The Souls Journey After Death:
In: Inspirational Stories and HistoryComment!
It is reported that al Bara bin Azib said “We went out with the prophet (pbuh) in order to participate in the funeral rites of a man from the Ansar. We arrived at the grave, but the inner chamber had not been prepared yet, so Allahs messenger (pbuh) sat down facing the direction of the qiblah, and we sat around him so attentively that it was as if birds were sitting upon our heads.
He had a stick in his hand with which he sketched upon the ground. Then he began looking alternatively to the heavens and to the earth, raising his gaze and then lowering it. Finally, he said two or three times, ‘Seek refuge in Allah from the torment of the grave.’ Then he said, ‘O Allah, verily I seek refuge in You from the torment of the grave.’ He repeated it three times, then he elaborated, ‘Verily, when the believing servant is leaving this world and entering the next, angels from the heavens descend to him – their faces white with brightness like the sun and carrying with them burial sheets and scents from Paradise. They sit before him ata distance as far as they eye can see. Then the Angel of Death (upon whom be peace) comes to the person, sits at his head and says “O good soul [in another narration 'O confident soul'], come out to your Lords forgiveness and pleasure”‘
[The Prophet (pbuh) continued], “Thereupon, the soul flows out of the body like water flowing from the mouth of a waterskin, and all of the angels between the skies and the earth supplicate for Allahs blessing upon him. The doors of the heavens are opened for him, and the keepers of these doors [i.e., the angels] all plead with Allah that this soul might pass in front of them as it is being carried upward. The Angel of Death barely receives the soul in his hands, whereupon the other angels take it from him and wrap it with fragrant winding sheets.
This is what is meant by Allahs saying “Our messengers [i.e., angels] seize his soul, and they do not fall short of their duty”‘ (Surah al An am 6:61) Then the Prophet said, ‘There exudes from the soul a scent like the most beautiful fragrance of musk that one could find on the face of the earth.
The angels descend with the soul, never passing a host of angels without hearing them ask, “Who is this wonderful soul?” They reply, “So and so, the son of so and so,” addressing him with the best names he was known by during his earthly life. Upon reaching the first heaven, the angels request that it be opened for the soul – which is granted. The soul is then accompanied by the angels of each heaven until it reaches the one above it and finally arrives at the seventh heaven. then Allah, the Mighty and Majestic, says [to the angels], “Place the record of My servant in ‘illiyyun’.”‘ The persons record is then placed in ‘illiyyun’, whereupon a command is heard: “Return him to the earth, for verily I have promised mankind that having created them from the earth, I will return them to it. And I will make them come out of it, yet another time.”
Then the soul is returned to the earth, back into its body. Verily, the deceased hears the shuffling feet of his companions who attended his burial as they turn away and leave his grave. Thereupon, two angels, severe in interrogation, come to him, and sitting him up, they begin to ask him questions. They say, “Who is your Lord?” He replied, “Allah is my Lord.” They continue, “What is your religion?” He answers, “Islam is my religion.” They proceed with the questioning, saying, “Who is this man that has been sent to you?” He responds, “He is the messenger of Allah .” Finally, they ask him about his deeds, to which he replies, “I read Allahs book and believed in it.”‘
(In another narration the Prophet (pbuh) indicated that the angels ask, “Who is your Lord, what is your religion and who is your prophet?” [Allahs Messenger explained that] this was the believers last test, and is what is meant when Allah says, “Allah strengthens those who believe with a firm testimony in this worldly life and the Hereafter.” (Surah Ibraheem 14:27) The deceased answers, “Allah is my Lord, Islam is religion, and my prophet is Muhammed.”) [The prophet then indicated, 'Upon the believers answer to these questions], a voice is heard in the heavens, saying “My servant has told the truth, so clothe him in the clothing of Paradise, spread for him the furnishings of Paradise, and open for him a window with a view of Paradise.”
Thereupon, he is engulfed by a breeze of fresh air and fragrance, while the expanse of his grave is extended before him as far as the eye can see. There appears before him a man with wonderful face and beautiful clothing, emitting a splendid fragrance. He says to the soul, “Rejoice at the news which will gladden you! Rejoice at Allahs pleasure and His Paradise, whose joys and delights never end. This is the day which you was promised.” The deceased says to him, “And who are you, for your face bears glad tidings?!” The figure answers, “I represent your good deeds; by Allah, I’ve always known you to be quick in obedience to Allah and slow to His obedience. so may Allah reward you with good.” Then a door to Paradise is opened, whereupon it is said to him [regarding the Hellfire] “This would have been your final abode had you disobeyed Allah; however, it has been exchanged for this other abode [i.e., Paradise].”
When the soul sees what is in Paradise, he cries “My Lord, hasten the arrival of the Hour [i.e., the Resurrection] so that I may be joined with my family and wealth” Thereupon it is said to him, “Rest in tranquility.”‘
Allahs Messenger (pbuh) continued, ‘When the disbelieving servant [and in another narration "sinful servant"] is about to leave this world and enter the next, angels, powerful and severe, descend to him from the heavens – their faces black and carrying with them coarse strips of cloth from Hell. They sit before him at a distance as far as the eye can see. Then the Angel of Death arrives, and sitting at the head of the disbeliever, he says, “O you foul soul, come out to the anger and wrath of your Lord.” The soul inside the disbelievers body is overcome by terrible fear [and does not want to deliver itself up], whereupon the Angel of Death violently pulls it out multi-pronged skewers being yanked out of wet wool – tearing with them the arteries and nerves. Upon this, the soul is cursed by every angel between the earth and the heavens and by those inside the heavens.
Then the doors of the heavens are closed to him, and every single guard at these doors begs Allah that this soul not be carried up in front of him.’ The Prophet (pbuh) continued, ‘The Angel of Death barely receives the soul in his hands, whereupon the other angels grasp it from him and wrap it up in coarse cloth. There emits from it the foulest odour that could be found on the face of the earth. They ascend with it, never passing a host of angels without being asked, “Who is this ugly soul?” They reply, “So and so, the son of so and so,” using the worst names by which he was known in this world. When they arrive at the lowest heaven, they request that it be opened for this soul, but the request is denied.’ At this point Allahs Messenger (pbuh) recited the verse:’The gates of the heavens will not be opened for them, nor will they enter the Garden of Paradise until a camel goes through the eye of a needle.’ (Surah al-A’raf 7:40)
After that he continued, ‘Then Allah, the Mighty and Majestic, says [to the angels], “Place his record in sijjeen – in the lowest earth. Return My servant to the earth, for verily I have promised mankind that having created them from the earth, I will return them to it. And I will make them come out of it
, yet another time.” Upon this command, the deceased [disbelievers] soul is thrown down from the sky until it lands in its body.’
The prophet (pbuh) then recited the verse: ‘And whoever ascribes partners with Allah, it is as though he had fallen from the sky, such that birds snatch him up or the wind throws him to a remote place.’ (Surah al-Hajj 22:31) Then he commented, ‘Verily [when the soul is returned to its body], the deceased hears the sound of his companions footsteps as they turn away from his grave.’
[The Prophet (pbuh) resumed his explanation, saying], “Then two angels, severe in interrogation, come to him, sitting him up, they begin to question him, “Who is your Lord?” He replies, “Hah! Hah! I don’t know.” They continue by asking him, “What is your religion?” He answers, “Hah! Hah! I don’t know.” So they ask, “Then what do you say about this man who was sent to you?” [The disbeliever does not appear to understand who they are referring to, so it is said], “Muhammad.” Again he states, “Hah! Hah! I don’t know. I only heard people talking about him.” Then it is said, “You did not know! And you did not read!”
Thereupon a voice from the heavens is heard, “He has lied!” So spread out for him a place from the Fire and open for him a window to the Fire.” The searing hot winds of Hell engulf him while his grave closes in upon him, crushing him until his ribcage is broken by the force – causing the ribs of one side to interwine with the ribs of the other. Then there appears to him a person with an ugly face and ugly clothing and exuding a foul odour, who says, “Tidings of evil to you, for this is the day which you were promised!” The deceased says to him, “And you, too; may Allah give you evil tidings! Who are you, for yours is a face which portends evil.”
The person rejoins, “I represent your wicked deeds. By Allah, I have always known you to be slow in obedience to Allah and quick in disobedience to Him. May Allah reward you with evil!” Then one who is deaf, dumb and blind and is carrying an iron rod is sent to the deceased. If he were to strike a mountain with it, the mountain would disintegrate into rubble. He strikes the deceased with a blow which turns him to dust.
Allah returns the deceased to his original form, whereupon he is struck a second time. This causes him to shriek with such violence that it is heard by all of creation except mankind and jinn. Then a door to the Fire is opened, and beddings of the Fire are spread for him, whereupon he cries, “Lord do not establish the Hour!”
Bilal(ra) The Beautiful ( Episodes from his life)
Posted by: Sohail Ahmed Shaikh on: February 28, 2009
In: Awliya Allah / Angels / Sufis / Sahaba Beautiful StoriesComment!
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Bilal(ra) Before The Rise of Islam;
Bilal (ra) was an abyssinian , with both his parents having been slaves, he had been born into slavery.
