 \u00b7 Chevron in a circle (default, uses the arrow inside the markup) *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* 2 \u00b7 Plus that turns into a minus *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* 3 \u00b7 Plus that turns into a cross *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"2\"] .ev-chev svg, .soi-ev[data-icon=\"3\"] .ev-chev svg { display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"2\"] .ev-chev::before, .soi-ev[data-icon=\"2\"] .ev-chev::after,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"3\"] .ev-chev::before, .soi-ev[data-icon=\"3\"] .ev-chev::after {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: ''; position: absolute; top: 50%; left: 50%; width: 14px; height: 2px; border-radius: 2px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: currentColor; transform: translate(-50%, -50%);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: transform 0.45s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"2\"] .ev-chev::after, .soi-ev[data-icon=\"3\"] .ev-chev::after { transform: translate(-50%, -50%) rotate(90deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"2\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev { transform: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"2\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev::after { transform: translate(-50%, -50%) rotate(0deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"3\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev { transform: rotate(135deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* 4 \u00b7 Gold diamond that fills when open *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"] .ev-chev { background: transparent !important; border-radius: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"] .ev-chev svg { position: relative; z-index: 1; width: 0.85rem; height: 0.85rem; color: var(--ev-gold); transition: color 0.35s var(--ev-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"] .ev-chev::before {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: ''; position: absolute; inset: 6px; border: 1.5px solid var(--ev-gold); transform: rotate(45deg);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: background 0.4s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Smooth hover: scale the whole icon (GPU-friendly) instead of resizing the border *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"] .ev-chev {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: transform 0.5s cubic-bezier(0.22, 1, 0.36, 1);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  will-change: transform;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  backface-visibility: hidden;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"] button.ev-tab:hover .ev-chev { transform: scale(1.14); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev::before { background: var(--ev-gold); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev svg { color: var(--ev-primary-dark); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* 5 \u00b7 \"Read\" \/ \"Close\" pill *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"5\"] .ev-chev {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  width: auto; height: auto; padding: 0.45rem 0.8rem 0.45rem 0.95rem; gap: 0.35rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: inline-flex; align-items: center; border-radius: 999px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border: 1px solid rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.55); background: transparent;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"5\"] .ev-chev::before {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: 'Read'; font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-size: 0.68rem; font-weight: 700;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  letter-spacing: 0.12em; text-transform: uppercase;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"5\"] .ev-chev svg { width: 0.9rem; height: 0.9rem; transition: transform 0.45s var(--ev-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"5\"] button.ev-tab:hover .ev-chev { background: rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.14); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"5\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev { transform: none; background: var(--ev-gold); color: var(--ev-primary-dark); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"5\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev::before { content: 'Close'; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"5\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev svg { transform: rotate(180deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* 6 \u00b7 Minimal long arrow, no circle *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"6\"] .ev-chev { background: transparent !important; color: var(--ev-gold); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"6\"] .ev-chev svg { display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"6\"] .ev-chev::before {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: ''; position: absolute; left: 50%; top: 6px; bottom: 8px; width: 1.5px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: currentColor; transform: translateX(-50%);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"6\"] .ev-chev::after {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: ''; position: absolute; left: 50%; bottom: 8px; width: 8px; height: 8px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border-right: 1.5px solid currentColor; border-bottom: 1.5px solid currentColor;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transform: translateX(-50%) rotate(45deg); transform-origin: center;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"6\"] button.ev-tab:hover .ev-chev { transform: translateY(3px); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"6\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev { transform: rotate(180deg); color: var(--ev-gold); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ======================================================================<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   DIAMOND ANIMATION (tab icon 4) \u2014 choose with data-anim=\"1..5\"<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   ====================================================================== *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev { transform: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"] .ev-item.is-open button.ev-tab:hover .ev-chev { transform: scale(1.14); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"] .ev-chev svg { transition: transform 0.5s var(--ev-ease), color 0.35s var(--ev-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev svg { transform: rotate(180deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"] .ev-chev::after { content: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* 1 \u00b7 Fill \u2014 the diamond fills with gold *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"][data-anim=\"1\"] .ev-chev::before { transition: background 0.4s var(--ev-ease), inset 0.35s var(--ev-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* 2 \u00b7 Spin \u2014 the diamond turns half a circle as it fills *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"][data-anim=\"2\"] .ev-chev::before { transition: transform 0.7s var(--ev-ease), background 0.5s var(--ev-ease), inset 0.35s var(--ev-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"][data-anim=\"2\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev::before { transform: rotate(225deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* 3 \u00b7 Grow \u2014 the diamond expands as it fills *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"][data-anim=\"3\"] .ev-chev::before { transition: inset 0.5s cubic-bezier(0.34, 1.56, 0.64, 1), background 0.4s var(--ev-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"][data-anim=\"3\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev::before { inset: 2px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"][data-anim=\"3\"] .ev-item.is-open button.ev-tab:hover .ev-chev::before { inset: 3px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* 4 \u00b7 Ripple \u2014 a gold ring ripples outward when opened *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"][data-anim=\"4\"] .ev-chev::after {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: ''; position: absolute; inset: 6px; border: 1.5px solid var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transform: rotate(45deg); opacity: 0; pointer-events: none;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"][data-anim=\"4\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev::after { animation: soiEvRipple 0.9s var(--ev-ease) 1; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiEvRipple {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  0%   { transform: rotate(45deg) scale(1);   opacity: 0.9; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  100% { transform: rotate(45deg) scale(2.1); opacity: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* 5 \u00b7 Flip \u2014 the diamond flips over like a coin, revealing the gold side *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"][data-anim=\"5\"] .ev-chev::before {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transform: perspective(60px) rotateY(0deg) rotate(45deg);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: transform 0.7s var(--ev-ease), background 0s linear 0.35s, inset 0.35s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"][data-anim=\"5\"] .ev-item.is-open .ev-chev::before { transform: perspective(60px) rotateY(180deg) rotate(45deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev[data-icon=\"4\"][data-anim=\"5\"] .ev-chev svg { transition: transform 0s linear 0.35s, color 0s linear 0.35s; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ======================================================================<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   EXTRA BLOCKS: notes, questions, scripture, newsletter, lists<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   ====================================================================== *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-thought cite {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: block; margin-top: 1rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-style: normal; font-size: 0.72rem; font-weight: 700;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  letter-spacing: 0.12em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--ev-muted);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Note card: author bio, In Focus, section intros *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-note {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin: 0 0 1.8rem; padding: 1.3rem 1.4rem 1.2rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--ev-gold-soft); border-radius: 14px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-body > .ev-note:last-child, .soi-ev .ev-body p + .ev-note { margin-top: 2rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-note-label {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: block; margin-bottom: 0.6rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-size: 0.66rem; font-weight: 800;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  letter-spacing: 0.16em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--ev-primary);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-body .ev-note p {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: 0.93rem !important; line-height: 1.75 !important; margin: 0 0 0.75em !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-ink) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-body .ev-note p:last-child { margin-bottom: 0 !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-note a { color: var(--ev-primary); font-weight: 700; text-decoration: underline; text-underline-offset: 3px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-body .ev-note .ev-note-quote {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin-top: 1rem !important; padding-top: 1rem !important; border-top: 1px solid rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.15);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-display-italic) !important; font-style: italic;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: clamp(1.1rem, 2.2vw, 1.3rem) !important; line-height: 1.45 !important; color: var(--ev-primary) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-note-quote span {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: block; margin-top: 0.5rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-style: normal; font-size: 0.72rem; font-weight: 700;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  letter-spacing: 0.1em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--ev-muted);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Lead paragraph (Q&A intro, ChatGPT intro) *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-body p.ev-lead {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: clamp(1.05rem, 2vw, 1.15rem) !important; font-weight: 500 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-primary) !important; margin-bottom: 1.6em !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Sub-headings and Q&A questions *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev h3.ev-h, .soi-ev h3.ev-qh {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-display) !important; font-weight: 700 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: clamp(1.2rem, 2.5vw, 1.4rem) !important; line-height: 1.3 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-primary) !important; margin: 2rem 0 0.7rem !important; padding: 0 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev h3.ev-qh { display: flex; gap: 0.7rem; align-items: baseline; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev h3.ev-qh::before {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: ''; flex-shrink: 0; width: 8px; height: 8px; background: var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transform: rotate(45deg) translateY(-2px);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Numbered list *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-list { margin: 0 0 1.4rem !important; padding: 0 0 0 1.4rem !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-list li {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-size: clamp(1rem, 1.8vw, 1.06rem); line-height: 1.75;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-ink); margin-bottom: 0.6rem; padding-left: 0.3rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-list li::marker { color: var(--ev-primary); font-weight: 800; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-list strong { color: var(--ev-primary); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Scripture *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-bismillah {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  text-align: center; font-family: var(--ev-display-italic) !important; font-style: italic;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: 1.15rem !important; color: var(--ev-primary) !important; margin: 0.5rem 0 1.2rem !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-ayah {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin: 0 0 1.6rem !important; padding: 1.3rem 1.5rem !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border-left: 3px solid var(--ev-gold); background: rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.05); border-radius: 0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-display) !important; font-size: clamp(1.15rem, 2.3vw, 1.3rem); line-height: 1.6;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-primary);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-byline {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  text-align: right; font-family: var(--ev-display-italic) !important; font-style: italic;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: 1.1rem !important; color: var(--ev-primary) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Newsletter *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-news { padding: 0 0 1.6rem; margin-bottom: 1.6rem; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--ev-line); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-news:last-of-type { border-bottom: 0; margin-bottom: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-news h3.ev-h { margin-top: 0.4rem !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-body p.ev-news-meta { font-size: 0.8rem !important; font-weight: 600 !important; color: var(--ev-muted) !important; margin-bottom: 0.7rem !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev a.ev-link {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: inline-flex !important; align-items: center; gap: 0.45rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin: 0.2rem 0.4rem 0.2rem 0; padding: 0.55rem 1rem !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-size: 0.78rem !important; font-weight: 700 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  letter-spacing: 0.04em; color: var(--ev-primary) !important; text-decoration: none !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border: 1.5px solid var(--ev-primary); border-radius: 999px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: background 0.3s var(--ev-ease), color 0.3s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev a.ev-link:hover { background: var(--ev-primary); color: var(--ev-page) !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev a.ev-link svg { width: 0.85rem; height: 0.85rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-books {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: grid; grid-template-columns: repeat(auto-fit, minmax(240px, 1fr)); gap: 0.9rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin: 0 0 2rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-book { padding: 1.1rem 1.1rem 0.9rem; background: var(--ev-page); border: 1px solid var(--ev-line); border-radius: 14px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-book h4 {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-display) !important; font-weight: 700 !important; font-size: 1.1rem !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  line-height: 1.3 !important; color: var(--ev-primary) !important; margin: 0 0 0.7rem !important; padding: 0 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-book h4 span { font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-weight: 500; font-size: 0.85rem; color: var(--ev-muted); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-book-links a.ev-link { font-size: 0.72rem !important; padding: 0.45rem 0.8rem !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* In Focus: Maulana's photo beside his quote *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-note-person { display: flex; gap: 1rem; align-items: center; margin-top: 1rem; padding-top: 1rem; border-top: 1px solid rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.15); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-note-person img {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  flex-shrink: 0; width: 64px; height: 64px; border-radius: 50%; object-fit: cover; object-position: center 20%;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow: 0 0 0 2px var(--ev-paper), 0 0 0 4px var(--ev-gold);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-body .ev-note .ev-note-person .ev-note-quote { margin: 0 !important; padding: 0 !important; border: 0 !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 480px) { .soi-ev .ev-note-person { flex-direction: column; align-items: flex-start; } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ======================================================================<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   PAGE BACKGROUND + CARD DEPTH<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   The #EEEEE5 page colour is painted edge to edge behind this block,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   so it matches the site even inside a white Divi section.<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   ====================================================================== *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--ev-page);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow: 0 0 0 100vmax var(--ev-page);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  clip-path: inset(0 -100vmax);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding-top: 2rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding-bottom: 2.5rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin-bottom: 0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow: 0 14px 28px -18px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.55), 0 3px 8px -4px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.18);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: box-shadow 0.4s var(--ev-ease), border-color 0.4s var(--ev-ease), transform 0.4s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item:not(.is-open):hover { transform: translateY(-2px); box-shadow: 0 20px 34px -18px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.6), 0 4px 10px -4px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.2); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item.is-open {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow: 0 0 0 4px var(--ev-page), 0 0 0 5px rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.6), 0 30px 54px -26px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.5);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ======================================================================<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   SECTION INTRO: the recurring \"remedy for ignorance\" passage (gold note)<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   ====================================================================== *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-intro {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin: 0 0 2.2rem; padding: 1.4rem 1.5rem 1.3rem 1.6rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--ev-gold-soft); border-left: 3px solid var(--ev-gold); border-radius: 0 14px 14px 0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-intro-tag {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: inline-flex; align-items: center; gap: 0.45rem; margin-bottom: 0.7rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-size: 0.64rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.16em;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--ev-primary);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-intro-tag svg { width: 9px; height: 9px; fill: var(--ev-primary); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-body .ev-intro p.ev-intro-saying {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin: 0 0 0.3rem !important; font-family: var(--ev-display-italic) !important; font-style: italic;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: clamp(1.3rem, 2.8vw, 1.55rem) !important; line-height: 1.3 !important; color: var(--ev-primary) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-body .ev-intro p.ev-intro-who {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin: 0 0 0.9rem !important; font-family: var(--ev-sans); font-size: 0.78rem !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-weight: 700 !important; color: var(--ev-muted) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-body .ev-intro p.ev-intro-text {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  margin: 0 !important; font-size: 0.93rem !important; line-height: 1.75 !important; color: var(--ev-ink) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 480px) { .soi-ev .ev-intro { padding: 1.2rem 1.1rem 1.1rem 1.2rem; } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ======================================================================<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   READ-ALONG AUDIO PLAYER<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   In the article: a light card. While audio plays and the reader scrolls<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   away from it, it docks as a dark capsule at the bottom of the screen.<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->   ====================================================================== *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item { overflow: hidden; overflow: clip; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item.is-settled .ev-panel-inner { overflow: visible; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-spot { margin: 0 0 1.8rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --p: 0%; position: relative; font-family: var(--ev-sans);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 0.75rem 0.9rem; border-radius: 16px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.06); border: 1px dashed rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.3);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player audio { display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player button { all: unset; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player button:focus-visible, .soi-ev .ev-pl-seek:focus-visible { outline: 3px solid var(--ev-gold); outline-offset: 2px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-row { display: flex; align-items: center; gap: 0.75rem; min-width: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-info { flex: 1; min-width: 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; gap: 0.1rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-label { font-size: 0.66rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.14em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--ev-primary); white-space: nowrap; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-time { font-size: 0.8rem; font-weight: 600; color: var(--ev-muted); font-variant-numeric: tabular-nums; white-space: nowrap; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-tools { display: flex; align-items: flex-start; gap: 0.25rem; flex-shrink: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* play button *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev button.ev-pl-play {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  position: relative; flex-shrink: 0; width: 48px; height: 48px; border-radius: 50%;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: grid; place-items: center; background: var(--ev-primary); color: #fff;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow: 0 8px 18px -8px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.7); transition: transform 0.3s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev button.ev-pl-play:hover { transform: scale(1.06); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev button.ev-pl-play svg { width: 20px; height: 20px; position: relative; z-index: 1; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-play .i-pause, .soi-ev .is-playing .ev-pl-play .i-play { display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-playing .ev-pl-play .i-pause { display: block; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-play.is-loading::after {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: ''; position: absolute; inset: -4px; border-radius: 50%;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border: 2px solid transparent; border-top-color: var(--ev-gold); animation: soiEvSpin 0.9s linear infinite;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiEvSpin { to { transform: rotate(360deg); } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* tool buttons with a caption under each icon *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev button.ev-pl-btn {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  position: relative; min-width: 46px; padding: 0.3rem 0.3rem 0.25rem; border-radius: 10px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: inline-flex; flex-direction: column; align-items: center; gap: 0.15rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-primary); transition: background 0.25s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev button.ev-pl-btn:hover { background: rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.08); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-ico { position: relative; height: 22px; display: grid; place-items: center; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-ico svg { width: 20px; height: 20px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-ico small { position: absolute; font-size: 0.5rem; font-weight: 800; top: 50%; left: 50%; transform: translate(-50%, -36%); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-cap { font-size: 0.6rem; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 0.02em; white-space: nowrap; opacity: 0.85; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-speedval {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  height: 22px; min-width: 38px; padding: 0 0.4rem; display: grid; place-items: center; border-radius: 7px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border: 1.5px solid rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.3); font-size: 0.74rem; font-weight: 800; font-variant-numeric: tabular-nums;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev button.ev-pl-close { display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* seek bar (shown once listening has started) *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-seek { display: none; position: relative; height: 18px; margin-top: 0.55rem; cursor: pointer; touch-action: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-started .ev-pl-seek { display: block; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-track { position: absolute; left: 0; right: 0; top: 7px; height: 4px; border-radius: 4px; background: rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.14); overflow: hidden; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-fill { position: absolute; inset: 0 auto 0 0; width: var(--p); background: linear-gradient(90deg, var(--ev-primary), var(--ev-gold)); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-knob {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  position: absolute; top: 3px; left: var(--p); width: 12px; height: 12px; margin-left: -6px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--ev-gold); transform: rotate(45deg); border-radius: 2px; box-shadow: 0 0 0 3px var(--ev-paper); transition: transform 0.2s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-seek:hover .ev-pl-knob { transform: rotate(45deg) scale(1.25); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-error { margin-top: 0.6rem; padding: 0.55rem 0.8rem; border-radius: 10px; background: rgba(234, 53, 81, 0.08); color: #A3263B; font-size: 0.8rem; font-weight: 600; line-height: 1.5; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-error code { font-size: 0.72rem; word-break: break-all; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---------- speed and settings menu ---------- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-menuwrap { position: relative; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-menu {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  position: absolute; z-index: 20; right: 0; top: calc(100% + 8px); width: min(300px, calc(100vw - 20px));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 0.5rem; border-radius: 16px; background: #fff; color: var(--ev-ink);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border: 1px solid var(--ev-line); box-shadow: 0 22px 44px -18px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.45);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transform-origin: top center; animation: soiEvMenu 0.22s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-menu[hidden] { display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked .ev-pl-menu { top: auto; bottom: calc(100% + 10px); transform-origin: bottom right; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiEvMenu { from { opacity: 0; transform: scale(0.96) translateY(-4px); } to { opacity: 1; transform: none; } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-mh { display: block; padding: 0.45rem 0.6rem 0.35rem; font-size: 0.62rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.14em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--ev-muted); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-speeds { display: grid; grid-template-columns: repeat(3, 1fr); gap: 0.35rem; padding: 0 0.3rem 0.4rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player button.ev-pl-sp {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: flex; flex-direction: column; align-items: center; gap: 0.05rem; padding: 0.5rem 0.2rem; border-radius: 10px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border: 1.5px solid var(--ev-line); color: var(--ev-primary); transition: all 0.2s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player button.ev-pl-sp b { font-size: 0.9rem; font-weight: 800; font-variant-numeric: tabular-nums; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player button.ev-pl-sp span { font-size: 0.6rem; font-weight: 600; color: var(--ev-muted); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player button.ev-pl-sp:hover { border-color: var(--ev-primary); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player button.ev-pl-sp[aria-checked=\"true\"] { background: var(--ev-primary); border-color: var(--ev-primary); color: #fff; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player button.ev-pl-sp[aria-checked=\"true\"] span { color: rgba(238, 238, 229, 0.8); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-sep { height: 1px; background: var(--ev-line); margin: 0.3rem 0.4rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player button.ev-pl-opt { display: flex; align-items: center; gap: 0.7rem; width: 100%; padding: 0.6rem; border-radius: 10px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player button.ev-pl-opt:hover { background: rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.06); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-opt-ico { flex-shrink: 0; width: 34px; height: 34px; border-radius: 10px; display: grid; place-items: center; background: rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.08); color: var(--ev-primary); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-opt-ico svg { width: 18px; height: 18px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-opt-text { flex: 1; min-width: 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-opt-text b { font-size: 0.85rem; font-weight: 700; color: var(--ev-ink); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-opt-text span { font-size: 0.72rem; line-height: 1.4; color: var(--ev-muted); white-space: normal; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-switch { flex-shrink: 0; position: relative; width: 36px; height: 20px; border-radius: 20px; background: rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.2); transition: background 0.25s; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-switch::after { content: ''; position: absolute; top: 2px; left: 2px; width: 16px; height: 16px; border-radius: 50%; background: #fff; box-shadow: 0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,.25); transition: transform 0.25s var(--ev-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev [aria-checked=\"true\"] > .ev-pl-switch { background: var(--ev-primary); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev [aria-checked=\"true\"] > .ev-pl-switch::after { transform: translateX(16px); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---------- up next ---------- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-next { display: flex; align-items: center; gap: 0.7rem; margin-top: 0.6rem; padding: 0.6rem 0.7rem; border-radius: 12px; background: rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.22); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-next[hidden] { display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-count { position: relative; flex-shrink: 0; width: 34px; height: 34px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-count svg { width: 100%; height: 100%; transform: rotate(-90deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-count circle { fill: none; stroke-width: 3; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-count .c-bg { stroke: rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.15); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-count .c-fg { stroke: var(--ev-primary); stroke-linecap: round; stroke-dasharray: 94.2; transition: stroke-dashoffset 1s linear; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-count b { position: absolute; inset: 0; display: grid; place-items: center; font-size: 0.8rem; font-weight: 800; color: var(--ev-primary); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-next-text { flex: 1; min-width: 0; display: flex; flex-direction: column; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-next-text span { font-size: 0.62rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.12em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--ev-muted); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-pl-next-text b { font-family: var(--ev-display); font-size: 1rem; color: var(--ev-primary); white-space: nowrap; overflow: hidden; text-overflow: ellipsis; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player button.ev-pl-nbtn { padding: 0.45rem 0.75rem; border-radius: 999px; font-size: 0.72rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.04em; white-space: nowrap; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player button.ev-pl-go { background: var(--ev-primary); color: #fff; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player button.ev-pl-cancel { color: var(--ev-primary); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---------- docked capsule (only while playing and scrolled away) ---------- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player.is-docked {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  position: fixed; z-index: 99990; left: 50%; transform: translateX(-50%);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  bottom: calc(14px + env(safe-area-inset-bottom, 0px));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  width: min(720px, calc(100% - 24px - env(safe-area-inset-left, 0px) - env(safe-area-inset-right, 0px)));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 0.7rem 0.9rem 0.65rem; border: 0; border-radius: 20px; color: var(--ev-page);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: #173A48; box-shadow: 0 24px 50px -16px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.55), inset 0 0 0 1px rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.4);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  animation: soiEvDockIn 0.45s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player.is-docked.is-leaving { animation: soiEvDockOut 0.35s var(--ev-ease) forwards; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiEvDockIn { from { opacity: 0; transform: translate(-50%, 28px); } to { opacity: 1; transform: translate(-50%, 0); } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiEvDockOut { to { opacity: 0; transform: translate(-50%, 28px); } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked .ev-pl-label { color: var(--ev-gold); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked .ev-pl-time { color: rgba(238, 238, 229, 0.85); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked button.ev-pl-play { background: var(--ev-gold); color: #12323E; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked button.ev-pl-btn { color: var(--ev-page); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked button.ev-pl-btn:hover { background: rgba(238, 238, 229, 0.1); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked .ev-pl-speedval { border-color: rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.6); color: var(--ev-gold); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked button.ev-pl-close { display: inline-flex; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked .ev-pl-track { background: rgba(238, 238, 229, 0.18); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked .ev-pl-fill { background: var(--ev-gold); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked .ev-pl-knob { box-shadow: 0 0 0 3px #173A48; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked .ev-pl-next { background: rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.16); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked .ev-pl-next-text span { color: rgba(238, 238, 229, 0.7); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked .ev-pl-next-text b { color: #fff; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked .ev-pl-count .c-bg { stroke: rgba(238, 238, 229, 0.2); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked .ev-pl-count .c-fg { stroke: var(--ev-gold); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked .ev-pl-count b { color: var(--ev-gold); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked button.ev-pl-go { background: var(--ev-gold); color: #12323E; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked button.ev-pl-cancel { color: var(--ev-page); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* read-along highlight *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-s { border-radius: 5px; transition: background-color 0.45s var(--ev-ease), box-shadow 0.45s var(--ev-ease); -webkit-box-decoration-break: clone; box-decoration-break: clone; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item.has-player .ev-body .ev-s { cursor: pointer; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-item.has-player .ev-body .ev-s:hover { background: rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.18); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-s.is-reading { background: rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.5) !important; box-shadow: 0 0 0 2px rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.5); color: #12323E; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-tab .ev-s.is-reading { background: rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.3) !important; color: #fff; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* drop cap that starts with a quotation mark: the mark stays small, the letter is enlarged *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-body > p.ev-first-q::first-letter { all: unset; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-dc { float: left; display: flex; align-items: flex-start; margin: 0.06em 0.12em 0 0; color: var(--ev-primary); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-dc-q { font-family: var(--ev-display); font-size: 1.6em; line-height: 1; margin-right: 0.04em; margin-top: 0.05em; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-dc-l { font-family: var(--ev-display); font-weight: 700; font-size: 3.9em; line-height: 0.8; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---------- responsive ---------- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 640px) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-row { gap: 0.55rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-tools { gap: 0.05rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev button.ev-pl-btn { min-width: 40px; padding: 0.3rem 0.15rem 0.2rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-player.is-docked { padding: 0.65rem 0.7rem 0.6rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 420px) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-label { display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev button.ev-pl-play { width: 42px; height: 42px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev button.ev-pl-btn { min-width: 36px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-cap { font-size: 0.56rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-speedval { min-width: 34px; padding: 0 0.25rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-next { flex-wrap: wrap; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-next-text { flex-basis: calc(100% - 50px); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-next .ev-pl-nbtn { flex: 1; text-align: center; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 340px) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-cap { display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-time { font-size: 0.74rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (prefers-reduced-motion: reduce) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-player, .soi-ev .ev-player * { animation: none !important; transition: none !