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

All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2015))

Presentation by Ustaz Zhulkeflee Hj Ismailfor 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 Message Reflection 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 of DzulHijjah when the rites of HAJJHAJJ and also the Festival of Sacrifice and also the Festival of Sacrifice EID-UL-EID-UL-

AD-HAAD-HA are celebrated, we must be reminded of exemplary struggle of are 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



MUQADDIMAH(AN INTRODUCTION)Firstly, I am aware that the topic given to me to speak to you is Firstly, 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 previously Initially, I was agreeable to this as I may have previously delivered something generally for undergrads of NUSMS. Yet delivered something generally for undergrads of NUSMS. Yet when I reflected further on hindsight, perhaps this time it would when I reflected further on hindsight, perhaps this time it would be too presumptuous for me to specifically address the topic be too presumptuous for me to specifically address the topic which requires one who has relevant experience , because :which requires one who has relevant experience , 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 through University. 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 as just in the school or university) it has to be regarded as problematic or at odds just because we are Muslims, therefore problematic or at odds just because we are Muslims, therefore requiring some ‘tiding over’ on our part.requiring some ‘tiding over’ on our part.



MUQADDIMAH(AN INTRODUCTION)Firstly, I am aware that the topic given to me to speak to you is Firstly, 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 to , I do not have to always be too self conscious about it “do I ? ” . So just do the always be too self conscious about it “do I ? ” . So just do the necessary, be natural as you should in breathing - and be necessary, 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 no there 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 of Therefore we should not entertain doubts or adopt an attitude of mistrust towards others, or feel ‘stigmatized’ for being Muslim. mistrust towards others, or feel ‘stigmatized’ for being Muslim. This is unhealthy and can even become a ‘self-fulfilling This is unhealthy and can even become a ‘self-fulfilling prophecy’.prophecy’.



MUQADDIMAH(AN INTRODUCTION)Also, as how I have learnt from my traditional teachers Also, as how I have learnt from my traditional teachers

of Islam, we Muslims should seek to learn beneficial of Islam, we Muslims should seek to learn beneficial knowledge which is ‘needed’, and not necessarily knowledge 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 should what came to my mind is what our community should be made to be aware of and the important lesson be made to be aware of and the important lesson regarding its significance to us – when Allah SWT bless regarding its significance to us – when Allah SWT bless us to us to insha-Allahinsha-Allah meet the month of DzulHijjah. meet the month of DzulHijjah.

So as Muslims – wherever we may be – I hope the topic So 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 and urgent for us to be aware and insha-Allahinsha-Allah benefit from. benefit from.


TA’ARUFTA’ARUFI am merely a perpetual student of Islam I 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 of duty as a Muslim – in following the way of our predecessors – to learn and to serve our predecessors – to learn and to serve Allah s.w.t., and in upholding the Allah s.w.t., and in upholding the DeenDeen of of al-Islamal-Islam through through khidmahkhidmah (service) to the (service) to the ummahummah

I admit though, that I am passionate I admit though, that I am passionate about Islam, Islamic about Islam, Islamic Da’wahDa’wah and the and the education of the entire education of the entire ummahummah (human (human race) – as Prophet Muhammad race) – as Prophet Muhammad ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص is to is to me, the model educator of humanity par me, the model educator of humanity par excellence excellence


MUQADDIMAH(AN INTRODUCTION)



These are the only qualification that I These are the only qualification that I can offercan offer

And because I myself am still struggling And because I myself am still struggling to learn, so what I can do perhaps, is to learn, so what I can do perhaps, is only to share the little that I know as a only to share the little that I know as a perpetual Muslim student involved in perpetual Muslim student involved in educating the educating the UmmahUmmah, especially from , especially from the experience which Allah s.w.t. has the experience which Allah s.w.t. has favoured me thus far, in my learning favoured me thus far, in my learning journey as a servant, a seeker and a journey as a servant, a seeker and a traveller upon the path of knowledge traveller upon the path of knowledge and wisdom.and wisdom.



“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.”



These are the only qualification that I These are the only qualification that I can offercan offer

And because I myself am still struggling And because I myself am still struggling to learn, so what I can do perhaps, is to learn, so what I can do perhaps, is only to share the little that I know as a only to share the little that I know as a perpetual Muslim student involved in perpetual Muslim student involved in educating the educating the UmmahUmmah, especially from , especially from the experience which Allah s.w.t. has the experience which Allah s.w.t. has favoured me thus far, in my learning favoured me thus far, in my learning journey as a servant, a seeker and a journey as a servant, a seeker and a traveller upon the path of knowledge traveller upon the path of knowledge and wisdom.and wisdom.