Although he was a slave he had become a very prized posession of his master. Known for being trustworthy, and endowed with beautiful Ikhlaq and Wisdom,Bilal (ra) was put in charge of trade. He would be sent with trade caravans across Arabia, to do business on behalf of his slave master Umayahh ibn Khalaf leader of the Makkan clan of Jumah.
He became popular among, the traders and merchants of Makkah, on trading missions they would seek out his advice on business matters. His Handsome features, and his sense of dignity and self esteem made him stand out. They said ” If we did not know he was, a slave we would have assumed that this son of a black woman was a prince.”
He was blessed with the strong attributes, of kindness and Compassion for others, on trade journeys he would, entertain his fellow travelers with his melodious voice, and recite poetry in such a way that the hearts of those who were listening, would be moved they would be reduced to tears. They would say: “O Bilal the heavens themselves are touched by your voice.” Little did they know how true that was.
Bilal (ra) on the journey would help prepare food for his fellow travelers, but he would not eat until everyone else even fellow slaves had eaten to their full.
It was on one of these journeys that he first met, Abu Bakr Siddiq (ra). He and Bilal (ra)were blessed with many similar characteristics, they immediately became friends. Abu Bakr (ra) had no prejudices in his heart, rich or poor, slave or nobleman, Abu Bakr (ra) treated everyone with equal respect and honor.
The Noblemen of the Quraysh would tease him and say “If we did not know better , we would have assumed you and this slave the son of a black woman are brothers.” Abu Bakr (ra) would respond. ” He may be a slave but I swear that Bilal (ra) is a King amongst Men.”
During one such Journey Bilal(ra) saw Abu Bakr (ra) heading towards a Monastery, Bilal (ra) joined him, Abu Bakr (ra) wanted to get the interpretation of a dream he had.In the dream he had seen the SUN and the MOON falling into his lap, he had picked them up and placed inside his cloak.He related his dream to the Monk.
The Christian Monk told Abu Bakr (ra) “If what you say is true then the Greatest Prophet of God will emerge from amongst your people. You will be his closest companion, and his succesor after his departure from this world.”
“Prophet from god”. asked Abu bakr (ra) in bewilderment. “yes but not just a Prophet but the leader of them all he will guide people to the worship of Allah, alone.God will send him as a guiding light, he will be the final and the greatest of all Prophets.”
Hearing all this Bilal (ra)was baffled he asked ” Will Hubal send him or Al Lat or Al Uza or any of the of the other gods of the Kabbah.”
The Monk said, ” No, he will be sent by god, the creator of the heavens and the earth,who has no partner, and will commission him to to command people to worship him alone, and to treat their kindred well and he shall destroy the Idols.”
Bilal (ra) murmured:
” Destroy the Idols?”.
The monk retorted:
” Yes he will destroy all of them.”
Although Abu Bakr (ra) had never really believed in the Idols, Bilal(ra) was quite perturbed. He had been raised as was the custom to worship the gods of his, Slave Master, and he did so with great loyalty.
After reflecting for several months, he finally decided that these gods had no real value, Why for example did the great god Hubal need people to fix his arm for him why could he not fix it himself, he asked .He continued on this vain until the day arrived when he was informed of the arrival of the Prophet (saw).
Bilal’(ra) acceptance of Islam:
Bilal (ra) had spent weeks if not months pondering over the uselessness of worshiping Idols and wondering what the reality was concerning, the existence of all creation.
One Night as he was a sleep he heard someone whispering his name ” Bilal, Bilal(ra)”, As he woke he looked around to see who was calling out his name, he suddenly realised, that it was Abu Bakr (ra) calling out his name.
What could bring Abu Bakr (ra) to the slave Quarters, he thought at this time of the night, it must be something serious.
” O Bilal (ra) I have great news Abu Bakr (ra)uttered excitedly as he climbed into Bilals (ra) room. ” The Prophet of Allah (saw) has arrived.”
“The Prophet of Allah who is he?” asked Bilal.(ra)
“He Is Muhammad the Son of Abdullah (saw), he is calling to the worship of one true god, he has come to complete the mission of his forefather Ibrahim (as).”
“Are you sure he is the one”. enquired Bilal(ra).
” O Bilal(ra) I swear by the One who has created me that their is no one in the heavens or the earth who is comparable to him, the Beauty of his character is beyond compare, every aspect of his very being exudes virtue, He is the most truthful , most compassionate, most just of all of Allahs creation. Never has a word of untruth been uttered from his lips. I have pledged my allegiance to him
I ask you o dear Bilal to pledge yours. O Bilal(ra) he states that no man is superior to another, except through righteousness and faith.”
Bilal (ra) thought and hesitated for a while. ” O Bilal(ra) what stops you from bearing witness that their is no god but Allah, And Muhammad is his Messenger (saw).”
Bilal(ra) thought for a while and decided that their could be none worthy of worship except one god, and what could be more truthful than a man who says that everyone is equal in the eyes of god it is only a mans belief and righteousness that makes him superior to another.
So he uttered the words of shahada, Abu Bakr(ra) being overjoyed embraced him kissed him on the forehead, bade him farewell and said. ” Tomorrow I will take you to the prophet of Allah (saw) so you can pledge your allegiance, to him.”
That night Bilal(ra) felt liberated he was now a servant of Allah and equal to all men.
The days of torture and difficulty would soon arrive.
The Parents Of Bilal(ra)
When one of the Superpower’s of the time Abraha the abyssinian launched a war against Makkah with the intention of destroying the house of Allah the Kabah. He arrived with his cavalry of Elephants and encamped on the outskirts of Makkah, as was the custom women would go along in battles to help give moral support to the army, to prepare meals for the soldiers and to look after the wounded. Often the commanders would arrive with their entire cavalcade of servants and slaves to show of their wordily wealth and prestige.
It so happens that Hamamah the niece of Abraha (the daughter of his sister) was amongst one of the convoys in Abrahas army. As the army of Abraha was encamped in the desert, to escape the stifling heat of the desert she went with a small group, to one of the mountains to relax and take part in hunting.
The clan of Banu Khat’am launched a surprise attack on the small group and Hamamah was taken captive along with others. The Banu Khat’am kept all the gold and jewellery that was with the party for themselves. Hamamah along with others was presented as a gift to the Banu Jumah Clan.
All hopes that Hamamah may have had of being rescued were dashed when the Supreme power of Allah with a flock of birds destroyed , the Wordily Super power of Abraha and his army of Elephants . Proving to the muslims to come that you may be as weak as a bird and the enemy may be as powerful as an elephant, but fear not for indeed Allah is all Powerful, the Almighty the best of Guardians and the best of Protectors.
Amongst the slaves of the Banu Jumah was a man called Reba, he was renowned for his trustworthiness , high sense of morality , and integrity.Due to his fine and noble qualities, the Banu Jumah had put him in charge of there property, he was very popular amongst all the Banu Jumah clan. Due to his noble character Reba was seen as a guardian by the other slaves.
Hamamah was herself extremely beautiful of refined and noble character and lineage, she was imbued with the qualities of modesty and chastity.
The elders of the Banu Jumah Clan arranged the marriage of Reba and Hamamah. With the hope that the children of these two noble slaves would also be a great treasure for the Banu Jumah Clan and its descendants.
One has to marvel at the ways of Allah The Almighty ,prepared the arrival of the Prophet (saw) by ensuring that his companions would have the best upbringing even if they were enslaved, thats why when we look at each and every Sahaba we discover a treasure from the treasures of humanity.Allah had prepared Bilal (ra) for the service of Islam by ensuring both his parents were of noble character. Indeed these noble characteristics were present in Bilal (ra) even in the days of jahiliyah. He was raised by his parents to be Trustworthy, compassionate and kind towards others to maintain his dignity and integrity in
all situations.
Abraha had arrived in Makkah to destroy the Kabah, but his very own niece was to give birth to Bilal (ra) who would one day stand on top of the Kabah and recite the Azaan. Who would be a Beloved of Allah and his Messenger (saw) and a great servant of Islam.
Thus are the Superpowers and tyrants of the world like Abraha humiliated.
The Secret is exposed.
For a while Bilal (ra) was in a state of bliss, he would go along secretly under the cover of darkness in the night with Abu Bakr (ra)and sit in the company of the Beloved of Allah, (Saw).
Finally the fateful day arrived the Chieftains were holding a meeting to discuss how to combat the growing menace of Islam. Those Presiding over the meeting were Abu Jahl and Umayah ibn Khalaf the slave master of Bilal (ra), He said “Umayah put your own house in order for your very own slave Bilal (ra) has embraced Islam.” “Are you sure about what you are saying” asked Umayah. “yes” said his Informer “For I have seen him going to meet Muhammad (saw)”.
Umayah stormed of in a fit of rage in the direction of his house, To find Bilal (ra). When he arrived outside Bilals (ra) room , he heard Bilal(ra) reciting something in his melodious voice, it was different to anything he had heard, before. “This Must be the Quran of Muhammad (saw) that has bewitched this slave.” He burst into Bilals(ra) room.” Bilal”(ra) he shouted Bilal realised his secret must have been exposed when saw the anger on the tyrrants face.
“Yes” what is it said Bilal (ra). in composed and calm manner he knew what was to come but he felt no fear he was free he was the Slave of Allah the one and only.