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .sr-only { position: absolute; width: 1px; height: 1px; padding: 0; margin: -1px; overflow: hidden; clip: rect(0, 0, 0, 0); white-space: nowrap; border: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* download link styled like the other tool buttons *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev a.ev-pl-btn {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  position: relative; min-width: 46px; padding: 0.3rem 0.3rem 0.25rem; border-radius: 10px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: inline-flex; flex-direction: column; align-items: center; gap: 0.15rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--ev-primary) !important; text-decoration: none !important; transition: background 0.25s var(--ev-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev a.ev-pl-btn:hover { background: rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.08); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev a.ev-pl-btn:hover .ev-pl-ico svg { animation: soiEvDl 0.6s var(--ev-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiEvDl { 40% { transform: translateY(3px); } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .is-docked a.ev-pl-dl { display: none; }      \/* the docked capsule shows Close instead *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 640px) { .soi-ev a.ev-pl-btn { min-width: 40px; padding: 0.3rem 0.15rem 0.2rem; } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 420px) { .soi-ev a.ev-pl-btn { min-width: 36px; } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev a.ev-pl-mdl { text-decoration: none !important; display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 480px) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev a.ev-pl-dl { display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev a.ev-pl-mdl { display: flex; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player a.ev-pl-mdl { align-items: center; gap: 0.7rem; width: 100%; padding: 0.6rem; border-radius: 10px; color: var(--ev-ink) !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-player a.ev-pl-mdl:hover { background: rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.06); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* keep the open panel inside the card on narrow phones *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-panel { grid-template-columns: minmax(0, 1fr); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.soi-ev .ev-panel-inner { min-width: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 360px) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-row { gap: 0.4rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev button.ev-pl-play { width: 40px; height: 40px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev button.ev-pl-btn, .soi-ev a.ev-pl-btn { min-width: 30px; padding: 0.3rem 0.05rem 0.2rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-speedval { min-width: 30px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-time { font-size: 0.7rem; white-space: normal; line-height: 1.25; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 640px) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev { gap: 0.7rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-item { border-radius: 14px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev button.ev-tab { gap: 0.8rem; padding: 0.95rem 1rem 0.95rem 0.9rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-num { width: 2.1rem; height: 2.1rem; font-size: 0.72rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-chev { width: 1.9rem; height: 1.9rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-listen-label { display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev[data-quote=\"1\"] .ev-thought::before { font-size: 5.5rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (prefers-reduced-motion: reduce) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev * { transition: none !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/style>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- data-quote: end-quote style \u00b7 data-icon: tab icon \u00b7 data-anim: diamond animation --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/p>\n<div class=\"soi-ev\" data-quote=\"2\" data-icon=\"4\" data-anim=\"4\" role=\"list\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 01 \u00b7 The Superior Solution ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-the-superior-solution\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">01<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">From the Editor-in-Chief\u2019s Desk<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">The Superior Solution<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>Prof Farida Khanam<\/span><span>\u00b7<\/span><span>2 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"180.41\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-superior-solution.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-superior-solution.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-superior-solution.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (2.1 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-superior-solution.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-superior-solution.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (2.1 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"2.77\">Maulana Wahiduddin Khan wrote in his diary on October 19, 1986 that whenever a day passed without his discovering something new, he felt that the day had been wasted.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"15.95\">This attitude reflects an important principle of intellectual and spiritual growth: every day should bring some new discovery.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"25.57\">One morning, while reading the Encyclopaedia Britannica on creativity, he came across an expression that particularly impressed him: \u201csuperior solution.\u201d<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"36.34\">The encyclopedia explained that creative people are those who are able to discover superior solutions to problems.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"44.34\">This expression contains a profound lesson.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"47.84\">When faced with a difficulty, most people react according to their established habits.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"52.85\">They complain, become angry, blame others, or repeat methods that have already failed.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"59.02\">A creative person, however, takes a different approach.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"62.93\">Instead of reacting emotionally, he pauses and asks himself: Is there a wiser and better way of dealing with this situation?<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"71.64\">This is the secret of creative thinking.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"74.85\">A problem is not merely something to be overcome; it is also an opportunity to discover a better way forward.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"82.37\">Arnold Toynbee used the expression \u201ccreative minority\u201d for the small groups that bring about great changes in history.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"90.11\">Their strength does not necessarily lie in numbers, wealth or political power.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"95.61\">It lies in their ability to respond creatively to challenges and discover new possibilities.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"102.23\">There are situations in which an ordinary response can make matters worse.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"106.71\">Anger produces anger, argument creates further argument, and confrontation closes the doors to communication.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"113.52\">In such cases, what is needed is not a stronger reaction but a higher response\u2014a superior solution.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"120.43\">The Treaty of Hudaybiyah provides a remarkable example.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"123.88\">Its terms appeared unfavourable to many of the Prophet Muhammad\u2019s companions.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"128.42\">Yet the Prophet did not allow immediate emotions to determine his course of action.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"133.19\">He accepted a peaceful settlement and thereby opened the way for communication and wider interaction.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"139.2\">What initially appeared to be a setback ultimately became a historic breakthrough.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"144.41\">This teaches us that difficulties should not merely provoke us; they should stimulate our creativity.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"150.13\">Instead of asking, \u201cHow can I defeat this problem?\u201d we should ask, \u201cWhat better possibility can I discover through it?\u201d<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"157.43\">Every problem can become an invitation to think more deeply, rise above conventional reactions and discover a higher course of action.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"165.76\">God has placed challenges in the world, but He has also given human beings the intelligence and wisdom needed to discover superior solutions.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<aside class=\"ev-note\"><span class=\"ev-note-label\">About the author<\/span><pee>Prof Farida Khanam is an author, editor, translator, public speaker and former professor of Islamic Studies at Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi. Among her books are \u2018A Simple Guide to Islam\u2019 and \u2018A Study of World\u2019s Major Religions\u2019. She has translated into English many books authored by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan. Currently the chairperson of CPS International, she is a regular contributor of articles to various publications. Prof Khanam has edited Maulana\u2019s English translation of the Quran and has also translated his Urdu commentary on the Quran into English. She can be reached at <a href=\"mailto:info@cpsglobal.org\">info@cpsglobal.org<\/a><\/pee><\/aside>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-thought\"><pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"173.94\">A truly creative person is one who can turn obstacles into opportunities and difficulties into discoveries.<\/span><\/pee><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 02 \u00b7 The Universe as Gift ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-the-universe-as-gift\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">02<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">Personal Experiences<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">The Universe as Gift<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>Maulana Wahiduddin Khan<\/span><span>\u00b7<\/span><span>5 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"254.16\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-universe-as-gift.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-universe-as-gift.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-universe-as-gift.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (2.9 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-universe-as-gift.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-universe-as-gift.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (2.9 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<aside class=\"ev-note\"><span class=\"ev-note-label\">In focus<\/span><pee>We bring you two articles every issue under the headings of \u2018Personal Experiences\u2019 and \u2018Journey towards God-realization\u2019 of our mentor Maulana Wahiduddin Khan (1925-2021). Though he is no more with us, we feel the presence of his guiding spirit motivating us through his teachings and his advice. Maulana, through his study of science, religion, psychology and the experiences of his own life, enlightens about the path to discovery of God through one\u2019s journey of life. A discovery of this kind involves pondering on the Word of God, converting one\u2019s material experiences into spiritual insights, constant introspection, and contemplating on the numerous phenomena of the universe.<\/pee><pee>The journey of realization begins with a questing spirit. Seeking is an intellectual journey. If a person is sincere and honest in his discovery of God, if there is no negativity in his thinking, if he is free from prejudices, if he has become a completely complex-free soul, attainment of God-realization is as certain as the dawn of light after the rising of the sun.<\/pee>\n<div class=\"ev-note-person\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/jpeg;base64,\/9j\/4AAQSkZJRgABAQAAAQABAAD\/2wBDAAMCAgMCAgMDAwMEAwMEBQgFBQQEBQoHBwYIDAoMDAsKCwsNDhIQDQ4RDgsLEBYQERMUFRUVDA8XGBYUGBIUFRT\/2wBDAQMEBAUEBQkFBQkUDQsNFBQUFBQUFBQUFBQUFBQUFBQUFBQUFBQUFBQUFBQUFBQUFBQUFBQUFBQUFBQUFBQUFBT\/wAARCABXAEwDASIAAhEBAxEB\/8QAHwAAAQUBAQEBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAECAwQFBgcICQoL\/8QAtRAAAgEDAwIEAwUFBAQAAAF9AQIDAAQRBRIhMUEGE1FhByJxFDKBkaEII0KxwRVS0fAkM2JyggkKFhcYGRolJicoKSo0NTY3ODk6Q0RFRkdISUpTVFVWV1hZWmNkZWZnaGlqc3R1dnd4eXqDhIWGh4iJipKTlJWWl5iZmqKjpKWmp6ipqrKztLW2t7i5usLDxMXGx8jJytLT1NXW19jZ2uHi4+Tl5ufo6erx8vP09fb3+Pn6\/8QAHwEAAwEBAQEBAQEBAQAAAAAAAAECAwQFBgcICQoL\/8QAtREAAgECBAQDBAcFBAQAAQJ3AAECAxEEBSExBhJBUQdhcRMiMoEIFEKRobHBCSMzUvAVYnLRChYkNOEl8RcYGRomJygpKjU2Nzg5OkNERUZHSElKU1RVVldYWVpjZGVmZ2hpanN0dXZ3eHl6goOEhYaHiImKkpOUlZaXmJmaoqOkpaanqKmqsrO0tba3uLm6wsPExcbHyMnK0tPU1dbX2Nna4uPk5ebn6Onq8vP09fb3+Pn6\/9oADAMBAAIRAxEAPwD6K\/aq\/aV8WQeKpvBvw71mx0OCwLQ6trBiF1PLKVwYYcMBEE3EM\/394wAmwl\/A7H4qeKYLtbfUfij4u1rUGyRYWWpzR4x3IiIKjnqxA9TXmdidR8calPrOtPcTXuqzyXU9xelUaaSRy7P9ni\/drkknnIH9yu3txDp8\/wDZVnJHaQQlV1CeJec9RCuO\/IyB\/eC+ooA9R0T4k+Obo7P+En1mwsQM7pNVnnmcDr8zsQo\/PPqK7\/Q\/GPiW9XH\/AAkmsC1A5d9QlLuPUEtwPfrXzpr\/AMTNG8JXyRalIZr0KJYtIhYPMRnAeTHCgnpk+uMnpS\/4WNN8U7lbVPEn9lQRnadLtX8mMkdQ8uPnIweAQPbNAH1jcfFK\/wBNtwZfEk8KY2ie7v3SMdupb5j7D05NctqX7QFzp1262Ot6xrt3tySL14bePv0z09wG9zXlll4HXSbG4vZ7qFY1KxlmKHDEgDcQM9x6V2em+C5o7cMzW6W+BIzRjhxjqT\/WgDzP4g\/tH\/FnXtesNO0rxZLo9i86rINNllZzluA0pbgduNua+P8A9ob9s\/4zap8R7\/T7b4i+J9BTR5JNPZdG1u6tUnZHbLuqSAbs8fQV9d+ONZ8Gvn+0NZi0kRygztNMiSEK2cIc9Tt7ZOMHHNfnB8dhoZ+KviKbw\/fHUNOubt7hZTk4LncQGP3uT1\/U9aAPWPhH+3p8bPhp4nt9YT4la\/r4UBJtP8SajLqVrPHvVyjRzM23dsCl4ykgBYK65Nftv+y\/+0j4d\/an+FNr408PQz2JWdrHUdOuMlrK8REZ4g+AJF2yIyuvVXXIVtyL\/NlRQB+kmmaha6Pp02u3lyttDAvlwswzhjxuAP3iMkgdzgd6848SfEy+ur6TS9Dv4tKtYfna7P728nLAksufu5ycvywI7ZrR0bVrfxFeHVmjLadZo1tZQsxUKWBw+3u7glsnoMDjFcz8QPh9JqtudQ8NbGWIs7aa6Aq3JO5GGCp74BFAHLjSg2qyyC+Fv9qCyO5kYtKMYYMeSScn1znmui8NfFvU\/DaC18N+HJtXtoAYzLeQLBbbSeRub5jnOck\/0on8D32ieEdL8VWmt2cNiCBqcN\/D51xYJ\/E2xWUsAOg+U8AHqTV2DwVqB0zQdT0TVC2vS2ge8uTaiWWMyZZk2sSkZ2Ns2qvYZzyaAMyx\/aA8VSa1cCW0tdN02VykttpwWcKuScZG788npX0x8R\/2gpPA\/wAKdJSxh+03+rWhNmYD5wKAZZ+DzgAnHt25ryHwb4A1i5u7TS9au3uNYu3DzXThEe3gQbpGIHyooAye4xjiu00n9nGw8U6ZYePYta1LXLDSrm6jttIuYi9utvIXAZVwG3u2yVs8EluO9AHzVrraJ4oP9qWHnXV1Kph1C+1GUyPHIeqCJFI249CB83B714t4m8HpbRSX2mXQvbZTiVCjJJGcZ5BJ4x7kjvX3d8Sfgwbz4WatfaVBLpgtYsxxtb\/Z2lYMGVVGMjDKpz7fWvhLxPJqWk6U2m3yeT9pnE6xldrBVDAkg8\/MW7\/3KAOSooooA+6Ph9b2Ws6HaJDCY5WAYxsCFVgQOMMQflxx1469K3otLvdCe7spJDCyOrCZgDn5sMv5qQfrVX4aaVdfYNEuPJaJYQ4jQbmaYAcn06ggnrjGK96h8Ex+INDvne1SK5kctGpH3WOMDb64P5CgDxX4k+BNO8R+D7q4tmjt9Ru7drdgRtE+MMAfrjGfeug0WDwxJqsF5ba2NKkuphIbMSeVIcnhPK++T\/ujntW94z8A3H9gRWV8ZI9rBne3IOwnJx7dB1rsPgDoOh+GonvobSD7QiHdeT\/PL9AzdM+gxQBR+Ieg6d4b8NyJBG2lNqzxx3eoTxsk1xCAG+zRREb1VjhpGYAnBUgg5r0L9nbX7DVFvtGWQJFLA0QgPy4IHD\/WvMfjBea\/qvjHT\/FltZXGqW1mrRPpkJ3MIc8MqNgb8g555DD0FWPhl8Z9I1Px\/pnl+HdT0XX0kMZhexwZB0xhSQTx0OKAOy1zwZ4j1dm0\/V9T06Ww\/eRvHb2UgcMpPG1pCM\/nkV+YP7Q3w\/1HwV4nuBqt9LeXTy5DXA\/eFCMgH6AADHy4xjpiv2U0nT7nVL3ULi6tZUleBZCrEbiW5BIB4b5enHQV8J\/t2\/BqXW7aPVtKmimmtGYyWzHbMy4B4B5kAXnIxjBBoA\/PuinSRmKR0bhlJU\/UU2gD9N\/gokN+kFtbLmK0llfcx3F8dW545JIGecY6V9C+GhDoLzoZl3n5xuyVdiQclj7sAMcD6gV87\/ADwVrPg+6N3rEZg0uPbHKoIbz3IKMqL3BYg56c8HNfSUlg0F680Ad4niXYUXJAAxtHPyjgn1yaAJtb0C38Q2strDbtHI7bI0GSZSExvYjsP61jWXgnTfCWkXU1\/cRC0gyjb3VFLgADnv1J9fbiuoj1qCyN2EhzIsUJdzuJ3Ek7AuR93K+n3ulcnrWk3XiebS4pFIb52R3G4oSMAkEc8qo\/4EewAoAyY\/i14D0qMR6jqbXN6sREn2eynK8cEKdhHIxg5PSuz+Gfjf4aeLrie805odZ1SGRWj2xsJlYAMOqhhjPPGP1pnhnwJE2q2qyRpPEk5Vyw5RAOdp6nlcenXpXsGkeG\/Duk2MU2nQwC6fP7\/jc2DkjcBx0OenNAFq1H2i1L7EjkdBmJV6KBgDrzgYOf0FfHH7bjaj4c8KWd\/pdq13cpP5ZVWEbFDGzHzB\/FjB4\/HkcV9mC2IkBhwyE7ioOdpPpXxj\/wUdvbjQfhPYRvNb2t1JMyLc5dCQdxOFXvgADOQM5yADkA\/Ju9unvbya4kCrJK5dgowMk5OB2qGpLjaZW2uZMkkv6\/nUdAH7Y6R4djv7BYo1MbwSB13fcbbnCn29PauqsdLa3jVpwx81zII0ZgOMHk9sY6eua1LPw1L4dvrvTZ2VriCV4GljztIBwSOOmd2PStwaahLkoQFVUGOML\/AJNAHO3NkbJPMMKXEtyg\/wBYAFGAcKPxHX1NXJdPWFtLlxHbvKw3YXtnkfnVu\/R1tWlljSSQYCPL90NgsG9Rjmr7w\/a\/s4mkYNgYyvHAwGxjg8jP4UAYD2M1nquqAO8ZmAZFDY3N6D0ByoPY8+tafhnTdQXTHAO8O7tLE4wAxJ+7+YzVmyhnkljS5jXzF2oZRkbkwRznr0rrNB0\/ybXAkDSZwdvBxxn\/AB\/GgDU0bTjDZRrKSWADgsc+mRUXxF+CXhH43+C7rw74t0iLU9PuF2nqrIRghlYcqQQDkHtW5p1sY4sKM5z9Oa6rSIgtsp4GeTjpQB+Ev7Z\/7Afij9mLVJNa04nW\/Ad1c+XbXq\/620LcrHMP0Djg+xr5wtNHsBCBNJ+9\/i5r+lb4hfD7Qvij4O1Lwx4jsk1DSNQiMU0L8ZHYg9iDggjpivyL+M3\/AASQ+Jml\/EDUU8BT22t+GJT5trNdy+VNGCT+7cYIJXA+Ydc9BQB+tHjv4eHXrhtQsSovCAZYpGwJNowCD2OBj0+mDnzmPSprWW6trgDzVPlsM5KkHB578jH4UUUANFnFdWaLKgJRsFDzxkDr+FRyWBur1mHKyupQjqwwB3PHb8qKKAKkmhOc7XOFLNt3fccckj6\/XsPx6Hw3NcSW6NI2WZsbj1P+TRRQB3Wmpx0wTzXQ2MeyMcAfSiigC4kZfp09asKoUYFFFAH\/2Q==\" alt=\"Maulana Wahiduddin Khan\" width=\"64\" height=\"64\" loading=\"lazy\"><pee class=\"ev-note-quote\">\u201cThe greatest success in this world is to live life in such a manner that you should not have an iota of negative thought against any person. You should depart from this world with a totally positive mindset. This is my last discovery in this world.\u201d<span>\u2014 Maulana Wahiduddin Khan (1925\u20132021)<\/span><\/pee><\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"2.67\">On 17 June 1999, while I was in Manchester, I had a small experience that left a deep impression on me.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"10.85\">I was staying with an Arab brother.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"12.97\">One morning, as I sat quietly in my room, his five-year-old daughter, Qanita, knocked at the door.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"19.3\">She gently asked me in Arabic, \u201cTuridu hajah?\u201d\u2014\u201cDo you need anything?\u201d<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"24.77\">It was an ordinary question, asked by an innocent child.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"28.33\">Yet it touched something deep within me.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"31.58\">For a moment, I could not answer.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"33.82\">The words seemed to carry a meaning far greater than the child herself could have understood.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"39.64\">At that moment, I remembered a saying of the Prophet Muhammad recorded in Sahih Muslim.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"45.1\">It tells us that God calls out to His servants, asking whether there is anyone who has a need that He may fulfil.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"51.89\">The child\u2019s question suddenly appeared to me as a reflection of this divine invitation.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"57.1\">I began to feel that the question was not coming from the child alone.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"60.97\">It was as though the entire universe was asking the same question: \u201cDo you need anything?\u201d<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"66.78\">The sky seemed to offer its vastness, the sun its light, the rivers their water, the wind its freshness, and the trees their shade.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"75.75\">Everything appeared to be silently saying, \u201cWe are here to serve you.\u201d<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"81.33\">This thought brought a new awareness of the blessings surrounding us.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"85.55\">Human beings are surrounded by countless things that they did not create and cannot create.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"90.59\">We did not make the air we breathe, the sunlight that reaches us, the water that sustains us or the food that grows from the earth.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"97.97\">Yet all these things are continuously made available to us.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"101.49\">The Quran draws our attention to this reality: \u201cHe has given you all that you asked of Him\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(14: 34)<\/span>.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"106.45\">Elsewhere, it says: \u201cEat of the good things We have provided for you, and be grateful.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(2: 172)<\/span><\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"112.17\">The important point is that receiving should lead to gratitude.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"115.57\">When a person recognizes that life is a gift, his entire attitude changes.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"120.34\">He no longer regards the world merely as a place for enjoyment.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"123.59\">He begins to see every blessing as a responsibility.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"127.07\">This is perhaps one of the great purposes of the universe.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"130.02\">It is not simply a place in which human beings live; it is also a vast school of spiritual learning.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"136.12\">The changing seasons teach us about order and renewal.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"139.34\">The rising and setting of the sun remind us that life moves according to a greater plan.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"144.14\">The earth provides food, the rain revives the soil, and countless processes continue without human direction.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"150.9\">All these signs invite us to think beyond the visible world.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"154.29\">They remind us that the universe has a Creator and that human life has a purpose.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"158.57\">The Quran says, \u201cWe have not created the heavens and the earth and all that is between them except with truth.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(15: 85)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"164.69\">The universe, therefore, is not without meaning.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"167.76\">It is part of a divine plan in which human beings are being tested.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"171.36\">Our real task is to recognize our Creator, use His blessings responsibly and prepare ourselves for the eternal life that lies beyond death.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"179.15\">A person who lives with this consciousness gradually develops a deeper inner personality.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"184.16\">Gratitude replaces complaint, patience replaces impatience, and reflection replaces heedlessness.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"190.65\">Such a person turns the experiences of life into opportunities for spiritual growth.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"195.28\">The whole universe becomes a means of drawing closer to God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"198.67\">Every blessing reminds him of the Giver, and every moment becomes an opportunity for learning.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"204.9\">This is the making of a Rabbani soul\u2014a soul that is deeply conscious of God and shaped by reflection, gratitude and obedience.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"213.99\">Such spiritual development is not achieved in a single moment.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"217.58\">It is a lifelong process.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"220.16\">The little girl\u2019s question in Manchester lasted only a few seconds.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"224.14\">But it reminded me of a truth that can transform an entire life: we are surrounded by gifts.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"228.36\">The question is not merely what we need from the universe, but what we should give in return.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"235.96\">The answer is gratitude.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"237.76\">And the highest form of gratitude is to live a life worthy of the One who has given us everything.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"243.55\">For such people, the journey of life ultimately leads to the eternal home where their Compassionate Lord will say: \u201cDwell in Paradise; you will have no fear, nor will you grieve.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(7: 49)<\/span><\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-thought\"><pee>The only true wealth you own is the present moment; and what you do with it determines who you become.<\/pee><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 03 \u00b7 The Purpose of Life ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-the-purpose-of-life\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">03<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">Journey towards God-Realization<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">The Purpose of Life<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>Maulana Wahiduddin Khan<\/span><span>\u00b7<\/span><span>2 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"128.45\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-purpose-of-life.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-purpose-of-life.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-purpose-of-life.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (1.5 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-purpose-of-life.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-purpose-of-life.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (1.5 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first-q\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"2.61\"><span class=\"ev-dc\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-dc-q\">\u201c<\/span><span class=\"ev-dc-l\">T<\/span><\/span><span class=\"sr-only\">\u201cT<\/span>he two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you discover why.\u201d<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"8.84\">This saying, often attributed to Mark Twain, points to a profound truth.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"13.95\">Everyone experiences the first day.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"16.25\">Only a few discover the second.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"19.17\">Imagine a ship with engines but no compass.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"22.61\">It may cross oceans, yet without direction it cannot reach its destination.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"27.81\">Human life is much the same.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"30.21\">A person may possess intelligence, education, wealth and influence, but without a higher purpose, life can remain busy yet empty.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"39.44\">Most people devote themselves to building careers, earning money, gaining comfort and seeking recognition.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"45.68\">These pursuits have their place, but they cannot answer the question: What am I living for?<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"51.48\">The Quran gives an answer: \u201cI created jinn and mankind only that they may worship Me.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(51: 56)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"57.61\">It means recognizing God as the Creator, accepting His guidance and living responsibly before Him.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"64.06\">When God becomes the centre of life, everything else finds its proper place.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"68.67\">Success produces gratitude instead of pride.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"71.61\">Failure becomes a lesson instead of despair.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"74.41\">Wealth becomes a trust rather than an obsession.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"77.52\">Work becomes meaningful when it is connected with a higher purpose.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"82.11\">The discovery of God transforms life.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"84.88\">It gives direction to ambition, purpose to work, peace to the heart and hope for the future.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"90.82\">Even ordinary activities can acquire spiritual value when they are performed with sincerity and within moral limits.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"98.4\">The real value of life is therefore not determined by how much a person earns, achieves or possesses.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"105.01\">These things are temporary and passing.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"107.89\">What matters is whether life has been lived according to the purpose for which human beings were created.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"114.1\">A person who discovers this purpose gains a compass for life.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"118.28\">He knows where he is going and why he is travelling.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"121.41\">The greatest success is not to possess the world, but to discover its Creator and live in conscious relationship with Him.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-thought\"><pee>An Islamic character is a divine character. It is to treat others with the same generosity as God shows to man.<\/pee><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 04 \u00b7 Death Is Not Extinction ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-death-is-not-extinction\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">04<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">Preparation for Eternal Life<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">Death Is Not Extinction<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>3 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"223.48\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-death-is-not-extinction.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-death-is-not-extinction.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-death-is-not-extinction.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (2.6 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-death-is-not-extinction.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-death-is-not-extinction.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (2.6 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"2.93\">Dictionaries often define death as \u201cthe permanent cessation of life\u201d.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"7.77\">This definition describes death from the standpoint of physical observation.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"12.45\">A person is alive; then his bodily functions cease, and he is declared dead.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"18.44\">Seen only from this perspective, death appears to be the complete termination of human existence.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"24.65\">Religion presents an entirely different understanding.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"28.37\">According to Islam, death is not the end of life.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"32.11\">It is a transition from one stage of existence to another.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"36.43\">Man has been created as an eternal being.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"39.49\">His lifespan is divided into two phases: the pre-death period and the post-death period.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"45.97\">The first is temporary; the second is eternal.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"49.77\">The present world is therefore not man\u2019s final destination.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"53.68\">It is the place where he prepares himself for the world that comes afterwards.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"58.09\">The Quran states: \u201cEvery soul shall taste death.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(3: 185)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"62.32\">The expression \u201ctaste death\u201d is significant.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"65.61\">It indicates an experience through which man must pass.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"69.27\">Death does not mean that man is reduced to nothingness.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"72.44\">He passes through the experience of death and enters another phase of existence.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"77.47\">The relationship between the two phases may be understood through the example of cultivation.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"82.31\">A farmer has one season in which to sow his seeds.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"85.7\">Once that season has passed, he can no longer sow.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"89.27\">The time of harvest then arrives, when he receives according to what he planted earlier.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"94.19\">Our worldly life is the season of sowing; the Hereafter is the season of harvest.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"100.31\">The Quran says: \u201cWhoever has done the smallest particle of good will see it; while whoever has done the smallest particle of evil will see it.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(99: 7-8)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"109.61\">Nothing of moral significance is therefore lost.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"112.63\">Every good deed, every sincere intention, every act of patience and every response to life\u2019s tests becomes part of our eternal record.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"120.98\">This gives extraordinary importance to the present moment.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"124.5\">After death, man will no longer possess the freedom of action that he enjoys today.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"129.47\">The examination will be over.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"131.44\">There will be no opportunity to return and rewrite one\u2019s answers.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"135.33\">The post-death world is not a place for preparation; it is a place for receiving the consequences of the preparation made here.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"143.08\">The Prophet Muhammad expressed this reality in practical terms: \u201cWhen a person dies, his deeds come to an end except for three \u2014continuing charity, beneficial knowledge and a righteous child who prays for him\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(Sahih Muslim)<\/span> Death therefore carries a message for the living: do today whatever must be done for tomorrow.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"161.9\">Every funeral silently delivers this message.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"164.8\">The person being carried to the grave once possessed plans, appointments, possessions and ambitions just as we do.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"172.01\">Then, suddenly, his opportunity for action ended.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"176.09\">What remains with him is not what he owned, but what he became and what he sent ahead through his deeds.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"182.76\">The wise person therefore remembers death not in order to become pessimistic, but to become more conscious of life.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"189.26\">Awareness of death teaches him to distinguish between the temporary and the eternal.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"194.24\">It reminds him not to waste his limited time in hatred, jealousy, revenge and meaningless pursuits.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"200.71\">Death is not a message of despair.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"203.05\">It is a call to preparation.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"205.44\">Tomorrow belongs to God; today has been given to us.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"209.26\">Whatever goodness you wish to carry into eternity, begin creating it now.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"213.78\">Whatever correction you need to make in yourself, make it today.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"217.8\">For death does not announce the end of man\u2019s journey.