All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2015)

IN THE NAME OF ALLAH,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. :

١١ ٩٩ ٨٨ ٧٧ ٦٦ ٥٥ ٤٤ ٣٣ ٢٢ ١١ 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 the disseminated universal learnings, with Arabic as the lingua francalingua franca..

TASAWWUR ISLAMTASAWWUR ISLAM


..

A POSERA POSER: : Actually, these numerals - Actually, these numerals - originally originally

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 HIND HIND (India). There, in following the (India). There, in following the

teaching of Islam, they sought out and studied their ancient sciences and teaching 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



Actually, these numerals - Actually, these numerals - originally originally




wisdoms.wisdoms.

A POSERA POSER: :

Amongst their discovery was the manner numbers were written using Amongst 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:



Actually, these numerals - Actually, these numerals - originally originally




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)


All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2015)hence to concept of decimals

Amongst their discovery was the manner numbers were written using Amongst 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 Actually, these numerals - Actually, these numerals - originally originally




wisdoms.wisdoms.


Actually, there are Actually, there are many more Wisdom from ancient past many more Wisdom from ancient past which our Prophet which our Prophet

Muhammad Muhammad ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص was sent for, to re-assert and share its goodness to all was sent for, to re-assert and share its goodness to all

mankind.mankind.

The most important of them is the The 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 most prophets especially the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) a.s. because this is most

relevant especially to remind the relevant especially to remind the AHLUL-KITAAB (People of the Book – those AHLUL-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 Muhammad Even Islamaphobes and deniers of the Last Prophet Muhammad ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص - among

them, must be invited to look at Abraham a.s. and consider the very close must 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.tradition and affinity of both of them in their mission and teachings.All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2015)



““AND THEY say, "Be Jews" - or, "Christians" - and you AND 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 those turned 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 followers In todays context, there are many religious group which seek followers

or adherents through various means. Most prominent of them are from or 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 in Just like Islam which also is a missionary religion, they are justified in

wanting to share their faith with others . Yet, some of their assertions wanting to share their faith with others . Yet, some of their assertions

and claims cannot be left unchallenged as we Muslims are commanded and 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, it As to which of these religion (Judaism/Christianity/Islam) is earlier, it

has no real validity without analyzing their teachings – whether, they has no real validity without analyzing their teachings – whether, they

are in conformity or not, to one of the greatest Prophet acknowledged are 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 shall that we shall worship none but Allah (God), and that we shall

not ascribe divinity to aught beside Him, and that we shall not 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)." And And

if they turn away, then say: "Bear witness that it is we who if 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 in In this verse, it contains the command for Muslim to actively engage in

inviting (calling) the People of the Book (Jews & Christians) to the most inviting (calling) the People of the Book (Jews & Christians) to the most

basic and fundamental Truth to the claim of ‘Monotheism’ – we prefer basic and fundamental Truth to the claim of ‘Monotheism’ – we prefer

to use the specific term to 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 fact to being rooted to the Abrahamic tradition yet whose teaching is in fact

TAUTAUHHEEDEED..

Obviously, they have deviated from the truth when we scrutinize their Obviously, 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 be What 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?All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2015)

Indeed, Abraham was Indeed, 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 never he was never one of those who one 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; a a 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 – LILLAAH QAA-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 creeds true 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 the He 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 Prophet All these attributes are indeed fundamental also in our Prophet

Muhammad Muhammad ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص who came as the who came as the true successor and reviver true successor and reviver of Prophet of Prophet

Ibraheem’s creed which had been corrupted. 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 directed bounties 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 Another important characteristic (traits) which Allah SWT highlights here

is – is – SHAAKIRANSHAAKIRAN – from the word – from the word SHAKURSHAKUR - “ - “rendering thanks, being most rendering thanks, being most

grateful, etc.grateful, etc.”. ”.

We too learn how our Prophet Muhammad’s We too learn how our Prophet Muhammad’s ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص response as to the response 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

which we are given; and the Guidance upon this path upon which we are given; and the Guidance upon this path upon DEENDEEN Al-Islam Al-Islam


The key to The key to

succeed in this test as well succeed in this test as well

as to deserve achieving as to deserve achieving

further increase of further increase of

bestowals from Allah.bestowals from Allah.

yet how does one become yet how does one become

grateful? What are the grateful? What are the

important criteria?important criteria?

1.1. Acknowledge and extol praises of Acknowledge and extol praises of

the true giver, Allah Who alone is the 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 favours do not take any of these favours

for granted.for granted.

3.3. Utilize what is given in Utilize what is given in

accordance to what may please accordance to what may please

the Giver (i.e. do not abuse the the Giver (i.e. do not abuse the

gift), so as not to cause His wrath gift), so as not to cause His wrath

to befall us.to befall us.