“what were you reading?”
“The speech of Allah”, answered Bilal (ra).
” The speech of god since when were gods able to speak?,” said Umayah
” God revealed his book and wisdom to his servant.”replied Bilal (ra).
” Stop this nonsense”. Shouted Umayah.
“By my lord it is the truth,the lord of the heavens and the earth and all that is between.”
“Oh you traitor you deny our gods, after all that I provided for you,” desist from this nonsense or I will visit a punishment upon you that no man has ever experienced.”
“Do as you please but I will never turn my back on the truth you may own my body but my soul is free I am free to worship Allah the one and only he is my true master.” replied Bilal (ra).
Umayah ordered for Bilal to be put in chains and shackles and started beating him. Desist from this wretched foolishness you son of a blackwoman. He beat him severely. He kept asking him to return to the Worship of the Idols.
“Have you returned to your senses, so tell me who is your lord.”the Tyrannt asked.
“Ahad” (the one) Umayah kept beating Bilal (ra) until he grew tired. Were has this slave got this energy from to endure such a beating him he said to himself.
” Have you not had enough ask me for mercy in the names of al lat and al uza and all the other gods of the Kabah.” said the Tyrrant.
“Ahad, Ahad, my Lord Is the One and only I seek refuge with him but no one else.” said Bilal through his swollen lips his face bruised and bleeding .Having grown physically tired of dishing out the beating.He decided on a new plan he would have this Slave beaten and dragged through the streets of makkkah until he relented.
” Ahad” Ahad”
We were taught but we have forgotten, It is through the sacrifices of our Beloved Prophet (saw) and sahabah that we are muslim today. It is through our beloved Bilals (ra) cries of “Ahad” “Ahad” that we are blessed today. It is through their sacrifices that we recite the Quran today. so every time we hear the Qari recite, Surah Ikhlas, let us remember Bilals cries of “Ahad, Ahad” his body bruised and bleeding the pain is intense they say ” who is your lord Bilal” he says “Ahad, Ahad” everytime we hear the Azaan let us remember the first Muadhin and his cries Of “Ahad, Ahad”.
Imagine the Pain and the tears that were shed by our Prophet (Saw) when the angels informed him they are torturing your Beloved Bilal (ra). Yet fear not he remains strong and Chants “Ahad, “Ahad”. Imagine How the heart of Abu Bakr (ra) Bled when he Witnessed Bilal(ra) being Tortured. Yet in that desert sand he kept chanting “Ahad” Ahad” The friend of Abu Bakr(ra), the Beloved of our Prophet (saw),Is mercilessly tortured , the heavens themselves are moved, the Angels are in despair yet this story has no impact upon us.
Bilal(ra) chants “Ahad,” Ahad” in the desert of Makkah and the sound echoes in the heavens, the Angels ask who is this saint this friend of Allah whose voice we hear. he chants “Ahad” Ahad” and his voice reaches the heaven.
The Angels are bewildered how did his voice reach heaven, they are informed Bilal (ra) is bleeding in pain, and our Beloved Prophet (saw) is shedding tears in anguish. Let Bilals(ra) Chants of “Ahad” “Ahad”, resonate in the Heavens until the day of Reckoning.
What answer will we give when we are asked “O muslims what gratitude did you express to your lord Al Ahad.
So my friends let us reflect on Bilals (ra) cries of “Ahad”"Ahad”.
Sabr In face Of Adversity.
Having failed to break the will of Bilal (ra) by inflicting a severe beating.Umayah the tyrant, fell to even greater depths of depravity.Bilal(ra) already bleeding, and bruised from the torture that was inflicted on him by Umayah, was dragged out of the house the street urchins were called, and told “Drag and beat this slave, through the streets until he is brought back to his senses, and returns to the worship of the Idols”.
Bilal (ra) with his hands and feet in shackles was dragged from street, to street.This despicable act became a carnival with people joining the procession, umayah inviting, each passer by to come and inflict a beating on Bilal. ” Have you come to your senses Oh you son of a black woman, what do you have to say For yourself.”
Even in the face of this severe torture, Bilal maintained remarkable composure.
“Ahad Ahad”, he replied. “Who is your lord Oh you ignorant slave”, they asked. “Ahad, Ahad my lord is the lord of the heavens and the earth and all that is In between, he is the One and the Only their is none that can compare to him”.
“Oh you foolish slave, we swear that your punishment will only get worse, beg us for mercy in the name of the idols of the Kabah, if you wish to save yourself, stop saying God is One, accept our Idols.”
By this time the crowd had turned into a frenzied mob, people lined the streets, they were all taking turns to hit Bilal, (ra) even the Children were being invited to shout curses and spit at Bilal (ra), Bilal being dragged on the ground was now bleeding from every part of his body, his body swollen and bruised. he responded, ” Ahad, Ahad My lord is one, By Allah if I could think of a word that would offend you people more, I would have said it.”
The mob grew more and more frustrated, the more Bilal (ra) resisted the more they increased in their depravity and torture, the drops of Bilals (ra) blood, were to be found all over the streets of Makkah. They could torture him as much as they wanted, but he would never turn his back on the truth. During all this torture he refused to utter a single cry in pain he repeated the words “Ahad,Ahad” over and over again. Even in the face of torture he was completely absorbed in contemplation and zikr of Allah.
This torture had continued from morning, to evening, the mob returned to their homes defeated and debased, they were exhausted from inflicting the torture but Bilal(ra) had remained strong. he felt liberated, His body was in pain but his heart was at peace, the words “Ahad, Ahad”, remained on his tongue throughout.
This scenario was repeated over many days, and every day the torturers, would return home defeated, they had never seen any man show such resilience in the face of such torture.
The Torture Continues.
Umayah being left humiliated, by the courage and fortitude of Bilal (ra), Consulted with his cohorts as to how to proceed, they advised him to increase the torture, they told him to “Put Bilal (ra) in a coat of Iron,( note a coat of iron was a form of body protection, worn in Battle) in the heat of the desert, for if this torture does not make him repent, it will definitely kill him, and you will be rid of him.”
So they took Bilal (ra) and placed his already battered and bruised in a coat of armour, they dragged him onto the hot desert sand, in full glare of the sun and its heat. They themselves sat in the shade and watched, Bilal(ra) continued with his chant of “Ahad, Ahad”. once the heat grew intense Bilals (ra) already wounded body undeneath the coat of Iron started to Burn, the pain was intense.
So they said” lets go and see if this son of a black woman has know repented. They said repent and beg for mercy for mercy in the name of al lat, and al uza, and all the other gods of the kabah, and your pain will end we shall release you of this torture.”
He replied “Oh enemys of God do as you please, my lips shall continue chanting the name of my beloved Al Ahad Al Ahad until my final breath.” They said to each other “lets wait and see for soon it will be midday the heat will be at its most intense surely that will break his resistance.”
So they sat down in the shade and waited once more, They saw that his voice was now barely audible, they saw his lips were moving and whispering something. They said to each other “lets go and see he might be begging for mercy surely his resistance has now been broken.”
They went up to Bilal (ra) whose body was scalded by the heat his flesh burning. His face was swollen his lips and mouth were bruised and dry. To see what he was whispering, through his half open eyes he looked at them, and increased the volume of his voice “Ahad,Ahad, Ahad,” . They said “surely this is useless”, one of the tyrants noticed a large boulder he said ” Lets place the Boulder on him, for if he still does not come to his senses it will at least kill him and we shall be rid of him for good.”
So they placed the boulder upon him, and said “what do you have to say for yourself now Bilal (ra)”. With his chest now being crushed and gasping for breath he continued his contemplation of his lord “Ahad,Ahad”, he responded.
By now Abu Bakr as Siddiq (ra), having been informed about what was happening to Bilal had rushed to the seen. ” Do you people feel no shame, for how can you inflict such torture on this poor man.” Umayah responded “He is my slave I can do with him as I please.” Abu Bakr (ra) offered to pay for Bilals (ra), release, Umayah realising that it would be finacially more prudent to sell Bilal (ra) set a very high price, Abu Bakr (ra) agreed to pay the ransom,. Umayah took his money and along with the other tyrants left.
Abu Bakr (ra) removed the shackles and Iron coat from Bilals(ra) body, as he held Bilal(ra) in his arms and removed the sand from his face Bilal(ra) spoke and said ” Abu Bakr,(ra) If you have paid my ransom so that I can be your slave then do with me as you please, however if you have done it for the sake of Allah, then let me free to worship my lord as I please.”
Abu Bakr (ra) with tears streaming down his face replied ” O Bilal (ra) Your words of “Ahad Ahad” resonate in the heavens, the Beloved of Allah(saw) sheds tears on your behalf, O You on whose courage the Angels are amazed, how could Abu Bakr( ra) even think such a thing as enslaving you, for you are now free to do as you please.”
Many other people in slavery were purchased and freed by Abu Bakr (ra) one day his father who was not yet a Muslim said to him ” My son I see your wealth is being spent in liberating weak and powerless slaves, Why do you not instead spend your wealth in winning over the Men of Power and influence.” Abu Bakr replied ” my father you are concerned with winning the pleasure of men and gaining prestige among them , I am only concerned with earning pleasure of Allah”.