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"221.36\">It announces the end of his preparation.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 05 \u00b7 The Secret of Success ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-the-secret-of-success\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">05<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">Directed Effort<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">The Secret of Success<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>2 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"136.45\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-secret-of-success.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-secret-of-success.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-secret-of-success.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (1.6 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-secret-of-success.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-secret-of-success.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (1.6 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"2.82\">A large factory once came to a halt.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"5.75\">Many engineers tried to restart it, but their efforts failed.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"9.74\">Finally, an expert was called.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"11.86\">He examined the machinery carefully, asked for a hammer, and struck one particular spot.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"18.1\">Immediately, the factory started running again.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"21.37\">Later, he sent a bill for \u00a3100.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"24.17\">The manager was surprised.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"25.82\">\u201cHow can one blow of a hammer cost \u00a3100?\u201d<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"29.44\">The expert replied, \u201cThe blow costs almost nothing.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"33.05\">The real charge is for knowing where to strike.\u201d<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"36.19\">This incident contains a lesson.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"38.58\">Success does not depend on effort alone.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"41.25\">It depends on rightly directed effort.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"44.62\">Hard work becomes productive only when it is guided by understanding.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"49.14\">Japan provides a striking example.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"51.64\">After suffering devastating destruction during the Second World War, Japan did not allow its energies to remain trapped in resentment or despair.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"59.87\">Instead, it concentrated on education, discipline, technology, industry and economic development.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"67.39\">By directing its efforts towards rebuilding, it transformed itself into one of the world\u2019s leading industrial nations.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"74.17\">The same principle applies to individuals and communities.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"77.42\">Many people work hard, yet their efforts produce limited results because they have not identified the problem.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"84.01\">They may repeatedly treat symptoms while leaving the root cause untouched.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"88.3\">Knowledge enables a person to look beneath the surface, identify what truly matters and choose an effective course of action.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"96.79\">This is why knowledge is more than information.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"99.61\">Information tells us what exists; insight helps us understand what to do.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"105.23\">True knowledge teaches us where to focus, when to act, what to avoid and how to turn difficulties into opportunities.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"113.0\">The Quran says: \u201cAre those who know equal to those who do not know?\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(39: 9)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"118.25\">Knowledge gives direction to energy.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"120.43\">It prevents wasted effort and helps transform ability into achievement.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"125.88\">The real question, therefore, is not how hard we strike, but whether we know where to strike.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"131.63\">When effort and insight come together, even a small action can produce a remarkable result.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-thought\"><pee>A believer lives in the glory of God alone. His faith finds the glory of God all around him. He is so engrossed in the glory of God that he cannot see any other glory, in himself or in anybody else.<\/pee><cite>Prophet Muhammad \ufdfa \u00b7 Sunan Abi Dawud, Hadith No. 4895<\/cite><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 06 \u00b7 Justice in Action ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-justice-in-action\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">06<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">No One Above Justice<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">Justice in Action<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>2 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"137.38\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-justice-in-action.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-justice-in-action.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-justice-in-action.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (1.6 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-justice-in-action.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-justice-in-action.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (1.6 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"2.68\">A horse race was once held in Egypt.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"5.38\">Among the participants were an ordinary Egyptian and the son of the governor, Amr ibn al-As.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"12.51\">The Egyptian\u2019s horse won the race, but the governor\u2019s son could not accept defeat.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"17.87\">Enraged, he whipped the Egyptian, asking, \u201cHow dare you get ahead of the son of a noble man?\u201d<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"25.48\">The Egyptian travelled to Madinah and complained to Umar ibn al-Khattab, the second Caliph of Islam.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"33.48\">Umar summoned the governor and his son and listened to the complaint.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"38.02\">He then handed the whip to the Egyptian and told him to strike the person who had struck him.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"43.45\">The Egyptian did so.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"45.37\">Umar also instructed him to strike the governor, explaining that his son had become arrogant because of his father\u2019s position.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"53.01\">However, the Egyptian declined, feeling that justice had been served.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"58.07\">On this occasion, Umar uttered words that have become a timeless expression of human dignity: \u201cHow can you enslave people when their mothers gave birth to them in freedom?\u201d<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"69.28\">These words express the essence of justice.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"72.46\">No one should be considered superior because of wealth, family, authority or social position.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"79.45\">A ruler and an ordinary citizen, a rich person and a poor person, must stand equally before the law.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"87.34\">Justice is not merely a principle to admire; it must be practised.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"92.64\">It requires the powerful to exercise restraint and the weak to receive protection.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"98.36\">It also demands that people rise above personal interests and recognize the rights of others.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"104.0\">A society becomes stable when people trust that justice will prevail.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"108.1\">When privilege overrides justice, resentment grows and social harmony begins to collapse.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"114.29\">True justice places truth above power and fairness above privilege.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"118.76\">It is a divine principle and a test of human character.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"122.61\">The real measure of a society is not how it treats the powerful, but how it treats those who have no power.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"129.3\">When justice is upheld without fear or favour, human dignity is preserved, public trust grows and society becomes worthy of peace.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 07 \u00b7 The Greatest Attainment ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-the-greatest-attainment\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">07<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">From Deprivation to Peace<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">The Greatest Attainment<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>6 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"476.61\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-greatest-attainment.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-greatest-attainment.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-greatest-attainment.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (5.5 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-greatest-attainment.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-greatest-attainment.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (5.5 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"3.11\">Why do some people live with peace of mind while others remain consumed by anger and hostility?<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"10.84\">Why does one person respond to an unfavourable situation with patience, while another turns towards hatred and violence?<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"19.68\">One important answer lies in two contrasting states of mind: the sense of deprivation and the sense of attainment.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"29.05\">A person who constantly thinks that something belonging to him has been taken away develops a negative psychology.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"36.41\">He believes that others have received what should have been his.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"40.13\">He begins to see people not as fellow human beings, but as rivals who have deprived him of his rightful share.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"47.74\">If this thinking continues unchecked, resentment accumulates within him.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"52.91\">Under certain circumstances, this resentment may eventually express itself in aggression or violence.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"60.05\">A sense of attainment produces the opposite psychology.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"64.4\">A person who feels inwardly fulfilled does not constantly compare himself with others.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"69.64\">He has no reason to live in jealousy or resentment.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"73.43\">His mind is free from the burden of continually asking: Why does he have what I do not have?<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"79.87\">Why was he given an opportunity that was denied to me?<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"83.4\">Such a person possesses inner peace because he feels that he has already discovered something worth possessing.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"90.45\">This principle applies to individuals as well as groups.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"94.63\">Persistent hatred often reveals an underlying sense of grievance.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"99.11\">People become obsessed with what they believe has been taken from them\u2014their position, wealth, recognition, opportunity or power.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"108.21\">Their entire interpretation of life gradually becomes centred on deprivation.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"113.34\">The crucial question, therefore, is: What is the greatest attainment available to a human being?<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"119.22\">The answer is the discovery of God.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"122.54\">If a person has truly discovered God, he has discovered the greatest reality of existence.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"128.25\">After this discovery, all other gains and losses become secondary.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"132.9\">He may possess little in material terms, yet inwardly he possesses an inexhaustible treasure.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"138.98\">Conversely, a person may possess enormous wealth, status and power, yet remain inwardly deprived if he has failed to discover the Creator.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"147.77\">This is the paradox of human life: a materially deprived person can be spiritually rich, while a materially prosperous person can be spiritually poor.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"158.25\">The Quran says: \u201cSurely in the remembrance of God hearts can find comfort.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(13: 28)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"163.59\">This verse points to a fundamental spiritual law.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"166.76\">Lasting peace cannot be secured merely by arranging favourable external circumstances.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"171.94\">It requires an inner centre, and that centre is found in God.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"176.82\">Consider the nature of worldly attainment.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"179.41\">Every material achievement is limited.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"181.76\">If you acquire wealth, you immediately discover someone wealthier.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"185.74\">If you gain fame, you find that fame is temporary.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"189.23\">If you acquire power, you remain anxious about losing it.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"193.31\">If you achieve professional success, another ambition soon appears before you.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"198.21\">Worldly attainment, therefore, cannot completely satisfy man\u2019s unlimited nature.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"203.13\">Human desire has no natural stopping point.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"205.87\">A person who possesses one million wants ten million.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"209.04\">The person who occupies one position wants a higher position.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"212.52\">Achievement creates another target, and the cycle continues.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"216.45\">If peace depends entirely upon fulfilling worldly desires, peace will always remain somewhere in the future.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"223.2\">God-realization changes this equation.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"225.88\">When a person discovers God as the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, he discovers that his life is not meaningless.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"234.06\">He understands where he has come from, why he is here and where he is going.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"239.47\">He realizes that this world is not the final destination but a temporary testing ground.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"245.13\">Success and failure, gain and loss, praise and criticism\u2014all acquire a different meaning.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"252.1\">This discovery gives him something that material possessions cannot give: a sense of existential fulfilment.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"259.32\">The Prophet Muhammad expressed this spirit beautifully when he taught that true richness is not an abundance of possessions; true richness is richness of the soul <span class=\"ev-ref\">(Sahih al-Bukhari; Sahih Muslim)<\/span>.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"269.21\">This inner richness is the opposite of deprivation.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"272.49\">A person possessing such richness may lose something without becoming psychologically destroyed.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"278.32\">He knows that what has been lost was only a temporary possession.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"282.37\">He may face injustice, but he does not allow injustice to turn his entire personality into a vehicle of hatred.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"289.63\">He may encounter opposition, but he does not make his opponent the centre of his existence.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"294.97\">His centre is God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"296.66\">This distinction is extremely important.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"299.21\">If your happiness depends entirely upon another person\u2019s behaviour, you have handed control of your inner world to that person.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"306.8\">If your peace depends upon acquiring a particular material object, you have made that object the master of your emotional life.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"314.64\">God-realization liberates man from these dependencies.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"318.19\">The Quran says: \u201cWhatever you have shall pass away, but what is with God is lasting.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(16: 96)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"324.08\">The person who understands this principle begins to distinguish between temporary possession and permanent value.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"330.83\">He uses worldly things, but does not make them the foundation of his inner peace.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"335.6\">This attitude also transforms the way a person views other people.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"339.74\">Without inner fulfilment, another person\u2019s success can appear to be your loss.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"344.14\">You see his advancement and become jealous.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"346.64\">You see his prosperity and feel deprived.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"349.41\">But when you possess a sense of spiritual attainment, another person\u2019s success no longer threatens you.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"355.1\">You can appreciate his achievement because your own treasure lies elsewhere.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"359.69\">This is why gratitude is such an important spiritual discipline.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"363.94\">The Quran says: \u201cIf you are grateful, I will surely bestow more favours on you.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(14: 7)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"369.24\">Gratitude trains the mind to concentrate on what one has rather than remain obsessed with what one lacks.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"375.34\">Complaint magnifies deprivation; gratitude magnifies attainment.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"380.13\">Two people may live under almost identical circumstances.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"383.52\">One continually counts what is missing and becomes bitter.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"387.0\">The other counts what has been given and becomes grateful.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"390.27\">Their external worlds may be similar, but internally they inhabit two completely different worlds.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"396.17\">One lives in deprivation; the other lives in attainment.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"399.87\">Peace therefore begins with an inner revolution.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"402.83\">It begins when a person stops making worldly acquisition the ultimate measure of success and discovers a higher possession.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"409.97\">This does not mean that one should abandon worldly effort.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"412.71\">A believer must work, acquire knowledge, earn a livelihood and strive for legitimate progress.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"418.46\">Nor does it mean that every conflict or act of violence can be reduced to one psychological cause.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"423.63\">Human behaviour is complex, and injustice should be addressed through lawful and constructive means.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"429.31\">The point is deeper: worldly deprivation need not become spiritual deprivation.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"434.6\">A person may lose an opportunity and still possess God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"438.05\">He may lose wealth and retain faith.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"440.6\">He may lose social position while retaining meaning and purpose.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"444.05\">Once he understands this, circumstances lose their power to completely dominate his inner life.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"449.68\">The greatest tragedy, therefore, is not that you possess less than another person.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"454.14\">The greatest tragedy is that you live in God\u2019s universe without discovering God.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"458.89\">And the greatest achievement is not wealth, fame or power.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"462.64\">It is to discover your Creator and establish a living relationship with Him.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"467.1\">Once you have found God, you possess a treasure that no person can take away from you.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"471.64\">This is the highest attainment.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"473.83\">And from this attainment comes the deepest peace.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 08 \u00b7 The Heart\u2019s True Quest ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-the-hearts-true-quest\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">08<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">The Search for Lasting Fulfilment<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">The Heart\u2019s True Quest<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>2 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"134.7\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-hearts-true-quest.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-hearts-true-quest.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-hearts-true-quest.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (1.5 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-hearts-true-quest.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-hearts-true-quest.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (1.5 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"3.02\">Every human heart contains an empty space.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"6.18\">It seeks support, beauty, meaning and someone to love above all.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"12.1\">If this space is not filled with God, it will inevitably be filled with something else\u2014wealth, power, fame, personalities or worldly attachments.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"23.44\">This is a hidden form of worship.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"25.92\">Whatever receives a person\u2019s deepest devotion becomes the centre of his life.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"31.35\">The Quran says: \u201cThose who believe are strongest in their love for God.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(2: 165)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"36.56\">True faith, therefore, is not merely an intellectual belief.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"40.67\">It is a living relationship with the Creator, in which the heart becomes conscious of His greatness and mercy.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"47.92\">The world around us constantly provides opportunities for this discovery.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"52.26\">The rising sun, the beauty of nature, the harmony of the universe, the gift of life and the countless blessings received each day all point towards One Creator.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"64.01\">They reveal a world governed by wisdom, mercy and perfection.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"68.8\">When a person truly discovers God, the heart cannot remain unmoved.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"73.79\">It awakens to gratitude, bows in humility and turns towards its Creator with deep affection.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"80.87\">This discovery transforms the way life is understood.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"84.58\">Ordinary experiences become reminders of divine blessings, and difficulties become occasions for patience and trust.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"93.22\">The most precious thing a human being can offer is not merely money, time, service or words.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"100.61\">It is the sincere devotion of the heart.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"103.6\">Material gifts have value, but the heart\u2019s wholehearted love is the greatest treasure a person can possess.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"110.13\">When God is discovered in His greatness and perfection, the natural response is to offer Him the finest treasure within: a pure, sincere and wholehearted love.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"119.8\">This is the essence of spiritual life.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"122.02\">The heart must be filled with God-consciousness, so that this inner bond gradually shapes one\u2019s thoughts, words and actions.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"129.39\">Then life acquires a higher purpose, and every experience becomes part of the journey towards the Creator.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 09 \u00b7 The Greatest Discovery ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-the-greatest-discovery\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">09<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">The Search Within<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">The Greatest Discovery<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>2 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"138.37\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-greatest-discovery.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-greatest-discovery.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-greatest-discovery.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (1.6 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-greatest-discovery.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-greatest-discovery.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (1.6 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"2.85\">Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"8.17\">This points to an important truth about learning.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"11.39\">Education is not merely the transfer of information.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"15.22\">Its real purpose is to awaken the desire to know.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"19.26\">Imagine a teacher who simply gives students every answer.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"23.13\">They may pass examinations, but they will gain little ability to think for themselves.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"28.31\">Now imagine a different teacher.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"30.43\">Instead of providing answers, this teacher gives clues, raises questions and creates curiosity.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"37.25\">Students are encouraged to think, make mistakes and struggle.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"41.96\">Finally, they experience the joy of saying, \u201cI discovered it!\u201d<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"46.34\">Such learning becomes lasting.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"49.07\">This principle applies not only to education but also to faith.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"53.55\">God has not forced belief upon human beings.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"57.23\">He has placed countless signs throughout the universe and invited people to reflect.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"62.09\">The stars, nature, conscience and the desire for meaning all point towards a higher reality.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"69.39\">The Quran repeatedly invites people to think and reflect: \u201cDo they not reflect?\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(7: 184)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"75.18\">Faith, therefore, is not merely the acceptance of information about God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"79.94\">It is a personal discovery that takes place when a person observes, thinks and sincerely seeks the truth.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"87.43\">This explains the value of belief in the unseen.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"90.71\">God has given human beings signs to recognize Him, but He has left room for free choice.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"96.68\">A person must make the effort to discover truth for himself.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"100.73\">The greatest discovery is not a scientific invention, a new continent or a hidden treasure.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"107.41\">It is discovering the Creator through His creation.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"111.16\">When a person discovers God, he discovers the meaning of his existence.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"115.84\">He learns that the universe has purpose, life has direction, and every blessing carries a reminder of the Giver.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"123.63\">The truly educated person is not merely one who knows much.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"127.75\">He is one whose knowledge leads him to wisdom, gratitude and awareness of God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"133.95\">The greatest discovery is finding the One who has always been near.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-thought\"><pee>A person who always complains is rendered incapable of thinking positively. And this sort of mentality is, without a shred of doubt, the root of all ills.<\/pee><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 10 \u00b7 The Rich Beggar ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-the-rich-beggar\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">10<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">Discovering Our Hidden Wealth<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">The Rich Beggar<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>2 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"119.8\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-rich-beggar.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-rich-beggar.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-rich-beggar.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (1.4 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-rich-beggar.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-rich-beggar.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (1.4 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"2.34\">A beggar once stood by the roadside asking people for help.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"6.41\">A man stopped and asked why he was begging.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"9.75\">\u201cBecause I am poor,\u201d the beggar replied.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"12.7\">The man said, \u201cNo, you are very rich.\u201d<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"16.31\">Thinking he was being mocked, the beggar remained silent.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"20.01\">The man then offered him a large sum of money for one of his eyes.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"23.86\">The beggar refused.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"25.51\">Similar offers for one hand, one foot and other body parts met with the same response.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"31.68\">Finally, the man asked, \u201cIf your eyes, hands, feet and other abilities are so valuable that you would not sell them for any amount, how can you call yourself poor?\u201d<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"42.1\">The story contains an important lesson.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"44.84\">We usually measure wealth in terms of money, property and possessions.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"49.39\">Yet another kind of wealth is far more fundamental: our body, health, intelligence, skills, time and ability to work.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"56.51\">These are priceless gifts.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"60.63\">The Quran draws attention to the countless blessings surrounding us: \u201cIf you tried to count God\u2019s blessings, you could never enumerate them.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(16: 18)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"68.78\">Yet people often become so accustomed to their blessings that they cease to notice them.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"73.55\">A person with little money may still possess enormous potential.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"77.49\">Seeing eyes, working hands, walking feet, an active mind and the ability to learn provide opportunities that money alone cannot create.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"87.89\">Used wisely, these abilities can help build a better future.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"91.85\">People often recognize the value of a blessing only after losing it.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"96.24\">A healthy person may take good health for granted, but illness can make ordinary physical comfort seem priceless.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"102.75\">Similarly, the value of time becomes apparent when an opportunity has passed.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"107.74\">Gratitude changes this perspective.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"110.32\">Instead of counting what is missing, we can recognize what we already possess.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"115.05\">The Quran says: \u201cIf you are grateful, I will surely bestow more favours on you.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(14: 7)<\/span><\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 11 \u00b7 Building the Inner Self ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-building-the-inner-self\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">11<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">Shaping the Raw Material<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">Building the Inner Self<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>2 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"132.7\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-building-the-inner-self.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-building-the-inner-self.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-building-the-inner-self.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (1.5 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-building-the-inner-self.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-building-the-inner-self.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (1.5 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"2.62\">God created wood, but the tree does not become a boat by itself.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"7.37\">He placed iron in the earth, but He did not make it into machines.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"11.43\">He provided raw materials and gave human beings intelligence to transform them.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"16.84\">This principle applies equally to human personality.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"20.43\">Every person is born with abilities, emotions, thoughts and talents.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"25.51\">Yet these are only raw materials.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"27.81\">They have to be refined and disciplined.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"30.84\">Character is gradually built through conscious effort and daily choices.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"35.68\">Life may be compared to an empty page.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"38.86\">God has given human beings the pen, but each person has to write his own story.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"44.2\">Its direction depends on how the gifts of life are used.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-quote\"><p>When you use your mind, use it on healthy subjects; when you speak, say whatever is good for you and good for others; and when you are going to take a step, examine all the relative aspects.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"48.23\">Speech can become an instrument of truth or a means of spreading falsehood.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"52.98\">Intelligence can be employed for constructive purposes or selfish ends.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"57.85\">Talent can serve others or advance personal interests.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"62.04\">Strength can protect the weak or dominate them.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"65.86\">The same is true of the heart.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"67.91\">It can be trained to become humble before God, compassionate towards people and grateful for blessings.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"74.48\">Or it can become proud, selfish and heedless.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"78.34\">The difference lies in how a person develops them.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"81.84\">Every human being is like a piece of land.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"84.64\">If cultivated, it can become a garden.