CRITERIACRITERIA


““We bestowed good upon him (Abraham) in this world, and We 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 of In this verse Allah encapsulates, through the life and striving of

Prophet Ibrahim a.s. as the proto-type, how ones upholding Prophet 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 being The trial of today’s life is indeed the tendencies of Muslims being

distracted and confused by this worldly concern – chiefly Secularism distracted and confused by this worldly concern – chiefly Secularism

and the Secularization agenda – which made many to adhere to and the Secularization agenda – which made many to adhere to

Islamic teachings Islamic 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 the Our 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 of In this verse Allah encapsulates, through the life and striving of

Prophet Ibrahim a.s. as the proto-type, how ones upholding Prophet 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 being The trial of today’s life is indeed the tendencies of Muslims being

distracted and confused by this worldly concern – chiefly Secularism distracted and confused by this worldly concern – chiefly Secularism

and the Secularization agenda – which made many to adhere to and the Secularization agenda – which made many to adhere to

Islamic teachings Islamic 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 the Our 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 way Then We revealed to you (O Muhammad): "Follow the way

of Abraham of Abraham HANEEFANHANEEFAN (with exclusive devotion to Allah). He (with exclusive devotion to Allah). He

was not was not one of one 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 SWT Just so that the People of the Book do not misconstrue, Allah SWT

reiterate that there is similarity of our Prophet Muhammad’s reiterate that there is similarity of our Prophet Muhammad’s ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص mission and teachings to that of Ibrahim a.s.mission and teachings to that of Ibrahim a.s.

This is unique only to Muhammad This is unique only to Muhammad ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص as as the Final the Final and the and the SealSeal of of

Prophethood, the Prophethood, the AwaitedAwaited Prophet of the people of the Book; the Prophet of the people of the Book; the

answered prayer of the Prophet Ibrahim for the answered prayer of the Prophet Ibrahim for the Imam for all mankind Imam for all mankind

like himself; the Most Praised and Praiseworthy like himself; the Most Praised and Praiseworthy BelovedBeloved of Allah, etc. of Allah, etc.

And the most outstanding character and traits of the teaching of And the most outstanding character and traits of the teaching of

Ibrahim a.s., which we Muslim’s too are to be upholding, here Ibrahim a.s., which we Muslim’s too are to be upholding, here

highlighted is indeed: “ highlighted is indeed: “ HANEE-FANHANEE-FAN and and nevernever of the of the MUSH-RIKEENMUSH-RIKEEN “ “


““As for the Sabbath, As for the Sabbath, it was made incumbent only on those it 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 matters the 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 of Some 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 ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص with that of the previous like the with that of the previous like the TORAHTORAH – as though this refutes – as though this refutes

Islam’s claim to be following similar revealed religion.Islam’s claim to be following similar revealed religion.

In this verse, the difference in the law is to be understood from the In this verse, the difference in the law is to be understood from the

difference in context of their time and of Allah’s guidance upon difference in context of their time and of Allah’s guidance upon

mankind. Those, just like here mentioned, the Sabbath, has now been mankind. 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 judges Such differences does not constitute contradiction – and Allah judges

fairly regarding these laws, accordingly, for “fairly regarding these laws, accordingly, for “Allah does not burden Allah 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’s This is one of the most important aspect of our Prophet Muhammad’s ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص mission – mission – DA’WAHDA’WAH (calling or inviting) to all mankind to the Lord (One (calling or inviting) to all mankind to the Lord (One

God-Allah)’s way. Just like Prophet Ibrahim a.s. sent to all nation.God-Allah)’s way. Just like Prophet Ibrahim a.s. sent to all nation.

The way, the principle of this Prophetic methodology and sacred legacy The 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 honestly The 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-HIKMAH BIL-HIKMAH (wisdom)(wisdom)

MAU-’IZOH – HASANAH MAU-’IZOH – HASANAH (beautiful exhortation)(beautiful exhortation)


“… “… and and 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 has the best manner possible. Surely your Lord knows best who has

strayed away from His path, and He also knows well those who strayed away from His path, and He also knows well those who

are guided to the Right Way.“are guided to the Right Way.“

((Qur’an : An-Nahlu: 16: 125Qur’an : An-Nahlu: 16: 125))All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2015)

And the nature may require engagement and confrontation, thus And the nature may require engagement and confrontation, thus

there will occur there will occur JIDAALJIDAAL (disputations and debates). (disputations and debates).

Yet from the Qur’anic perspective, this is left as the final resort and Yet from the Qur’anic perspective, this is left as the final resort and

must be done must be done with with 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 His knows best who has strayed away from His

path, and He also knows well those who are guided to the Right Waypath, and He also knows well those who are guided to the Right Way.” .”

is to remind a is to remind a Da’ieDa’ie (caller) that, in the final analysis he has to respect (caller) that, in the final analysis he has to respect

the right of people to choose, whether to follow or otherwise, and the right of people to choose, whether to follow or otherwise, and

leave the matter to Allah SWT.leave the matter to Allah SWT.

