Slideshare (smu)-leadership-character-of-abraham-(25-aug-2015)

All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2015))
Presentation by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail
for Muslim Society of SMU – Singapore
Management University.”
Tuesday , 25 August 2015 – @ 7.30 pm
venue: SMU Bras Basah Road, Singapore
IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,
MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH
Reflection on a Qur’anic MessageReflection on a Qur’anic Message : As we are about to enter the month of: As we are about to enter the month of
DzulHijjah when the rites ofDzulHijjah when the rites of HAJJHAJJ and also the Festival of Sacrificeand also the Festival of Sacrifice EID-UL-EID-UL-
AD-HAAD-HA are celebrated, we must be reminded of exemplary struggle ofare celebrated, we must be reminded of exemplary struggle of
Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) a.s. What can we learn?Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) a.s. What can we learn?
Qur’an : An-Nahl: 16: 120

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
MUQADDIMAH
(AN INTRODUCTION)Firstly, I am aware that the topic given to me to speak to you isFirstly, I am aware that the topic given to me to speak to you is
““TIDING THROUGH UNIVERSITY AS A MUSLIMTIDING THROUGH UNIVERSITY AS A MUSLIM”.”.
Initially, I was agreeable to this as I may have previouslyInitially, I was agreeable to this as I may have previously
delivered something generally for undergrads of NUSMS. Yetdelivered something generally for undergrads of NUSMS. Yet
when I reflected further on hindsight, perhaps this time itwhen I reflected further on hindsight, perhaps this time it
would be too presumptuous for me to specifically address thewould be too presumptuous for me to specifically address the
topic which requires one who has relevant experience ,topic which requires one who has relevant experience ,
because :because :
[1] For myself, I have never experienced life as a student in any[1] For myself, I have never experienced life as a student in any
University. So how then can I be giving advise on ‘tiding throughUniversity. So how then can I be giving advise on ‘tiding through
it‘?;it‘?;
[2] Also the topic imply as though being a Muslim in our society (not[2] Also the topic imply as though being a Muslim in our society (not
just in the school or university) it has to be regarded asjust in the school or university) it has to be regarded as
problematic or at odds just because we are Muslims, thereforeproblematic or at odds just because we are Muslims, therefore
requiring some ‘tiding over’ on our part.requiring some ‘tiding over’ on our part.

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
MUQADDIMAH
(AN INTRODUCTION)Firstly, I am aware that the topic given to me to speak to you isFirstly, I am aware that the topic given to me to speak to you is
“TIDING THROUGH UNIVERSITY AS A MUSLIM”.“TIDING THROUGH UNIVERSITY AS A MUSLIM”.
[3] I am one who passionately believe and advocate that to strive to[3] I am one who passionately believe and advocate that to strive to
be ‘be ‘a Muslim in our lifea Muslim in our life’ in any context or situation, should be’ in any context or situation, should be
as natural as breathing the air.as natural as breathing the air. When breathingWhen breathing, I do not have, I do not have
to always be too self conscious about it “do I ? ” . So just do theto always be too self conscious about it “do I ? ” . So just do the
necessary, be natural as you should in breathing - and benecessary, be natural as you should in breathing - and be
sincere (as Muslims too), as per required in life;sincere (as Muslims too), as per required in life;
[4] that our society is one that already proclaim “[4] that our society is one that already proclaim “there must be nothere must be no
discrimination regarding religious rights of its citizensdiscrimination regarding religious rights of its citizens.“.“
Therefore we should not entertain doubts or adopt an attitude ofTherefore we should not entertain doubts or adopt an attitude of
mistrust towards others, or feel ‘stigmatized’ for beingmistrust towards others, or feel ‘stigmatized’ for being
Muslim. This is unhealthy and can even become a ‘self-fulfillingMuslim. This is unhealthy and can even become a ‘self-fulfilling
prophecy’.prophecy’.

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
MUQADDIMAH
(AN INTRODUCTION)
Also, as how I have learnt from my traditional teachersAlso, as how I have learnt from my traditional teachers
of Islam, we Muslims should seek to learn beneficialof Islam, we Muslims should seek to learn beneficial
knowledge which is ‘needed’, and not necessarilyknowledge which is ‘needed’, and not necessarily
knowledge that we ‘wanted’. So what do we need?knowledge that we ‘wanted’. So what do we need?
As we are now present in the month of ‘DzulQa’idah’ ,As we are now present in the month of ‘DzulQa’idah’ ,
what came to my mind is what our community shouldwhat came to my mind is what our community should
be made to be aware of and the important lessonbe made to be aware of and the important lesson
regarding its significance to us – when Allah SWT blessregarding its significance to us – when Allah SWT bless
us tous to insha-Allahinsha-Allah meet the month of DzulHijjah.meet the month of DzulHijjah.
So as Muslims – wherever we may be – I hope the topicSo as Muslims – wherever we may be – I hope the topic
I chose (as substitute) to share would be more relevant,I chose (as substitute) to share would be more relevant,
urgent for us to be aware andurgent for us to be aware and insha-Allahinsha-Allah benefit from.benefit from.