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"87.26\">If neglected, it may become covered with weeds and thorns.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"91.41\">The land is given to us, but its final condition depends on how we cultivate it.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"96.02\">Personality is not something ready-made.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"98.57\">It is built gradually through thoughts, choices, habits and actions.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"103.24\">Repeated decisions eventually become character.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"106.55\">A person should not ask what he has been given, but what he is making of what he has been given.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"112.26\">Natural abilities are a trust.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"114.72\">The success of life lies in transforming the raw material within us into a mature personality: truthful in speech, humble in nature, disciplined in action, compassionate towards others and devoted to God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"127.31\">Such a personality is the result of lifelong self-development.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-thought\"><pee>When a person does good to you, try to recompense him, and if you can\u2019t recompense him, pray to God for him.<\/pee><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 12 \u00b7 The Royal Spring ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-the-royal-spring\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">12<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">Lessons from Flowing Water<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">The Royal Spring<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>Maulana Iqbal Oomeri<\/span><span>\u00b7<\/span><span>2 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"131.85\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-royal-spring.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-royal-spring.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-royal-spring.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (1.5 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-royal-spring.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-royal-spring.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (1.5 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"2.76\">On the morning of 28 July 2026, I had the opportunity to visit Chashma Shahi (Royal Spring), the famous historic spring in Srinagar.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"13.9\">The spring has been flowing continuously for centuries.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"18.28\">As I drank its clear, refreshing water, I was reminded of the spring of Zamzam in Makkah, which continues to flow even today.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"27.56\">The story of Zamzam is one of the great signs of God\u2019s providence.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"32.44\">When Hagar and her infant son Ishmael were left in the barren valley of Makkah, water miraculously emerged for them.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"40.63\">The continuing flow of Zamzam is a reminder that God can create a source of life where human beings see no possibility of survival.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"50.16\">Chashma Shahi also made me reflect on how the blessings of nature have become increasingly accessible to ordinary people.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"57.88\">Perhaps there was a time when this beautiful spring was mainly enjoyed by rulers and nobles.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"63.6\">Today, anyone can visit it and drink its water.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"67.19\">This is one of the remarkable features of the modern age: many things that were once available only to a few have become accessible to the common person.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"77.04\">Such blessings should increase our gratitude, not our complaints.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"81.79\">To live constantly complaining while surrounded by countless blessings is to close one\u2019s eyes to reality.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"88.88\">It is like standing in the rain of God\u2019s blessings while holding an umbrella of ingratitude.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"94.53\">As I drank the water, a prayer arose spontaneously in my heart: \u201cO God, today You have quenched our thirst through Chashma Shahi.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"103.59\">Tomorrow, when we stand before You, quench our thirst from the Pool of Kawthar.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"108.71\">You have not allowed us to remain thirsty here; do not leave us thirsty there.\u201d<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"114.03\">At that moment, Chashma Shahi became more than a beautiful spring.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"118.01\">It became a spiritual reminder: every blessing of nature points towards the mercy of the Creator.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"124.37\">The wise person does not merely drink the water; he recognizes the Giver behind the gift and prepares himself for the eternal life to come.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-byline\">\u2014 Maulana Iqbal Oomeri<\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 13 \u00b7 The Wisdom of Helplessness ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-the-wisdom-of-helplessness\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">13<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">Discovering Strength Through Prayer<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">The Wisdom of Helplessness<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>7 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"593.34\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-wisdom-of-helplessness.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-wisdom-of-helplessness.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-wisdom-of-helplessness.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (6.8 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-wisdom-of-helplessness.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-wisdom-of-helplessness.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (6.8 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"2.78\">Why did God create man helpless?<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"5.99\">This question arises naturally in the human mind.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"9.43\">Man lives in a vast universe, yet his control over it is extremely limited.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"14.97\">He cannot prevent illness, stop the ageing process, guarantee success or know with certainty what will happen tomorrow.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"23.47\">Even the next moment of his life lies beyond his control.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"27.98\">At times, this experience produces a complaint: Why did God make me so powerless?<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"34.56\">The answer is that human helplessness is not a defect in creation.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"39.04\">It is part of the divine scheme.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"42.08\">God did not give man absolute power, but He gave him access to the All-Powerful.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"48.15\">He did not make man independent; instead, He opened before him the door of prayer.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"54.49\">Human limitation is meant to lead man towards the discovery of divine power.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"59.44\">The Quran says: \u201cO mankind!<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"60.78\">It is you who stand in need of God\u2014God is self-sufficient, and praiseworthy.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(35: 15)<\/span><\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"67.87\">This verse defines man\u2019s true position.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"71.04\">He is a creature of needs.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"72.81\">He requires oxygen every moment, water every day, food regularly and innumerable favourable conditions merely to remain alive.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"82.51\">He created none of these things.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"84.48\">He receives them.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"86.21\">Human life is therefore an experience of dependence.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"90.64\">Modern civilization sometimes conceals this reality.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"94.46\">Technology has given man astonishing powers.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"97.52\">He can fly through the air, communicate instantly across continents, explore distant planets and treat diseases that were once incurable.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"106.6\">These achievements may create the impression that man is becoming increasingly independent.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"111.94\">But technology changes man\u2019s capabilities, not his fundamental position.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"117.14\">A person travelling in the most sophisticated aircraft still depends upon the laws of nature.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"123.2\">A surgeon capable of performing an extraordinarily complex operation cannot guarantee that his own heart will continue beating.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"131.22\">A billionaire can purchase the finest medical care, but cannot purchase an additional moment of life when his appointed time arrives.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"139.02\">Sooner or later, every person reaches a boundary beyond which his power cannot go.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"144.83\">This boundary has great spiritual significance.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"148.4\">It breaks the illusion of self-sufficiency.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"151.84\">As long as events unfold according to our wishes, we easily attribute success entirely to ourselves.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"158.83\">We begin to believe that our intelligence, wealth, influence or planning is sufficient.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"165.08\">Then something unexpected happens.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"167.82\">A carefully prepared plan collapses.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"170.65\">An illness appears without warning.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"173.02\">A relationship changes.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"174.83\">A business fails.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"176.45\">An unforeseen event overturns years of calculation.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"180.63\">At such moments, man discovers the difference between planning and control.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"186.11\">He can plan, but he cannot exercise absolute control over the outcome.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"191.68\">This realization can lead in two directions.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"194.95\">One person becomes frustrated; another turns towards God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"199.37\">The first sees helplessness as despair.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"202.38\">The second transforms helplessness into prayer.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"206.01\">True prayer begins at this point.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"209.05\">Prayer is much more than asking God for particular things.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"213.32\">At its deepest level, prayer is an acknowledgement of reality.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"217.85\">It is man\u2019s confession that he is limited and that God is unlimited.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"222.78\">When a person sincerely says, \u201cO God, I cannot, but You can,\u201d he has discovered his own position as well as the position of his Creator.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"232.77\">The Quran says: \u201cYour Lord has said, \u2018Call on Me, and I will answer you.\u2019\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(40: 60)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"238.12\">Elsewhere it says: \u201cWhen My servants ask you about Me, say that I am near.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"243.11\">I respond to the call of one who calls, whenever he calls to Me.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(2: 186)<\/span><\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"247.59\">These verses give man tremendous hope.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"250.49\">Human weakness does not mean human abandonment.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"253.64\">Man may not possess independent power, but he has been given the privilege of establishing a direct relationship with the One who possesses all power.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"263.11\">Prayer, however, must not be misunderstood as a demand presented to God.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"268.63\">Man knows only the present appearance of things; God knows their ultimate consequences.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"274.56\">Man asks according to his limited knowledge, while God responds according to perfect wisdom.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"280.46\">Sometimes what we desperately want may not be good for us.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"285.34\">Sometimes delay itself may contain a blessing.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"289.71\">At other times, an apparently unfavourable outcome may open the door to an entirely new future.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"297.53\">The Prophet Muhammad taught believers not to become impatient in prayer and say, \u201cI prayed, but I was not answered\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(Sahih al-Bukhari; Sahih Muslim)<\/span>.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"306.12\">Prayer therefore requires trust.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"309.44\">You make your request, but you leave the decision to God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"314.12\">This is tawakkul.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"316.15\">Tawakkul does not mean abandoning effort.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"319.52\">A believer makes every possible effort, uses every available resource and plans as wisely as he can.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"326.6\">But after doing what lies within his control, he does not become psychologically shattered by what lies outside it.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"334.53\">He entrusts the result to God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"336.88\">This distinction gives enormous peace of mind.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"340.3\">Much human anxiety comes from trying to control what cannot be controlled.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"345.13\">We want other people to behave exactly as we wish.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"348.43\">We want circumstances always to favour us.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"351.77\">We want tomorrow to conform to today\u2019s plans.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"355.1\">When reality refuses to obey, we become disturbed.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"359.33\">Faith teaches a different formula: control what you can; entrust what you cannot to God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"365.82\">Human helplessness also performs another important function: it disciplines the ego.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"371.3\">Imagine that every human desire were instantly fulfilled.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"375.14\">Suppose every plan succeeded, every opponent surrendered and every difficulty disappeared at man\u2019s command.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"381.78\">Such a person would soon develop an enormous sense of self-importance.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"385.95\">Human limitation repeatedly destroys this illusion.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"389.42\">A ruler becomes ill like an ordinary citizen.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"392.61\">A wealthy person experiences grief that money cannot remove.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"396.46\">A brilliant scientist grows old despite understanding the biological processes of ageing.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"402.35\">Finally, every person, powerful or powerless, leaves this world empty-handed.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"408.25\">Nature continuously reminds man: you are not the master of existence.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"412.89\">The Quran says: \u201cMan has been created weak.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(4: 28)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"416.51\">This weakness is a reminder of his creaturely position.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"420.34\">His knowledge is limited, his strength is limited, his lifespan is limited and his control over circumstances is limited.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"428.24\">Yet this limited being has been given an extraordinary spiritual possibility: he can know God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"433.45\">This changes the meaning of life\u2019s difficulties.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"438.43\">Illness can become a reminder of dependence.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"441.42\">Loss can teach detachment.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"443.53\">Failure can produce reassessment.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"445.93\">Uncertainty can develop trust.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"448.55\">An unanswered question can stimulate reflection.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"451.68\">Even the experience of death reminds man that the present world was never intended to be his permanent home.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"458.44\">For an awakened person, therefore, limitation becomes education.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"463.36\">This does not mean that a believer seeks suffering or refuses to solve problems.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"468.18\">Islam does not teach man to glorify helplessness.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"471.43\">He must make every legitimate effort to improve his circumstances.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"474.99\">But when effort reaches its natural limit, he does not fall into despair.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"479.35\">He knows that his own resources are not the final resources.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"483.42\">The Bible expresses this spirit of turning towards God in memorable words: \u201cAsk, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(Matthew 7: 7, KJV)<\/span><\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"494.68\">The person who understands this principle develops a different personality.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"498.94\">Success does not make him arrogant because he knows that favourable circumstances were not created by him.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"504.88\">Failure does not destroy him because he knows that one closed door does not exhaust God\u2019s possibilities.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"511.38\">Uncertainty does not paralyse him because he has learnt to live with trust.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"516.22\">Most importantly, prayer gives meaning to helplessness.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"520.33\">Without God, helplessness may appear to be merely a human tragedy.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"524.82\">With God, the same helplessness becomes an invitation to establish contact with the Creator.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"530.91\">There is a great difference between being helpless and being hopeless.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"534.86\">Man may often be helpless, but a believer can never be truly hopeless.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"539.52\">Helplessness describes the limits of human power; hopelessness means forgetting the unlimited power of God.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"547.35\">The spiritually awakened person therefore does not merely ask, \u201cWhy am I helpless?\u201d<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"552.73\">He asks, \u201cWhat is this experience teaching me?\u201d<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"556.4\">It teaches humility instead of arrogance, trust instead of anxiety, patience instead of frustration, and prayer instead of despair.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"566.17\">Man was not created to imagine himself independent.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"569.47\">He was created to discover his dependence upon God and, through that discovery, establish a living relationship with Him.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"577.48\">When human power reaches its limit, a new spiritual possibility opens.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"582.22\">Man raises his hands and turns towards his Creator.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"586.05\">This is not the end of strength.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"587.78\">It is the discovery of a greater strength.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"590.64\">Prayer is God\u2019s answer to human helplessness.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-thought\"><pee>The gravest wrongdoer is not the one who makes a mistake, but refuses to admit it.<\/pee><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 14 \u00b7 The Path to Reconciliation ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-the-path-to-reconciliation\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">14<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">Towards Global Peace<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">The Path to Reconciliation<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>Choosing Peace Over Ego<\/span><span>\u00b7<\/span><span>2 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"162.04\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-path-to-reconciliation.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-path-to-reconciliation.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-path-to-reconciliation.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (1.9 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-path-to-reconciliation.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-path-to-reconciliation.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (1.9 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<aside class=\"ev-note\"><span class=\"ev-note-label\">Towards global peace<\/span><pee>We often talk of peace in the context of war. But this is a very narrow and restricted notion of peace. Peace is deeply linked with the entirety of human life. Peace is a complete ideology in itself. Peace is the only religion for both\u2014man and the universe. It is the master-key that opens the doors to every success. Peace creates a favourable atmosphere for success in every endeavour. Without peace, no positive action\u2014small or big\u2014is possible.<\/pee><\/aside>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"3.0\">Human relationships inevitably give rise to differences.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"7.17\">In families, workplaces and societies, interests, expectations and opinions may conflict.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"14.52\">The real test is not whether differences occur, but how we respond to them.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"20.04\">When you focus entirely on your desires and insist only on your rights, the other person is likely to respond similarly.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"27.78\">Your stubbornness produces counter-stubbornness.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"31.1\">A small disagreement can then develop into a prolonged conflict, with each side more concerned about proving itself right than finding a solution.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"40.55\">There is, however, another way.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"42.84\">Instead of treating the matter as a struggle between competing claims, adopt a mutual approach.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"49.5\">Say, \u201cI want peace and reconciliation.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"53.09\">Let us both put aside our egos and resolve this matter together.\u201d<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"57.48\">Such words can transform the atmosphere.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"60.67\">A conciliatory approach may awaken the other person\u2019s conscience and encourage him to reconsider his demands.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"67.77\">Human beings are not merely driven by self-interest.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"71.32\">Everyone possesses a conscience.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"73.61\">Hostility makes people defensive, whereas sincerity and goodwill can bring out the better side of their nature.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"81.17\">The Quran gives us a valuable principle: \u201cReconciliation is best.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(4: 128)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"84.27\">The objective of resolving a dispute should not be to defeat another person but to restore harmony.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"93.53\">This principle applies to both the home and wider society.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"97.68\">Husbands and wives, parents and children, neighbours and colleagues all experience disagreements.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"104.48\">A wise person does not allow a temporary difference to become a permanent division.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"110.15\">The Quran encourages people to act with kindness and God-consciousness.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"114.87\">This requires controlling one\u2019s ego, considering others\u2019 feelings and seeking an early settlement rather than allowing resentment to grow.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"123.95\">Peace does not mean surrendering one\u2019s dignity or abandoning justice.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"129.02\">It means giving priority to reconciliation over ego.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"133.35\">Instead of insisting that the other person must take the first step, one should be willing to initiate a peaceful settlement.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"142.9\">When one person approaches a dispute with sincerity and a willingness to compromise, the other may also become receptive.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"151.99\">Thus, a conflict that once seemed difficult to resolve can come to an end, restoring goodwill and harmony between both parties.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-thought\"><pee>Those who discover that life gives less than they seek discover lasting peace.<\/pee><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 15 \u00b7 Five Pillars Family Games ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-childrens-corner\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">15<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">Children\u2019s Corner<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\">Five Pillars Family Games<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>Goodword Team<\/span><span>\u00b7<\/span><span>ISBN: 9789351791591<\/span><span>\u00b7<\/span><span>1 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-listen\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <button class=\"ev-listen-btn\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play article audio\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5v14l11-7z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-listen-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-listen-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-listen-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-listen-time\">0:00<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-first\">Discover the beauty of the Five Pillars of Islam through this lively and interactive family game. Designed for players of all ages, it offers an enjoyable way for families and friends to learn about Islam together.<\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee>The game features 100 carefully crafted cards filled with fascinating facts, valuable teachings, timeless wisdom and engaging activities. Players explore the five fundamental pillars of Islam: Shahadah (declaration of faith), Salah (prayer), Sawm (fasting), Hajj (pilgrimage) and Zakah (charity). Each card stimulates curiosity and reinforces essential Islamic values. With a delightful mix of trivia, challenges and discussion prompts, the game makes learning both memorable and enjoyable.<\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee>Whether you wish to deepen your own understanding of Islam or introduce its fundamental principles to younger players, this game offers an enriching and entertaining experience for everyone.<\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee>The set includes a beautifully illustrated playing board, a sand timer to add excitement and keep the game moving, colourful playing pieces and a dice. An easy-to-follow instruction booklet ensures that players can get started without difficulty.<\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee>More than just a game, it is an opportunity to discover Islamic teachings, encourage meaningful conversations and create lasting memories together.<\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<h3 class=\"ev-h\">5 Key Features of the Game<\/h3>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<ol class=\"ev-list\">\n<li><strong>Comprehensive Learning<\/strong> \u2013 Explores all Five Pillars of Islam in an accessible, engaging and enjoyable way.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Interactive Gameplay<\/strong> \u2013 Includes 100 cards featuring fascinating facts, valuable teachings and activities that encourage discussion and learning.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Complete Game Set<\/strong> \u2013 Comes with a playing board, dice, sand timer, playing pieces and an instruction booklet, providing everything needed to get started.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fun for the Whole Family<\/strong> \u2013 Suitable for players of all ages and ideal for family game nights, classroom activities and community gatherings.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Attractive Design and Lasting Enjoyment<\/strong> \u2013 Features vibrant illustrations and durable components for an engaging and enjoyable playing experience.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 16 \u00b7 CPS Newsletter ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-cps-newsletter\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">16<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">News from CPS International<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\">CPS Newsletter<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>3 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-listen\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <button class=\"ev-listen-btn\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play article audio\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5v14l11-7z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-listen-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-listen-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-listen-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-listen-time\">0:00<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<article class=\"ev-news\">\n<h3 class=\"ev-h\">New Books by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan Released<\/h3>\n<pee>CPS International, New Delhi, continues to make the writings of Maulana Wahiduddin Khan accessible to readers in different languages and formats. The following titles are available for readers to access digitally or purchase in print.<\/pee><pee>Dr Saniyasnain Khan releases the latest book by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan.<\/pee><\/article>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-books\">\n<div class=\"ev-book\">\n<h4>Zindagi Ki Kitab <span lang=\"hi\">(\u091c\u093c\u093f\u0902\u0926\u0917\u0940 \u0915\u0940 \u0915\u093f\u0924\u093e\u092c)<\/span><\/h4>\n<div class=\"ev-book-links\"><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/2ft7uuua\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Download PDF<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/n6rpj9f3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Read on Kindle<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/4zwmtbzx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Order a print copy<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-book\">\n<h4>Ayesha Siddiqah <span lang=\"hi\">(\u0906\u092f\u0936\u093e \u0938\u093f\u0926\u094d\u0926\u0940\u0915\u093c\u093e)<\/span><\/h4>\n<div class=\"ev-book-links\"><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/dwnwvd75\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Download PDF<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/4nr4rw98\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Read on Kindle<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/bdfkxs6c\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Order a print copy<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-book\">\n<h4>Hazrat Aisha Siddiqah \u2014 English<\/h4>\n<div class=\"ev-book-links\"><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/yfybsnj5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Download PDF<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/yvjpxd7b\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Read on Kindle<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-book\">\n<h4>Hazrat Aisha Siddiqa \u2014 Urdu<\/h4>\n<div class=\"ev-book-links\"><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/yvmxnjst\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Download PDF<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/yw3nscv9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Read on Kindle<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<article class=\"ev-news\">\n<h3 class=\"ev-h\">Prof. Farida Khanam\u2019s Article on Islam<\/h3>\n<pee>Prof. Farida Khanam\u2019s article, \u201cThe Pilot, the Extremist, and the True Meaning of Islam\u201d, published in the US-based INDIA New England News, explores the contrast between religious extremism and the true teachings of Islam. It highlights Islam\u2019s emphasis on peace, responsibility and the sanctity of human life.<\/pee><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/indianewengland.com\/opinion-the-pilot-the-extremist-and-the-true-meaning-of-islam\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Read the full article<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><\/article>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<article class=\"ev-news\">\n<h3 class=\"ev-h\">CPS USA Appoints Kouser Izhar as Chaplain<\/h3>\n<pee>The Centre for Peace and Spirituality USA has appointed Kouser Izhar as a chaplain, strengthening its efforts to promote peace, spiritual awareness and interfaith understanding. The appointment reflects CPS\u2019s commitment to fostering mutual respect and providing spiritual guidance within the wider community.<\/pee><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/share.google\/GWECrJ9hSXtkD8u0t\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Read the full article<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><\/article>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<article class=\"ev-news\">\n<h3 class=\"ev-h\">Zahack Tanvir Visits CPS USA Centre<\/h3>\n<pee>Zahack Tanvir visited the Centre for Peace and Spirituality USA. The visit reflects CPS\u2019s ongoing efforts to build connections and promote the message of peace and spirituality.<\/pee><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/reels\/DeHfsyXxC0f\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Read the full article<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><\/article>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<article class=\"ev-news\">\n<h3 class=\"ev-h\">CPS Kolkata Member Participates in Global Youth Peace Fest 2026<\/h3>\n<pee>Ms Shabina Ali, a CPS member from Kolkata, participated in the 19th Global Youth Peace Fest 2026 in Chandigarh as an invited speaker. She also chaired a Fish Bowl Dialogue on \u201cGender Equality and Girls\u2019 Leadership\u201d, which was well received by participants.<\/pee><pee>The event brought together peacebuilders and changemakers from across the world to promote peace, non-violence, dialogue and girls\u2019 leadership.<\/pee><\/article>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<article class=\"ev-news\">\n<h3 class=\"ev-h\">CPS Delhi Holds Session on the Power of Du\u2019a<\/h3>\n<pee class=\"ev-news-meta\">October 3, 2026 \u00b7 Old Delhi<\/pee><pee>As part of its educational outreach, the CPS Delhi team conducted a session for students preparing for competitive examinations on \u201cThe Power of Du\u2019a: Building a Living Relationship with God\u201d.<\/pee><pee>CPS member Dr Rajat Malhotra spoke about the transformative power of dua, explaining how calling upon God provides strength in times of crisis and nurtures a living relationship with the Creator. He encouraged students to view dua not merely as a request, but as an expression of faith, dependence and continuous connection with God.<\/pee><pee>The session concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, offering students valuable insights into leading a purposeful and spiritually conscious life.<\/pee><\/article>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<article class=\"ev-news\">\n<h3 class=\"ev-h\">CPS USA Shares the Quran with Cancer Survivors in New Jersey<\/h3>\n<pee>CPS USA member Asad Pervez, along with Bushra, Salman and Yahya, shared copies of the Quran with cancer survivors in Collingswood, New Jersey. They presented gift bags containing the Quran, Quranic Wisdom and an Interfaith Prayer.<\/pee><pee>The initiative was an expression of compassion and a desire to share hope, wisdom and peace. The recipients welcomed the gifts warmly, making the occasion a meaningful experience of human connection and interfaith goodwill.<\/pee><\/article>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<article class=\"ev-news\">\n<h3 class=\"ev-h\">Prof. Farida Khanam\u2019s Article in The Times of India<\/h3>\n<pee>On the occasion of the International Day of Peace, The Times of India published an article by Prof. Farida Khanam in its Speaking Tree column titled \u201cLasting Peace Must Be Built in Realm of Ideas\u201d. The article highlights the importance of resolving differences peacefully and building a culture of dialogue, reconciliation and mutual understanding.