Sayyid ul Muazzin.
Five times a day across the Muslim World, the sound of the Azaan is heard its sound resonates in the Bazaars of Lahore, the Coffee shops of Cairo , the Boardwalks Of Casablanca, the villages of Somalia and The Palm groves and deserts Of Arabia. Calling the faithful to prayer. If you happen to be in a major city ,Subhanallah the voice of the Muazzins is conveyed at the same time from the minarets of all the mosques and from every direction, penetrating the hearts of the believers.
During the time of the Prophet (Sallallahu Alayhi Wassallam) the muslims were considering on how to call all the faithful to prayer. The community had grown significantly. Many muslims lived on the outskirts of the city far away from the Masjid.
One morning Abdullah ibn Zayd (ra) came running excitedly to The Prophet (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) . he said he had been shown a method of calling the muslims to prayer in a dream. ” I saw a man in my dream dressed in green clothes carrying a bell, I asked him to sell it to me, he said “what do you need it for”. I said, to call the muslims to prayer.He said I will show you a better way.”
Abdullah (ra) recited the words of the Azaan to The Prophet (Sallallahu alaiyhi Wassallam), The Prophet of Allah( Sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) told him to go and teach those words to Bilal (ra), to recite. Thus Bilal (ra) was given the honour Of being the first Muazzin of Islam, The muazzin Of The Prophet Of Allah (Sallallahu alaiyhi Wassalam). He was chosen not only for his powerful and melodious voice, the ulema have stated because he had already born testimony to the Shahadah in the face of torture. Who better to recite the words of Azaan then the One whose chants of “Ahad Ahad”, had resonated in the Heavens and left the angels themselves awestruck. Upon hearing the Azaan Umar (ra) rushed to the masjid for he had seen the same dream, The Prophet (sallallahu alaiyhi Wassallam said ” O Umar revelation has preceded you..” The Prophet (Sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) had himself received the same revelation.
Thus Bilal (ra) would call the Azaan , and he would then go to and wait outside the door of The Prophet (Sallallahu alaiyhi Wassallam) for him( Sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) to come and lead the Prayers.
Upon the conquest Of Makkah, as Hazarat Ali al Murataza (ra) destroyed the Idols within the Kabbah, Bilal (ra) climbed on top of the Kabbah and recited the Azaan “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar”…….. . The Mushrikeen of Makkah watched in bewilderment the slave who they had once tortured mercilessly stood gloriously on top of the Kabbah whilst they, the Nobles of the Quraysh watched in humiliation.
After the departure of The Prophet of Allah (Sallallahu alaiyhi Wassallam) from this world Bilal (ra) went to recite the azaan, when he came to recite the name of the Prophet (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) , overcome with grief he broke down in tears. The rest of the Muslims also broke down in tears and started sobbing uncontrollably. Bilal (ra) managed to complete the Azaan with great difficulty. After that day he decided to no longer recite the Azaan the grief was just too much for him. He would no longer be able to stand outside the door of The Prophet (Sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) and call out “Prayer O Messenger Of Allah” (Sallallahu alaiyhi Wassallam). Thus he remained exclusively the Muazzin of The Prophet (Sallallahu alaiyhi Wassallam), he only recited the azaan on two further occasions.
His heart grew restless after the departure of The Prophet (Sallallahu alaiyhi Wassallam) he was filled with grief. He eventually after joining the Muslim army settled in Damascus. He recited the Azaan once after the conquest of Jerusalem upon the request of Umar al Farooq (ra).
One day as he was sleeping at his home in Damascus he saw The Prophet (Sallallahu alaiyhi Wassallam) in a dream. The Prophet (Sallallahu alaiyhi Wassallam) asked ” why is it that you don’t come to visit me.” As soon as Bilal (ra) woke he set out for the city of Medina.
Upon his arrival in Medina the Grandsons of the Prophet (sallallahu alaiyhi Wassallam), Imam Hassan (ra) and Imam Hussain (ra) came to visit him. Bilal (ra) had deep love and affection for them and was overjoyed when he met them. Upon the request of the grandsons of the Beloved of Allah (Sallallahu alaiyhi Wassallam) he recited the Azaan for the final time.
The People of Medina were surprised to hear his voice. They were reminded of The Prophet (Sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam), when in those days Bilal (ra) used to recite the Azaan five times a day. Upon hearing his voice All the people both men and women came out of their houses in tears, and the sound of their grief reverberated across the city of Medina.
After a few days Bilal (ra) returned to Damascus where he eventually passed away. It is stated that whilst he was on his death bed his wife seeing that he was about to depart from this world Shouted “Oh how how overwhelming is my disastrous grief” Bilal (ra) smiled and joyfully stated “No how great is My pleasure for I am about to be reunited with my Beloved (Sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) and his companions.” After saying these words he departed this world. His tomb is in Damacus and is visited by Millions every year.
DISSOCIATION OF THE HEART FROM THE WORLD AND CONSTANT REFLECTION ON THE A AKHIRAH
Despite the fact that man is in the world and is part and parcel of this material world, it is essential for his spiritual progress that his heart remains disassociated from the world and associated with the Life Hereafter (Akhirah). It is necessary that man at all times reflects on the Akhirah. Almighty Lord (Allah Ta'ala) has created us for a specific purpose, viz., His remembrance. We are to spend a short time in this transitory abode and then pass onto our next phase of life in our onward journey towards Allah Ta'ala. It is thus imperative that the heart of man does not cling to this world even though he physically is constrained to participate in worldly activities. Along with emptying his heart from worldly love, he has constantly to reflect and remind himself about the Akhirah. This attitude will produce strength in the heart. and his way of life (Deen) will become solidified and the Faith (Imaan) in the heart will start to glow. For attaining firmness of Imaan, if is necessary that one endeavours to meditate on the worthlessness of this world. Reflection is necessary always ponder on the fact of this earth being perishable and will one day pass into non-existence. Ponder especially on the shortness of one's own life, How swiftly the time flies by, Soon will one be called into the presence of Allah Ta'ala and a reckoning will be demanded. Reflect on the wonders and the everlasting nature of the Life Hereafter, once death (Maut) arrives and in relation to man Maut arrives with great swiftness all the events of the period after death will occur in rapid succession. The Athaab (punishment) in the grave, the reckoning and the torments in dooms day (Qiyaamah), Paradise (Jannat), Hell (Jahannum), Bridge (Siraat), reward and punishment are all things on which it is necessary that the true believer (Mu'min) reflects continuously. Constant reflection on these issues will produce firmness of Imaan and the realization of the futility of this ephemeral (short) life and the reality and permanence of the akhirah will dawn on one. The Imaan and intelligence of the Mu'min will then discern actual truth and operate from an elevated platform. Some narrations in regard to this subject will now be related.
Allah Ta'ala says in the Holy Qur'aan :
"Alluring (and adorned) has been made for mankind the love of desires regarding women, sons, mounds of gold and silver, beautifully marked horses, other grazing stock and farms. (But) these are things for use in this worldly life.. And, by Allah is a beautiful end. say (O Muhammad!): Shall I inform you of that which is better than these things? For those who fear (their Lord Rabb) are such Gardens by their Rabb, beneath which flow rivers; therein will they dwell forever; (and for them therein) will be pure wives and (greatest of all) The Pleasure of Allah. Allah is the Overseer of His servants." (Aayat I Aal Imraan)
Allah Ta'ala says in the Holy Qur'aan
"Whatever you have (of worldly possessions) will (one day) come to an end, (But) whatever is with Allah will remain forever." (Sura Nahl)
. "Wealth and children are a glitter of this world. And, righteous deeds which remain forever are best by your Rabb for obtaining thawaab and best for (pinning) hopes." (Sura Kahf)
"Know (and understand well) that, verily, the life of this world is (but) play, amusement, adornment, mutual pride (viewing with one another in material possession and worldly pomp) and mutual rivalry in accumulating wealth and children. In the Hereafter is a dreadful punishment (for the rebellious ones) and (for the people of Imaan) will be forgiveness and pleasure from Allah." (Sura Hadeed)
"You prefer the worldly life (to the AKHIRAH) whereas the Hereafter is best and everlasting." (Surah A'laa)
Mastoor Bin Shaddaad (May Allah please with him radiallahu anhu) narrates that Prophet Muhammad (Rasulullah .sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said
"I take oath by Allah (and say) that the similitude of this life with the AKHIRAH is like the (quantity of water which remains on the finger after it was dipped into the sea."
The insignificance of this world in relation to the AKHIRAH is described in this saying of Prophet (pbuh) hadith. What quantity of water will there be on one's finger which has been withdraw from the sea after having dipped it in? Whatever comparison that slight bit of moisture on one's finger has with all the water in the oceans of the earth, that is the relation or comparison of this world with the AKHIRAH. The worthlessness and insignificance of this worldly life in relation to the wonderful and everlasting life in the AKHIRAH is quite apparent from this hadith.
Jaabir (radiallahu anhu narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) once on passing by a dead goat, said:
"Who among you desires to obtain this dead and decomposing goat for the price of a dirham (a silver coin)?' The people said: 'We do not desire it for anything (leave alone a dirham). 'Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: "I take oath by Allah that the world is more contemptible to Allah that what this (dead) goat is to you. "
Sahl Bin Sa'd (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"If the world had the value of even the wing of a mosquito by Allah, He would not have given any Nonbeliever (kaafir) even a drink of water." (Tirmizi, Ibn Majah)
Abu Musa (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
Whoever love his world will harm his AKHIRAH and whoever loves his AKHIRAH will harm his world.