TA’ARUFTA’ARUF
I am merely a perpetual student of IslamI am merely a perpetual student of Islam
(home-grown) who is struggling to fulfil his(home-grown) who is struggling to fulfil his
duty as a Muslim – in following the way ofduty as a Muslim – in following the way of
our predecessors – to learn and to serveour predecessors – to learn and to serve
Allah s.w.t., and in upholding theAllah s.w.t., and in upholding the DeenDeen ofof
al-Islamal-Islam throughthrough khidmahkhidmah (service) to the(service) to the
ummahummah
I admit though, that I am passionateI admit though, that I am passionate
about Islam, Islamicabout Islam, Islamic Da’wahDa’wah and theand the
education of the entireeducation of the entire ummahummah (human(human
race) – as Prophet Muhammadrace) – as Prophet Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬ is tois to
me, the model educator of humanity parme, the model educator of humanity par
excellenceexcellence
MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
MUQADDIMAH
(AN INTRODUCTION)

MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
These are the only qualification that IThese are the only qualification that I
can offercan offer
And because I myself am still strugglingAnd because I myself am still struggling
to learn, so what I can do perhaps, isto learn, so what I can do perhaps, is
only to share the little that I know as aonly to share the little that I know as a
perpetual Muslim student involved inperpetual Muslim student involved in
educating theeducating the UmmahUmmah, especially from, especially from
the experience which Allah s.w.t. hasthe experience which Allah s.w.t. has
favoured me thus far, in my learningfavoured me thus far, in my learning
journey as a servant, a seeker and ajourney as a servant, a seeker and a
traveller upon the path of knowledgetraveller upon the path of knowledge
and wisdom.and wisdom.
MUQADDIMAH
(AN INTRODUCTION)

“Allah suffices me and the best to Protect!
Glory be to You (O Allah), of knowledge we have
none except what You have taught us, verily, You
are perfect in Knowledge, the Most Wise.”
MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
MUQADDIMAH
(AN INTRODUCTION)
These are the only qualification that IThese are the only qualification that I
can offercan offer
And because I myself am still strugglingAnd because I myself am still struggling
to learn, so what I can do perhaps, isto learn, so what I can do perhaps, is
only to share the little that I know as aonly to share the little that I know as a
perpetual Muslim student involved inperpetual Muslim student involved in
educating theeducating the UmmahUmmah, especially from, especially from
the experience which Allah s.w.t. hasthe experience which Allah s.w.t. has
favoured me thus far, in my learningfavoured me thus far, in my learning
journey as a servant, a seeker and ajourney as a servant, a seeker and a
traveller upon the path of knowledgetraveller upon the path of knowledge
and wisdom.and wisdom.

All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2015)
MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.

A POSERA POSER::
What do you call this numerals as ?What do you call this numerals as ?
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 101 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Arabic numeralsArabic numerals
 But the Arabs today write their numerals differently , viz. :But the Arabs today write their numerals differently , viz. :
١١٢٢٣٣٤٤٥٥٦٦٧٧٨٨٩٩١١
 So, why – 1234567 … is called ‘So, why – 1234567 … is called ‘Arabic numeralsArabic numerals’ ?’ ?
Because it was introduced to the whole world by the ‘Because it was introduced to the whole world by the ‘Islamic civilizationIslamic civilization’ which’ which
disseminated universal learnings, with Arabic as thedisseminated universal learnings, with Arabic as the lingua francalingua franca..
TASAWWUR ISLAMTASAWWUR ISLAM
..

A POSERA POSER::

Actually, these numerals -Actually, these numerals - originallyoriginally
were rediscovered by the Muslim scholars who went to the sub-were rediscovered by the Muslim scholars who went to the sub-
continent which they gave the namecontinent which they gave the name HINDHIND (India). There, in following the(India). There, in following the
teaching of Islam, they sought out and studied their ancient sciences andteaching of Islam, they sought out and studied their ancient sciences and
wisdoms.wisdoms.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 101 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

A POSERA POSER::
"The wise statement (AL-HIKMAH) is the
lost property of the believer, so wherever
he finds it, then he is more worthy of it.“
(Hadith reported by Tirmidzi)
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 101 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

wisdoms.wisdoms.

A POSERA POSER::
 Amongst their discovery was the manner numbers were written usingAmongst their discovery was the manner numbers were written using
the number of ‘angles’ as the sign to indicate its given value.the number of ‘angles’ as the sign to indicate its given value.
Thus:Thus:

wisdoms.wisdoms.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 101 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

A POSERA POSER::
.
Concept of zero
(SIFAR)
hence to concept of decimals
 Amongst their discovery was the manner numbers were written usingAmongst their discovery was the manner numbers were written using
the number of ‘angles’ as the sign to indicate its given value.the number of ‘angles’ as the sign to indicate its given value.
Thus:Thus:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 101 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
wisdoms.wisdoms.

 Actually, there areActually, there are many more Wisdom from ancient pastmany more Wisdom from ancient past which our Prophetwhich our Prophet
MuhammadMuhammad ‫ﷺ‬ was sent for, to re-assert and share its goodness to allwas sent for, to re-assert and share its goodness to all
mankind.mankind.
 The most important of them is theThe most important of them is the DEENDEEN (total way of life) of(total way of life) of AL-ISLAMAL-ISLAM
(Submission and surrender to Allah) founded upon(Submission and surrender to Allah) founded upon TAUTAUHHEEDEED, the creed of all, the creed of all
prophets especially the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) a.s. because this is mostprophets especially the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) a.s. because this is most
relevant especially to remind therelevant especially to remind the AHLUL-KITAAB (People of the Book – thoseAHLUL-KITAAB (People of the Book – those
who acknowledge him as the Patriarch of Monotheistic faith)who acknowledge him as the Patriarch of Monotheistic faith)..
 Even Islamaphobes and deniers of the Last Prophet MuhammadEven Islamaphobes and deniers of the Last Prophet Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬ -
among them, must be invited to look at Abraham a.s. and consider the verymust be invited to look at Abraham a.s. and consider the very
close tradition and affinity of both of them in their mission and teachings.close tradition and affinity of both of them in their mission and teachings.