<\/pee><a class=\"ev-link\" href=\"https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/toi-blogs\/from-toi-print\/lasting-peace-must-be-built-in-realm-of-ideas\/articleshow\/134378896.cms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Read the full article<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"7\" y1=\"17\" x2=\"17\" y2=\"7\"><\/line><polyline points=\"7 7 17 7 17 17\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/a><\/article>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 17 \u00b7 Your Questions Answered ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-your-questions-answered\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">17<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">Questions and Answers<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">Your Questions Answered<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>6 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"448.37\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-your-questions-answered.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-your-questions-answered.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-your-questions-answered.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (5.1 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-your-questions-answered.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-your-questions-answered.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (5.1 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<aside class=\"ev-intro\" aria-label=\"About this section\"><span class=\"ev-intro-tag\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 10 10\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M5 0 10 5 5 10 0 5z\"\/><\/svg>Before we begin<\/span><pee class=\"ev-intro-saying\">\u201c<span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"2.69\">The remedy for ignorance is asking questions.<\/span>\u201d<\/pee><pee class=\"ev-intro-who\">\u2014 Prophet Muhammad<\/pee><pee class=\"ev-intro-text\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"6.67\">The spirit of enquiry is the hallmark of an open society and the above saying of the Prophet aptly illustrates this principle.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"16.55\">A culture of curiosity and open-mindedness will foster development in any society by motivating its members to learn enthusiastically and enrich their knowledge.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"26.66\">This is because awareness of one\u2019s ignorance is half of knowledge, as it becomes a stepping-stone to seeking and finding answers.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"35.08\">A questioning mind is like a flowing river that is replenished with fresh thoughts and ideas and continues on its journey.<\/span><\/pee><\/aside>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<h3 class=\"ev-qh\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"42.75\">What is faith?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"44.65\">Faith is the discovery of a higher reality.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"47.8\">It marks the beginning of a deeper understanding and opens the way to a vast world of meaning.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"53.57\">Faith is a journey from the limitations of the material world towards the infinite reality of spiritual existence.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"60.28\">It is a process in which every new experience can bring greater awareness and understanding.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"65.8\">The Quran presents faith as a living and developing reality.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"69.41\">It describes how God sends tranquillity into the hearts of believers \u201cso that they may increase in faith upon their faith.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(48: 4)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"76.86\">Faith, therefore, is not a static condition.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"79.83\">It grows as a person reflects, learns and becomes increasingly conscious of God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"85.19\">It is a form of higher knowledge that continually develops with divine guidance.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<h3 class=\"ev-qh\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"89.8\">How does faith increase?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"91.91\">Faith grows through reflection, contemplation, learning and experience.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"97.29\">A person reads the Quran and reflects on its message, while also contemplating the signs of God in creation.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"103.67\">The Quran praises those \u201cwho remember God standing, sitting and lying on their sides, and reflect on the creation of the heavens and the earth.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(3: 191)<\/span><\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"112.55\">Faith also grows through meaningful discussion and intellectual exchange.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"117.13\">Umar ibn al-Khattab is reported to have said to his companions, \u201cCome, let us strengthen our faith for an hour.\u201d<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"124.21\">Such exchanges encourage reflection and deepen understanding.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"129.31\">The Quran teaches believers to pray: \u201cMy Lord, increase me in knowledge.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(20: 114)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"134.73\">This prayer reflects a lifelong desire to learn.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"138.38\">A person should therefore keep the windows of the mind open\u2014reading, observing, thinking and listening to people of knowledge and experience.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"148.15\">Humility is essential.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"150.37\">Whenever a person encounters someone from whom he can learn, he should set aside ego and listen attentively.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"157.72\">Faith grows with God\u2019s help, but human effort is also necessary.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"162.21\">In this world, development takes place through means and circumstances.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"167.16\">Spiritual understanding likewise grows through sincere effort, reflection and learning.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<h3 class=\"ev-qh\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"173.95\">Why is it important to be beneficial to others?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"177.31\">A truly meaningful human life is one in which a person becomes beneficial to others.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"182.61\">Human beings are not meant to live only for themselves.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"186.12\">They receive countless benefits from society and therefore have a responsibility to contribute to the wellbeing of others.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"194.14\">The best person is not merely one who possesses knowledge, wealth or ability, but one who uses what he has for the benefit of others.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"203.12\">Such a person becomes a giver rather than merely a taker.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"206.71\">This quality brings value to life and contributes to success both in this world and in the Hereafter.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<h3 class=\"ev-qh\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"214.37\">How can one be beneficial to others?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"217.29\">The Prophet Muhammad said: \u201cWhoever among you is able to benefit his brother, let him do so.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(Sahih Muslim, 2199)<\/span><\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"223.71\">Benefiting others does not require great wealth or exceptional resources.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"228.56\">Every person can contribute according to his ability.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"231.92\">A kind word, sincere advice, practical assistance or guidance can make a real difference to someone\u2019s life.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"239.33\">One may carry another person\u2019s burden, help with a task, guide someone who is lost, provide financial assistance according to one\u2019s means or remove an obstacle from another person\u2019s path.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"252.19\">Even when physical help is impossible, praying sincerely for someone is an expression of concern and goodwill.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"259.69\">The important thing is to develop a giving mentality.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"263.5\">Every person should ask: What can be done today to make another person\u2019s life a little easier?<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<h3 class=\"ev-qh\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"269.4\">What is the secret of inner peace?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"272.2\">The Prophet Muhammad said: \u201cLook at those who are below you and do not look at those who are above you, for this is more suitable for you, so that you do not underestimate the blessings of God upon you.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(Sahih Muslim, 2963)<\/span><\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"284.01\">This is a profound principle of life.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"286.95\">Human beings naturally differ in wealth, health, abilities and circumstances.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"292.44\">These differences cannot be completely eliminated.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"295.68\">Inner peace therefore requires freedom from unhealthy comparison.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"300.22\">Constantly looking at those who possess more can produce envy, dissatisfaction and frustration.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"307.08\">In contrast, recognizing the blessings one already possesses develops gratitude.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"312.89\">Gratitude brings contentment and protects the mind from unnecessary anxiety.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"318.19\">There is, however, a positive form of comparison.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"321.29\">The Prophet also drew attention to two people whom it is permissible to envy in the sense of wishing to possess similar goodness: one whom God has given wealth and who spends it righteously, and another whom God has given wisdom and who acts upon it and teaches it to others. <span class=\"ev-ref\">(Sahih al-Bukhari, 73; Sahih Muslim, 816)<\/span><\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"337.09\">Thus, comparison should not become a source of resentment.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"340.77\">It can instead become a source of healthy aspiration.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<h3 class=\"ev-qh\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"344.39\">How should a believer respond to personal loss or hardship?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"348.65\">Human life is constantly changing.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"350.95\">No person can expect circumstances to remain permanently favourable.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"355.22\">The Quran warns believers that they will be tested through fear, hunger and loss of wealth, lives and produce, and gives good news to those who remain patient. <span class=\"ev-ref\">(2: 155)<\/span><\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"365.34\">When hardship occurs, some people respond with complaint, despair and protest.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"370.77\">A believer, however, looks at difficulty as a test rather than as the end of life.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"376.51\">He accepts the reality of what has happened while placing his trust in God.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"384.15\">The Quran describes the patient as those who, when calamity strikes them, say: \u201cWe belong to God, and to Him we shall return.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(2: 156)<\/span><\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"391.21\">This attitude does not mean passive acceptance.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"394.57\">Rather, it helps a person regain emotional balance and face the future with courage.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"401.1\">The Prophet taught a prayer for times of hardship: \u201cO God, reward me for my affliction and replace it for me with something better.\u201d <span class=\"ev-ref\">(Sahih Muslim, 918)<\/span><\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"410.12\">A believer therefore does not allow a painful experience to become the final chapter of his life.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"416.48\">He learns from the past, accepts what cannot be changed and turns towards the future with hope.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"423.37\">After loss, he looks for new possibilities.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"426.61\">After failure, he begins again.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"430.02\">Even when one door closes, he continues searching for another.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"434.75\">The ability to move forward after hardship is one of the greatest forms of spiritual strength.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"440.63\">It enables a person to transform a difficult experience into an opportunity for patience, learning and renewed effort.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-thought\"><pee>A mistake turns into a virtue when it gives rise to humility within a person.<\/pee><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <!-- ===================== 18 \u00b7 The Word of God ===================== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<section class=\"ev-item\" id=\"soi-the-word-of-god\" data-audio=\"\" role=\"listitem\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"ev-tab\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-num\">18<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-tab-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-kicker\">From the Scriptures<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"ev-tab-title\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"0.0\">The Word of God<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"ev-chev\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-panel\">\n<div class=\"ev-panel-inner\">\n<div class=\"ev-content\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-meta\"><span>Translation and commentary by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan<\/span><span>\u00b7<\/span><span>5 min read<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-spot\">\n<div class=\"ev-player\" data-duration=\"324.51\"><audio preload=\"none\" src=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-word-of-god.mp3\"><\/audio><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-row\"><button class=\"ev-pl-play\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Play\"><svg class=\"i-play\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5.5v13l10.5-6.5z\"\/><\/svg><svg class=\"i-pause\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M7 5h3.5v14H7zM13.5 5H17v14h-3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-info\"><span class=\"ev-pl-label\">Listen to this article<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-time\">0:00<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-tools\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-back\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Back 10 seconds\" title=\"Go back 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M3 12a9 9 0 1 0 3-6.7L3 8\"\/><polyline points=\"3 3 3 8 8 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Back<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-fwd\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Forward 10 seconds\" title=\"Skip ahead 10 seconds\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M21 12a9 9 0 1 1-3-6.7L21 8\"\/><polyline points=\"21 3 21 8 16 8\"\/><text x=\"12\" y=\"15.4\" text-anchor=\"middle\" font-size=\"7.2\" font-weight=\"800\" fill=\"currentColor\" stroke=\"none\" font-family=\"Plus Jakarta Sans, Arial, sans-serif\">10<\/text><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Forward<\/span><\/button><span class=\"ev-pl-menuwrap\"><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-speed\" type=\"button\" aria-haspopup=\"menu\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-label=\"Speed and listening options\" title=\"Speed and listening options\"><span class=\"ev-pl-speedval\">1\u00d7<\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Speed<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-menu\" role=\"menu\" aria-label=\"Listening options\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-mh\">Reading speed<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-speeds\"><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"0.75\"><b>0.75\u00d7<\/b><span>Slower<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1\"><b>1\u00d7<\/b><span>Normal<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.25\"><b>1.25\u00d7<\/b><span>Faster<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.5\"><b>1.5\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"1.75\"><b>1.75\u00d7<\/b><span>&nbsp;<\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-sp\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemradio\" aria-checked=\"false\" data-v=\"2\"><b>2\u00d7<\/b><span>Fastest<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-sep\"><\/div>\n<p><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-follow\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M4 6h16M4 12h10M4 18h7\"\/><path d=\"M18 14v6M15 17l3 3 3-3\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Follow the text<\/b><span>Scrolls the page so the sentence being read stays on screen<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-o-next\" type=\"button\" role=\"menuitemcheckbox\" aria-checked=\"true\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polygon points=\"5 4 15 12 5 20 5 4\"\/><line x1=\"19\" y1=\"5\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"19\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Play the next article<\/b><span>Continues with the next article when this one ends<\/span><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-switch\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/span><\/button><a class=\"ev-pl-opt ev-pl-mdl\" role=\"menuitem\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-word-of-god.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-word-of-god.mp3\"><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-opt-text\"><b>Download the audio<\/b><span>Save the MP3 to listen offline (3.7 MB)<\/span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<p><\/span><a class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-dl\" href=\"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/SOI-133-the-word-of-god.mp3\" download=\"SOI-133-the-word-of-god.mp3\" aria-label=\"Download this audio as an MP3\" title=\"Download the MP3 (3.7 MB)\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M12 4v11\"\/><polyline points=\"7 10 12 15 17 10\"\/><path d=\"M5 20h14\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Download<\/span><\/a><button class=\"ev-pl-btn ev-pl-close\" type=\"button\" aria-label=\"Close player\" title=\"Close the player\"><span class=\"ev-pl-ico\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><path d=\"M6 6l12 12M18 6L6 18\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-cap\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-seek\" role=\"slider\" aria-label=\"Seek\" aria-valuemin=\"0\" aria-valuemax=\"100\" aria-valuenow=\"0\" tabindex=\"0\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-track\">\n<div class=\"ev-pl-fill\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-knob\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-next\" role=\"status\" hidden><span class=\"ev-pl-count\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 34 34\"><circle class=\"c-bg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><circle class=\"c-fg\" cx=\"17\" cy=\"17\" r=\"15\"\/><\/svg><b>5<\/b><\/span><span class=\"ev-pl-next-text\"><span>Up next<\/span><b><\/b><\/span><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-go\" type=\"button\">Play now<\/button><button class=\"ev-pl-nbtn ev-pl-cancel\" type=\"button\">Cancel<\/button><\/div>\n<div class=\"ev-pl-error\" role=\"alert\" hidden><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<aside class=\"ev-note\"><span class=\"ev-note-label\">From the scriptures<\/span><pee>The Quran is the book of God. It has been preserved in its entirety since its revelation to the Prophet of Islam between CE 610 and 632. It is a book that brings glad tidings to humankind, along with divine admonition, and stresses the importance of man\u2019s discovery of the Truth on a spiritual and intellectual level.<\/pee><pee><em>Translated from Arabic and commentary by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan<\/em><\/pee><\/aside>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"ev-bismillah\"><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"2.02\">In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-ayah\"><p><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"6.17\">By the winds that scatter the dust, and those that bear the burden [of the rain], and those speeding along with ease, and distributing the command of God at His behest!<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"17.05\">What you are promised is certainly true: the Judgement will surely come to pass\u2014by the heaven full of tracks, surely you are deeply at variance [as to what to believe]\u2014 he is turned away from [the truth] who is destined to be so turned away. <span class=\"ev-ref\">(51: 1-9)<\/span><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"35.51\">A picture of the natural system of rainfall has been depicted in these verses.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"41.36\">First strong winds blow.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"43.86\">Then, they make the clouds drift.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"46.46\">Thereafter, the clouds shower beneficial rain on one group, while they wreak destruction on another group in the shape of floods.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"55.1\">These events indicate that in this world of God, the Law of the \u2018distribution of blessings\u2019 is prevalent.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"62.0\">Here some receive less and some more, some are granted boons, while others are deprived of them.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"69.07\">This is a hint which shows how, in the world to come after death, human beings are going to fare.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"75.34\">There, this principle of the \u2018distribution of blessings\u2019 will be applicable in a perfect manner, with perfect justice; everybody will receive only that to which he is entitled and will receive nothing that he did not deserve.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"88.55\">There are countless stars in the sky.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"91.72\">All of them are revolving in their respective orbits.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"95.38\">This wonderful system indicates a deep, inherent meaningfulness.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"100.76\">Those who exercise their mental powers will find a lesson in it.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"105.28\">But for those who do not, it will be a meaningless charade.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-ayah\"><p><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"109.26\">May the conjecturers perish, who flounder in the depths of ignorance.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"114.86\">They ask, \u2018When will the Day of Judgement come?\u2019<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"118.71\">It will be the Day when they are tormented at the Fire.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"122.1\">\u2018Taste your trial.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"123.71\">This is what you sought to hasten.\u2019<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"125.94\">Surely the God-fearing will find themselves in the midst of gardens and springs.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"132.15\">They shall receive what their Lord will bestow on them.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"135.96\">They have done good works in the past, sleeping little in the night-time, praying at dawn for God\u2019s pardon, and sharing their possessions with the beggars and the deprived. <span class=\"ev-ref\">(51: 10-19)<\/span><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"147.69\">To have a clear understanding of things of importance, seriousness and sincerity are essential.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"154.5\">Those who are not serious pay no attention to reasons and justifications.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"159.61\">So they are unable to understand the matter at hand.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"162.85\">They ridicule it and try to show that it is not worthy of serious consideration.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"168.19\">It is not possible to convince such people in any way.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"171.83\">They will accept the truth only when their wrong approach brings down upon them overwhelming punishment, from which there will be no escape.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"180.5\">Serious people behave quite differently from this, for their seriousness makes them cautious.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"187.03\">And they have no trace of arrogance in them.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"190.02\">The extreme intensity of their feelings makes them spend sleepless nights: their time is spent in remembering God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"198.22\">They do not consider their wealth the result of their hard work, but take it as a gift from God.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"204.41\">That is why they think that others have as much right to a share in it as they themselves.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-ayah\"><p><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"209.7\">On the earth, and in yourselves, there are signs for firm believers.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"215.33\">Do you not see then?<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"217.59\">In heaven is your sustenance, and also that which you are promised.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"222.78\">By the Lord of the heaven and the earth, it is certainly the truth.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"227.27\">It is as true as your ability to speak. <span class=\"ev-ref\">(51: 20-23)<\/span><\/span><\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"230.14\">Almighty God has created this known world in such a manner that it has become the indicator of the coming unknown world.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"238.57\">The material incidents taking shape in this world and the feelings latent in man give information, albeit indirectly about the events that will directly confront man after his death.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"251.03\">Among these signs is the capacity to speak.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"254.44\">It has been mentioned in a tradition of the Prophet Muhammad, that whatever one receives in the Hereafter will be his own deeds which will be returned to him (\u2018Indeed, these are your deeds that are returned to you\u2019).<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"267.73\">In other words, the world of the Hereafter is the double or duplicate of the present world.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee><span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"273.82\">The capacity of a man to speak is the partial manifestation of this possibility.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"279.73\">If a man\u2019s voice is recorded on a tape and if this tape is then played, a voice like the original one may be heard, i.e. the voice of the tape is the double or duplicate of the original.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"292.57\">In this way, the phenomenon of voice demonstrates to us on a partial level that event which is going to occur in the Hereafter on a full-scale level.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"302.2\">Literally \u2018It is certain like your talking\u2019.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"305.76\">It implies that when one\u2019s voice can be reproduced, it should be possible to reproduce one\u2019s existence.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"312.86\">Perfect reproduction of a part of a man\u2019s existence may be experienced in this world.<\/span> <span class=\"ev-s\" data-t=\"318.87\">It can be imagined from this that reproduction of the whole existence of man is possible.<\/span><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"ev-thought\"><pee>The worst wrongdoing is boasting about one\u2019s own righteousness.<\/pee><\/blockquote>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"ev-end\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><script><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->(function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var scopes = document.querySelectorAll('.soi-ev');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Array.prototype.forEach.call(scopes, function (scope) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (scope.dataset.evReady) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    scope.dataset.evReady = '1';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var items = Array.prototype.filter.call(scope.querySelectorAll('.ev-item'), function (i) { return i.querySelector('.ev-tab'); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    function close(item) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      item.classList.remove('is-open');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      item.querySelector('.ev-tab').setAttribute('aria-expanded', 'false');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var a = item._evAudio; if (a && !a.paused) a.pause();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    \/* height of anything fixed at the top of the screen (admin bar, sticky Divi header) *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    function topOffset() {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var off = 0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      ['#wpadminbar', '#main-header', '#top-header', '.et-l--header .et_pb_sticky', '.et-l--header > .et_builder_inner_content'].forEach(function (sel) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        var e = document.querySelector(sel); if (!e) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        var cs = getComputedStyle(e); if (cs.position !== 'fixed' && cs.position !== 'sticky') return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        var r = e.getBoundingClientRect(); if (r.top <= 2 &#038;&#038; r.bottom > 0) off = Math.max(off, r.bottom);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \/* phones: leave room for the browser's floating address bar *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      return off + (window.matchMedia('(max-width: 640px)').matches ? 76 : 20);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    function scrollToItem(item, smooth) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var y = item.getBoundingClientRect().top + window.pageYOffset - topOffset();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      window.scrollTo({ top: Math.max(0, y), behavior: smooth ? 'smooth' : 'auto' });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    function open(item) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \/* close the others instantly, so the page does not shift while we scroll to this article *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      items.forEach(function (other) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        if (other === item || !other.classList.contains('is-open')) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        var panel = other.querySelector('.ev-panel'); if (panel) panel.style.transition = 'none';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        close(other);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        if (panel) { void panel.offsetHeight; panel.style.transition = ''; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \/* stop the browser's scroll anchoring from pushing the page down while the article expands *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var html = document.documentElement;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      html.style.overflowAnchor = 'none';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      clearTimeout(scope._evAnchorT);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      item.classList.add('is-open');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      item.querySelector('.ev-tab').setAttribute('aria-expanded', 'true');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      requestAnimationFrame(function () { scrollToItem(item, true); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      setTimeout(function () {                 \/* correct any drift once the opening animation is done *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        var want = topOffset(), now = item.getBoundingClientRect().top;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        if (Math.abs(now - want) > 6) scrollToItem(item, true);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      }, 700);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      scope._evAnchorT = setTimeout(function () { html.style.overflowAnchor = ''; }, 1500);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (history.replaceState) history.replaceState(null, '', '#' + item.id);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    items.forEach(function (item) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      item.querySelector('.ev-tab').addEventListener('click', function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        item.classList.contains('is-open') ? close(item) : open(item);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      \/* Audio player: shows only when data-audio has an MP3 link *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var src = item.dataset.audio;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (!src) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      item.classList.add('has-audio');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var audio = item._evAudio = new Audio(src);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      audio.preload = 'none';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var play = item.querySelector('.ev-listen-btn');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var fill = item.querySelector('.ev-listen-fill');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var time = item.querySelector('.ev-listen-time');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var track = item.querySelector('.ev-listen-track');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var PLAY = '<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M8 5v14l11-7z\"\/><\/svg>';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var PAUSE = '<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M6 5h4v14H6zM14 5h4v14h-4z\"\/><\/svg>';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      function fmt(s) { s = Math.floor(s || 0); return Math.floor(s \/ 60) + ':' + ('0' + (s % 60)).slice(-2); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      play.addEventListener('click', function () { audio.paused ? audio.play() : audio.pause(); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      audio.addEventListener('play', function () { play.innerHTML = PAUSE; });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      audio.addEventListener('pause', function () { play.innerHTML = PLAY; });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      audio.addEventListener('timeupdate', function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        fill.style.width = (audio.currentTime \/ (audio.duration || 1) * 100) + '%';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        time.textContent = fmt(audio.currentTime) + ' \/ ' + fmt(audio.duration);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      track.addEventListener('click', function (e) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        var r = track.getBoundingClientRect();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        audio.currentTime = ((e.clientX - r.left) \/ r.width) * (audio.duration || 0);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    \/* Open the article named in the link, e.g. ...?page_id=3389#the-purpose-of-life *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var target = location.hash && scope.querySelector(location.hash.replace(\/[^#\\w-]\/g, ''));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (target && target.classList.contains('ev-item')) open(target);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->})();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/script><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><script><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ===== Read-along audio player \u00b7 Spirit of Islam e-version ===== *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->(function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  if (window.__soiPlayer) return; window.__soiPlayer = true;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var SPEEDS = [[0.75, 'Slower'], [1, 'Normal'], [1.25, ''], [1.5, ''], [1.75, ''], [2, 'Fastest']];<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var COUNTDOWN = 5;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function fmt(s) { s = Math.max(0, Math.floor(s || 0)); return Math.floor(s \/ 60) + ':' + ('0' + (s % 60)).slice(-2); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function store(k, v) { try { if (v === undefined) return localStorage.getItem(k); localStorage.setItem(k, v); } catch (e) { return null; } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var settings = {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    speed: parseFloat(store('soiAudioSpeed')) || 1,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    follow: store('soiAudioFollow') !== '0',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    next: store('soiAudioNext') !