Therefore, give preference to the abode which will be everlasting (i.e. AKHIRAH)." (Ahmad, Baihaqi)
Ka' b Bin Malik (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"Two hungary wolves let loose in a flock of sheep do not cause so much damage to the flock as does the love of wealth and vanity cause to one's Deen (Tirmizi. Darmi)
Love of wealth and vanity or the desire for greatness and glory are spiritually destructive forces. They bring total ruin to one's Deen. Love of wealth drives one to indulge in all sorts of unlawful activities which utterly ruins one's Deeni life. The desire for name, fame and glory brings in its wake much corruption, hatred, revenge and other bestial qualities which also wreck one spiritually and harm one's worldly life considerably The desire for rank and position is evil. However, if high rank comes to one without hankering after it, then it will be a blessing (ni'mat) from Allah Ta'ala .
In this regard Abu Hurairah (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
HOLY QURAN
"Allah Ta'ala will say to a man on the Day of Judgment (Qiyaamah) : 'What! Did I not bestow leadership on you?" In the Holy Qur'aan , Allah Ta'ala. states: "And, he (Prophet (Nabi) Musa) was (given) joy Allah dignity. "(Surah Ahzaab)
"And, he (Nabi Isa) was (given) dignity on earth and in the AKHIRAH." (Surah Aale Imraan)
From these narrations it is clear that rank, dignity and honor, if forth coming from Allah Ta'ala, are favors which have to be appreciated. Nabi Dawood and Nabi Sulaiman (alayhimas salaam) were even granted vast kingdoms. This was a great bounty from Allah Ta'ala.
Although it is improper to desire for rank and position for worldly and personal (nafsaani) motives, there is nothing wrong if such desire is motivated purely for Deeni purposes to render service to the Deen as was the case with Nabi Yusuf (alayhis salaam) who expressed the wish to be put in charge of the treasury of the land. However, it is not for everyone to express the wish for high posts and ranks. Inspite of such wishes being permissible if based on sincere motives, there is always the danger of spiritual corruption overtaking one.
Abu Hurairah (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"Whoever had control over even ten persons (on earth) will be ushered (into the Divine Court) in such a way... that (if he had committed any injustice upon his subjects) his injustice will destroy him" Daarmi)
The grave danger attendant to leadership should thus be realized from this hadith.
12.Ibn Mas'ood (radiallahu anhu) narrates that once Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) slept on a mat. The imprint of the mat had formed on the auspicious (mubaarak) body of Nabi-e-Kareem (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). Ibn Mas'ood (radiallahu anhu) then said: "O Rasulullah! Grant us permission to prepare a (comfortable) bed for you. "Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said;
"What relationship have I with the world? My similitude with the world is like a traveler with a tree under which he halts after a tiresome journey. He halts a while under the shade of the tree and then leaves it again to continue his journey." (Ahmad, Tirmizi)
Aishah (radiallahu anha) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"The world is the abode of a person who has no home; it is the wealth of the person who had no wealth. He who has no intelligence accumulates the wealth of the world (i.e. more than what is necessary)." (Ahmed, Baihaqi)
Huzaifah (radiallahu anhu) narrates that he heard Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said in his Sermon (Khutbah)
: "The love of the world is the root of all evil." (Tazeen, Baihaqi)
Jaabir (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"This world is a continuous journey which recedes (further and further) while the AKHIRAH is a continuous journey which approaches (nearer and nearer). Both (this world and the AKHIRAH) have their sons. If you can, be not among the sons of the world. Today you are in the abode of practice Daarul Amal) and there is no reckoning here. Reckoning will be for you in the AKHIRAH and there will be no amal (practice)." (Baihaqi)
16.Ibn Mas'ood (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) recited the following aayat: Translation of the aayat):
HOLY QURAN
"Allah Ta'ala expands the breast of the one whom He intends to guide, so that he accepts) Islam.
" Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) then said:
"When Noor enters the breast, it (the breast) expands." Someone asked: "O Rasulullah! Is there a sign for this?" Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: "Yes. He saves himself from this abode of deception (the world); he inclines towards the everlasting abode (AKHIRAH) and he makes preparations fro the everlasting abode before the arrival of death. ' (Baihaqi)
Abu Hurairah (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said.
"Remember much the severer of delights, i.e. Death (Maut) (Tirmizi, Nisaai, Ibn Majah)
Hadhrat Abdullah Ibn Umar (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"Maut (Death) is a gift for the Mu'min." (Baihaqi)
A gift is an object of pleasantness. The Mu'min should therefore be pleased with Maut. If there is fear for athaab (punishment) then arrangements should be made to be protected against such punishment (which follows after death). The protection against athaab is to be obedient to the commands of Allah and His Rasool (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and to resort to taubah for deficiencies.
Abdullah Ibn Umar (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) took hold of his (Ibn Umar's) shoulders and said:
"Stay on earth as if you are a traveler or like one walking along the road."
Like a traveler longs for his homeland and 1 traveler is continuously on the move anticipating a quick arrival home, so too should be the Mu'min. His heart should never be attached to this world. His gaze must be focussed on Jannat, his original and permanent home. He must prepare himself for his return home.
Ibn Umar (radiallahu anhu) would say: "When evening approaches do not wait for morning; when the morning approaches do not wait for the evening (Bukhari)
Baraa' Ibn Aathib (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"When the Mu'min is about to depart for the Hereafter, Malaaikah (angels) with glittering faces come to him. They have with them kafan (burial shrouds) and fragrance from Jannat Malakul Maut (angles of Death) then arrives and explains to the dying Mu'min): "O pure soul! Come towards the forgiveness and the pleasure of Allah Ta'ala... The Malaaikah (with glittering faces) take possession of the soul and wrap it in the heavenly kafan and fragrance... They proceed with the (pure) soul upwards. Every group of angels living on earths by whom they pass, inquire: 'Whose pure soul is this?' The Malaaikah (in whose possession the soul is) inform them (the other angels) of the identity of the person and (in informing them) call the soul by various beautiful and honorable titles... They then reach the first heaven and the Doors thereof are opened up. The holy Malaaikah of the first heaven (a group among them) accompany the procession to the second heaven and he Doors are opened up. In this way the procession goes from heaven Allah Ta'ala then orders:
"Enter the Book of Record of My servant in Ileeyeen and proceed towards the earth with him (for the questioning in the grave by Munkar and Nakeer)."
The soul is then returned to its body. The angels (Munkar and Nakeer) then come to the person and ask:
Who is your Rabb? The Mu'min replies: "Allah is my Rabb."
They ask: "What is your Deen?" He replies "Islam is my Deen." They then ask:
"Who is this man who was sent among you?" he replies: "He is the Nabi of Allah.
A caller than (on the instruction of Allah Ta'ala) calls out from the heaven: "My servant has spoken the truth. Arrange for him the comfort of Jannat; Clothe him with the garments of Jannat and open up on him a window from Jannat. The sweet breezes and fragrances of Jannat thus come to him..." (Ahmad)
The same hadith continues and narrates the evil and terrible condition which overtakes the kaafir (Non-believer) soul.
After death and in Qiyaamah will occur the following events:
The sounding of the Trumpet (Soor), the resurrection of the dead, the torments of Qiyaamah, the reckoning, the fortunate will be given to drink from the Fountain of Kauthar, punishment in Jahannum for certain sins (or for those who were not forgiven), intercession for the people of Imaan, entry into Jannat and the Vision of Allah Ta'ala. These are all things to reflect on so as to create life in Imaan. If one is not able to set aside a specific time for such meditation, then at least when going to bed at night, think about these events.
DISSOCIATION OF THE HEART FROM THE WORLD AND CONSTANT REFLECTION ON THE A AKHIRAH
Despite the fact that man is in the world and is part and parcel of this material world, it is essential for his spiritual progress that his heart remains disassociated from the world and associated with the Life Hereafter (Akhirah). It is necessary that man at all times reflects on the Akhirah. Almighty Lord (Allah Ta'ala) has created us for a specific purpose, viz., His remembrance. We are to spend a short time in this transitory abode and then pass onto our next phase of life in our onward journey towards Allah Ta'ala. It is thus imperative that the heart of man does not cling to this world even though he physically is constrained to participate in worldly activities. Along with emptying his heart from worldly love, he has constantly to reflect and remind himself about the Akhirah. This attitude will produce strength in the heart. and his way of life (Deen) will become solidified and the Faith (Imaan) in the heart will start to glow. For attaining firmness of Imaan, if is necessary that one endeavours to meditate on the worthlessness of this world. Reflection is necessary always ponder on the fact of this earth being perishable and will one day pass into non-existence. Ponder especially on the shortness of one's own life, How swiftly the time flies by, Soon will one be called into the presence of Allah Ta'ala and a reckoning will be demanded. Reflect on the wonders and the everlasting nature of the Life Hereafter, once death (Maut) arrives and in relation to man Maut arrives with great swiftness all the events of the period after death will occur in rapid succession. The Athaab (punishment) in the grave, the reckoning and the torments in dooms day (Qiyaamah), Paradise (Jannat), Hell (Jahannum), Bridge (Siraat), reward and punishment are all things on which it is necessary that the true believer (Mu'min) reflects continuously. Constant reflection on these issues will produce firmness of Imaan and the realization of the futility of this ephemeral (short) life and the reality and permanence of the akhirah will dawn on one. The Imaan and intelligence of the Mu'min will then discern actual truth and operate from an elevated platform. Some narrations in regard to this subject will now be related.