““AND THEY say, "Be Jews" - or, "Christians" - and youAND THEY say, "Be Jews" - or, "Christians" - and you
shall be on the right path."shall be on the right path."
Say : "Say : "Nay, but [ours is] the creed of AbrahamNay, but [ours is] the creed of Abraham, who, who
turned away from all that is false, and was not of thoseturned away from all that is false, and was not of those
who ascribe divinity to aught besides God (Allah).who ascribe divinity to aught besides God (Allah).””
((Qur’an : al- Baqarah : 2 : 135Qur’an : al- Baqarah : 2 : 135))

In todays context, there are many religious group which seek followersIn todays context, there are many religious group which seek followers
or adherents through various means. Most prominent of them are fromor adherents through various means. Most prominent of them are from
the evangelical Christians.the evangelical Christians.
Just like Islam which also is a missionary religion, they are justified inJust like Islam which also is a missionary religion, they are justified in
wanting to share their faith with others . Yet, some of their assertionswanting to share their faith with others . Yet, some of their assertions
and claims cannot be left unchallenged as we Muslims are commandedand claims cannot be left unchallenged as we Muslims are commanded
to engage them in seeking for the truth and confront any falsehood.to engage them in seeking for the truth and confront any falsehood.
As to which of these religion (Judaism/Christianity/Islam) is earlier, itAs to which of these religion (Judaism/Christianity/Islam) is earlier, it
has no real validity without analyzing their teachings – whether, theyhas no real validity without analyzing their teachings – whether, they
are in conformity or not, to one of the greatest Prophet acknowledgedare in conformity or not, to one of the greatest Prophet acknowledged
by all the three religions. The Patriarch Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) a.s.by all the three religions. The Patriarch Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) a.s.

““Say: "O followers of earlier revelation (Say: "O followers of earlier revelation (AHLUL-KITAABAHLUL-KITAAB)!)!
Come unto that tenet which we and you hold in common:Come unto that tenet which we and you hold in common:
that we shall worship none but Allah (God), and that we shallthat we shall worship none but Allah (God), and that we shall
not ascribe divinity to aught beside Him, and that we shallnot ascribe divinity to aught beside Him, and that we shall
not take human beings for our lords beside Allah (God)."not take human beings for our lords beside Allah (God)." AndAnd
if they turn away, then say: "Bear witness that it is we whoif they turn away, then say: "Bear witness that it is we who
have surrendered ourselves unto Him (have surrendered ourselves unto Him ( AL-MUSLIMUNAL-MUSLIMUN ).”).”
((Qur’an: Aali ‘Imran: 3: 64Qur’an: Aali ‘Imran: 3: 64))

In this verse, it contains the command for Muslim to actively engage inIn this verse, it contains the command for Muslim to actively engage in
inviting (calling) the People of the Book (Jews & Christians) to the mostinviting (calling) the People of the Book (Jews & Christians) to the most
basic and fundamental Truth to the claim of ‘Monotheism’ – we preferbasic and fundamental Truth to the claim of ‘Monotheism’ – we prefer
to use the specific termto use the specific term TAUTAUHHEEDEED (which is not synonymously equal to(which is not synonymously equal to
‘monotheism’ as is understood today) - because such is also their claim‘monotheism’ as is understood today) - because such is also their claim
to being rooted to the Abrahamic tradition yet whose teaching is in factto being rooted to the Abrahamic tradition yet whose teaching is in fact
TAUTAUHHEEDEED..
Obviously, they have deviated from the truth when we scrutinize theirObviously, they have deviated from the truth when we scrutinize their
theological doctrines – (one, for making God to be exclusive to a race;theological doctrines – (one, for making God to be exclusive to a race;
while the other, of introducing a mysterious triune doctrine).while the other, of introducing a mysterious triune doctrine).
What is pertinent is for Muslims to realize that this command is to beWhat is pertinent is for Muslims to realize that this command is to be
conveyed to them. So ……. Are we MUSLIMS doing this?conveyed to them. So ……. Are we MUSLIMS doing this?

Indeed, Abraham wasIndeed, Abraham was a [comprehensive] leader * (UMMATAN)a [comprehensive] leader * (UMMATAN),,
devoutly obedient to Allah (devoutly obedient to Allah (QAA-NITAN – LILLAAH)QAA-NITAN – LILLAAH) , inclining, inclining
toward truth (toward truth (HANEEFANHANEEFAN), and), and he was neverhe was never one of those whoone of those who
associated others with Allah in His Divinity (associated others with Allah in His Divinity (MUSH-RIKEENMUSH-RIKEEN).“).“
((Qur’an : An-Nahlu: 16: 120Qur’an : An-Nahlu: 16: 120))** a whole community by himself; aa whole community by himself; a
universal leader to all nations;universal leader to all nations;

Allah SWT referred to Prophet Ibrahim a.s. as :Allah SWT referred to Prophet Ibrahim a.s. as :
UMMATANUMMATAN - here it means “- here it means “a comprehensive leadera comprehensive leader” whose teaching was” whose teaching was
meant for the whole mankind – not to mere tribes or a particular nation.meant for the whole mankind – not to mere tribes or a particular nation.
QAA-NITAN – LILLAAHQAA-NITAN – LILLAAH – meaning “– meaning “one who is exceedingly devout, obedient,one who is exceedingly devout, obedient,
humble before Godhumble before God.”.”
HANEEFANHANEEFAN – meaning “– meaning “true believer; one who scorns the false creedstrue believer; one who scorns the false creeds
surrounding him and professes the true religion; uprightsurrounding him and professes the true religion; upright.”.”
He was never of theHe was never of the MUSHRIKEENMUSHRIKEEN – i.e. those who commit– i.e. those who commit SHIRKSHIRK..
All these attributes are indeed fundamental also in our ProphetAll these attributes are indeed fundamental also in our Prophet
MuhammadMuhammad ‫ﷺ‬ who came as thewho came as the true successor and revivertrue successor and reviver ofof
Prophet Ibraheem’s creed which had been corrupted.Prophet Ibraheem’s creed which had been corrupted.