== '0'<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* one audio element for every article, so the next article can start on its own (needed on iPhone) *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var audio = new Audio(); audio.preload = 'metadata';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var active = null, list = [];<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var userScrolledAt = 0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  window.addEventListener('wheel', function () { userScrolledAt = Date.now(); }, { passive: true });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  window.addEventListener('touchmove', function () { userScrolledAt = Date.now(); }, { passive: true });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function Player(item) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var P = this;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var el = item.querySelector('.ev-player'), tag = el.querySelector('audio');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.item = item; P.el = el; P.src = tag.getAttribute('src'); P.pos = 0; P.triedBlob = false;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.title = item.querySelector('.ev-tab-title').textContent.trim();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.total = parseFloat(el.dataset.duration) || 0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.spot = el.parentNode;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.playBtn = el.querySelector('.ev-pl-play'); P.timeEl = el.querySelector('.ev-pl-time');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.seek = el.querySelector('.ev-pl-seek'); P.errorEl = el.querySelector('.ev-pl-error');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.menu = el.querySelector('.ev-pl-menu'); P.speedBtn = el.querySelector('.ev-pl-speed');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.nextBox = el.querySelector('.ev-pl-next');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.spans = Array.prototype.slice.call(item.querySelectorAll('.ev-s[data-t]'));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.starts = P.spans.map(function (s) { return parseFloat(s.dataset.t); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.current = -1; P.spotVisible = true; P.countTimer = null;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    item.classList.add('has-player');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.timeEl.textContent = '0:00 \/ ' + fmt(P.total);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.syncSettings();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.playBtn.addEventListener('click', function () { if (active === P && !audio.paused) audio.pause(); else P.play(); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    el.querySelector('.ev-pl-back').addEventListener('click', function () { P.jump(-10); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    el.querySelector('.ev-pl-fwd').addEventListener('click', function () { P.jump(10); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    el.querySelector('.ev-pl-close').addEventListener('click', function () { if (active === P) audio.pause(); P.cancelNext(); P.undock(true); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    \/* menu *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.speedBtn.addEventListener('click', function (e) { e.stopPropagation(); P.toggleMenu(); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.menu.addEventListener('click', function (e) { e.stopPropagation(); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.menu.querySelectorAll('.ev-pl-sp').forEach(function (b) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      b.addEventListener('click', function () { setSpeed(parseFloat(b.dataset.v)); P.toggleMenu(false); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.menu.querySelector('.ev-pl-o-follow').addEventListener('click', function () { settings.follow = !settings.follow; store('soiAudioFollow', settings.follow ? '1' : '0'); syncAll(); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.menu.querySelector('.ev-pl-o-next').addEventListener('click', function () { settings.next = !settings.next; store('soiAudioNext', settings.next ? '1' : '0'); syncAll(); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    document.addEventListener('click', function () { P.toggleMenu(false); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    document.addEventListener('keydown', function (e) { if (e.key === 'Escape') P.toggleMenu(false); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    \/* up next *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    el.querySelector('.ev-pl-go').addEventListener('click', function () { P.goNext(); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    el.querySelector('.ev-pl-cancel').addEventListener('click', function () { P.cancelNext(); P.updateDock(); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    \/* seek *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var dragging = false;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    function seekTo(e) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var r = P.seek.getBoundingClientRect(), p = Math.min(1, Math.max(0, (e.clientX - r.left) \/ r.width));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      P.setTime(p * P.dur());<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.seek.addEventListener('pointerdown', function (e) { dragging = true; try { P.seek.setPointerCapture(e.pointerId); } catch (x) {} seekTo(e); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.seek.addEventListener('pointermove', function (e) { if (dragging) seekTo(e); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.seek.addEventListener('pointerup', function () { dragging = false; });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.seek.addEventListener('pointercancel', function () { dragging = false; });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.seek.addEventListener('keydown', function (e) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (e.key === 'ArrowRight') { P.jump(5); e.preventDefault(); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (e.key === 'ArrowLeft') { P.jump(-5); e.preventDefault(); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    \/* tap a sentence to listen from there *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.spans.forEach(function (s, i) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (s.closest('.ev-tab')) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      s.addEventListener('click', function () { P.play(P.starts[i]); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    \/* is the player's place in the article on screen? *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if ('IntersectionObserver' in window) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      new IntersectionObserver(function (entries) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        P.spotVisible = entries[0].isIntersecting; P.updateDock();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      }, { threshold: 0 }).observe(P.spot);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    \/* stop when the article closes; let the player stick once the article has opened *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var wasOpen = false;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    new MutationObserver(function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var open = item.classList.contains('is-open');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (open === wasOpen) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      wasOpen = open;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (open) setTimeout(function () { if (item.classList.contains('is-open') && !item.classList.contains('is-settled')) item.classList.add('is-settled'); }, 650);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      else {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        if (item.classList.contains('is-settled')) item.classList.remove('is-settled');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        if (active === P && !P.handingOver) audio.pause();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        P.cancelNext(); P.undock(false);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }).observe(item, { attributes: true, attributeFilter: ['class'] });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.dur = function () { return active === this && isFinite(audio.duration) && audio.duration > 0 ? audio.duration : this.total; };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.draw = function (t) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var d = this.dur(), p = d ? Math.min(100, t \/ d * 100) : 0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.el.style.setProperty('--p', p + '%');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.timeEl.textContent = fmt(t) + ' \/ ' + fmt(d);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.seek.setAttribute('aria-valuenow', Math.round(p));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.highlight = function (t, ended) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var i = -1;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!ended) for (var k = 0; k < this.starts.length; k++) { if (this.starts[k] <= t + 0.05) i = k; else break; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (i === this.current) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (this.current >= 0 && this.spans[this.current]) this.spans[this.current].classList.remove('is-reading');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.current = i;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (i < 0) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var s = this.spans[i]; s.classList.add('is-reading');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (settings.follow && active === this && !audio.paused && Date.now() - userScrolledAt > 4000 && !s.closest('.ev-tab')) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var r = s.getBoundingClientRect(), vh = window.innerHeight;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (r.top < vh * 0.25 || r.bottom > vh * 0.7) window.scrollBy({ top: r.top - vh * 0.38, behavior: 'smooth' });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function canSeek(t) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var r = audio.seekable;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    for (var i = 0; r && i < r.length; i++) if (r.start(i) <= t &#038;&#038; t <= r.end(i)) return true;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    return false;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.setTime = function (t) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var P = this;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    t = Math.max(0, Math.min(P.dur(), t));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.pos = t;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (active === P && audio.readyState > 0) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (canSeek(t) || t < 0.5) { try { audio.currentTime = t; } catch (e) {} }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      else P.loadWhole(t);          \/* the host does not allow jumping inside the file: download it once *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.draw(t); P.highlight(t, false);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.loadWhole = function (t) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var P = this;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (P.loadingWhole || \/^blob:\/.test(audio.src) || !window.fetch) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.loadingWhole = true; P.playBtn.classList.add('is-loading');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var wasPlaying = !audio.paused;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    fetch(P.src).then(function (r) { if (!r.ok) throw new Error(r.status); return r.blob(); }).then(function (b) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      P.loadingWhole = false; P.triedBlob = true;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      P.src = URL.createObjectURL(b);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (active !== P) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      audio.src = P.src;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      audio.addEventListener('loadedmetadata', function once() {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        audio.removeEventListener('loadedmetadata', once);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        try { audio.currentTime = P.pos; } catch (e) {}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        if (wasPlaying) { audio.playbackRate = settings.speed; audio.play(); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        P.playBtn.classList.remove('is-loading');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }).catch(function () { P.loadingWhole = false; P.playBtn.classList.remove('is-loading'); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.jump = function (by) { this.setTime((active === this ? audio.currentTime : this.pos) + by); };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.activate = function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (active === this) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (active) { active.pos = audio.currentTime; active.el.classList.remove('is-playing'); active.undock(false); active.cancelNext(); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    active = this; this.triedBlob = false;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    audio.src = this.src; audio.playbackRate = settings.speed; audio.defaultPlaybackRate = settings.speed;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.play = function (from) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var P = this;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.cancelNext(); P.errorEl.hidden = true;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var fresh = active !== P;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.activate();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.playBtn.classList.add('is-loading');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var target = from != null ? from : P.pos;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var go = function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (target && Math.abs(audio.currentTime - target) > 0.25) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        if (canSeek(target)) { try { audio.currentTime = target; } catch (e) {} }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        else if (audio.readyState > 0) { P.pos = target; P.loadWhole(target); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      audio.playbackRate = settings.speed;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var pr = audio.play();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (pr && pr.catch) pr.catch(function (err) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        if (err && err.name === 'NotAllowedError') P.fail('Your browser paused the audio. Press play to continue.');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        else if (err && err.name !== 'AbortError') P.retryAsBlob();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (fresh && audio.readyState < 1) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      audio.addEventListener('loadedmetadata', function once() { audio.removeEventListener('loadedmetadata', once); go(); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      go();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    } else go();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* fallback: download the file and play it from memory (helps on hosts that block direct streaming) *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.retryAsBlob = function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var P = this;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (P.triedBlob || !window.fetch || \/^(blob|data):\/.test(audio.src)) return P.fail();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.triedBlob = true;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    fetch(P.src).then(function (r) { if (!r.ok) throw new Error(r.status); return r.blob(); }).then(function (b) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (active !== P) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      P.src = URL.createObjectURL(b); audio.src = P.src; P.play(P.pos);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }).catch(function () { P.fail(); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.fail = function (msg) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.playBtn.classList.remove('is-loading');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.errorEl.innerHTML = msg || ('The audio file could not be loaded. Please check that it is uploaded at:<!\u2013- [et_pb_br_holder] -\u2013><code>' + (this.el.querySelector('audio').getAttribute('src') || '').replace(\/<\/g, '&lt;') + '<\/code>');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.errorEl.hidden = false;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* dock only while playing (or counting down to the next article) and when the reader has scrolled away *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.updateDock = function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var want = active === this && (!audio.paused || this.countTimer) && !this.spotVisible && this.item.classList.contains('is-open');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (want) this.dock(); else this.undock(true);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.dock = function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (this.el.classList.contains('is-docked') && !this.el.classList.contains('is-leaving')) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    clearTimeout(this.leaveT);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.spot.style.minHeight = this.spot.offsetHeight + 'px';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.el.classList.remove('is-leaving'); this.el.classList.add('is-docked');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.undock = function (animate) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var P = this;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!P.el.classList.contains('is-docked')) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.toggleMenu(false);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var done = function () { P.el.classList.remove('is-docked', 'is-leaving'); P.spot.style.minHeight = ''; };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (animate) { P.el.classList.add('is-leaving'); clearTimeout(P.leaveT); P.leaveT = setTimeout(done, 340); } else done();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.toggleMenu = function (force) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var open = force != null ? force : this.menu.hidden;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (open) list.forEach(function (o) { if (o.menu !== this.menu) o.menu.hidden = true; }, this);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.menu.hidden = !open; this.speedBtn.setAttribute('aria-expanded', String(open));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (open) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var m = this.menu, wrap = m.parentNode.getBoundingClientRect(), vw = document.documentElement.clientWidth, pad = 10, mw = m.offsetWidth, left;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (vw <= 640) { var pr = this.el.getBoundingClientRect(); left = pr.left + (pr.width - mw) \/ 2; }   \/* phones: centred on the player *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      else left = wrap.right - mw;                                                                         \/* larger screens: under the Speed button *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      left = Math.max(pad, Math.min(left, vw - pad - mw));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      m.style.right = (wrap.right - (left + mw)) + 'px';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.syncSettings = function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var v = settings.speed;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.el.querySelector('.ev-pl-speedval').textContent = v + '\u00d7';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.menu.querySelectorAll('.ev-pl-sp').forEach(function (b) { b.setAttribute('aria-checked', String(parseFloat(b.dataset.v) === v)); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.menu.querySelector('.ev-pl-o-follow').setAttribute('aria-checked', String(settings.follow));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.menu.querySelector('.ev-pl-o-next').setAttribute('aria-checked', String(settings.next));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* up next *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.nextPlayer = function () { var i = list.indexOf(this); return i >= 0 && i < list.length - 1 ? list[i + 1] : null; };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.startCountdown = function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var P = this, N = P.nextPlayer();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!settings.next || !N) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.nextBox.querySelector('.ev-pl-next-text b').textContent = N.title;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.nextBox.hidden = false;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var left = COUNTDOWN, num = P.nextBox.querySelector('.ev-pl-count b'), ring = P.nextBox.querySelector('.c-fg');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    ring.style.transition = 'none'; ring.style.strokeDashoffset = 0; num.textContent = left;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    requestAnimationFrame(function () { ring.style.transition = ''; ring.style.strokeDashoffset = 94.2 \/ COUNTDOWN; });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.countTimer = setInterval(function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      left--; num.textContent = Math.max(0, left);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      ring.style.strokeDashoffset = 94.2 * Math.min(1, (COUNTDOWN - left + 1) \/ COUNTDOWN);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (left <= 0) P.goNext();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }, 1000);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.updateDock();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.cancelNext = function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (this.countTimer) { clearInterval(this.countTimer); this.countTimer = null; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    this.nextBox.hidden = true;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  Player.prototype.goNext = function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var P = this, N = P.nextPlayer();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.cancelNext();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!N) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    P.handingOver = true;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    N.pos = 0; N.activate();                  \/* switch the shared audio while still allowed to play *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var tab = N.item.querySelector('.ev-tab');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!N.item.classList.contains('is-open')) tab.click();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    setTimeout(function () { P.handingOver = false; }, 50);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    N.play(0);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function setSpeed(v) { settings.speed = v; audio.playbackRate = v; audio.defaultPlaybackRate = v; store('soiAudioSpeed', v); syncAll(); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function syncAll() { list.forEach(function (p) { p.syncSettings(); }); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* audio events go to whichever article is active *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  audio.addEventListener('playing', function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!active) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    active.playBtn.classList.remove('is-loading'); active.el.classList.add('is-playing', 'is-started');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    active.playBtn.setAttribute('aria-label', 'Pause'); active.updateDock();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  audio.addEventListener('pause', function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!active) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    active.pos = audio.currentTime; active.el.classList.remove('is-playing'); active.playBtn.setAttribute('aria-label', 'Play');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var a = active; setTimeout(function () { a.updateDock(); }, 250);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  audio.addEventListener('waiting', function () { if (active) active.playBtn.classList.add('is-loading'); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  audio.addEventListener('canplay', function () { if (active) active.playBtn.classList.remove('is-loading'); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  audio.addEventListener('timeupdate', function () { if (!active) return; active.draw(audio.currentTime); active.highlight(audio.currentTime, false); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  audio.addEventListener('loadedmetadata', function () { if (active) active.draw(audio.currentTime); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  audio.addEventListener('ended', function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!active) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var a = active; a.pos = 0; a.highlight(0, true); a.draw(a.dur());<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    a.startCountdown();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!a.countTimer) a.updateDock();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  audio.addEventListener('error', function () { if (active && audio.src) active.retryAsBlob(); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  audio.addEventListener('play', function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!active || !('mediaSession' in navigator)) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    try {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      navigator.mediaSession.metadata = new MediaMetadata({ title: active.title, artist: 'Spirit of Islam', album: 'Issue 133 \u00b7 Nov\u2013Dec 2026' });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      navigator.mediaSession.setActionHandler('seekbackward', function () { active.jump(-10); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      navigator.mediaSession.setActionHandler('seekforward', function () { active.jump(10); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      navigator.mediaSession.setActionHandler('nexttrack', function () { if (active.nextPlayer()) active.goNext(); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    } catch (e) {}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  document.querySelectorAll('.soi-ev .ev-item').forEach(function (item) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var el = item.querySelector('.ev-player');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!el || el.dataset.ready) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    el.dataset.ready = '1';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var tag = el.querySelector('audio');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!tag || !tag.getAttribute('src')) { el.hidden = true; return; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    list.push(new Player(item));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->})();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/script><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- ===== READERS' REFLECTION QUIZ ===== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/p>\n<style><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-teal: #204E60;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-teal-dark: #12323E;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-teal-mid: #2A6378;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-gold: #D4CC73;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-gold-deep: #B5AC4E;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-gold-soft: rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.2);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-crimson: #EA3551;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-right: #2F7D5C;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-page: #EEEEE5;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-paper: #FBFBF7;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-line: #DCDCD0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-ink: #24343A;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-muted: #5E6E74;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-sans: 'Plus Jakarta Sans', -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, sans-serif;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-display: 'Cita Pro', 'CitaPro', Georgia, serif;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-display-italic: 'Cita Pro Ita', 'Cita Pro', 'CitaPro', Georgia, serif;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  --z-ease: cubic-bezier(0.22, 1, 0.36, 1);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* page-coloured background, painted edge to edge behind the quiz *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  position: relative;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--z-page);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow: 0 0 0 100vmax var(--z-page);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  clip-path: inset(0 -100vmax);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 2.5rem 1rem 3rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  scroll-margin-top: 100px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--z-sans);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--z-ink);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  -webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz, #soi-quiz * { box-sizing: border-box; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-wrap { max-width: 880px; margin: 0 auto; position: relative; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---------- Shell: double frame, deep shadow ---------- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-shell {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  position: relative; overflow: hidden;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--z-paper);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border-radius: 26px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  border: 1px solid rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.18);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow:<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    0 0 0 6px var(--z-page),<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    0 0 0 7px rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.65),<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    0 30px 60px -24px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.45),<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    0 10px 22px -10px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.18);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---------- Invitation header (always visible) ---------- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-invite {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  all: unset; box-sizing: border-box; width: 100%; cursor: pointer; position: relative; overflow: hidden;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: grid; grid-template-columns: auto 1fr auto; align-items: center; gap: 1.25rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: clamp(1.4rem, 3.5vw, 2rem) clamp(1.25rem, 4vw, 2.25rem);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: radial-gradient(120% 140% at 0% 0%, var(--z-teal-mid) 0%, var(--z-teal) 45%, var(--z-teal-dark) 100%);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--z-page);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-invite:focus-visible { outline: 3px solid var(--z-gold); outline-offset: -3px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* drifting diamond lattice *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-invite::before {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: ''; position: absolute; inset: -40px; opacity: 0.09; pointer-events: none;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background-image:<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    linear-gradient(45deg, var(--z-gold) 1px, transparent 1px),<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    linear-gradient(-45deg, var(--z-gold) 1px, transparent 1px);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background-size: 34px 34px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  animation: soiZDrift 24s linear infinite;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiZDrift { to { transform: translate(34px, 34px); } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* sheen on hover *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-invite::after {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: ''; position: absolute; top: 0; bottom: 0; width: 40%; left: -60%;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: linear-gradient(100deg, transparent, rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.12), transparent);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transform: skewX(-18deg); transition: left 0.9s var(--z-ease); pointer-events: none;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-invite:hover::after { left: 130%; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-emblem { position: relative; width: 64px; height: 64px; display: grid; place-items: center; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-emblem::before, #soi-quiz .z-emblem::after {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  content: ''; position: absolute; inset: 9px; transform: rotate(45deg); border-radius: 6px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-emblem::before { background: var(--z-gold); box-shadow: 0 8px 20px -6px rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.7); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-emblem::after { inset: 2px; border: 1.5px solid rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.55); animation: soiZSpin 14s linear infinite; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiZSpin { to { transform: rotate(405deg); } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-emblem svg { position: relative; z-index: 1; width: 26px; height: 26px; color: var(--z-teal-dark); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-invite-text { position: relative; min-width: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-pills { display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; gap: 0.4rem; margin-bottom: 0.55rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-pill {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: inline-flex; align-items: center; gap: 0.4rem; padding: 0.28rem 0.7rem; border-radius: 999px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: 0.64rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.14em; text-transform: uppercase;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  color: var(--z-gold); border: 1px solid rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.45); background: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.06);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-pill.light { color: var(--z-page); border-color: rgba(238, 238, 229, 0.3); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-invite-title {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: block; font-family: var(--z-display); font-weight: 700;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: clamp(1.35rem, 3.4vw, 1.9rem); line-height: 1.2; color: #fff; margin-bottom: 0.4rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-invite-desc { display: block; font-size: 0.9rem; line-height: 1.6; color: rgba(238, 238, 229, 0.85); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-toggle {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  position: relative; display: inline-flex; align-items: center; gap: 0.55rem; white-space: nowrap;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 0.8rem 1.25rem; border-radius: 999px; background: var(--z-gold); color: var(--z-teal-dark);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: 0.78rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.08em; text-transform: uppercase;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow: 0 10px 24px -8px rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.65);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: transform 0.4s var(--z-ease), box-shadow 0.4s var(--z-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  animation: soiZBreathe 2.8s ease-in-out infinite;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-invite:hover .z-toggle { transform: translateY(-2px); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-toggle svg { width: 14px; height: 14px; transition: transform 0.45s var(--z-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz.is-open .z-toggle { animation: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz.is-open .z-toggle svg { transform: rotate(180deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiZBreathe { 50% { box-shadow: 0 10px 30px -4px rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.95); } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---------- Collapsible body ---------- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-body { display: grid; grid-template-rows: 0fr; transition: grid-template-rows 0.6s var(--z-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz.is-open .z-body { grid-template-rows: 1fr; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-body-inner { overflow: hidden; min-height: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-view { display: none; padding: clamp(1.6rem, 4vw, 2.5rem) clamp(1.25rem, 5vw, 3rem); animation: soiZIn 0.55s var(--z-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-view.is-active { display: block; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiZIn { from { opacity: 0; transform: translateY(14px); } to { opacity: 1; transform: none; } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz p { font-family: var(--z-sans) !important; font-size: 0.98rem !important; line-height: 1.75 !important; color: var(--z-ink) !important; margin: 0 0 1rem !important; padding: 0 !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz h3.z-h {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--z-display) !important; font-weight: 700 !important; font-size: clamp(1.45rem, 3.2vw, 1.85rem) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  line-height: 1.25 !important; color: var(--z-teal) !important; margin: 0 0 0.7rem !important; padding: 0 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Intro *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-intro { max-width: 600px; margin: 0 auto; text-align: center; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-orn { display: flex; justify-content: center; align-items: center; gap: 0.5rem; margin-bottom: 1rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-orn i { width: 9px; height: 9px; background: var(--z-gold); transform: rotate(45deg); animation: soiZBob 2.4s ease-in-out infinite; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-orn i:nth-child(2) { width: 13px; height: 13px; background: var(--z-teal); animation-delay: 0.2s; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-orn i:nth-child(3) { animation-delay: 0.4s; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiZBob { 50% { transform: rotate(45deg) translateY(-5px); } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-field { text-align: left; margin: 1.4rem 0 0.4rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz label.z-label { display: block; font-size: 0.7rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.12em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--z-teal); margin-bottom: 0.45rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-input-wrap { position: relative; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-input-wrap svg { position: absolute; left: 1rem; top: 50%; transform: translateY(-50%); width: 18px; height: 18px; color: var(--z-muted); pointer-events: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz input.z-input {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  width: 100% !important; height: 54px !important; margin: 0 !important; padding: 0 1rem 0 2.9rem !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--z-sans) !important; font-size: 1rem !important; font-weight: 600 !important; color: var(--z-ink) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: #fff !important; border: 1.5px solid var(--z-line) !important; border-radius: 14px !important; outline: none !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: border-color 0.3s var(--z-ease), box-shadow 0.3s var(--z-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz input.z-input:focus { border-color: var(--z-teal) !important; box-shadow: 0 0 0 4px rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.12) !