This indicate the kind of traits, that of This indicate the kind of traits, that of self-restraintself-restraint exuding exuding

graciousnessgraciousness,, patience patience, knowing the limitations stipulated in Da’wah. , knowing the limitations stipulated in Da’wah. All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2015)

““If you take retribution, then do so in proportion to the wrong done If 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).“).“



““And And bear with patiencebear with patience, (O Muhammad) - and your , (O Muhammad) - and your patience is patience is

only because of the help of Allah only because of the help of Allah - and - and do not grieve do not grieve over them, over them,

nor feel distressed nor feel distressed by their evil plans.“by their evil plans.“



““For surely Allah is with those who hold Him in For 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-NASEEHAHSincere Advice

Adapted from Dr. Hisham Al-Talib’s “Training Guide for Islamic Workers”




““And And We made them (Prophets as) leaders, guiding (men) by Our We 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 to inspiration 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 they and they constantly served Us constantly 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 certain And remember that Abraham was tried by his Lord with certain

commands, which he fulfilled; He said: "I will make thee an commands, which he fulfilled; He said: "I will make thee an ImamImam** to to

the nationsthe nations." He pleaded: "And also (." He pleaded: "And also (anan ImamImam) from my offspring!" He ) from my offspring!" He

answered: "But my promise is not within the reach of evil-doers." answered: "But my promise is not within the reach of evil-doers."

((Qur’an: Baqarah: 2:124Qur’an: Baqarah: 2:124) )

All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2015)ImamImam* * - Leader - Leader

(Abraham said) "Our Lord! send amongst them (Abraham said) "Our Lord! send amongst them a Messenger a Messenger

of their own of their own who shall who shall rehearse Thy Signs rehearse Thy Signs to them and to 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))All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2015)


““It is He (Allah) Who has sent amongst the Unlettered a It is He (Allah) Who has sent amongst the Unlettered a

messenger (Muhammad) from among themselves, to messenger (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 sentamongst 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)All Rights Reserved © Zhulkeflee Hj Ismail (2015)





JACOB (Ya’akub))



JOSEPH (Yusuf)

(The Quraysh tribein Mecca, direct

descendants of Ishmael)

MOSES (Musa)

DAVID (Dawud)

ABRAHAM (Ibrahim)






MUHAMMAD(The chosen Seal of Prophethood)



JACOB (Ya’akub))



JOSEPH (Yusuf)

(The Quraysh tribein Mecca, direct

descendants of Ishmael)

MOSES (Musa)

DAVID (Dawud)

ABRAHAM (Ibrahim)




““O People of the Scripture, O People of the Scripture, there has come to you Our there has come to you Our

Messenger (MUHAMMAD) making clear to you much of what Messenger (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 to There has come to you from Allah a lightyou from Allah a light and and 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’IFMuhammad’s Muhammad’s ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص Du’a for those who rejected him.Du’a for those who rejected him.

Major milestones in the Major milestones in the Seerah:Seerah:


SNIPPETS FROM LIFE MISSION OF MUHAMMAD ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص

"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’IFHis His ملسو هيلع هللا ىلص response to the angels.response to the angels.

““No (don’t destroy them) ! But my hope is No (don’t destroy them) ! But my hope is that Allah that Allah

will bring forth from their descendentswill bring forth from their descendents, people who , people who

worship Allah Alone, and do not set up partners worship 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 the And 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 the so 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 has He has

chosen you, and has imposed no difficulties on you in chosen 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 you is He Who has named you MuslimsMuslims, both before and , both before and

in this (Revelation); that the Messenger may be a in 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 and O 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 and And 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 and May 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).).


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 a forgotten or erred. Our Lord, and lay not upon us a

burden like that which You laid upon those before us. Our burden like that which You laid upon those before us. Our

Lord, and burden us not with that which we have no Lord, and burden us not with that which we have no

ability to bear. And pardon us; and forgive us; and have ability to bear. And pardon us; and forgive us; and have

mercy upon us. You are our protector, so give us victory mercy 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) and O 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 and Not 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 all O Allah! Guide us all

with Your Guidancewith Your Guidance..

ALLAA-HUM - MAH-DI-NAA BI – HU-DAAK


And make us people who hasten And 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 our except 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 from And 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-LAFA AA-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 except And 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-

LAA LAA

BIL-LAA – HIL - ‘ALEE-YIL - ‘A-ZEEMBIL-LAA – HIL - ‘ALEE-YIL - ‘A-ZEEM


And salutations of Allah and Peace be upon our And salutations of Allah and Peace be upon our

Leader Muhammad, and upon His household Leader 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


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