““He (Abraham) rendered thanks to Allah (He (Abraham) rendered thanks to Allah (SHAAKIRANSHAAKIRAN) for His) for His
bounties so that Allah chose him (for His favours) and directedbounties so that Allah chose him (for His favours) and directed
him to the Right Way (him to the Right Way (SwIRAA-SwIRAA-TwTwAL-MUS-TA-QEE-MEENAL-MUS-TA-QEE-MEEN).“).“
((Qur’an : An-Nahlu: 16: 121Qur’an : An-Nahlu: 16: 121))

Another important characteristic (traits) which Allah SWT highlights here isAnother important characteristic (traits) which Allah SWT highlights here is
–– SHAAKIRANSHAAKIRAN – from the word– from the word SHAKURSHAKUR - “- “rendering thanks, being mostrendering thanks, being most
grateful, etc.grateful, etc.”.”.
We too learn how our Prophet Muhammad’sWe too learn how our Prophet Muhammad’s ‫ﷺ‬ response as to theresponse as to the
reason why he worshipped Allah SWT the way he did – was so that,reason why he worshipped Allah SWT the way he did – was so that,
“should I not then be“should I not then be ’ABDAN SHA-KUU-RA’ABDAN SHA-KUU-RA (the most grateful of servant to(the most grateful of servant to
Allah) ”Allah) ”
For us Muslims, we must learn regarding this important virtue:For us Muslims, we must learn regarding this important virtue:
[1] How to be grateful?[1] How to be grateful?
[2] Note what Allah highlighted for us to be grateful for – i.e. all[2] Note what Allah highlighted for us to be grateful for – i.e. all NI’MAHNI’MAH whichwhich
we are given; and the Guidance upon this path uponwe are given; and the Guidance upon this path upon DEENDEEN Al-IslamAl-Islam

The key toThe key to
succeed in this test as wellsucceed in this test as well
as to deserve achievingas to deserve achieving
further increase offurther increase of
bestowals from Allah.bestowals from Allah.
yet how does one becomeyet how does one become
grateful? What are thegrateful? What are the
important criteria?important criteria?
1.1. Acknowledge and extol praises ofAcknowledge and extol praises of
the true giver, Allah Who alone isthe true giver, Allah Who alone is
God, the Bestower of all favours.God, the Bestower of all favours.
2.2. Learn the value of what is given,Learn the value of what is given,
do not take any of these favoursdo not take any of these favours
for granted.for granted.
3.3. Utilize what is given inUtilize what is given in
accordance to what may pleaseaccordance to what may please
the Giver (i.e. do not abuse thethe Giver (i.e. do not abuse the
gift), so as not to cause His wrathgift), so as not to cause His wrath
to befall us.to befall us.
CRITERIACRITERIA

““We bestowed good upon him (Abraham) in this world, andWe bestowed good upon him (Abraham) in this world, and
in the Hereafter he shall certainly be among the righteous.“in the Hereafter he shall certainly be among the righteous.“

In this verse Allah encapsulates, through the life and striving ofIn this verse Allah encapsulates, through the life and striving of
Prophet Ibrahim a.s. as the proto-type, how ones upholdingProphet Ibrahim a.s. as the proto-type, how ones upholding TAUTAUHHEEDEED
has been granted goodness, both in this world and the Hereafter.has been granted goodness, both in this world and the Hereafter.
The trial of today’s life is indeed the tendencies of Muslims beingThe trial of today’s life is indeed the tendencies of Muslims being
distracted and confused by this worldly concern – chiefly Secularismdistracted and confused by this worldly concern – chiefly Secularism
and the Secularization agenda – which made many to adhere toand the Secularization agenda – which made many to adhere to
Islamic teachingsIslamic teachings only partiallyonly partially, leading a dual life, not, leading a dual life, not TAUTAUHHEEDICEEDIC..
Our concept of what is good should be dictated by theOur concept of what is good should be dictated by the DEENDEEN – which– which
Allah has taught us in the Du’a – the best Du’a recited in ‘Arafah:Allah has taught us in the Du’a – the best Du’a recited in ‘Arafah:

"Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter
[that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.“
(Qur’an: Baqarah: 2:201)
In this verse Allah encapsulates, through the life and striving ofIn this verse Allah encapsulates, through the life and striving of
Prophet Ibrahim a.s. as the proto-type, how ones upholdingProphet Ibrahim a.s. as the proto-type, how ones upholding TAUTAUHHEEDEED
has been granted goodness, both in this world and the Hereafter.has been granted goodness, both in this world and the Hereafter.
The trial of today’s life is indeed the tendencies of Muslims beingThe trial of today’s life is indeed the tendencies of Muslims being
distracted and confused by this worldly concern – chiefly Secularismdistracted and confused by this worldly concern – chiefly Secularism
and the Secularization agenda – which made many to adhere toand the Secularization agenda – which made many to adhere to
Islamic teachingsIslamic teachings only partiallyonly partially, leading a dual life, not, leading a dual life, not TAUTAUHHEEDICEEDIC..
Our concept of what is good should be dictated by theOur concept of what is good should be dictated by the DEENDEEN – which– which
Allah has taught us in the Du’a – the best Du’a recited in ‘Arafah:Allah has taught us in the Du’a – the best Du’a recited in ‘Arafah:

““Then We revealed to you (O Muhammad): "Follow the wayThen We revealed to you (O Muhammad): "Follow the way
of Abrahamof Abraham HANEEFANHANEEFAN (with exclusive devotion to Allah). He(with exclusive devotion to Allah). He
was notwas not one ofone of MUSH-RIKEENMUSH-RIKEEN (those who associated others(those who associated others
with Allah in His Divinity.)“with Allah in His Divinity.)“

Just so that the People of the Book do not misconstrue, Allah SWTJust so that the People of the Book do not misconstrue, Allah SWT
reiterate that there is similarity of our Prophet Muhammad’sreiterate that there is similarity of our Prophet Muhammad’s ‫ﷺ‬
mission and teachings to that of Ibrahim a.s.mission and teachings to that of Ibrahim a.s.
This is unique only to MuhammadThis is unique only to Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬ asas the Finalthe Final and theand the SealSeal ofof
Prophethood, theProphethood, the AwaitedAwaited Prophet of the people of the Book; theProphet of the people of the Book; the
answered prayer of the Prophet Ibrahim for theanswered prayer of the Prophet Ibrahim for the Imam for all mankindImam for all mankind
like himself; the Most Praised and Praiseworthylike himself; the Most Praised and Praiseworthy BelovedBeloved of Allah, etc.of Allah, etc.
And the most outstanding character and traits of the teaching ofAnd the most outstanding character and traits of the teaching of
Ibrahim a.s., which we Muslim’s too are to be upholding, hereIbrahim a.s., which we Muslim’s too are to be upholding, here
highlighted is indeed: “highlighted is indeed: “ HANEE-FANHANEE-FAN andand nevernever of theof the MUSH-RIKEENMUSH-RIKEEN ““

““As for the Sabbath,As for the Sabbath, it was made incumbent only on thoseit was made incumbent only on those
who differed about its lawswho differed about its laws. Certainly your Lord will judge on. Certainly your Lord will judge on
the Day of Resurrection between them regarding the mattersthe Day of Resurrection between them regarding the matters
they disputed.“they disputed.“
What about ‘Laws’?

Some people may bring in the contention about the difference ofSome people may bring in the contention about the difference of
SHARI’AHSHARI’AH (religious laws) brought by our Prophet Muhammad(religious laws) brought by our Prophet Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬
with that of the previous like thewith that of the previous like the TORAHTORAH – as though this refutes Islam’s– as though this refutes Islam’s
claim to be following similar revealed religion.claim to be following similar revealed religion.
In this verse, the difference in the law is to be understood from theIn this verse, the difference in the law is to be understood from the
difference in context of their time and of Allah’s guidance upondifference in context of their time and of Allah’s guidance upon
mankind. Those, just like here mentioned, the Sabbath, has now beenmankind. Those, just like here mentioned, the Sabbath, has now been
repealed by the final code –repealed by the final code – SHARI’AHSHARI’AH (way; or law; etc.)(way; or law; etc.)
Such differences does not constitute contradiction – and Allah judgesSuch differences does not constitute contradiction – and Allah judges
fairly regarding these laws, accordingly, for “fairly regarding these laws, accordingly, for “Allah does not burdenAllah does not burden
anyone except with what they can bearanyone except with what they can bear.”.”

““(O Prophet), call (invite them all) to the way of your Lord with(O Prophet), call (invite them all) to the way of your Lord with
wisdom (wisdom (BIL-BIL-HHIKMAHIKMAH) and goodly exhortation () and goodly exhortation (MAU-’IZA-TIL-MAU-’IZA-TIL-
HHASANAHASANAH) ...“) ...“

This is one of the most important aspect of our Prophet Muhammad’sThis is one of the most important aspect of our Prophet Muhammad’s
‫ﷺ‬ mission –mission – DA’WAHDA’WAH (calling or inviting) to all mankind to the Lord(calling or inviting) to all mankind to the Lord
(One God-Allah)’s way. Just like Prophet Ibrahim a.s. sent to all nation.(One God-Allah)’s way. Just like Prophet Ibrahim a.s. sent to all nation.
The way, the principle of this Prophetic methodology and sacred legacyThe way, the principle of this Prophetic methodology and sacred legacy
here has been succinctly and concisely enumerated in this verse.here has been succinctly and concisely enumerated in this verse.
The relevant and pertinent question which Muslims today must honestlyThe relevant and pertinent question which Muslims today must honestly
ask is :ask is :
““ What are we Muslims doing about it?What are we Muslims doing about it? ““
NoteNote the terms:the terms: BIL-HIKMAHBIL-HIKMAH (wisdom)(wisdom)
MAU-’IZOH – HASANAHMAU-’IZOH – HASANAH (beautiful exhortation)(beautiful exhortation)

“…“… andand JAA-DIL-HUMJAA-DIL-HUM (reason, argue) with them ((reason, argue) with them (HIYA AHIYA AHHSANSAN) in) in
the best manner possible. Surely your Lord knows best who hasthe best manner possible. Surely your Lord knows best who has
strayed away from His path, and He also knows well those whostrayed away from His path, and He also knows well those who
are guided to the Right Way.“are guided to the Right Way.“