Allah Ta'ala says in the Holy Qur'aan :
"Alluring (and adorned) has been made for mankind the love of desires regarding women, sons, mounds of gold and silver, beautifully marked horses, other grazing stock and farms. (But) these are things for use in this worldly life.. And, by Allah is a beautiful end. say (O Muhammad!): Shall I inform you of that which is better than these things? For those who fear (their Lord Rabb) are such Gardens by their Rabb, beneath which flow rivers; therein will they dwell forever; (and for them therein) will be pure wives and (greatest of all) The Pleasure of Allah. Allah is the Overseer of His servants." (Aayat I Aal Imraan)
Allah Ta'ala says in the Holy Qur'aan
"Whatever you have (of worldly possessions) will (one day) come to an end, (But) whatever is with Allah will remain forever." (Sura Nahl)
. "Wealth and children are a glitter of this world. And, righteous deeds which remain forever are best by your Rabb for obtaining thawaab and best for (pinning) hopes." (Sura Kahf)
"Know (and understand well) that, verily, the life of this world is (but) play, amusement, adornment, mutual pride (viewing with one another in material possession and worldly pomp) and mutual rivalry in accumulating wealth and children. In the Hereafter is a dreadful punishment (for the rebellious ones) and (for the people of Imaan) will be forgiveness and pleasure from Allah." (Sura Hadeed)
"You prefer the worldly life (to the AKHIRAH) whereas the Hereafter is best and everlasting." (Surah A'laa)
Mastoor Bin Shaddaad (May Allah please with him radiallahu anhu) narrates that Prophet Muhammad (Rasulullah .sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said
"I take oath by Allah (and say) that the similitude of this life with the AKHIRAH is like the (quantity of water which remains on the finger after it was dipped into the sea."
The insignificance of this world in relation to the AKHIRAH is described in this saying of Prophet (pbuh) hadith. What quantity of water will there be on one's finger which has been withdraw from the sea after having dipped it in? Whatever comparison that slight bit of moisture on one's finger has with all the water in the oceans of the earth, that is the relation or comparison of this world with the AKHIRAH. The worthlessness and insignificance of this worldly life in relation to the wonderful and everlasting life in the AKHIRAH is quite apparent from this hadith.
Jaabir (radiallahu anhu narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) once on passing by a dead goat, said:
"Who among you desires to obtain this dead and decomposing goat for the price of a dirham (a silver coin)?' The people said: 'We do not desire it for anything (leave alone a dirham). 'Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: "I take oath by Allah that the world is more contemptible to Allah that what this (dead) goat is to you. "
Sahl Bin Sa'd (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"If the world had the value of even the wing of a mosquito by Allah, He would not have given any Nonbeliever (kaafir) even a drink of water." (Tirmizi, Ibn Majah)
Abu Musa (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
Whoever love his world will harm his AKHIRAH and whoever loves his AKHIRAH will harm his world.
Therefore, give preference to the abode which will be everlasting (i.e. AKHIRAH)." (Ahmad, Baihaqi)
Ka' b Bin Malik (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"Two hungary wolves let loose in a flock of sheep do not cause so much damage to the flock as does the love of wealth and vanity cause to one's Deen (Tirmizi. Darmi)
Love of wealth and vanity or the desire for greatness and glory are spiritually destructive forces. They bring total ruin to one's Deen. Love of wealth drives one to indulge in all sorts of unlawful activities which utterly ruins one's Deeni life. The desire for name, fame and glory brings in its wake much corruption, hatred, revenge and other bestial qualities which also wreck one spiritually and harm one's worldly life considerably The desire for rank and position is evil. However, if high rank comes to one without hankering after it, then it will be a blessing (ni'mat) from Allah Ta'ala .
In this regard Abu Hurairah (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
HOLY QURAN
"Allah Ta'ala will say to a man on the Day of Judgment (Qiyaamah) : 'What! Did I not bestow leadership on you?" In the Holy Qur'aan , Allah Ta'ala. states: "And, he (Prophet (Nabi) Musa) was (given) joy Allah dignity. "(Surah Ahzaab)
"And, he (Nabi Isa) was (given) dignity on earth and in the AKHIRAH." (Surah Aale Imraan)
From these narrations it is clear that rank, dignity and honor, if forth coming from Allah Ta'ala, are favors which have to be appreciated. Nabi Dawood and Nabi Sulaiman (alayhimas salaam) were even granted vast kingdoms. This was a great bounty from Allah Ta'ala.
Although it is improper to desire for rank and position for worldly and personal (nafsaani) motives, there is nothing wrong if such desire is motivated purely for Deeni purposes to render service to the Deen as was the case with Nabi Yusuf (alayhis salaam) who expressed the wish to be put in charge of the treasury of the land. However, it is not for everyone to express the wish for high posts and ranks. Inspite of such wishes being permissible if based on sincere motives, there is always the danger of spiritual corruption overtaking one.
Abu Hurairah (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"Whoever had control over even ten persons (on earth) will be ushered (into the Divine Court) in such a way... that (if he had committed any injustice upon his subjects) his injustice will destroy him" Daarmi)
The grave danger attendant to leadership should thus be realized from this hadith.
12.Ibn Mas'ood (radiallahu anhu) narrates that once Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) slept on a mat. The imprint of the mat had formed on the auspicious (mubaarak) body of Nabi-e-Kareem (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). Ibn Mas'ood (radiallahu anhu) then said: "O Rasulullah! Grant us permission to prepare a (comfortable) bed for you. "Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said;
"What relationship have I with the world? My similitude with the world is like a traveler with a tree under which he halts after a tiresome journey. He halts a while under the shade of the tree and then leaves it again to continue his journey." (Ahmad, Tirmizi)
Aishah (radiallahu anha) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"The world is the abode of a person who has no home; it is the wealth of the person who had no wealth. He who has no intelligence accumulates the wealth of the world (i.e. more than what is necessary)." (Ahmed, Baihaqi)
Huzaifah (radiallahu anhu) narrates that he heard Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said in his Sermon (Khutbah)
: "The love of the world is the root of all evil." (Tazeen, Baihaqi)
Jaabir (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"This world is a continuous journey which recedes (further and further) while the AKHIRAH is a continuous journey which approaches (nearer and nearer). Both (this world and the AKHIRAH) have their sons. If you can, be not among the sons of the world. Today you are in the abode of practice Daarul Amal) and there is no reckoning here. Reckoning will be for you in the AKHIRAH and there will be no amal (practice)." (Baihaqi)
16.Ibn Mas'ood (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) recited the following aayat: Translation of the aayat):
HOLY QURAN
"Allah Ta'ala expands the breast of the one whom He intends to guide, so that he accepts) Islam.
" Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) then said:
"When Noor enters the breast, it (the breast) expands." Someone asked: "O Rasulullah! Is there a sign for this?" Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: "Yes. He saves himself from this abode of deception (the world); he inclines towards the everlasting abode (AKHIRAH) and he makes preparations fro the everlasting abode before the arrival of death. ' (Baihaqi)
Abu Hurairah (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said.
"Remember much the severer of delights, i.e. Death (Maut) (Tirmizi, Nisaai, Ibn Majah)
Hadhrat Abdullah Ibn Umar (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"Maut (Death) is a gift for the Mu'min." (Baihaqi)
A gift is an object of pleasantness. The Mu'min should therefore be pleased with Maut. If there is fear for athaab (punishment) then arrangements should be made to be protected against such punishment (which follows after death). The protection against athaab is to be obedient to the commands of Allah and His Rasool (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) and to resort to taubah for deficiencies.
Abdullah Ibn Umar (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) took hold of his (Ibn Umar's) shoulders and said:
"Stay on earth as if you are a traveler or like one walking along the road."
Like a traveler longs for his homeland and 1 traveler is continuously on the move anticipating a quick arrival home, so too should be the Mu'min. His heart should never be attached to this world. His gaze must be focussed on Jannat, his original and permanent home. He must prepare himself for his return home.
Ibn Umar (radiallahu anhu) would say: "When evening approaches do not wait for morning; when the morning approaches do not wait for the evening (Bukhari)
Baraa' Ibn Aathib (radiallahu anhu) narrates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said:
"When the Mu'min is about to depart for the Hereafter, Malaaikah (angels) with glittering faces come to him. They have with them kafan (burial shrouds) and fragrance from Jannat Malakul Maut (angles of Death) then arrives and explains to the dying Mu'min): "O pure soul! Come towards the forgiveness and the pleasure of Allah Ta'ala... The Malaaikah (with glittering faces) take possession of the soul and wrap it in the heavenly kafan and fragrance... They proceed with the (pure) soul upwards. Every group of angels living on earths by whom they pass, inquire: 'Whose pure soul is this?' The Malaaikah (in whose possession the soul is) inform them (the other angels) of the identity of the person and (in informing them) call the soul by various beautiful and honorable titles... They then reach the first heaven and the Doors thereof are opened up. The holy Malaaikah of the first heaven (a group among them) accompany the procession to the second heaven and he Doors are opened up. In this way the procession goes from heaven Allah Ta'ala then orders:
"Enter the Book of Record of My servant in Ileeyeen and proceed towards the earth with him (for the questioning in the grave by Munkar and Nakeer)."