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz input.z-input.has-error { border-color: var(--z-crimson) !important; animation: soiZShake 0.4s; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiZShake { 25% { transform: translateX(-6px); } 75% { transform: translateX(6px); } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-error { min-height: 1.2rem; margin-top: 0.4rem; font-size: 0.82rem; font-weight: 600; color: var(--z-crimson); text-align: left; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-info {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: grid; grid-template-columns: repeat(3, 1fr); gap: 0.6rem; margin: 1rem 0 1.4rem; text-align: center;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-info div { background: var(--z-page); border: 1px solid var(--z-line); border-radius: 14px; padding: 0.8rem 0.5rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-info b { display: block; font-family: var(--z-display); font-size: 1.5rem; color: var(--z-teal); line-height: 1.1; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-info span { font-size: 0.72rem; font-weight: 600; color: var(--z-muted); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Buttons *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-btn {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  all: unset; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: inline-flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; gap: 0.6rem; min-height: 50px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 0.8rem 1.6rem; border-radius: 999px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--z-sans); font-size: 0.8rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.08em; text-transform: uppercase;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: transform 0.35s var(--z-ease), background 0.35s var(--z-ease), color 0.35s var(--z-ease), box-shadow 0.35s var(--z-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-btn svg { width: 16px; height: 16px; flex-shrink: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-btn:focus-visible { outline: 3px solid var(--z-gold); outline-offset: 3px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-btn.z-btn-main { background: var(--z-teal); color: #fff; box-shadow: 0 12px 26px -12px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.7); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-btn.z-btn-main:hover { background: var(--z-teal-dark); transform: translateY(-2px); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-btn.z-btn-ghost { color: var(--z-teal); border: 2px solid var(--z-teal); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-btn.z-btn-ghost:hover { background: var(--z-teal); color: #fff; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-full { width: 100%; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* \"Let's Start\": split block, teal label + gold arrow block *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-split {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  all: unset; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; width: 100%; min-height: 54px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: flex; align-items: stretch; border-radius: 12px; overflow: hidden;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow: 0 14px 26px -14px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.85); transition: transform 0.35s var(--z-ease), box-shadow 0.35s var(--z-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-split-t {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  flex: 1; display: flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; padding: 0.85rem 1.25rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--z-teal); color: #fff; transition: background 0.35s var(--z-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--z-sans); font-size: 0.82rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.1em; text-transform: uppercase; white-space: nowrap;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-split-a {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  flex: 0 0 56px; display: grid; place-items: center; background: var(--z-gold); color: var(--z-teal-dark);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: flex-basis 0.4s var(--z-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-split-a svg { width: 18px; height: 18px; transition: transform 0.4s var(--z-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-split:hover { transform: translateY(-2px); box-shadow: 0 18px 30px -14px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.9); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-split:hover .z-split-t { background: var(--z-teal-dark); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-split:hover .z-split-a { flex-basis: 70px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-split:hover .z-split-a svg { transform: translateX(3px); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-split:active { transform: translateY(0); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-split:focus-visible { outline: 3px solid var(--z-gold); outline-offset: 3px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---------- Question view ---------- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-top { display: flex; align-items: center; gap: 1rem; margin-bottom: 1.1rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-top-left { flex: 1; min-width: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-count { display: inline-block; padding: 0.25rem 0.65rem; border-radius: 8px; background: var(--z-teal); color: #fff; font-size: 0.72rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.06em; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-score-live { margin-left: 0.4rem; font-size: 0.75rem; font-weight: 800; color: var(--z-gold-deep); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-bar { height: 6px; border-radius: 6px; background: var(--z-page); overflow: hidden; margin-top: 0.65rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-bar span { display: block; height: 100%; width: 0; border-radius: 6px; background: linear-gradient(90deg, var(--z-teal), var(--z-gold)); transition: width 0.6s var(--z-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Timer ring *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-timer { position: relative; width: 66px; height: 66px; flex-shrink: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-timer svg { width: 100%; height: 100%; transform: rotate(-90deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-timer circle { fill: none; stroke-width: 6; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-timer .t-bg { stroke: var(--z-page); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-timer .t-fg { stroke: var(--z-gold); stroke-linecap: round; transition: stroke 0.4s; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-timer .t-num { position: absolute; inset: 0; display: grid; place-items: center; font-weight: 800; font-size: 1.15rem; color: var(--z-teal); font-variant-numeric: tabular-nums; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-timer .t-num small { display: block; font-size: 0.55rem; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 0.1em; color: var(--z-muted); margin-top: -0.25rem; text-align: center; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-timer.is-low .t-fg { stroke: var(--z-crimson); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-timer.is-low { animation: soiZPulse 1s ease-in-out infinite; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-timer.is-low .t-num { color: var(--z-crimson); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-timer.is-paused { animation: none; opacity: 0.55; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiZPulse { 50% { transform: scale(1.08); } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-source { display: inline-flex; align-items: center; gap: 0.5rem; font-size: 0.7rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.12em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--z-muted); margin-bottom: 0.6rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-source::before { content: ''; width: 7px; height: 7px; background: var(--z-gold); transform: rotate(45deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz p.z-question {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--z-display) !important; font-weight: 700 !important; font-size: clamp(1.3rem, 2.9vw, 1.65rem) !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  line-height: 1.3 !important; color: var(--z-teal) !important; margin: 0 0 1.3rem !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-opts { display: grid; gap: 0.7rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-opt {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  all: unset; box-sizing: border-box; width: 100%; cursor: pointer; position: relative; overflow: hidden;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  display: flex; align-items: flex-start; gap: 0.9rem; padding: 1rem 1.1rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: #fff; border: 1.5px solid var(--z-line); border-radius: 16px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-family: var(--z-sans); font-size: 0.98rem; line-height: 1.5; color: var(--z-ink);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow: 0 4px 12px -8px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.25);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  opacity: 0; transform: translateY(10px); animation: soiZIn 0.5s var(--z-ease) forwards;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: border-color 0.3s var(--z-ease), transform 0.3s var(--z-ease), background 0.3s var(--z-ease), box-shadow 0.3s var(--z-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-opt:hover:not([disabled]) { border-color: var(--z-teal); transform: translateY(-2px); box-shadow: 0 12px 22px -12px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.35); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-opt:focus-visible { outline: 3px solid var(--z-gold); outline-offset: 2px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz button.z-opt[disabled] { cursor: default; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-letter {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  flex-shrink: 0; width: 2rem; height: 2rem; display: grid; place-items: center; position: relative;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: 0.78rem; font-weight: 800; color: var(--z-teal);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-letter::before { content: ''; position: absolute; inset: 4px; border: 1.5px solid rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.35); transform: rotate(45deg); border-radius: 3px; transition: all 0.3s var(--z-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-letter span { position: relative; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-opt-text { padding-top: 0.2rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-why { display: block; margin-top: 0.4rem; font-size: 0.86rem; line-height: 1.6; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-opt.is-right { background: rgba(47, 125, 92, 0.08); border-color: var(--z-right); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-opt.is-right .z-letter { color: #fff; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-opt.is-right .z-letter::before { background: var(--z-right); border-color: var(--z-right); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-opt.is-right .z-why { color: #245F46; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-opt.is-wrong { background: rgba(234, 53, 81, 0.06); border-color: var(--z-crimson); animation: soiZShake 0.4s; opacity: 1; transform: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-opt.is-wrong .z-letter { color: #fff; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-opt.is-wrong .z-letter::before { background: var(--z-crimson); border-color: var(--z-crimson); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-opt.is-wrong .z-why { color: #A3263B; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-opt.is-dim { opacity: 0.5 !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Feedback *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-feedback { display: none; margin-top: 1.2rem; padding: 1.15rem 1.25rem; border-radius: 16px; border: 1px solid; animation: soiZIn 0.45s var(--z-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-feedback.is-shown { display: block; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-feedback.good { background: rgba(47, 125, 92, 0.07); border-color: rgba(47, 125, 92, 0.35); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-feedback.bad { background: rgba(234, 53, 81, 0.05); border-color: rgba(234, 53, 81, 0.35); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-feedback.late { background: var(--z-gold-soft); border-color: rgba(181, 172, 78, 0.6); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-fb-head { display: block; font-size: 0.72rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.12em; text-transform: uppercase; margin-bottom: 0.4rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .good .z-fb-head { color: var(--z-right); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .bad .z-fb-head { color: var(--z-crimson); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .late .z-fb-head { color: #7D7530; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-feedback p { font-size: 0.93rem !important; margin: 0 0 0.6rem !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-cite { font-size: 0.78rem; font-weight: 700; color: var(--z-teal); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-cite a { color: var(--z-teal); text-decoration: underline; text-underline-offset: 3px; cursor: pointer; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-next-row { display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; gap: 1rem; flex-wrap: wrap; margin-top: 1.2rem; padding-top: 1rem; border-top: 1px solid var(--z-line); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-motto { font-family: var(--z-display-italic); font-style: italic; font-size: 0.95rem; color: var(--z-muted); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---------- Result ---------- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-banner {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  position: relative; overflow: hidden; text-align: center; color: var(--z-page);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 2rem 1.25rem 1.75rem; border-radius: 22px; margin-bottom: 1.4rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: radial-gradient(120% 140% at 50% 0%, var(--z-teal-mid), var(--z-teal) 50%, var(--z-teal-dark));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow: inset 0 0 0 1px rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.4);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-ring { position: relative; width: 150px; height: 150px; margin: 0 auto 1rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-ring svg { width: 100%; height: 100%; transform: rotate(-90deg); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-ring circle { fill: none; stroke-width: 9; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-ring .r-bg { stroke: rgba(238, 238, 229, 0.15); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-ring .r-fg { stroke: var(--z-gold); stroke-linecap: round; transition: stroke-dashoffset 1.6s var(--z-ease); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-ring .r-num { position: absolute; inset: 0; display: grid; place-items: center; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-ring .r-num b { display: block; font-family: var(--z-display); font-size: 2.8rem; line-height: 1; color: #fff; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-ring .r-num small { display: block; font-size: 0.72rem; font-weight: 700; color: var(--z-gold); letter-spacing: 0.1em; text-transform: uppercase; margin-top: 0.2rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-salute { display: block; font-size: 0.7rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.14em; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--z-gold); margin-bottom: 0.4rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-banner h3.z-h { color: #fff !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-banner p { color: rgba(238, 238, 229, 0.9) !important; max-width: 520px; margin: 0 auto !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-stats { display: grid; grid-template-columns: repeat(3, 1fr); gap: 0.6rem; margin: 0 0 1.4rem; text-align: center; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-stats div { background: #fff; border: 1px solid var(--z-line); border-radius: 14px; padding: 0.85rem 0.5rem; box-shadow: 0 6px 14px -10px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.3); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-stats b { display: block; font-family: var(--z-display); font-size: 1.35rem; color: var(--z-teal); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-stats span { font-size: 0.72rem; font-weight: 600; color: var(--z-muted); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-invite-box { text-align: center; background: var(--z-page); border: 1px solid var(--z-line); border-radius: 18px; padding: 1.3rem 1rem; margin-bottom: 1.5rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-invite-box h4 { font-family: var(--z-display) !important; font-weight: 700 !important; font-size: 1.2rem !important; color: var(--z-teal) !important; margin: 0 0 0.3rem !important; padding: 0 !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-invite-box p { font-size: 0.88rem !important; color: var(--z-muted) !important; max-width: 470px; margin: 0 auto 1rem !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-share { display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; justify-content: center; gap: 0.55rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-share a, #soi-quiz .z-share button {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  all: unset; box-sizing: border-box; cursor: pointer; display: inline-flex; align-items: center; justify-content: center; gap: 0.45rem;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 0.7rem 1.1rem; border-radius: 12px; font-family: var(--z-sans); font-size: 0.78rem; font-weight: 800; flex: 1 1 140px;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: transform 0.3s var(--z-ease), box-shadow 0.3s var(--z-ease);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-share a:hover, #soi-quiz .z-share button:hover { transform: translateY(-2px); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-share svg { width: 15px; height: 15px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-share a.z-wa { background: #25D366; color: #fff; box-shadow: 0 8px 18px -10px rgba(37, 211, 102, 0.8); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-share a.z-x { background: #111; color: #fff; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-share button.z-copy { background: #fff; color: var(--z-teal); border: 1.5px solid var(--z-teal); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz h4.z-rev-title { display: flex; justify-content: space-between; font-family: var(--z-display) !important; font-weight: 700 !important; font-size: 1.2rem !important; color: var(--z-teal) !important; margin: 0 0 0.8rem !important; padding: 0 0 0.6rem !important; border-bottom: 1px solid var(--z-line); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz h4.z-rev-title span { font-family: var(--z-sans); font-size: 0.72rem; font-weight: 700; color: var(--z-muted); align-self: center; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-review { display: grid; gap: 0.65rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-rev { padding: 0.95rem 1rem; border-radius: 14px; border: 1px solid; font-size: 0.88rem; line-height: 1.55; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-rev.ok { background: rgba(47, 125, 92, 0.05); border-color: rgba(47, 125, 92, 0.3); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-rev.no { background: rgba(234, 53, 81, 0.04); border-color: rgba(234, 53, 81, 0.3); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-rev.late { background: var(--z-gold-soft); border-color: rgba(181, 172, 78, 0.5); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-rev-head { display: flex; justify-content: space-between; gap: 0.6rem; font-weight: 700; color: var(--z-ink); margin-bottom: 0.3rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-tag { flex-shrink: 0; font-size: 0.7rem; font-weight: 800; letter-spacing: 0.04em; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .ok .z-tag { color: var(--z-right); } #soi-quiz .no .z-tag { color: var(--z-crimson); } #soi-quiz .late .z-tag { color: #7D7530; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-rev-line { color: var(--z-muted); font-size: 0.84rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-rev-line strong { color: var(--z-ink); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-rev-why { margin-top: 0.5rem; padding-top: 0.5rem; border-top: 1px solid rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.06); font-family: var(--z-display-italic); font-style: italic; font-size: 0.98rem; color: var(--z-ink); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-rev-why em { font-family: var(--z-sans); font-style: normal; font-size: 0.74rem; font-weight: 800; color: var(--z-gold-deep); white-space: nowrap; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-retake { text-align: center; margin-top: 1.4rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Toast + confetti *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-toast {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  position: absolute; left: 50%; bottom: 1rem; transform: translate(-50%, 16px); opacity: 0; pointer-events: none; z-index: 30;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: var(--z-teal-dark); color: var(--z-page); border: 1px solid rgba(212, 204, 115, 0.5);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  padding: 0.7rem 1.1rem; border-radius: 12px; font-size: 0.82rem; font-weight: 600; transition: all 0.4s var(--z-ease); white-space: nowrap;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-toast.is-shown { opacity: 1; transform: translate(-50%, 0); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz canvas.z-confetti { position: absolute; inset: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; pointer-events: none; z-index: 20; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 640px) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  #soi-quiz { padding: 1.75rem 0.75rem 2.25rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  #soi-quiz .z-shell { border-radius: 20px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  #soi-quiz button.z-invite { grid-template-columns: auto 1fr; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  #soi-quiz .z-toggle { grid-column: 1 \/ -1; justify-content: center; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  #soi-quiz .z-emblem { width: 52px; height: 52px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  #soi-quiz .z-timer { width: 58px; height: 58px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  #soi-quiz .z-next-row .z-btn { width: 100%; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  #soi-quiz .z-motto { display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (prefers-reduced-motion: reduce) { #soi-quiz *, #soi-quiz *::before, #soi-quiz *::after { animation: none !important; transition: none !important; } #soi-quiz button.z-opt { opacity: 1; transform: none; } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/style>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/p>\n<section id=\"soi-quiz\" aria-label=\"Readers' reflection quiz\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --> <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-wrap\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-shell\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <!-- Invitation (always visible) --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <button class=\"z-invite\" type=\"button\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"soi-quiz-body\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"z-emblem\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M12 3 1 9l11 6 9-4.9V17h2V9L12 3zm-7 10.2v3.3C5 18.4 8.1 20 12 20s7-1.6 7-3.5v-3.3l-7 3.8-7-3.8z\"\/><\/svg><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"z-invite-text\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"z-pills\"><span class=\"z-pill\">Readers\u2019 Reflection<\/span><span class=\"z-pill light\">Issue 133 \u00b7 Nov\u2013Dec 2026<\/span><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"z-invite-title\">Finished reading? Reflect on what you have learnt.<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"z-invite-desc\">Ten short questions from this issue, a gentle timer, and an explanation after every answer.<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <span class=\"z-toggle\"><span class=\"z-toggle-lbl\">Begin the quiz<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.6\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"6 9 12 15 18 9\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-body\" id=\"soi-quiz-body\">\n<div class=\"z-body-inner\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <!-- ===== Intro ===== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-view z-v-intro is-active\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-intro\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-orn\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><i><\/i><i><\/i><i><\/i><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/p>\n<h3 class=\"z-h\">A warm request to our readers<\/h3>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <pee>Having spent time with the reflections in this issue, we invite you to take a few quiet minutes to recall what touched you most. Every answer comes with an explanation from the article it is drawn from, so the quiz is as much a review as it is a test.<\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-info\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <\/p>\n<div><b>10<\/b><span>questions<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <\/p>\n<div><b>30s<\/b><span>for each<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <\/p>\n<div><b>1<\/b><span>scoreboard to share<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-field\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <label class=\"z-label\" for=\"soi-quiz-name\">Your name<\/label><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-input-wrap\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->              <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M12 12a4 4 0 1 0 0-8 4 4 0 0 0 0 8zm0 2c-2.7 0-8 1.3-8 4v2h16v-2c0-2.7-5.3-4-8-4z\"\/><\/svg><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->              <input class=\"z-input\" id=\"soi-quiz-name\" type=\"text\" maxlength=\"40\" autocomplete=\"given-name\" placeholder=\"Enter your name\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-error\" role=\"alert\"><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <button class=\"z-split z-start\" type=\"button\"><span class=\"z-split-t\">Let\u2019s Start<\/span><span class=\"z-split-a\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.4\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"5\" y1=\"12\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"12\"><\/line><polyline points=\"12 5 19 12 12 19\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/span><\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <!-- ===== Question ===== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-view z-v-ask\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-top\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-top-left\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <span class=\"z-count\"><\/span><span class=\"z-score-live\"><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-bar\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span><\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-timer\" role=\"timer\" aria-live=\"off\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <svg viewBox=\"0 0 60 60\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><circle class=\"t-bg\" cx=\"30\" cy=\"30\" r=\"26\"><\/circle><circle class=\"t-fg\" cx=\"30\" cy=\"30\" r=\"26\" stroke-dasharray=\"163.4\" stroke-dashoffset=\"0\"><\/circle><\/svg><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <\/p>\n<div class=\"t-num\"><span><span class=\"t-val\">30<\/span><small>SEC<\/small><\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <span class=\"z-source\"><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <pee class=\"z-question\" id=\"soi-quiz-q\"><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-opts\" role=\"group\" aria-labelledby=\"soi-quiz-q\"><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-feedback\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-next-row\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <span class=\"z-motto\">\u201cChange yourself, and your circumstances will change.\u201d<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <button class=\"z-btn z-btn-main z-next\" type=\"button\" hidden><span class=\"z-next-lbl\">Next question<\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.4\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><line x1=\"5\" y1=\"12\" x2=\"19\" y2=\"12\"><\/line><polyline points=\"12 5 19 12 12 19\"><\/polyline><\/svg><\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <!-- ===== Result ===== --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-view z-v-result\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-banner\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-ring\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <svg viewBox=\"0 0 120 120\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><circle class=\"r-bg\" cx=\"60\" cy=\"60\" r=\"52\"><\/circle><circle class=\"r-fg\" cx=\"60\" cy=\"60\" r=\"52\" stroke-dasharray=\"326.7\" stroke-dashoffset=\"326.7\"><\/circle><\/svg><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <\/p>\n<div class=\"r-num\"><span><b class=\"r-val\">0<\/b><small>out of 10<\/small><\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <span class=\"z-salute\"><\/span><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/p>\n<h3 class=\"z-h z-res-title\"><\/h3>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <pee class=\"z-res-text\"><\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-stats\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/p>\n<div><b class=\"z-st-acc\"><\/b><span>accuracy<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/p>\n<div><b class=\"z-st-time\"><\/b><span>time taken<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/p>\n<div><b class=\"z-st-level\"><\/b><span>reader level<\/span><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-invite-box\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/p>\n<h4>Invite your family and friends to read<\/h4>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <pee>Share your score so others can open this issue, read the articles and test their own reflections.<\/pee><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-share\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <a class=\"z-wa\" href=\"#\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->              <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M12 2a9.9 9.9 0 0 0-8.6 14.9L2 22l5.3-1.4A9.9 9.9 0 1 0 12 2zm5.8 14.2c-.2.7-1.4 1.3-2 1.3-.5.1-1.1.1-3.7-.9-3.1-1.3-5-4.4-5.2-4.6-.1-.2-1.2-1.6-1.2-3s.8-2.2 1-2.5c.3-.3.6-.3.8-.3h.6c.2 0 .4 0 .6.5l.9 2c.1.2.1.4 0 .6l-.4.6-.4.4c-.1.1-.3.3-.1.6.1.2.6 1 1.3 1.7 1 .8 1.7 1.1 2 1.2.2.1.4.1.5-.1l.8-.9c.2-.3.4-.2.6-.1l1.6.8c.3.1.4.2.5.3.1.1.1.6-.2 1.3z\"\/><\/svg><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->              WhatsApp<\/a><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <a class=\"z-x\" href=\"#\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->              <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"currentColor\"><path d=\"M18.2 2.3h3.3l-7.2 8.3 8.5 11.2h-6.6l-5.2-6.8-6 6.8H1.7l7.7-8.8L1.3 2.3h6.8l4.7 6.2 5.4-6.2zm-1.1 17.5h1.8L7.1 4.1H5.1l12 15.7z\"\/><\/svg><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->              Post on X<\/a><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->            <button class=\"z-copy\" type=\"button\"><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->              <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><rect x=\"9\" y=\"9\" width=\"13\" height=\"13\" rx=\"2\"><\/rect><path d=\"M5 15H4a2 2 0 0 1-2-2V4a2 2 0 0 1 2-2h9a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v1\"><\/path><\/svg><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->              <span class=\"z-copy-lbl\">Copy score and link<\/span><\/button><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<h4 class=\"z-rev-title\">Review with explanations <span>For self-study<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-review\"><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-retake\"><button class=\"z-btn z-btn-ghost z-again\" type=\"button\">Take the quiz again<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->          <svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"2.2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"><polyline points=\"1 4 1 10 7 10\"><\/polyline><path d=\"M3.5 15a9 9 0 1 0 2.1-9.4L1 10\"><\/path><\/svg><\/button><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    <\/p>\n<div class=\"z-toast\" role=\"status\"><\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --> <\/div>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/section>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><script><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->(function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var root = document.getElementById('soi-quiz');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  if (!root || root.dataset.ready) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  root.dataset.ready = '1';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var ISSUE = 'Spirit of Islam, Issue 133 (Nov\u2013Dec 2026)';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var SECONDS = 30;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* q \u00b7 options [text, why] \u00b7 answer \u00b7 article \u00b7 page \u00b7 link \u00b7 rationale (shown with the source) *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var QUESTIONS = [<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    { article: 'The Superior Solution', page: 6, link: 'soi-the-superior-solution',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      q: 'According to the Encyclopaedia Britannica, as quoted in the article, who are creative people?',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      options: [<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Those who are able to discover superior solutions to problems', 'This is the very expression that impressed Maulana in the Britannica.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Those who work longer hours than others', 'The article speaks of a wiser response, not of longer hours.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Those who avoid every difficulty in life', 'Difficulties are not to be avoided; each one is an opportunity to find a better way forward.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Those who repeat methods that have worked before', 'Repeating established habits is what most people do; the creative person pauses and seeks a better way.']<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      ], answer: 0,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      rationale: 'Creative people discover superior solutions. Instead of reacting emotionally, they ask whether there is a wiser and better way of dealing with the situation, as the Prophet did at Hudaybiyah.' },<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    { article: 'The Universe as Gift', page: 9, link: 'soi-the-universe-as-gift',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      q: 'In Manchester, what did five-year-old Qanita gently ask Maulana in Arabic?',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      options: [<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['\u201cWhere are you from?\u201d', 'Her question was not about his home; it was an offer of help.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['\u201cDo you need anything?\u201d', '\u201cTuridu hajah?\u201d means \u201cDo you need anything?\u201d'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['\u201cWill you tell me a story?\u201d', 'She was not asking for a story; she was offering to serve her guest.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['\u201cAre you feeling well?\u201d', 'She did not ask about his health; she asked whether he needed anything.']<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      ], answer: 1,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      rationale: 'The child\u2019s question reminded Maulana of God calling out to His servants, and it felt as though the whole universe was asking the same: \u201cWe are here to serve you.\u201d Receiving should lead to gratitude.' },<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    { article: 'The Purpose of Life', page: 12, link: 'soi-the-purpose-of-life',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      q: 'The article compares a human life without a higher purpose to\u2026',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      options: [<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['A garden without water', 'This image is not used in the article.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['A lamp without oil', 'Not this one; the comparison is about having power but no direction.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['A ship with engines but no compass', 'This is the comparison the article draws.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['A book without an ending', 'This is not the comparison used in the article.']<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      ], answer: 2,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      rationale: 'A ship may cross oceans, yet without direction it cannot reach its destination. A person who discovers his purpose gains a compass for life and knows where he is going and why.' },<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    { article: 'Death Is Not Extinction', page: 14, link: 'soi-death-is-not-extinction',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      q: 'How does the article describe our worldly life and the Hereafter?',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      options: [<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['As day and night', 'Day and night return; the season for action, once past, does not.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['As the season of sowing and the season of harvest', 'This is the example of cultivation the article gives.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['As a question and its answer', 'The article does mention an examination, but its comparison is sowing and harvest.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['As a beginning and a final end', 'Death is not an end; it is a transition from one stage of existence to another.']<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      ], answer: 1,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      rationale: 'A farmer has one season in which to sow. Our worldly life is the season of sowing; the Hereafter is the season of harvest. Death announces the end of preparation, not of man\u2019s journey.' },<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    { article: 'The Secret of Success', page: 16, link: 'soi-the-secret-of-success',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      q: 'The expert charged \u00a3100 for one blow of a hammer. What was he really charging for?',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      options: [<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['The cost of the hammer', 'He said the blow itself cost almost nothing.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['The time he spent travelling', 'Travel is not mentioned; the value lay in his knowledge.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Knowing where to strike', 'These were the expert\u2019s own words.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Repairing the whole factory', 'He struck only one particular spot.']<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      ], answer: 2,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      rationale: 'Success does not depend on effort alone but on rightly directed effort. Knowledge gives direction to energy, so even a small action can produce a remarkable result.' },<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    { article: 'Justice in Action', page: 18, link: 'soi-justice-in-action',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      q: 'Who handed the whip to the Egyptian so that he could strike the governor\u2019s son who had wronged him?',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      options: [<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Amr ibn al-As', 'He was the governor whose son had whipped the Egyptian.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Abu Bakr', 'The complaint went to Madinah, to the second Caliph of Islam.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Umar ibn al-Khattab', 'Umar, the second Caliph, heard the complaint and delivered justice.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Uthman ibn Affan', 'It was the second Caliph, not the third.']<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      ], answer: 2,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      rationale: 'Umar declared: \u201cHow can you enslave people when their mothers gave birth to them in freedom?