And the nature may require engagement and confrontation, thusAnd the nature may require engagement and confrontation, thus
there will occurthere will occur JIDAALJIDAAL (disputations and debates).(disputations and debates).
Yet from the Qur’anic perspective, this is left as the final resort andYet from the Qur’anic perspective, this is left as the final resort and
must be donemust be done withwith AAHHSANSAN (goodly; kindly manner) – because,(goodly; kindly manner) – because,
without which, this can lead to enmity and negative consequences.without which, this can lead to enmity and negative consequences.
The reminder that Allah “The reminder that Allah “knows best who has strayed away from Hisknows best who has strayed away from His
path, and He also knows well those who are guided to the Rightpath, and He also knows well those who are guided to the Right
WayWay.”.” is to remind ais to remind a Da’ieDa’ie (caller) that, in the final analysis he has to(caller) that, in the final analysis he has to
respect the right of people to choose, whether to follow or otherwise,respect the right of people to choose, whether to follow or otherwise,
and leave the matter to Allah SWT.and leave the matter to Allah SWT.
This indicate the kind of traits, that ofThis indicate the kind of traits, that of self-restraintself-restraint exudingexuding
graciousnessgraciousness,, patiencepatience, knowing the limitations stipulated in Da’wah., knowing the limitations stipulated in Da’wah.

““If you take retribution, then do so in proportion to the wrong doneIf you take retribution, then do so in proportion to the wrong done
to you. But if you can bear such conduct with patience (to you. But if you can bear such conduct with patience (SwSwOBAR-OBAR-
TUMTUM), indeed that is best for the steadfast (), indeed that is best for the steadfast (SwSwO-BIREENO-BIREEN).“).“

““AndAnd bear with patiencebear with patience, (O Muhammad) - and your, (O Muhammad) - and your patiencepatience
is only because of the help of Allahis only because of the help of Allah - and- and do not grievedo not grieve overover
them,them, nor feel distressednor feel distressed by their evil plans.“by their evil plans.“

““For surely Allah is with those who hold Him inFor surely Allah is with those who hold Him in
fear (fear (TAQWATAQWA) and do good () and do good (MUMUHH-SINUUN-SINUUN).“).“

Hey .. Are we going in the right direction?
Hmmm … well we have our appointed leader leading us,
So I guess we’re on the right course! Just follow … lah! Am I going
the right
way?
Ermm… since there are
many agreeing with me
and following behind me.
Praising me
even .. Heh..he
he !
I MUST be on the
right way! Majority
cannot be wrong!
IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,
MOST COMPASSIONATE,MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFULMOST MERCIFUL
AN-NASEEHAHAN-NASEEHAH
Sincere Advice
Adapted from Dr. Hisham Al-Talib’s
“Training Guide for Islamic Workers”

““AndAnd We made them (Prophets as) leaders, guiding (men) by OurWe made them (Prophets as) leaders, guiding (men) by Our
CommandCommand [[YAH-DUNAA BI-AMRI-HIMYAH-DUNAA BI-AMRI-HIM] and We sent them] and We sent them
inspiration toinspiration to do good deedsdo good deeds [[FI’-LAL- KHAY-RAATFI’-LAL- KHAY-RAAT] to establish] to establish
regular prayers [regular prayers [SWOLAHSWOLAH], and to practise regular charity [], and to practise regular charity [ZAKAHZAKAH];];
and theyand they constantly served Usconstantly served Us (and Us only) [‘(and Us only) [‘AA-BIDEENAA-BIDEEN].”].”
((Qur’an: Anbiya’: 21: 73Qur’an: Anbiya’: 21: 73))
TRUTHFUL TRUSTWORTHY CONVEYING WISE
Their Basic Attributes as Prophets which Muslims should strive to emulate

““And remember that Abraham was tried by his Lord with certainAnd remember that Abraham was tried by his Lord with certain
commands, which he fulfilled; He said: "I will make thee ancommands, which he fulfilled; He said: "I will make thee an ImamImam** toto
the nationsthe nations." He pleaded: "And also (." He pleaded: "And also (anan ImamImam) from my offspring!") from my offspring!"
He answered: "But my promise is not within the reach of evil-doers."He answered: "But my promise is not within the reach of evil-doers."
((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2:124Qur’an: Baqarah: 2:124))
ImamImam** - Leader- Leader

(Abraham said) "Our Lord! send amongst them(Abraham said) "Our Lord! send amongst them a Messengera Messenger
of their ownof their own who shallwho shall rehearse Thy Signsrehearse Thy Signs to them andto them and
instruct them in Scripture and Wisdominstruct them in Scripture and Wisdom, and, and purify thempurify them; for; for
Thou art the Exalted in Might the Wise.“Thou art the Exalted in Might the Wise.“
((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 129Qur’an: Baqarah: 2: 129))

““It is He (Allah) Who has sent amongst the Unlettered aIt is He (Allah) Who has sent amongst the Unlettered a
messenger (Muhammad) from among themselves, tomessenger (Muhammad) from among themselves, to
((YAT-LU-AA-YA –TIHIMYAT-LU-AA-YA –TIHIM) rehearse to them His Signs , and) rehearse to them His Signs , and
((YU-ZAK-KEE-HIMYU-ZAK-KEE-HIM) to sanctify them (purify and make) to sanctify them (purify and make
them grow), and to (them grow), and to (YU-’AL-LIMU-HUMYU-’AL-LIMU-HUM) instruct them in) instruct them in
Scripture and Wisdom― although they had been, before,Scripture and Wisdom― although they had been, before,
in manifest error― .“in manifest error― .“
((Qur’an: Jumu’ah: 62: 2Qur’an: Jumu’ah: 62: 2))