The soul is then returned to its body. The angels (Munkar and Nakeer) then come to the person and ask:
Who is your Rabb? The Mu'min replies: "Allah is my Rabb."
They ask: "What is your Deen?" He replies "Islam is my Deen." They then ask:
"Who is this man who was sent among you?" he replies: "He is the Nabi of Allah.
A caller than (on the instruction of Allah Ta'ala) calls out from the heaven: "My servant has spoken the truth. Arrange for him the comfort of Jannat; Clothe him with the garments of Jannat and open up on him a window from Jannat. The sweet breezes and fragrances of Jannat thus come to him..." (Ahmad)
The same hadith continues and narrates the evil and terrible condition which overtakes the kaafir (Non-believer) soul.
After death and in Qiyaamah will occur the following events:
The sounding of the Trumpet (Soor), the resurrection of the dead, the torments of Qiyaamah, the reckoning, the fortunate will be given to drink from the Fountain of Kauthar, punishment in Jahannum for certain sins (or for those who were not forgiven), intercession for the people of Imaan, entry into Jannat and the Vision of Allah Ta'ala. These are all things to reflect on so as to create life in Imaan. If one is not able to set aside a specific time for such meditation, then at least when going to bed at night, think about these events.
Surah Ar-Rum (The Byzantines) opens with the prophesy about the Byzantine (Romans). It is a very interesting and eye-opening declaration revealed by Allah about six years before the Hijrah (migration to Madinah) and eight years before the fulfilment of the prophesy. It was revealed in the year in which the migration to Habash (Abyssinia) took place.
The defeats and victories mentioned above are related to the last phases of the centuries-long struggle between the Byzantine and Persian empires. The verse first mentions the event that took place at the time of its revelation. At that time, in the Byzantine occupied territories adjacent to Arabia ie. Jordan, Syria and Palestine, the Romans were completely overpowered by the Persians in 615 AD (corresponding to six years before Hijrah). Thus the total destruction of the Byzantine Empire seemed quite imminent.
The Muslims around the Prophet (s) were frustrated on hearing the news of the defeat of the Byzantines, who were Christians, believing as such in the One God while the pagan Quraish sympathised with the Persians who, according to Quraish, supported the opposition to the One-God idea.
The above verses declared two prophesies: First, the Romans shall be victorious and second, the Muslims also shall win a victory at the same time 'within a few years'. The Arabic term bidi 'cineen denotes any number between three and ten years.
When these verses were revealed, the disbelievers of Makkah ridiculed them because, apparently, there was not even a remote chance of the fulfilment of either prediction in a few years.
In 622 AD, six years after the revelation of the above verses, as the Prophet (s) migrated to Madinah, the emperor Heraclius of Byzantine succeeded in defeating the Persians at Issus, south of the Taurus mountains and subsequently drove them out of Asia Minor. In 624 AD, Heraclius entered Azerbaijan and destroyed Clorumia, the birth-place of Zoroaster, and ravaged the principal fire-temple of Iran. This was eight years after the revelation of the above verses, when the Muslims achieved a decisive victory at Badr for the first time against the Makkan polytheists (mushrik). Thus both the predictions made in these verses were fulfilled simultaneously within the stipulated period of under ten years.
The predictions made in these verses offer the most outstanding evidence of the Quran being the Word of Allah and the Prophet Muhammad (s) being a true Messenger of Allah.
At the end Allah makes it clear that the victory to the Byzantines, or to the Muslims - both were achieved because of the Support and Will of Allah. This support or help is tied with His Justice. Allah is Powerful as well as Merciful. Out of His Mercy, He takes care of the oppressed ones relatively better in conduct and beliefs than their opponents.
Then onward, from the two unequivocal predictions of the events the direction of discourse turns to the central theme of the Hereafter.
"(This is) Allah's promise. Never does Allah fail to fulfil His promise - but most people know (it) not. They know but the outward aspect of this world's life, whereas of the Hereafter they are heedless."
(Quran, 30:6,7)
Man is accustomed to seeing only what is apparent and superficial. That which is behind the apparent and superficial he does not know. Just by relying on the apparent and superficial manifestations man can make wrong estimates owing to the lack of knowledge about the future. Therefore it is essential to plan lifes activities just upon what is visible and apparent.
This leads to the Hereafter. There are plenty of Signs and evidence which point to the Hereafter but people are heedless of these due to their own short-sightedness. They only see the apparent and outward aspect of worldly life and are unaware of what is hidden behind it.
"Have they not reflected on their own selves."
(Quran, 30:8)
It follows that if people reflect on their own selves, apart from the external phenomena, they shall realise the necessity of a second life after the present life. Following are three special characteristics of a human being:
All the bounties of the earth and around it are bestowed upon a human for his use.
He is free to choose a way of life for himself. He can follow virtue or vice, obedience or denial, the way of belief or disbelief as he likes.
He judges the deeds as good and bad and decides spontaneously for a good act to be rewarded and an evil act to be punished.
These three characteristics point to the consequence that man should be called to account for his deeds, for the use of powers relegated to him. This call should happen after man's life-activity has finished. The checking and auditing of the account should be done only after all the activities, of not only one man, or one nation, but of all mankind living in this world, has expired. Hence the very pattern of living in this world demands that after the present life there should be another life when a Court should be established, life-record of every person be examined justly and then reward or punishment be given according to his deeds.
"Allah has not created the heavens and the earth and all that is between them without ( an inner) truth and a term set (by Him). And yet, behold, there are many people who (stubbornly) deny (the truth) that they are destined to meet their Sustainer."
(Quran, 30:8)
Two more arguments are given for the Hereafter in the above passage.
The universe has been created purposefully. It is a well-organised system of which every component testifies that it has been created with great wisdom. Every phenomenon is governed by a law, the discovery of which has established man to design his social and economic living. This all indicates that the Almighty, the Wise Being, must have a purpose and a scheme in creating this world and entrusting its affairs to His creation, human beings, endowed with great mental and physical capabilities, powers and authority, and freedom of action and choice.
Then is it possible and logical that the whole record of man's life-activity will be just set aside after his death without any accountability? Hence justice demands that there should be another life in which man has to live according to the performance of his deeds in this world. That world should be the world for receiving the reward or punishment.
A close observation of the system of the universe indicates that everything in this world has an age appointed for it, after which it dies and expires. Nothing here is immortal. All the forces working in the universe are limited, and the universe too, is to expire as a whole. Science also points out that matter and energy are changeable and non-permanent. The Second law of Thermodynamics proves that there is decrease due to entropy; the material world neither existing since eternity, nor yet lasting till eternity. This again proves the occurrence of resurrection.
"And have they never travelled in the earth and beheld what was the fate of their forbearers. Far mightier were they; they tilled the land and built more on it than they have built. Their Messengers came to them with Clear Signs. Allah did not wrong them, but they wronged themselves. Evil was the end of the evil-doers, because they had denied the revelations of Allah and scoffed at them."
(Quran, 30:9,10)
Now in these verses, a historical argument is presented for the Hereafter. It is claimed here that the denial of the Hereafter is not a new phenomenon, and a large number of people, sometimes entire nations, denied it altogether or lived without caring for accountability after death. History shows that any form of denial, or non-realisation, of the Hereafter resulted in the corruption and immorality of the people. The experience of history proves that denial of the reality of the Hereafter is fatal to mankind.
Many regard material progress as the sign of a nation following the right path. Here the Quran rejects this notion. It is made clear that mere material progress of a people lacking in right belief and conduct is not going to save them from becoming the fuel of Hell.
On the one hand, there is evidence in man's own being and in the universe around him, and the continuous experience of human history; and on the other hand there also came the Prophets(a.s.), one after the other, who showed clear signs, as a proof of their being true Prophets and warned the people that the Hereafter is sure to come.
The persons, or nations, that neither think rightly themselves, nor adopt the right attitude by listening to others, will be themselves responsible for their destruction in the end. Allah had not been unjust to them, they had done injustice to themselves by not following the directions and guidance given by the Prophets of their times.
"Allah brings His creation into being and then He reproduces them. To Him He will recall you all.
And when the Last Hour dawns, the wrong-doers will be speechless with despair. None of their partners will intercede for them; indeed they shall even disown their associates.
And when the Last Hour dawns, (mankind) will be separated one from the other. Those who have believed and done good works shall rejoice in a Garden and those who have disbelieved and denied Our Revelations and the meeting of the life to come, shall be delivered up for punishment."
(Quran, 30:11-16)
It seems easy for man to believe that God is the Creator, but it becomes a little difficult to believe that God will bring dead human beings to life again. Scientifically, reproduction or recreation should be an easier process than original production or creation. But in the case of God, it entirely depends upon the concept of God in one's mind. If we believe in this true attribute of God, then without any hesitation, we will believe that God can recreate or reproduce His creations anytime, any moment.