\u201d No one is above justice because of wealth, family or position.' },<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    { article: 'The Greatest Attainment', page: 20, link: 'soi-the-greatest-attainment',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      q: 'According to the article, what is the greatest attainment available to a human being?',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      options: [<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Wealth that can never be lost', 'Every material achievement is limited and cannot satisfy man\u2019s unlimited nature.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['The discovery of God', 'This is the article\u2019s answer to its own question.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Fame and recognition', 'Fame, the article notes, is temporary.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['A life without any problems', 'The article speaks of inner peace, not a life free of problems.']<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      ], answer: 1,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      rationale: 'Once a person has found God, he possesses a treasure no one can take away. Worldly deprivation need not become spiritual deprivation; from this attainment comes the deepest peace.' },<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    { article: 'The Rich Beggar', page: 27, link: 'soi-the-rich-beggar',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      q: 'Why did the man tell the beggar that he was actually \u201cvery rich\u201d?',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      options: [<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['He had savings hidden away', 'The beggar had no hidden money; his wealth was of another kind.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['His eyes, hands, feet and abilities were priceless', 'The beggar would not sell them for any amount.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['He would soon inherit property', 'No inheritance is mentioned in the story.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['He had many friends to support him', 'Friends are not mentioned; the man pointed to the beggar\u2019s own faculties.']<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      ], answer: 1,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      rationale: 'Our body, health, intelligence, skills and time are priceless gifts. Gratitude helps us recognize what we already possess instead of counting what is missing.' },<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    { article: 'The Royal Spring', page: 30, link: 'soi-the-royal-spring',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      q: 'Drinking from Chashma Shahi in Srinagar reminded the writer of which spring that still flows in Makkah?',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      options: [<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['The Pool of Kawthar', 'Kawthar is the pool of the Hereafter that the writer prayed to drink from.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Zamzam', 'Zamzam emerged for Hagar and Ishmael in the valley of Makkah.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['The River Jhelum', 'The Jhelum is a river of Kashmir, not a spring in Makkah.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['A spring in Madinah', 'The article speaks of Makkah, where Zamzam still flows.']<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      ], answer: 1,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      rationale: 'Zamzam is a sign of God\u2019s providence: He can create a source of life where people see no possibility of survival. Every blessing of nature points towards the mercy of the Creator.' },<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    { article: 'The Wisdom of Helplessness', page: 31, link: 'soi-the-wisdom-of-helplessness',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      q: 'What does tawakkul mean, as explained in \u201cThe Wisdom of Helplessness\u201d?',<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      options: [<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Giving up effort and simply waiting', 'The article states clearly that tawakkul does not mean abandoning effort.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Making every possible effort, then entrusting the result to God', 'This is how the article defines it.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Controlling every outcome through careful planning', 'Man can plan, but he cannot exercise absolute control over the outcome.'],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ['Praying only when things go wrong', 'Prayer is a lasting acknowledgement of dependence, not only an emergency measure.']<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      ], answer: 1,<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      rationale: '\u201cControl what you can; entrust what you cannot to God.\u201d A believer plans as wisely as he can and leaves the decision to God, which brings enormous peace of mind.' }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  ];<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var $ = function (s) { return root.querySelector(s); };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var views = { intro: $('.z-v-intro'), ask: $('.z-v-ask'), result: $('.z-v-result') };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var invite = $('.z-invite'), toggleLbl = $('.z-toggle-lbl');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var nameInput = $('.z-input'), errorEl = $('.z-error');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var timerEl = $('.z-timer'), tFg = $('.t-fg'), tVal = $('.t-val'), T_LEN = 163.4;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var LETTERS = ['A', 'B', 'C', 'D'];<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var S = null, current = null, tick = null;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function esc(s) { var d = document.createElement('div'); d.textContent = s; return d.innerHTML; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function show(v) { Object.keys(views).forEach(function (k) { views[k].classList.toggle('is-active', k === v); }); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function scrollToQuiz() { root.scrollIntoView({ behavior: 'smooth', block: 'start' }); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* ----- open \/ close ----- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function setOpen(open) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    root.classList.toggle('is-open', open);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    invite.setAttribute('aria-expanded', String(open));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    toggleLbl.textContent = open ? 'Close the quiz' : (S && S.i > 0 && S.i < QUESTIONS.length ? 'Continue the quiz' : 'Begin the quiz');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!open) pauseTimer();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    else if (views.ask.classList.contains('is-active') && S && !S.locked) startTimer(S.left);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  invite.addEventListener('click', function () { setOpen(!root.classList.contains('is-open')); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* ----- toast + sharing ----- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function toast(m) { var t = $('.z-toast'); t.textContent = m; t.classList.add('is-shown'); clearTimeout(t._h); t._h = setTimeout(function () { t.classList.remove('is-shown'); }, 2800); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function pageLink() { return location.origin + location.pathname + location.search + '#soi-quiz'; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function copyText(text, done) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (navigator.clipboard && window.isSecureContext) { navigator.clipboard.writeText(text).then(done, function () { legacy(text, done); }); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    else legacy(text, done);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function legacy(text, done) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var ta = document.createElement('textarea'); ta.value = text; ta.setAttribute('readonly', ''); ta.style.position = 'absolute'; ta.style.left = '-9999px';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    document.body.appendChild(ta); ta.select();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    try { document.execCommand('copy'); done(); } catch (e) { toast('Please copy this link: ' + pageLink()); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    document.body.removeChild(ta);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* ----- timer ----- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function drawTimer(left) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    tVal.textContent = Math.ceil(left);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    tFg.style.strokeDashoffset = T_LEN * (1 - left \/ SECONDS);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    timerEl.classList.toggle('is-low', left <= 10 &#038;&#038; left > 0);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function startTimer(from) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    pauseTimer();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    timerEl.classList.remove('is-paused');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var started = performance.now(), base = from;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    tick = setInterval(function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      S.left = Math.max(0, base - (performance.now() - started) \/ 1000);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      drawTimer(S.left);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (S.left <= 0) { pauseTimer(); timeUp(); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }, 100);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function pauseTimer() { if (tick) { clearInterval(tick); tick = null; } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* pause when the reader switches tabs or apps, resume on return *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  document.addEventListener('visibilitychange', function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (!S || S.locked || !views.ask.classList.contains('is-active') || !root.classList.contains('is-open')) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (document.hidden) { pauseTimer(); timerEl.classList.add('is-paused'); } else startTimer(S.left);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* ----- start ----- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function begin() {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var n = nameInput.value.trim().replace(\/\\s+\/g, ' ');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (n.length < 2) { errorEl.textContent = 'Kindly enter your name to begin.'; nameInput.classList.remove('has-error'); void nameInput.offsetWidth; nameInput.classList.add('has-error'); nameInput.focus(); return; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    S = { name: n, i: 0, score: 0, answers: [], started: Date.now(), left: SECONDS, locked: false };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    show('ask'); render(); scrollToQuiz();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  nameInput.addEventListener('input', function () { errorEl.textContent = ''; nameInput.classList.remove('has-error'); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  nameInput.addEventListener('keydown', function (e) { if (e.key === 'Enter') begin(); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  $('.z-start').addEventListener('click', begin);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* ----- question ----- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function shuffled(Q) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var o = [0, 1, 2, 3];<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    for (var i = 3; i > 0; i--) { var j = Math.floor(Math.random() * (i + 1)), t = o[i]; o[i] = o[j]; o[j] = t; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var c = {}; for (var k in Q) c[k] = Q[k];<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    c.options = o.map(function (x) { return Q.options[x]; }); c.answer = o.indexOf(Q.answer);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    return c;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function render() {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var Q = current = shuffled(QUESTIONS[S.i]), N = QUESTIONS.length;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    S.locked = false; S.left = SECONDS;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-count').textContent = 'Q' + (S.i + 1) + ' \/ ' + N;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-score-live').textContent = 'Score ' + S.score;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-bar span').style.width = (S.i \/ N * 100) + '%';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-source').textContent = Q.article + ' \u00b7 Page ' + String(Q.page).padStart(2, '0');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-question').textContent = Q.q;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var box = $('.z-opts'); box.innerHTML = '';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    Q.options.forEach(function (op, k) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var b = document.createElement('button'); b.type = 'button'; b.className = 'z-opt';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      b.style.animationDelay = (0.08 * k) + 's';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      b.innerHTML = '<span class=\"z-letter\"><span>' + LETTERS[k] + '<\/span><\/span><span class=\"z-opt-text\">' + esc(op[0]) + '<span class=\"z-why\" hidden><\/span><\/span>';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      b.addEventListener('click', function () { choose(k); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      box.appendChild(b);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var fb = $('.z-feedback'); fb.className = 'z-feedback'; fb.innerHTML = '';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-next').hidden = true;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-next-lbl').textContent = S.i === N - 1 ? 'View my scoreboard' : 'Next question';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    drawTimer(SECONDS);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (root.classList.contains('is-open')) startTimer(SECONDS);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function reveal(chosen) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var Q = current;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    root.querySelectorAll('.z-opt').forEach(function (b, j) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      b.disabled = true;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var why = b.querySelector('.z-why'), mark = b.querySelector('.z-letter span');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (j === Q.answer) { b.classList.add('is-right'); mark.textContent = '\u2713'; why.textContent = Q.options[j][1]; why.hidden = false; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      else if (j === chosen) { b.classList.add('is-wrong'); mark.textContent = '\u2715'; why.textContent = Q.options[j][1]; why.hidden = false; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      else b.classList.add('is-dim');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function feedback(kind, head) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var Q = current, fb = $('.z-feedback');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    fb.className = 'z-feedback is-shown ' + kind;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var read = document.getElementById(Q.link) ? ' \u00b7 <a data-id=\"' + Q.link + '\">Read the article again<\/a>' : '';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    fb.innerHTML = '<span class=\"z-fb-head\">' + head + '<\/span><pee>' + esc(Q.rationale) + '<\/pee>' +<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      '<span class=\"z-cite\">Source: \u201c' + esc(Q.article) + '\u201d, page ' + String(Q.page).padStart(2, '0') + read + '<\/span>';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var a = fb.querySelector('a[data-id]');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (a) a.addEventListener('click', function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var item = document.getElementById(a.dataset.id), tab = item && item.querySelector('.ev-tab');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (tab && !item.classList.contains('is-open')) tab.click(); else if (item) item.scrollIntoView({ behavior: 'smooth', block: 'start' });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-bar span').style.width = ((S.i + 1) \/ QUESTIONS.length * 100) + '%';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var nx = $('.z-next'); nx.hidden = false; nx.focus({ preventScroll: true });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function record(status, chosen) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var Q = current;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    S.answers.push({ status: status, q: Q.q, mine: chosen == null ? null : Q.options[chosen][0], right: Q.options[Q.answer][0], why: Q.rationale, article: Q.article, page: Q.page });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function choose(k) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (S.locked) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    S.locked = true; pauseTimer(); timerEl.classList.remove('is-low');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var ok = k === current.answer;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (ok) { S.score++; $('.z-score-live').textContent = 'Score ' + S.score; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    reveal(k); record(ok ? 'ok' : 'no', k);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    feedback(ok ? 'good' : 'bad', ok ? 'Accurate reflection, ' + esc(S.name) : 'A gentle correction, ' + esc(S.name));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function timeUp() {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (S.locked) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    S.locked = true; timerEl.classList.remove('is-low');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    reveal(-1); record('late', null);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    feedback('late', 'Time has passed \u2014 here is the answer');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  $('.z-next').addEventListener('click', function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    S.i++;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (S.i < QUESTIONS.length) { render(); scrollToQuiz(); } else finish();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* ----- result ----- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function finish() {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    pauseTimer();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var s = S.score, N = QUESTIONS.length, pct = Math.round(s \/ N * 100), n = esc(S.name);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var secs = Math.round((Date.now() - S.started) \/ 1000);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    show('result'); scrollToQuiz();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var title, text, level;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (s === N)      { title = 'MashaAllah, a perfect score, ' + n + '!'; text = 'You recalled every lesson of this issue with remarkable care. May this reflection stay with you.'; level = 'Master Seeker'; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    else if (s >= 8)  { title = 'Distinguished reflection, ' + n + '!'; text = 'You have taken a great deal of wisdom from this issue. Review the one or two you missed below.'; level = 'Devoted Reader'; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    else if (s >= 6)  { title = 'Well done, ' + n + '!'; text = 'A thoughtful result. The explanations below will help complete the picture.'; level = 'Thoughtful Reader'; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    else if (s >= 4)  { title = 'A sincere effort, ' + n + '.'; text = 'Every reflection sharpens the mind. Revisiting the articles below will deepen your understanding.'; level = 'Sincere Reader'; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    else              { title = 'Thank you for taking part, ' + n + '.'; text = 'Every reading is a fresh discovery. Read the articles again and try once more.'; level = 'Seeker'; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-salute').textContent = S.name + ' \u00b7 Issue 133 reflection complete';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-res-title').innerHTML = title;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-res-text').textContent = text;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-st-acc').textContent = pct + '%';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-st-time').textContent = Math.floor(secs \/ 60) + ':' + ('0' + (secs % 60)).slice(-2);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-st-level').textContent = level;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var ring = $('.r-fg'), val = $('.r-val'), C = 326.7;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    ring.style.strokeDashoffset = C;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    requestAnimationFrame(function () { requestAnimationFrame(function () { ring.style.strokeDashoffset = C * (1 - s \/ N); }); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var c = 0; val.textContent = 0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var iv = setInterval(function () { val.textContent = c; if (c >= s) clearInterval(iv); c++; }, 1300 \/ (s + 1));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var rv = $('.z-review'); rv.innerHTML = '';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    S.answers.forEach(function (a, i) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var d = document.createElement('div'); d.className = 'z-rev ' + a.status;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var tag = a.status === 'ok' ? '\u2713 Correct' : a.status === 'no' ? '\u2715 Incorrect' : '\u25f7 Time passed';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      d.innerHTML = '<\/p>\n<div class=\"z-rev-head\"><span>Q' + (i + 1) + '. ' + esc(a.q) + '<\/span><span class=\"z-tag\">' + tag + '<\/span><\/div>\n<p>' +<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        (a.mine ? '<\/p>\n<div class=\"z-rev-line\">Your answer: <strong>' + esc(a.mine) + '<\/strong><\/div>\n<p>' : '') +<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        (a.status !== 'ok' ? '<\/p>\n<div class=\"z-rev-line\">Correct answer: <strong>' + esc(a.right) + '<\/strong><\/div>\n<p>' : '') +<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        '<\/p>\n<div class=\"z-rev-why\">\u201c' + esc(a.why) + '\u201d <em>\u2014 ' + esc(a.article) + ', page ' + String(a.page).padStart(2, '0') + '<\/em><\/div>\n<p>';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      rv.appendChild(d);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var msg = '\ud83d\udcd6 I completed the ' + ISSUE + ' Readers\u2019 Reflection Quiz!\\n\ud83c\udfc6 ' + S.name + ': ' + s + '\/' + N + ' (' + pct + '%)\\n\\nRead the issue and see if you can beat my score:\\n' + pageLink();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-wa').href = 'https:\/\/api.whatsapp.com\/send?text=' + encodeURIComponent(msg);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    $('.z-x').href = 'https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=' + encodeURIComponent(msg);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    S.msg = msg;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (s >= Math.ceil(N * 0.7)) setTimeout(function () { confetti(s === N ? 280 : 180); }, 500);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  $('.z-copy').addEventListener('click', function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    copyText(S.msg, function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      toast('Score and page link copied.');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var l = $('.z-copy-lbl'); l.textContent = 'Copied \u2713'; setTimeout(function () { l.textContent = 'Copy score and link'; }, 2500);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  $('.z-again').addEventListener('click', function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    nameInput.value = S.name;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    S = { name: S.name, i: 0, score: 0, answers: [], started: Date.now(), left: SECONDS, locked: false };<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    show('ask'); render(); scrollToQuiz();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* ----- confetti: bursts from both sides, diamonds in brand colours ----- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function confetti(count) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (window.matchMedia && matchMedia('(prefers-reduced-motion: reduce)').matches) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var shell = $('.z-shell'), cv = document.createElement('canvas'); cv.className = 'z-confetti'; shell.appendChild(cv);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var dpr = Math.min(window.devicePixelRatio || 1, 2), W = shell.clientWidth, H = shell.clientHeight;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    cv.width = W * dpr; cv.height = H * dpr; var ctx = cv.getContext('2d'); ctx.scale(dpr, dpr);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var COL = ['#D4CC73', '#EA3551', '#204E60', '#F4A3B0', '#7FB3C4', '#E8DF8E', '#FFFFFF'], P = [];<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    for (var i = 0; i < count; i++) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var L = i % 2 === 0;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      P.push({ x: L ? -10 : W + 10, y: 120 + Math.random() * 220, vx: (L ? 1 : -1) * (4 + Math.random() * 8), vy: -(5 + Math.random() * 9),<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        s: 6 + Math.random() * 8, r: Math.random() * 6, vr: (Math.random() - 0.5) * 0.3, c: COL[i % COL.length],<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        sh: Math.random() < 0.4 ? 'd' : Math.random() < 0.5 ? 'r' : 'c', w: Math.random() * 10 });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var t0 = performance.now();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    (function f(t) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var e = t - t0; ctx.clearRect(0, 0, W, H);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      P.forEach(function (p) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        p.vy += 0.2; p.vx *= 0.986; p.x += p.vx + Math.sin(e \/ 300 + p.w) * 0.7; p.y += p.vy; p.r += p.vr;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ctx.save(); ctx.translate(p.x, p.y); ctx.rotate(p.r); ctx.globalAlpha = Math.max(0, 1 - e \/ 4600); ctx.fillStyle = p.c;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        if (p.sh === 'c') { ctx.beginPath(); ctx.arc(0, 0, p.s \/ 2.4, 0, 6.3); ctx.fill(); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        else if (p.sh === 'd') { ctx.beginPath(); ctx.moveTo(0, -p.s \/ 1.5); ctx.lineTo(p.s \/ 2.5, 0); ctx.lineTo(0, p.s \/ 1.5); ctx.lineTo(-p.s \/ 2.5, 0); ctx.closePath(); ctx.fill(); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        else ctx.fillRect(-p.s \/ 2, -p.s \/ 4, p.s, p.s \/ 2);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->        ctx.restore();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (e < 4700) requestAnimationFrame(f); else cv.remove();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    })(t0);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* Arriving from a shared link: open the quiz and bring it into view *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  if (location.hash === '#soi-quiz') { setOpen(true); setTimeout(scrollToQuiz, 500); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->})();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/script><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/p>\n<style><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---- Fit to the page: only the Divi section\/row that holds this block ---- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.et_pb_section:has(.soi-ev) { background-color: #EEEEE5 !important; padding-top: 0 !important; padding-bottom: 0 !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.et_pb_section:has(.soi-ev) > .et_pb_row:has(.soi-ev) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  width: 100% !important; max-width: none !important; padding-top: 0 !important; padding-bottom: 0 !important;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->.et_pb_module:has(.soi-ev) { margin-bottom: 0 !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* Same width and side margins as the magazine banner above (880px max; 16px sides, 28px on phones) *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->div.soi-ev { box-shadow: none; clip-path: none; width: calc(100% - 2rem); max-width: 880px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0; padding-right: 0; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz { padding-left: 0 !important; padding-right: 0 !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-quiz .z-wrap { width: calc(100% - 2rem); max-width: 880px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 640px) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  div.soi-ev, #soi-quiz .z-wrap { width: calc(100% - 3.5rem); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* tabs: tighter, calmer on phones *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev button.ev-tab { gap: 0.75rem; padding: 0.95rem 0.95rem 0.95rem 0.85rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-num { width: 2.1rem; height: 2.1rem; font-size: 0.72rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-kicker { font-size: 0.6rem; letter-spacing: 0.1em; line-height: 1.45; margin-bottom: 0.3rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-tab-title { font-size: 1.12rem; line-height: 1.22; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-chev { width: 1.9rem; height: 1.9rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-content { padding: 1.35rem 1.1rem 1.6rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-meta { font-size: 0.76rem; gap: 0.2rem 0.75rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-meta > span:nth-child(even) { display: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-note { padding: 1.1rem 1rem 1rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-ayah { padding: 1.1rem 1.1rem !important; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 420px) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-player { padding-left: 0.75rem; padding-right: 0.75rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-row { gap: 0.45rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-info { min-width: 3.4rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev .ev-pl-time { font-size: 0.72rem; white-space: normal; line-height: 1.25; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  .soi-ev button.ev-pl-btn, .soi-ev a.ev-pl-btn { min-width: 34px; padding-left: 0.05rem; padding-right: 0.05rem; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/style>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/p>\n<style><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->\/* ---- Go-to-top button with reading progress (added to <body> by the script below) ---- *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-gotop {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  all: unset; box-sizing: border-box; position: fixed; z-index: 99991; cursor: pointer;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  right: calc(18px + env(safe-area-inset-right, 0px)); bottom: calc(18px + env(safe-area-inset-bottom, 0px));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  width: 54px; height: 54px; border-radius: 50%; display: grid; place-items: center;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  background: conic-gradient(#D4CC73 calc(var(--soi-p, 0) * 360deg), rgba(32, 78, 96, 0.16) 0);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  box-shadow: 0 12px 26px -12px rgba(18, 50, 62, 0.6);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  opacity: 0; visibility: hidden; transform: translateY(14px) scale(0.92);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  transition: opacity 0.35s ease, visibility 0.35s, transform 0.35s cubic-bezier(0.22, 1, 0.36, 1), bottom 0.35s cubic-bezier(0.22, 1, 0.36, 1);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  -webkit-tap-highlight-color: transparent;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-gotop::before { content: ''; position: absolute; inset: 4px; border-radius: 50%; background: #F8F8F2; box-shadow: inset 0 0 0 1px #D7D8CA; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-gotop.is-shown { opacity: 1; visibility: visible; transform: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-gotop svg { position: relative; width: 20px; height: 20px; stroke: #204E60; fill: none; stroke-width: 2.4; stroke-linecap: round; stroke-linejoin: round; animation: soiSoiGotopBob 1.8s ease-in-out infinite; transition: opacity 0.25s ease; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-gotop .soi-gotop-pct {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  position: absolute; font-family: 'Plus Jakarta Sans', -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, sans-serif;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  font-size: 12px; font-weight: 800; line-height: 1; color: #204E60; font-variant-numeric: tabular-nums;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  opacity: 0; transform: translateY(6px); transition: opacity 0.25s ease, transform 0.25s ease;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->}<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-gotop:hover svg, #soi-gotop.is-pressed svg { opacity: 0; animation: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-gotop:hover .soi-gotop-pct, #soi-gotop.is-pressed .soi-gotop-pct { opacity: 1; transform: none; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-gotop:hover { transform: translateY(-3px); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->#soi-gotop:focus-visible { outline: 3px solid #D4CC73; outline-offset: 3px; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@keyframes soiSoiGotopBob { 50% { transform: translateY(-3px); } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (max-width: 640px) { #soi-gotop { width: 48px; height: 48px; right: calc(14px + env(safe-area-inset-right, 0px)); bottom: calc(14px + env(safe-area-inset-bottom, 0px)); } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->@media (prefers-reduced-motion: reduce) { #soi-gotop, #soi-gotop * { animation: none !important; transition: none !important; } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/style>\n<p><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><script><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->(function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  if (document.getElementById('soi-gotop')) return;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var btn = document.createElement('button');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  btn.id = 'soi-gotop'; btn.type = 'button'; btn.setAttribute('aria-label', 'Back to top');<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  btn.innerHTML = '<svg viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path d=\"M12 19V5M5 12l7-7 7 7\"\/><\/svg><span class=\"soi-gotop-pct\" aria-hidden=\"true\">0%<\/span>';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  document.body.appendChild(btn);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  var pct = btn.querySelector('.soi-gotop-pct'), ticking = false, last = -1;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function update() {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    ticking = false;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var doc = document.documentElement, max = Math.max(1, doc.scrollHeight - window.innerHeight);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var y = window.pageYOffset || doc.scrollTop, p = Math.min(1, Math.max(0, y \/ max)), n = Math.round(p * 100);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    btn.style.setProperty('--soi-p', p.toFixed(4));<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (n !== last) { last = n; pct.textContent = n + '%'; btn.setAttribute('aria-label', 'Back to top, ' + n + '% read'); }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    btn.classList.toggle('is-shown', y > 500);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    place();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  \/* move up while the docked audio player would sit underneath *\/<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function place() {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var dock = document.querySelector('.ev-player.is-docked:not(.is-leaving)'), lift = '';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    if (dock) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      var d = dock.getBoundingClientRect(), b = btn.getBoundingClientRect();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      if (d.right > b.left - 8 && d.left < b.right + 8) lift = (window.innerHeight - d.top + 12) + 'px';<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    btn.style.bottom = lift;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  function request() { if (!ticking) { ticking = true; requestAnimationFrame(update); } }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  window.addEventListener('scroll', request, { passive: true });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  window.addEventListener('resize', request);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  window.addEventListener('load', request);<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  if ('MutationObserver' in window) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    new MutationObserver(function (list) {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->      for (var i = 0; i < list.length; i++) if (list[i].target.classList &#038;&#038; list[i].target.classList.contains('ev-player')) { request(); setTimeout(request, 400); return; }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    }).observe(document.body, { subtree: true, attributes: true, attributeFilter: ['class'] });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  }<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  btn.addEventListener('click', function () {<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    var reduce = window.matchMedia && window.matchMedia('(prefers-reduced-motion: reduce)').matches;<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    window.scrollTo({ top: 0, behavior: reduce ? 'auto' : 'smooth' });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->    btn.blur();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  btn.addEventListener('touchstart', function () { btn.classList.add('is-pressed'); }, { passive: true });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  ['touchend', 'touchcancel'].forEach(function (t) { btn.addEventListener(t, function () { setTimeout(function () { btn.classList.remove('is-pressed'); }, 250); }, { passive: true }); });<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->  update();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] -->})();<!-- [et_pb_line_break_holder] --><\/script>[\/et_pb_code][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>ISSUE NOVEMBER &#8211; DECEMBER 2026 E-version (18 articles, 16 with read-along audio) + Readers&#8217; Reflection Quiz. Paste the whole file into ONE Divi &#8220;Code&#8221; module inside a Regular section. Every style is scoped to .soi-ev \/ #soi-quiz, every script is self-contained, and all names carry a &#8220;soi&#8221; prefix, so nothing here affects the rest of [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"folder":[39],"class_list":["post-3508","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3508","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=3508"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3508\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":3537,"href":"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/pages\/3508\/revisions\/3537"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=3508"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"folder","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/spiritofislam.co.in\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ffolder&post=3508"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}