“for We assuredly sent
amongst every nation, (other nations)
a Messenger”
(Q: Nahl : 16:36)
JOHN THE BAPTIST (Yahya)
ADAM
(other nations) NOAH (Nuh)
(Shem) (Ham) (Yaphet)
JACOB (Ya’akub))
(1st Born) (2nd Born)
ISHMAEL (Isma’il) ISAAC (Ishaq)
JOSEPH (Yusuf)
MOSES (Musa)
DAVID (Dawud)
ABRAHAM (Ibrahim)
SOLOMON (Sulaiman)
(many others amongst Israelite)
JESUS CHRIST (‘Isa al-Maseeh)
(AWAITING THE FULFILMENT OF PATRIACH ABRAHAM’S PRAYER)

a Messenger”
(Q: Nahl : 16:36)
ADAM
JACOB (Ya’akub))
JOSEPH (Yusuf)
(The Quraysh tribe
in Mecca, direct
descendants of
Ishmael)
MOSES (Musa)
DAVID (Dawud)
ABRAHAM (Ibrahim)
SOLOMON (Sulaiman)

a Messenger”
(Q: Nahl : 16:36)
MUHAMMAD
(The chosen Seal of Prophethood)
ADAM
JACOB (Ya’akub))
JOSEPH (Yusuf)
(The Quraysh tribe
in Mecca, direct
descendants of
Ishmael)
MOSES (Musa)
DAVID (Dawud)
ABRAHAM (Ibrahim)
SOLOMON (Sulaiman)

““O People of the Scripture,O People of the Scripture, there has come to you Ourthere has come to you Our
Messenger (MUHAMMAD) making clear to you much of whatMessenger (MUHAMMAD) making clear to you much of what
you used to conceal of the Scripture and overlooking much.you used to conceal of the Scripture and overlooking much.
There has come toThere has come to you from Allah a lightyou from Allah a light andand a clear Booka clear Book.”.”
((Qur’an: Maa-idah: 5: 15Qur’an: Maa-idah: 5: 15))

““INDEED, there has come unto you [O mankind] a Messenger
[Muhammad] from among yourselves: heavily weighs -upon
him [the thought] that you might suffer [in the life to come];
full of concern for you [is he, and] full of compassion and
mercy towards the believers.”.”
((Qur’an: Taubah: 9: 128Qur’an: Taubah: 9: 128))

““(I ask You) O Allah! Guide my people(I ask You) O Allah! Guide my people
for they do not know.”for they do not know.”
• DA’WAH TO TA’IFDA’WAH TO TA’IF
Muhammad’sMuhammad’s ‫ﷺ‬ Du’a for those who rejected him.Du’a for those who rejected him.
Major milestones in theMajor milestones in the Seerah:Seerah:
SNIPPETS FROM LIFE MISSION OF MUHAMMAD ‫ﷺ‬

"Oh, my Allah! To Thee I raise my hand to complain of the
feebleness of my strength, of my lack of resources and of my being
unimportant in the eyes of people.
Oh, Most Merciful of all those capable of showing mercy! You are
the Robb ( Lord, Sustainer, Cherisher) of the weak, and You are my own
Robb ( Lord , Sustainer, Cherisher). TLord , Sustainer, Cherisher). To whom are You going to entrust
me to? To an unsympathetic folk who would sullenly frown at me, or to
an alien to whom Thou hast given control over my affairs?

Not in the least do I care for anything except that I may have Thy
protection for myself.
I seek shelter in Your light - The light that illuminates the Heavens and
dispels all sorts of darkness, and which controls all affairs in this world as
well as in the Hereafter.
May it never be that I should incur Thy wrath, or that You should be
displeased with me. I must remove the cause of Thy displeasure until You
are pleased. There is no strength nor power but through Thee."

DA’WAH TO TA’IFDA’WAH TO TA’IF
HisHis ‫ﷺ‬ response to the angels.response to the angels.
““No (don’t destroy them) ! But my hope isNo (don’t destroy them) ! But my hope is that Allahthat Allah
will bring forth from their descendentswill bring forth from their descendents, people who, people who
worship Allah Alone, and do not set up partnersworship Allah Alone, and do not set up partners
(i.e. commit shirk) to Him. ”(i.e. commit shirk) to Him. ”

““And thus have We willed you to be a community of theAnd thus have We willed you to be a community of the
middle way (middle way (UMMATAN WASOTANUMMATAN WASOTAN) [i.e. justly balanced],) [i.e. justly balanced],
so that [with your lives] you might bear witness to theso that [with your lives] you might bear witness to the
truth before all mankind (truth before all mankind (SHUHADAA-A - ‘ALAN-NAASSHUHADAA-A - ‘ALAN-NAAS) ,) ,
and the Messenger as a witness over you.“and the Messenger as a witness over you.“
((Qur’an: al- Baqarah: 2:143Qur’an: al- Baqarah: 2:143))

““And strive (And strive (WA-JAA-HADUWA-JAA-HADU) in His cause as ye ought) in His cause as ye ought
to strive, (with sincerity and under discipline).to strive, (with sincerity and under discipline). He hasHe has
chosen you, and has imposed no difficulties on you inchosen you, and has imposed no difficulties on you in
religion; it is the creed of your forefather Abrahamreligion; it is the creed of your forefather Abraham. It. It
is He Who has named youis He Who has named you MuslimsMuslims, both before and, both before and
in this (Revelation); that the Messenger may be ain this (Revelation); that the Messenger may be a
witness for you (witness for you (SHAHEEDANSHAHEEDAN) , and ye be witnesses) , and ye be witnesses
for mankind! (for mankind! (SHUHADAA-A- ‘ALAN-NAASSHUHADAA-A- ‘ALAN-NAAS)).“.“
((Qur’an: al- Hajj: 22:78Qur’an: al- Hajj: 22:78))

““O Allah! Make us see the Truth to be true andO Allah! Make us see the Truth to be true and
grant us the ability to follow it.grant us the ability to follow it.
And make us see Falsehood to be false andAnd make us see Falsehood to be false and
grant us the ability to reject it.”grant us the ability to reject it.”