Wrong-doers mentioned here are not those who have committed murders, robberies and rapes in this world but are all those, as well, who have rebelled against God, denied the accountability of the Hereafter and have been worshipping others than Allah, or themselves. When such people suddenly come back to life in the Hereafter, against their expectations, they will stand dumbfounded.
There are three kinds of associates mentioned here:
The angels, prophets, saints, martyrs and the righteous people to whom the polytheists assign divine attributes and powers, and whom they worship as gods, constitute the first category. On Resurrection Day these persons will rebuke their worshippers that they were made associates without their consent and against their teachings by the worshippers. Hence these alleged associates will declare their complete disavowal of their worshippers.
Inanimate things like the moon, the sun, the planets, trees and stones are worshipped as gods by the polytheists. This forms the second group. These are helpless objects and will not be able to say anything on their behalf or against them.
The arch-criminals e.g. Satan, false religious guides, tyrants and despots, by deception and fraud, or by use of force, compelled the servants of God to worship them, thus belong to the third category. They themselves will be in trouble on the Day of Resurrection. Unable to intercede for others, they will rather try to prove before Allah that their worshippers and followers were, themselves, responsible for their evil-doings and therefore their deviation should not be credited to the account of the arch-criminals.
Hence the polytheists shall not obtain any intercession from anywhere. They will themselves admit their mistake of making associates with Allah. In the Hereafter the polytheists would disown polytheism (shirk) with which they were misled in the world.
On Resurrection Day the groupings of mankind will be different from those in this world. Instead of groups based on race, country, language, tribe and clan, economic and political interests, mankind will be regrouped on the basis of true belief, morality and character. According to Islam, the real differentiation for mankind is belief and morality.
It is important to note that good works are mentioned as a necessary adjunct of faith. In order to enter paradise, belief is not enough, but good works should be the spontaneous outcome of true belief.
"Therefore, glorify Allah when you enter the evening and when you rise in the morning. Praise be to Him in the heavens and the earth, in the afternoon and at the declining of the day."
(Quran, 30:17-18)
This order has been given to the Prophet (s) and through him to all the believers. The disbelievers by denying the life hereafter regard Allah as someone helpless. As opposed to them, the Prophet and the believers glorify Allah and proclaim that He is free from, and exalted above, defects and faults and weaknesses.
The best form of such proclamation and expression is the Prayers - the five-time prescribed prayers.
These verses clearly point to the times of the Fajr (morning), Maghrib (evening), Asr (declining of the day) and the Zuhr (afternoon) prayers.
Following are the verses of the Quran at other places pointing to the time of prayers.
"Establish the salat from the declining of the sun to the darkness of the night, and be particular about the recital of the Quran at dawn."
(Quran, 17:78)
"Establish the salat at the two ends of the day and in the early parts of the night."
(Quran, 11:114)
"And glorify your Sustainer with His praise before the rising of the sun and before its setting, and glorify Him again during the hours of the night and at the extremes of the day."
(Quran, 20:130)
Allah is ever bringing into existence countless animals and human beings by breathing life into dead matter. You witness the phenomenon of lands lying barren, by receiving water start blooming and blossoming. Life and death both are controlled by Allah. For Him the transfer from life to death, or death to life is a reality.
From here onward in this surah, in verses 20 to 27, Signs of Allah are mentioned. These Signs on the one hand, point towards the possibility and occurrence of the life hereafter as mentioned in the above verses. On the other hand, the same Signs also underscore that this universe is under One God alone - the Creator, Master and Ruler. Thus the two beliefs - Resurrection (Aakhira) and Oneness of God (Tawheed) are intertwined.
"And of His Signs is that He created you out of dust - and then, lo! you become human beings scattered far and wide!"
(Quran, 30:20)
Man has been created out of a few dead elements like carbon, calcium etc. This unique creation, as man is, has great powers of sentiment, consciousness, initiative, and choice. Then not only one man was created, but in him and his mate, wonderful procreative powers are given by Allah by which, billions of human beings are being reproduced continuously. This poses some very serious questions.
First, could this unique creation come into existence without the design and creative power of a Wise Creator?
Secondly, could this creation be the result of thinking and design by many gods, or just One God?
Thirdly, that the One God Who has brought man into being from absolute nothingness, would He not be able to bring man back to life after giving death?
The only answer to these questions is that life and death are controlled by the One and only One Allah. For Him the transference from life to death, or death to life, is trivial.
"And of His signs is that He created for you mates out of your own kind, so that you might live in tranquillity with them. And He engendered love and kindness between you. In this behold, there are messages indeed for people who think."
(Quran, 30:21)
In this verse another Sign of Allah's wisdom has been depicted. He has created mankind in two sexes - male and female. Both are identical in humanity having the same basic formula of their figure and form, but different in the bio-sexual performance. There is such a wonderful harmony between the two that each is a perfect counterpoint of the other. Following are the inferences that can be drawn from this phenomenon.
It clearly indicates that Allah has created everything in this universe in pairs. Every entity needs its pair for its completion. Hence this material world also has a pair known as the Hereafter. The worldly life gets fulfilment by having the life-after-death as its complement.
Allah has ingrained sexual attraction between a male and female. This sexual love makes a pair work and live together with full confidence and reliability.
The pairs are of opposite nature but Allah the Creator and the Sustainer arranges for a deep coordination between the two.
"And of His Signs are the creation of the heavens and the earth and the diversity of your tongues and colours. In this, behold, there are messages indeed for the learned."
(Quran, 30:22)
In this verse two more Signs are mentioned: the creation of the heavens and the earth and the diversity of tongues and colours of mankind.
Reflecting over the origin of the initial energy that assumed the form of matter with the combination of the elements, creating an awe-inspiring system of the universe, and then the functioning of this system over billions of centuries, with such regularity and discipline; all this directs a sensible person to conclude that this could not happen by mere chance, without the All-Embracing Will and Command of the All-Knowing, All-Wise Creator.
Attention has been drawn only to the two aspects of diversity of tongues and colours, but if one looks around, one will find countless differences in the species of man, animals, plants and other things. Even the two leaves of a tree are not exactly alike. Anyone who sees this wonderful phenomenon with open eyes would conclude that the Maker of the universe is ever-engaged in His creative and sustaining activity.
"And of His Signs is your sleep, at night or day as well as your search for His bounties. In this, behold, there are messages indeed for those who pay heed."
(Quran, 30:23)
Allah has made day and night for work and sleep in general. But this is not a hard and fast law. So in both day and night you may sleep as well as work for your livelihood.
This Sign of Allah points out that Allah is not only the Creator but also extremely Compassionate and Merciful to arrange for the needs and requirements of His creations.
Allah has placed a powerful urge for sleep in mankind. This sleep empowers him/her automatically and compels him/her to have a few hours of rest to be refreshed.
Man has been given appropriate limits and suitable physical and mental capabilities for exploring means and resources of livelihood.
"And of His Signs is that He shows you the lightning (to cause) fear and hope. He sends down water from the skies, giving life thereby to the earth after its death. In this, behold, there are messages indeed for people who use their reason."
(Quran, 30:24)
Thunder and lightning are the prerequisites for rainstorms. This rain is then the cause of the hope to have the crops as well as the cause of the fear that lightning may damage something or too heavy rain may wash away the land.
The creatures of the world live on the products that come out from the earth. This productivity of the earth depends on rain. This rain directly falls on the earth or its water gathers together on the surface of the earth, or freezes on the mountains and then flows down in the form of rivers. Further, rain itself depends on the heat of the sun, the change of seasons and atmospheric changes in temperature, and circulation of the winds etc.
The establishment of harmony and proportion between different entities existing in the earth to this stage, for millions and millions of years clearly shows the All-embracing Will and Plan and Wisdom of Allah, the Designer.
"And of His signs is that the skies and the earth stand firm at His bidding.
(Remember all this; for) in the end, when He will call you forth from the earth with a single call - lo! you will (all) emerge (for the Judgment).
For, unto Him belongs every being that is in the heavens and on earth; all things directly obey His will.
And He it is Who creates (all life) in the first instance, and then brings it forth nigh: and most easy is this for Him since His is the essence of all that is most sublime in the heavens and on earth, and He alone is Almighty, Truly Wise."
(Quran, 30:25-27)
The heavens and the earth have not only come into being by the command of Allah but their continuous functioning is also due to His command. His command sustains them to stand firm and not to collapse.
Enumerating all the above signs makes man realise the Power and Authority of Allah. About the Resurrection, two things are clearly mentioned here:
Firstly, Allah will have to make no preparation for raising mankind back to life after death. His one call will be enough to raise and muster together from every corner of the earth all human beings.
Secondly, since it was not difficult for Allah to create human beings in the first instance, how can it be difficult for Him to resurrect them again? Reproduction should be easier than production.
The Quran is full of verses directing towards the belief in Aakhirah. Tawheed - the Oneness of Allah and Aakhira - the life after death are the concepts in pair that are essential for the righteous living in this world. Without these two doctrines, mankind, individually or collectively, can never chalk out a life-style leading to peace and justice.
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