May Allah grant us and all our beloved teachers, family andMay Allah grant us and all our beloved teachers, family and
companions, the success (companions, the success (TAUFIQTAUFIQ) and the Guidance) and the Guidance
((HIDAAYAHIDAAYA) to attain to His Acceptance, Forgiveness and) to attain to His Acceptance, Forgiveness and
Mercy (Mercy (RAHMAHRAHMAH) and gain His Pleasure () and gain His Pleasure (MARDHA-TILLAHMARDHA-TILLAH).).
MOST COMPASSIONATE,
MOST MERCIFUL.
TADZKIRAHTADZKIRAH

"Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we have"Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we have
forgotten or erred. Our Lord, and lay not upon us aforgotten or erred. Our Lord, and lay not upon us a
burden like that which You laid upon those before us. Ourburden like that which You laid upon those before us. Our
Lord, and burden us not with that which we have noLord, and burden us not with that which we have no
ability to bear. And pardon us; and forgive us; and haveability to bear. And pardon us; and forgive us; and have
mercy upon us. You are our protector, so give us victorymercy upon us. You are our protector, so give us victory
over the disbelieving people."over the disbelieving people."

O our Lord! Make us to benefit from what You have taught us.O our Lord! Make us to benefit from what You have taught us.
O Lord! Teach us whatever that is beneficial for us.
ROB-BANAA- AN-FA’-NAA -BI-MAA- ‘AL-LAM-TA-NAA
ROB-BI –’AL-LIM- NAL- LA-DzEE- YAN-FA- ‘U-NA

O Allah! Make us to be people who guide (others) andO Allah! Make us to be people who guide (others) and
who are (always) Guided (by Your Guidance) .who are (always) Guided (by Your Guidance) .
ALLAA-HUM-MAJ- ’AL-NAA - HAA-DEE-NAA -
MUH-TA-DEEN

Not of those who are astray andNot of those who are astray and
who lead people astray.who lead people astray.
GHOY-RA- DwAA-L-LEE-NA WA - LAA- MU-GHOY-RA- DwAA-L-LEE-NA WA - LAA- MU-
DwIL-LEENDwIL-LEEN

O Allah! Guide us allO Allah! Guide us all
with Your Guidancewith Your Guidance..
ALLAA-HUM - MAH-DI-NAA BI – HU-DAAK

And make us people who hastenAnd make us people who hasten
towards what pleases You.towards what pleases You.
WAJ-’AL-NAA MIM-MAN - YU-SAA – RI -’U –
FEE - RI-DwAAK

And do not let us be protected (by others)And do not let us be protected (by others)
except only with Your Protection (as ourexcept only with Your Protection (as our
Guardian).Guardian).
WA- LAA TUWAL-LI-NAA –WA- LAA TUWAL-LI-NAA –
WA-LIY-YAN - SI-WAAKWA-LIY-YAN - SI-WAAK

And do not make us to be of those who differ fromAnd do not make us to be of those who differ from
Your command and who are disobedient towards You.Your command and who are disobedient towards You.
WA- LAA TAJ -’AL –NAA - MIM-MAN -WA- LAA TAJ -’AL –NAA - MIM-MAN - KHKHAA-LAFAAA-LAFA
AM-RAKA - WA- ‘A-AM-RAKA - WA- ‘A- SwSwAAKAAK

And sufficient is Allah for us,And sufficient is Allah for us,
for He is the Best Protectorfor He is the Best Protector
WA-WA- HHAS - BU-NALLAA-HU –AS - BU-NALLAA-HU –
WA NI’-MAL - WA-KEELWA NI’-MAL - WA-KEEL

And there is no power nor strength exceptAnd there is no power nor strength except
with Allah The Most High, the Most Esteem.with Allah The Most High, the Most Esteem.
WA- LAA -WA- LAA - HHAW- LA -WA –LAA -QUW-WATA - IL-AW- LA -WA –LAA -QUW-WATA - IL-
LAALAA
BIL-LAA – HIL - ‘ALEE-YIL - ‘A-ZEEMBIL-LAA – HIL - ‘ALEE-YIL - ‘A-ZEEM

And salutations of Allah and Peace be upon ourAnd salutations of Allah and Peace be upon our
Leader Muhammad, and upon His householdLeader Muhammad, and upon His household
and Companions .and Companions .
WA- SwOL-LALLAA-HU- ‘ALAA - SAY-DI-NAA –
MUHAM-MADIN
WA ‘ALAA – AA-LIHI -WA SwOH-BI-HI - WA-SAL-LAM

And all the Praises belongs to Allah,And all the Praises belongs to Allah,
Lord Sustainer of all the worldLord Sustainer of all the world
WAL-WAL-HHAM- DU-LIL-LAA-HI –AM- DU-LIL-LAA-HI –
ROB- BIL - ‘AA – LA – MEE-NROB- BIL - ‘AA – LA – MEE-N

http://an-naseehah.blogspot.com/http://an-naseehah.blogspot.com/
http://introductiontotauhid.blogspot.com/http://introductiontotauhid.blogspot.com/
http://oyoubelievers.blogspot.com/http://oyoubelievers.blogspot.com/
http://al-amthaal.blogspot.com/http://al-amthaal.blogspot.com/
http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/
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All welcome to visit my web-blog:All welcome to visit my web-blog:
78All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2015)

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